1915 Letter 30
[1915]
Dearest Mother,
Here goes for a last uncensored letter, though of course I can think of nothing censorable - that's always the way.
I wrote Papa about the rest of our trip. Stirling, Rosslyn etc. so won't go over that again. I enjoyed the time we spent in Edinburgh on our return trip very much. We saw all the sights - and were so exhausted by our efforts that we both decided against Melrose and Abbottsford, and came back by day instead to see the East Coast of England. It wasn't awfully interesting except for Durham and York Cathedrals which we could see at a distance.
And now we're on the way home - did I say home? Well no - but back to work anyway and I am truly glad of it.
Found a note from Myra waiting for me saying that they were all packed up, ready to leave for Abbeville, so I suppose they have gone by this time.
Well, Ida and I are still friends - and thank the Lord - for I'd have died rather than make a fuss. I couldn't think till the other day who she reminded me of - and it's Auntie Teese - a younger edition - but very like her. Same eyes etc. and the same sort of vain self-satisfied disposition and the same way of wanting you to give in and yet act as if you were pleased. However I'm glad we're still friends.
The whole trip was a liberal education to me in several ways and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I could write you books about it but time does not permit.
War is making itself felt every where and the tourist routes and hotels are absolutely dead.
Around Inverness the restrictions put upon tourists are very great and we were told that in certain parts all mail is censored as the fleet is very active around Inver Gordon etc. They also told us that many German submarines were sunk that no one heard of - as it was more mystifying to the Germans not to know what fate had befallen them.
Well, as I said before I can't think of anything very wicked etc. to say - so will close - as it is late. We cross to-morrow. Hope it isn't rough for while I've navigated the old Channel twice in safety - a third venture might prove unpleasant. Love to Papa -Yours lovingly,
Helen
Also, Mother dear - I am sending you by Registered mail a little gravy or salad dressing jug I picked up very reasonably in a second hand store - It is guaranteed Sheffield plate and good. Also I sent you a big spool which is not the right number but all they had.
Yours always lovingly,
Helen