Item 58 - Letter from George to Ruth Mallory, 2 August 1916

Letter to Ruth Mallory written from France during the Battle of the Somme, 'Aug 2 1916'

The heat had been trying but he was getting used to it. He walked up with a ruck sack filled with a water bottle and it served to carry his coat. Expeditions reminded him of the Alps because of their adventurous nature, code of conduct and companions.

Germans had been fairly quiet. He had returned three nights ago. Trench was filthy. Refused to sleep in a deep dark hole so carved out a hole in the side of the trench and had reinforced it with wood. Trench was infested with rats. The area was dotted with white crosses and swarms of black beetles.

Mr Quinn, who had gone to another battery, had been severely wounded in the leg. Mr Glen had gone to hospital with gastritis but would soon return.

Discusses good news from Russia and the stiff fighting where they were.

Was glad Sidney Cockerell’s visit to Westbrook had gone well and that she had given him a copy of his pamphlet.

Describes countryside behind the lines and travelling to find the Field Cashier, calling in to look around a chateau on the way.

Acknowledges safe arrival of tea and prunes.