Dec. 16. [Answering the question “what is happening?”] Odessa is taken—few Russian casualties. The Russians are doing a grand general offensive. America and Japan are in—and Japan is doing too well—as must be expected. zwg zru zws
to Glatting
Tuesday 16th
Up at 4.30—rush, crush etc. and we didn’t get a compartment. We were in a crowded corridor, and several thugs [seniors] … came and tried to drag me off. I got quite annoyed, and wrecked two noses and tummies (L, C) and gave G a black eye (he nearly bust my thumb off). Then they left me. G later apologised and said he deserved what he got. Journey otherwise as usual … ztv zfg zmb
… We had tea at Vic … trained to Glatting. Mommy has a very good idea—wake up village youth—girls knit [clothes for Russian refugees], boys guerrilla band. Nora and Margaret are both home, and two 9 ½ yrs. old evacuees. 1st time I’ve seen Nora for two years! zfl zcf zch zct zev
Thursday 18th
… After lunch I biked to the village to post some parcels, and to leave some mittens at Mrs. Powell for the Russians. zch
At 4 o’clock five boys arrived, and after tea we explained all about the Ordnance Survey maps, and got them very successfully to understand contours by giving them plasticine models, and cutting slices. zct zcb
Friday 19th
… I took Tinker for a short run and brought the car up. We first went to Petworth station, where we collected lots of luggage … Mommy went on to Petworth, and Nora and I began walking back. Mommy caught us up about ½ a mile before Sutton end, and squeezed Nora in while I stood on the running board. … zpt zmo
