26 March 1945
To Jean · HMS Ruler, c/o British Fleet Mail
c/o British Fleet Mail
Dear Sister Jean:
Hi Pal. Would I like to see you or wouldn't I?!
Personally I can't get over what a beautiful girl you have turned out to be - your pictures are a real inspiration.
The other day I was ashore in one of Australia's fair towns with the captain. - Wizard. American R.N. car and both dressed in tropical white uniforms. We were parked in one of the main streets. Our fair driver wasn't so hard on the eyes either - come to think of it.
A woman with a delightful girl aged about 7 came over and talked to me.
"My young daughter has just asked me if you were the Duke of Gloucester?" My quick response was "Sorry, he is a lot nicer chap than I am."
The Captain who was in the back seat nearly fell through the deck -but is recovering nicely now!
Visiting an aerodrome the other day with the Jeep and three other officers we were waiting to go across a level crossing. About 6 young Australian boys joined the admiring throng around our Royal Navy jeep and made some inspiring and clever statements.
The Doctor leaned over to me and said - "These chaps are certainly clever for their age." A little chap about 8 promptly returned, "My oath we are."
The Navy said no more.
Love Bill
P.S. Hope I can come home soon.