Mommy got back [from Tooting] about eight o’clock; we talked happily round the fire. I’m sure family life is one of the best things in life. zfl zop
April
Thursday 1st
… Mommy, John and I went down to the village to shop, John and I going to see Mrs. Francis—who was very thrilled to see him. Then we went to the shop where hungry Canadians passing by had finished all unrationed food, and walked back. … zsh zfl zfr zfd zso
We’re doing quite well in Tunisia, lull on Russian front, Americans are competing with Goebbels in claims. Three Canadians came in at about 9 o’clock, having come on foot from Eastbourne with very few meals in three days. We gave them 2 eggs and most of our bread, for which they were very grateful—they were to leave for Lewes at 1 o’clock. zwg zpg zso zfd
John is not enthusiastic about the Russians—I think he saw released Poles. I don’t doubt we think too much of them, but that will counteract the usual line—and there are all seeds of very great good there. zfl zpn zru
John’s philosophy is one hand for yourself and one for the ship, that being more for the ship than is given by most. He also believes … that things always come right in the end, so don’t be discouraged. He’s a nice brother anyhow. zfl zop zpn
Friday 2nd
John went up to London, to see the Admiralty, Margaret and Melody. Apart from the Admiralty they are all coming here tomorrow … zfl
I spent some time in my house fluting and reading up the Webb’s book [on Russia] for the Conference. Before lunch I went with Daddy to see the Bones, whose son Colin is dying of a cerebral tumour (inoperable)—I went in with Daddy—the first person I’ve seen desperately ill. He was zmu zbp zic zil zmt zmw
