58

April 7. 1945

Dear Mother:

I got to London about noon on Monday 2. and soon after lunch I went along to RCAF records near Harrods. This is when the big coincidence occurred. By mistake I got off the bus two blocks too soon and so was walking along Knightsbridge. Suddenly I saw Peter accross the street. I couldn’t believe it was him but recognised the girl he was with so I let out a yell and pushed over narrowly missing a fleet of taxis. Peter himself wouldn’t have been on the street for long. He had gone to the Papomac [?] club to cash a cheque but it was closed so they were strolling back to the nearest pub. He had his kit with him meaning to catch a train shortly so we were lucky. Mutual letters to each other had gone astray so it was a big surprise all round. Peter has two months sick leave, then hopes to go back. He can hear O.K. though his left ear is the best and the noise is still there. In the ensuing few days he told me a lot about his experiences and I can’t see why he would want to go back. I hope he is not still in London as the quiet of the country would be better but I think he has less inclination than ever to be away from excitement.

Well after the meeting I collected my mail except two parcels which I had forwarded on here and reported back to the pub. Then the three of us drove to the Dominion Officers Club, picked up some of your jam and peaches as I won’t have an opportunity to use them now and went on to see Alex.

We all had supper at the Spotlight Club and stayed till it closed about eleven. Then our party, now about seven, went to the Aster until it closed about four. The next day must have been rather quiet because I cannot remember anything particular happening until I met Freda at six and we went to the RCNVR “Meet the Navy” show. She had got very good seats which just made the finishing touch because it was the best stage show by far that I have ever seen. The songs, the dances, lighting and sets—all were perfect and we were enthralled.

Afterwards we met Peter and Alex who had been to a cinema and we had supper together at the Hong Kong Cafe.

With love from
Tony

[Editor’s note: Transcription provided by collection donor.]