My Dear Jean

Thanks for the letter. So you have really arrived at Kenilworth & got settled down; well it will make a nice change you have had a good sun at Hinton. It seems as if Peter manages to get to see you alright. How did you manage about all your things, your sheets etc. & bike – did you have to take it all with you?  Edith at West Drayton still. Auntie Addie and uncle Tom have been here a week – went back yesterday; they had quite good weather. We all went to a Grand Fete in the Park on Mon. There were crowds of people – they must have taken lots of money; there were a lot of sports for the army & a T. of girls. It was full of side shows too, all arranged by the A.J.C. for Red Cross & P. of War. We all enjoyed it.

Did I tell you Bert was in France now. Well you say the novelty of the doodle-bug has worn off – well it hasn’t (we have had a free day today) but they will be here again tonight I expect. Just at the moment Scaynes Hill looks a sorry sight as one was shot down and fell in Watlands grounds; Nash Farm was damaged most they say but all the houses more or less had windows blown out or in. Mrs Heather was the only one in that row with whole windows, but she thought the chapel saved her. Our old house and next door got them all out and Washers got all greenhouses smashed, Luckens windows out – it looks funny as they only put boards up for time being to keep rain out as it takes a time to go all round. Mrs Woodhouse didn’t get a window out, so she thinks she was very lucky. One came down at Brook Street, Cuckfield the same morning, Tues morning about 5. They shook the place having one each side of us.

I am sending on the washing – didn’t know if you wanted petticoat; if you do ask for it you don’t want to have too much about you or you will be losing it. Joy is moved to Norfolk. Well haven’t any more news now, haven’t heard any more about Peg and wedding but leave is started again since Tue 8th so you will all get excited now, so cheerio.

Teddy and Dad sent their love and hope Peter is well.  Best love. Mum