1915 Letter 34
Aug. 16, [1915]
Dear Mother,
I can't say anything more than that I am well and exceedingly happy at the thought of what we are about to see in the way of work - not to speak of all we have seen in the way of scenery already.
Of course, I think we are the most fortunate girls alive to be sent here and given the opportunities we wouldn't have had other wise.
We left Alexandria Saturday about 1 pm - I hated to leave as we had so much shopping to do we hadn't any time left for sight seeing, I didn't cable the first day not knowing the rules and regulations and then I didn't get another chance.
I loved the East - what little I saw - there is something about it that fascinates one - the colour - the sun and the yellow light: the haze that softens down the sharp outlines and makes the sand a golden mist.
The native quarter alone was worth the whole journey - had it been made simply for the purpose of sight seeing. We saw it on their Christmas Day and every one had his best and most gorgeous clothing.
I am feeling fine - and am fatter than I have ever been - I think.
Our destination looks much ahead of what we imagined from all reports and we are agreeably surprised. We have had a very pleasant and delightful voyage and we are all sorry it is over, though of course we are glad it's ended too.
Well, Mother dear, I'll write often. This is about my fifth letter to you I wrote from Folkestone, Malta - Alexandria and one to be posted in England - and another one which many never get through.
I am in a great hurry so will close. Don't worry - Mother dearest - if my letters don't come regularly - for I'm sure they won't.
Good-bye now and God bless you all.
Yours lovingly,
Helen