12 September 1936

Dear Bob:

For days London has been covered with thick cloud, leaving about a 1,000 foot ceiling, but I can hear R.A.F. planes manoeuvring above the clouds all day, as I am eight miles from Hendon Aerodrome.

The Civil Flying Training School I go to October 12 - Phillips and Powis Aircraft Ltd. - Reading, manufacture Miles Hawk trainers (picture included) - not a bad ship, eh?

I can imagine being paid four dollars a day for flying one of these beautiful planes. The R.A.F. uniform, when seen in the streets, is very snappy. I stay about fifteen minutes' walk from the Air Ministry.

There is no lack of employment here. In fact "Boy Wanted" signs are everywhere. Poor pay, but jobs for youth fourteen to fifteen. If one has a good education and physique, it is easy to get in the navy, army, or air force. The physical tests for military pilots are strict. I know, Very few pass them. You progress from one specialist to another. They were weeding out so fast I nearly took my hat and left, and these fellows thought themselves fit.

It is always rainy and damp this time of the year, but I don't mind it. I shall look quite ducky in white coveralls, seat pack, parachute, etc. (Imagine having to wear a dinner jacket, stiff shirt, etc. for dinner each day).

Let me know how the weather is and what you are doing.

Bill
Write to Wm W. H. Martyn (I will be here before mail can get back)
Civil Flying School
c/o Phillips and Powis Aircraft Ltd.
Reading Aerodrome, Berks.
5 Crescent Place
Cartwright Gardens WC1