Chotie Darling

Saving 10 shillings a week - Thursday 15th May 1941

Thursday 15^th May 1941

Soton

Thursday.

My Darling Chotie,

                                        I've just received your letter and am replying instanta*.

            I'm glad you managed to get back safely - I worried about you a lot I'm afraid - but then you always say I worry too much anyhow.

            I've just come back from hospital.  I went in yesterday morning, and the MO, having taken a casual look at my arm, promptly told me to go to bed for 24 hours, and that he'd have a go at it in the morning.  I had a miserable time in bed, being treated like a b-----y invalid and having my temp. & pulse taken about every half hour.  However, the MO probed about with it for about half an hour this morning, and then sent me back to the unit with my arm in a sling.       

         Well, so much for that.

        What do you think of the photos?  I thought they were very good, especially the one of you with Michael**.  You looked lovely Darling, just as I always think of you.

           I regret to say I've got to go on this course on the 18th, which unfortunately is Sunday - the hell of a nuisance but we must hope for the week after (as usual).  I don't expect you’re feeling too pleased having to go back this afternoon, at any rate it will be a very short week.           

           I've seen the pay clerk and am only going to draw 25 shillings from this week onwards.  That will be saving 10 shillings a week, which isn't too bad after all.

           I am also going back to P.T. after this course.  It’s a waste of a good course, but I don't care.  I get fed up with doing guards etc. Such a wretched waste of time in my opinion.

            I'm always grumbling, ain't I darling?  Anything connected with the Army is enough to start anyone grumbling.

            Old George has just come in, (I'm in the Corporals’ Room).  He's had a tooth out, so he's moaning about everything in general.  We’re just having a discussion on our Officers and we've come to the conclusion that there isn't one of them worth a stripe, let alone a commission.

            I must close now as my arm’s giving me hell.                                                           

                                        Bye, bye, Darling

                                                            your adoring

                                                                                    Dicker

PS.  Je t’aime encore au tout mon Coeur.***

 

* instantly (Italian)

** see photos on blog for 4^th May.

*** “I love you with all my heart.”

 

© Chotie Darling

Failing the OCTU Board - Tuesday 22nd April 1941

10th April 1941– severe incendiary bombing of Poole suburbs including Broadstone, Upper Parkstone and Canford Cliffs. Water supplies were used up by fire fighting in the lower part of the town so there was no mains water to dowse the blaze at the Canford Cliffs Hotel which burnt to the ground. (The converted remains of the stable block behind the hotel accommodate The Cliff pub and the flat where Chotie was to live for 44 years).

Bournemouth was also bombed that night and several people were killed by the bombing .

11th April 1941 – Incendiary bombing and machine gun attacks in the Poole suburbs of Broadstone and Corfe Mullen. 

13th April 1941– bombing of Upton, near Poole. A Heinkel crash landed at Lydlinch in North Dorset.

(Extracts from  ‘Poole and World War II’ written by Derek Beamish, Harold Bennett and John Hillier and published by Poole Historical Trust in 1980 and ‘Dorset’s War Diary - Battle of Britain to D Day’ by Rodney Legg, Dorset Publishing Company 2004).

 

13th April 1941 – Russia signs a neutrality pact with the Japanese.

 

14th April 1941 – Rommel besieges Tobruk, a key port in Libya.

 

17th April 1941 – Yugoslavia fell to Germany.

 

18th April 1941 – Britain warns Italy they will attack Rome if Cairo is bombed.

 

19^th April 1941 – British forces land in southern Iraq.

 

 

Southampton

Tuesday

My Darling Little Chotie,

                                                          As promised I'm writing as soon as possible.  To cut a long story short, the Board failed me because I'd done too much service on P.T. and couldn’t therefore have enough military knowledge! 

                I was that mad when I heard, I could have rushed from here to there but now having cooled off somewhat I don't care twopence.

            Last night I went to the Bellemoor* to drown my sorrows with John and a few others.  On getting back to get to bed, however, I found I hadn't got my petrol lighter.  Half crazed with grief, I rushed back to the Bellemoor to see if it was left there, despite the fact that it was after Roll-call.  It wasn't there.  I almost cried. Some time later John comes in and casually gives it to me saying that he had pinched it from my pocket.  I was so relieved; it left me a physical wreck.

            I realised then, Darling, that every thing connected with you means far more than anything this world has to offer, least of all commissions.  If only I could tell you how much you really do mean to me, Tootsie. It makes the Army seem so insignificant.          

            At the present rate things are going, it should be all over in six months to a year.  Just wait ‘till then...

            I mustn't write any more Darling, as I have to make out a pass for my Seven Days.  I doubt if I'll get it now as things appear to be bad in that direction. But, here's hoping.                                                                    

            Bye, bye Darling,

                            Take care,

                                            Your loving Dicker.

P.S.     Vous êtes le lait dans mon thé,

            Ce n’est pas possible de vivre sans toi!**

                        (all my own work!)

S.W.A.L.K.** etc!

 

* the Bellemoor Tavern in Shirley, Southampton

** “You’re the milk in my tea, it’s not possible to live without you!”

*** acronym for “Sealed with a loving kiss”.

 

© Chotie Darling

 

24^th April 1941 – German forces advance into Egypt.

The OCTU Board - Wednesday 9th April 1941

April 1941 – a secret commando unit, the Small Scale Raiding Force, was founded at Poole in response to Churchill’s proposal for “self-contained, thoroughly-equipped raiding units with specially-trained troops of the hunter-class” to “develop a reign of terror down the enemy coasts”.  Initially their HQ was the Antelope Hotel in Poole. ‘Pop’ Seymour the landlord, the Poole pilots and the Naval Officer were the only locals who knew of their existence on 'Maid Honour', a requisitioned Brixham trawler moored in a southern creek of Poole Harbour for their demanding training on the Purbeck hills and coast.

(Extract from  ‘Poole and World War II’ written by Derek Beamish, Harold Bennett and John Hillier and published by Poole Historical Trust in 1980.)

1st April 1941– 10 killed and 20 injured in a raid on Warmwell aerodrome in Dorset. (From ‘Dorset’s War Diary - Battle of Britain to D Day’ by Rodney Legg, Dorset Publishing Company 2004).

 

3rd April 1941 – beginning of pro-Axis uprisings in British Iraq.

 

6th April 1941 – Germany attacked Greece through Bulgaria in Operation Marita.

6th April 1941 - the Allies captured Addis Ababa, the capital of Abyssinia (now Ethiopia).

 

Telegram on Tuesday 8th April 1941 from Southampton

LEAVE POSTPHONED LETTER FOLLOWING = RICHARD

 

 

Southampton

Wednesday 9^th April

My Darling Chotie,

                      I'm writing as soon as possible to let you know the worst - and the best.

                     The point is this.  I should have been on leave from ‘After Duty’ on Tuesday.  However, on Tuesday afternoon (I only wanted about 2 hours to go!) the O.C.* (Capt Burgess) told me I wouldn't be able to go as I had some board or other on Thursday.  Even if I had come home, I should have had to go back again as, if I missed going before this board, it would probably mean waiting six months or so before I had another chance.

                    Looking on the brighter(!) side, the O.C. said that if I get recommended for an O.C.T.U.** I should get leave before I go, which won't be longer than a fortnight away and will probably be ten days not seven.           

                    Another thing.  If I'd been going on leave and not going to see this board, I should have been inoculated and vaccinated. Well, the way it seems to affect me, I should be in bed for at least three days.  I’ve still got the hell of a throat, and it's been over a week since the last.

               So, altogether Darling, it’s all for the better that it has been postponed.  It would have been marvellous to be home for Easter, but we can probably have as much fun afterwards.  Also leaving it until after Easter, I can get much more cash than I could at the moment.

 

            I've explained everything against taking this leave Darling, but I'm really terribly disappointed at not coming home.  I’d have chucked the whole stunt to get home for Easter, but I'm not going to back out now.  I spent about an hour trying to get through on the phone yesterday.  I reckon all the wires were down or something - in any case, the girl was completely daft.      

 

               How have you been keeping, Darling?  I feel OK now but have been under the weather for a week or so.           

                Incidentally, I've got hold of a battered copy of ‘Rebecca’ from a lending library in Shirley.  It's due back in a week, but I can easily pay the fine. I'll send it on after this letter and bring it back after my leave.

 

                Well, Darling here goes for breakfast.  I didn't tell you it was early, did I?!  I'll write some more later.

 

Afternoon

            The O.C. called me into the office this morning and told me I have to go to Winchester tomorrow.  It will only be for the day I suppose.

            George will be home tomorrow for seven days.  He's just been raising Cain owing to the fact that they only gave him £3 to go on leave with!  Poor George...

 

Well, Honey, there doesn't appear to be anything else.  I expect you think I've said enough already! I only hope I have some better news next time. 

             If they let me get away suddenly, I'll send a telegram.

                                                                                    Bye, bye, Darling,

                                                                                              Dicker

 

* O.C. = Officer Commanding

* O.C.T.U. = Officer Cadet Training Unit

© Chotie Darling

THB Inoculation - Monday 31st March 1941

Southampton

Monday

My Darling Chotie,

                                                   I've just received your letter, and am replying post haste.

           Well Precious for once - Good News!  I put in for 7 days on Sunday, as I thought I had a chance of getting away tomorrow.  This morning I was told by the Company Commander - the one we saw in the Pavilion with four women (?) - that I couldn't go this week as the CSM was going amongst others, but he has granted it for a week tomorrow (i.e. next Tuesday the 9th).

            All leave may of course be cancelled by then, but we can only hope...By getting it on a Tuesday it means that I get a full weekend at home. California, here I come!

            This morning I was inoculated with T.H.B. (i.e. the worst one) and can't move my left arm.  I'm supposed to be in bed, but who cares.  At any rate it doesn't hurt yet.  I've got 48 hrs excused all Duties, which is something.  I expect I'll be on my back by tomorrow - but the thought of 7 days will keep me alive.

           I had a letter from Monica* this morning - as usual full of woes.  She doesn't like the thought of corresponding with me when you disapprove. However Frank dislikes her writing to me anyway!

           I'm afraid I can't write any more Darling as my arm’s giving me hell.

                                                                        Bye, bye Darling

                                                                                    Your loving

                                                                                                Dicker

* Dick’s former girlfriend – see letter of 12^th November

© Chotie Darling

Oh, for my Student days! - Thursday 27th March 1941

                                                                   ‘D’ Company, 70th Dorsets (No Girls School now)

Southampton

27th March 1941

My Darling Chotie,

                                        Thanks for the letter, and Birth Certificate, it’s very good of you to go to the trouble of getting it.

           Did I make my journey back sound so terrible?  It was quite fun really.  Everything connected with the Army is grumbled at – at the time, but doesn’t seem half so bad afterwards.

           I hope you’re managing to bear up all right.  Things are quite good here – all things considered – but it wouldn’t be much of a life if I hadn’t my Chubby Baby to dream about, in fact it wouldn’t be a life at all.

            I had a letter from Eric to-day.  He’s a queer bloke.  He thanked me most profusely for ‘what I did on the beach’!  I think he thought I’d have walked off and left him!  He always says nothing for months after anything, and then suddenly holds forth.  He also enclosed 3 shillings, which was very welcome. He owes me about £3, the rat!

           I’m afraid I don’t get much time to write here, if any.  I always seem to be on duty – they have a nasty habit of grabbing me when there’s any work to be done!  However, who am I to grumble?  I’ve got the most wonderful wife in the world, which is more than any General has.

           I write so seldom now that I can hardly hold a pen!  Oh, for my Student days!  By the time I get out of the Army I'll be so dull I shall have to keep pigs or something.  I haven’t had time to read anything lately, besides I can never get settled on any one thing for long.

            I’ve been up on the range for the last three days, instructing.  The best part of it is that I’m no good myself

            Well, Darling, I’m on duty till lights out so I must say night night, Honey

                                                           your adoring sweetheart

                                                                                                Dicker

                                                                                                x x x x x x x

                                                                                                I.T.A.L.Y.*

* acronym for “I trust and love you”

 © Chotie Darling

 

27th March 1941 – a ‘sneak raider’ bomber attacked the gas works at Branksome, Poole.  34  were killed and 23 injured when the works Mess Hall was hit at lunchtime. (From  ‘Poole and World War II’ written by Derek Beamish, Harold Bennett and John Hillier and published by Poole Historical Trust in 1980.) 

 

30^th March 1941 – the German Afrika Korps began their offensive in N. Africa.

On Guard again - Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd February 1941

1st February 1941– a flying-boat service to neutral Portugal was established from Poole Harbour. Lisbon was the only safe staging post in Europe and became vital in supplying air support to Africa as well as Egypt and the Middle and far East via the Free French colonies in West Africa – the famous ‘Horseshoe Route’. This was a vital artery for the Western Desert campaigns.

The BOAC flying-boats had been moved to Poole from Hythe, near Southampton, in August 1939. Water runways known as ‘the Trots’ were marked out in the Main and Wareham Channels and operated from Salterns Pier (Poole Harbour Yacht Club, now Salterns Marina Hotel). Poole Harbour became the main UK civil airport during the WW2.

(From ‘Poole and World War II’ written by Derek Beamish, Harold Bennett and John Hillier and published by Poole Historical Trust in 1980 and ‘Dorset’s War Diary - Battle of Britain to D Day’ by Rodney Legg, Dorset Publishing Company 2004 Tel. 01963 32583).

 

Rye Cottage, Marine Parade W

Lee-on-Solent, Hants.

 Darling Chotie,                                                                               

                                    Thanks for the letter.  As I'm on Guard again I thought I'd write.  It's about the only time I get.  I'm on the Beach Hut Guard with no stove and only a candle for light and heat, and is it cold! 

                It's now just eight o'clock Saturday evening, and I'm faced with the pleasant prospect of staying in this wretched hut, awake, ‘till ten o'clock tomorrow morning.  It's so damn cold now that I can hardly write - heaven knows what it will be like by about midnight. 

                There was an inspection of these guards by a General a few days ago.  From what I can gather from various sources, he condemned the conditions and I believe there is the chance of moving again.  I don't know where it will be, of course.

                Everyone's fed up with this place as, apart from the food, there's nothing to be said for it.  It's one long Guard - up to our necks in mud and only one wretched cinema, when we get any time off.            

                Anyhow, Darling, I still love you so much that even Guards become a pleasure when I think, of the glorious time we're going to have when I get back.  And I don't mean maybe...

                About every ten minutes someone, some clumsy ---, knocks over my candle, and if it were not for my lighter, Darling, I don't know what I'd do.  I'd certainly have used a good few matches tonight.

                I'm afraid as usual there's very little news - if any.  Nothing of any real interest ever seems to happen.

                I hope to meet Eric again soon. He's at Gosport (about 5 miles from here) and I'm trying to arrange a reunion.  The snag is that it's difficult for us to both get the same night off duty.  I expect we'll manage it soon - Eric's a born wangler.

 

Sunday Evening

                I came off Guard and after a bath and some din-din, felt a lot better.

                I'm afraid I can't write any more, Darling as it's just on Supper Time, and I must post this in the NAAFI as it's the only chance I’ll get.                                              

                                        Bye, bye Darling,

                                                            All my love

                                                                        Dicker

© Chotie Darling

 

Dick appears to have been stationed at Southbourne (in Bournemouth)

for the rest of February and into early March. 

 

There are no letters between 2^nd February and 12^th March 1941

so he presumably met up regularly with Chotie.

 

9th February 1941 – Churchill’s broadcast to the nation ended:

“We shall not fail or falter; we shall not weaken or tire. Neither the sudden shock of battle, nor the long-drawn trials of vigilance and exertion will wear us down. Give us the tools, and we will finish the job.”

The Churchill Centre and Museum

 

11th February 1941 – German forces arrived in Africa for ‘Operation Sunflower’, reinforcing the remaining Italian forces in Libya after the destruction of the Italian Tenth Army in the Allies' 'Operation Compass'.

 

Dick was promoted to full Corporal again

on 20th February 1941.

He also appears to have been moved to ‘D’ company of the 70^th Dorsets

Copy of Record

Statement of Service Army No. 5731671 Richard Kelner WILLIAMS

THE DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT

Order 55/41 70^th Y.S. Bn Appointed Paid Army Rank A/Cpl 20-2-41

 

25th February 1941 – British forces captured Mogadishu, the capital of Italian Somaliland.

26th February 1941 - following Hitler’s appeal for Spain to enter the war General Franco declares “I stand today already at your side, entirely and decidedly at your disposal”, but Spain remains neutral.

Blitz in Southampton - Monday January 1941

20^th January 1941 – compulsory fire watching duty introduced in Great Britain. All shops and office buildings had at all times to be attended and, at night or in any ‘red alert’ there had to be a ‘Roof Warden’ on duty.

As an employee of Beales, in Bournemouth, Chotie had to take her turn at night-time fire watching on the roof. Beales was later destroyed by bombing on 23rd May 1943, in the worst attack on Bournemouth during the war.

 

Rye Cottage, Marine Parade West

Lee-on-Solent, Hants. 

My Darling,

                                                                                    I'm writing as I promised as soon as possible to let you know that I arrived safely - but only just.  I got to Southampton at 8 o'clock and then the trouble started.  I didn't get back to camp until 3 o'clock this morning.  There was a terrific Blitz on* and we had to wait on the station from 8.15 until 12.30!  However the train eventually came and we reached Fareham, at about 2.30.   Here I met with some luck as there was a naval lorry going back to the camp.  It dropped me about a hundred yards from my billet.

             I had to go on Guard at 7 o'clock this morning so I didn't get much sleep - and if anyone catches me asleep to-night I'm for a court-martial. What a life! 

             Still I mustn't grumble as my little wife is all that really matters in this heartless world.  (Another proposal!)  I must really get down to this proposal business when I get back in civvies...You're not going to get out of it as easily as you think...

             I felt terrible this morning, Darling.  It's pretty chronic when you get back from leave and haven't anyone you can call a friend in the whole company. Apart from Clive there isn't one man whom I could ever get to know or like.

 

            Well, Sweetheart, I've just had supper, (2 zeppelins in a cloud**) and feel at ease once again. 

             I hope you got back from Bmth all right - and please Darling, do look after yourself, whatever you do. You'll never know how really precious you are to me.  I just can't help thinking of you the whole time here.

             I don't think I've ever felt so terribly depressed and lonely as I did this morning.  Cho Darling, I don't know what you must be thinking about me after coming home and being so terribly cold.  I suppose it's not my fault really, but I can't adapt myself to home life in a few hours.  I worry too much I suppose.

             Whatever happens, the next time I get home we must go to the Shipwrights’ or Norfolk*** or somewhere and get completely blotto.  At any rate I'll be home earlier next time, which will mean we can at least go somewhere in the evening.

 Well, Darling I must close here as the Orderly Officer is due any moment,                             

                                                                        night, night Precious

                                                                                    All yours

                                                                                                “Dicker”

* Southampton was the one of the most heavily bombed cities (7^th) in Britain during WW2. As Britain’s number one military port and the home of Spitfire production, just across the Channel from northern France, it was an obvious target.

** Army slang for canteen sausages in mash.

*** The Shipwrights Arms was a pub on Poole Quay (demolished in 1978). Dick had taken Chotie there before the war, much to her mother’s horror.  Pubs in Poole were then almost exclusively a male preserve and Chotie’s family were teetotal – even Chotie had signed ‘the Pledge’ - "We agree to abstain from all liquors of an intoxicating quality whether ale, porter, wine or ardent spirits, except as medicene.”

 

“My mother tore off down to the Williams’ house after she found out Dicker had taken me to a pub.  I had not even been in the bar but had played skittles and drunk one grapefruit juice”.  From ‘Grandma’s Story’ written for Chotie’s grandchildren. However another version of ‘Chotie’s Story’ has Dicker “sneaking me into pubs, taboo with my family in those days”!

There was little other social life besides the pubs during the war and, with war work giving many women more independence, pubs were soon frequented by both sexes.

 *** The Norfolk is still a fine Edwardian Hotel near the centre of Bournemouth.

 © Chotie Darling

 

January 22^nd 1941 - British and Australian forces capture the port of Tobruk, Libya from Italy.

 

22nd to 25th January 1941 – German minelaying off the Dorset coast.

Last week of January 1941 – the Telecommunications Research Establishment at Worth Matravers commandeered the BBC’s pre-war television transmitter, at Alexandra Palace in London, to jam the newly refined German radio beam system for night time location of English targets.

(From ‘Dorset’s War Diary - Battle of Britain to D Day’ by Rodney Legg, Dorset Publishing Company 2004).

Lorry collision - January 1941

“ Rye Cottage”, Marine Parade West, Lee-on-Solent, Hants.

My Darling,

            Just a few lines to let you know how I'm getting on and to give you the new address.  Did you get my P.S.?

            I wrote about a week ago, telling you of my demotion etc - I also wrote home but they don't appear to have got it.  I don't know whether you did.

            I'm afraid I've been laid up for some time as I had a bit of an accident and nearly managed to lose my left eye.  I was blind in it for three days - but the MO says it's OK now – I only hope he's right.  I was running pretty fast (Olympic Games Standard!) in the Black-Out early one morning, when I collided with a lorry.  I thought I was tough, but I rather think the lorry had it all the way.  I got a slight concussion and a deep cut under my eye - but it's all right now. 

            In case you didn't get my last letter, I'm now a L/Cpl having been busted by the Colonel (bless him).  Pete is now a full Corporal in ‘D’ Coy my original Company.  Eric has also been made up again.  The fortunes of war....

             However who cares?  I've still got my Tootsie (I hope..) and that's all I have to worry about.

             Well Darling I'm afraid I'll have to close here as this wretched NAAFI is closing.

                                     Still loving you every bit Cho Dear,

                                                                        your devoted

                                                                                    Dicker

© Chotie Darling

The Reconnaissance Corps was established on 14th January 1941.

Following Dunkirk the Bartholomew Committee was set up to review and learn from the defeat of the British Expeditionary Force. It recommended a new organisation for infantry divisions that included a reconnaissance unit. The light ‘cavalry’ regiments that had carried out reconnaissance for the infantry were now in the Royal Armoured Corps, so the new specialised Reconnaissance Corps would provide one unit per army corps, with specialised training at Lochmaben and Annan in Dumfries & Galloway and at Scarborough, North Yorkshire (from ‘Only the Enemy in Front’ by Richard Doherty).

 

Dick was to serve with the Reconnaissance Corps for three years including fighting in France, the Low Countries and Germany.

A light in the darkness - Wednesday 25th December 1940

Corsham, Wilts

Christmas Day

My Precious Darling,

            I had to write straightaway, to try to thank you for the lovely lighter you sent for the 25th. Darling, it lights! Nothing can stop it lighting - not even a young hurricane. I've used it on guard - and believe me the wind howls round here - and it lights first time every go!

            Darling, it's just what I've wanted for years. You know how many matches I use! Thank you ever so much Cho, Dear. Remind me to give you a big kiss when I get home. When.………..But I'm still hoping.

            I thought about you all over Christmas Darling. It made me so mad to think that I couldn't send you anything, not even a Christmas card. Poor Eric's in the same boat and Pete. We haven't seen a shop of any sort for nearly three weeks. I've been to Bath twice since we've been here but each time the only thing open were the pubs.

            The latest is that all passes to Bath have been stopped as the Chief-of-Police has banned us from the town! The same applied to Chippenham. The Boys beat up every town we get near!

            I've been on guard all day (Christmas) and come off tomorrow morning. It's now about 9.30 pm., and as usual I'm writing this by the lamp in the Guard Hut. I managed to wangle Eric on this guard so I've had his company all day, which is a relief. We had quite a good dinner, which included Beer & Cigarettes.

            Pete has been in bed for 2 days with a so-called gastric stomach! He's really no more ill than I am, but you know what he is! Needless to say however, he made a rapid recovery on Christmas Eve.

            Owing to present conditions I can't say just what's going to happen to me. Let me explain. Out of the whole battalion (A,B,C,D & E Companies.) which is approx 850 men, there have been over 250 deserters in the last fortnight! Which only goes to show what the conditions are like!

            Now, everyone over 20 can get a transfer to another Regiment - and believe me, there are plenty over 20 who have put their age down to 18.

            Lieutenant White our Officer in Charge is being replaced as from tonight by a Captain. This means I have to start all over again as regards a commission! What a life!

            The Orderly Officer has just come up with Beer & fags (!) so I have altered my opinion of the Army since writing the last sentence.

                        Well, my precious, I must close soon as the Ord has to be accompanied around.

                                                            Darling, I must see you soon as I love you so madly that I just can't go on without you.

                                                                            Goodnight, Cho Darling

                                                                                Your adoring

                                                                                                Dicker

 

© Chotie Darling, 2010

 

The War at Sea – 567 Allied ships were sunk by U-boats in 1940 (almost 3 million gross tons of shipping) although only 24 U boats were lost -World War 2 Timeline .

In the mud - Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th December 1940

Corsham, Wilts

My Darling,

            I must apologise for not writing before, but quite a lot has happened in the last few days.

            As you will see from above, we have moved in the Bath direction, and are now doing guards at an Aerodrome in this vicinity.

            The place is really undescribable. We are now in wretched little huts, which are stone cold. The mud is feet thick. Prepare for it, there is no water! That's quite literal. All the water in the cookhouse (I don't know where it comes from) has to be boiled before use. I haven't washed or shaved for three days. It's criminal to say the least.

            There is no village or shops within 3 miles, Bath being about 5 miles away. The NAAFI here sells only Beer & Cigarettes, no chocolate or cakes. We do 24 hrs on guard (ie no sleep) & then 24 hrs off. Well, when I got off my guard, I got no dinner and in what should have been my 24 hrs I had to supervise trench digging in pouring rain! What a life!

            Darling, it's now Thursday and I'm sitting outside the Guard hut out in the wilds, in front of a log fire. I came on this morning at 9 and end at 9 on Friday morning, (24 hrs). It's a marvellous day, frost early but now in glorious sunshine.

            I was very pleased to hear about your new job*. I hope you'll like it and get on very well there, but remember eyes off the boys in the display.

            Darling, it seems such ages since I've seen you. We're supposed to be on this job for a month, which means I'm afraid no leave for that long. The South Staffs, whom we relieved when we came here hadn't had any leave for over nine months. It's a bad case but that's the Army all over now.

            Incidentally, Eric has had a shocking letter from Jean. Apparently she has been ogling someone else in his absence and has the nerve to ask Eric for permission to go out with him as she is lonely! What a woman!

            Please Cho Darling, don't ever run out on me now, as you're the only thing that makes this wretched life worthwhile.

            Eric is in the hell of the stew and hints at suicide & desertion etc. I don't blame him, I'm only too sure I would.

            Lets talk of more pleasant things. It seems now that this show won't last so very long. Wouldn't it be marvellous if it would end in a few months? It would seem too good to be true. But as Dumas says we can only wait & hope.

                                                                   Well, Darling, I must close now as I perceive the Orderly Officer on the horizon.

                                                                                            Your adoring & ever devoted

                                                                                                                                Dicker

                                                                                                                                    Dieu te garde***

P.S. Address is:-

‘A’ Company (‘A’ not ‘L’)

70^th Dorsets

CORSHAM

Wilts

 

*Chotie: “I was working at Beales in the Window Display Department (after F W Collins). Colleagues Enid Cooper, later to become very big in the fashion world, Arty (the artist) and two others – I cannot recall their names. Miss Boyle, the manageress, was a dragon (she had sued her boyfriend for breach of promise.) At night we had to do firewatch duty. Later on Beales was mostly destroyed by a bomb.”

From ‘Grandma’s Story’ written for Chotie’s grandchildren.

** “Until the day when God shall deign to reveal the future to man, all human wisdom is summed up in these two words,--'Wait and hope'.” Quotation from ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ by Alexandre Dumas.

***'God keep you'

 

Dick was based in Corsham, Wiltshire,

until January 1941.

© Chotie Darling, 2010

 

16th December 1940 – first RAF ‘reprisal raid’ for the Blitz on a German town (Mannheim).

18th December 1940 – Hitler confirms plans for ‘Operation Barbarossa’, German invasion of the Soviet Union.

We're moving - 5th December 1940

Letter posted on Thursday 5^th December 1940

Chippenham, Wilts

 My Darlingest,

                                         I must write to let you know that I'm afraid I won't be able to get home this weekend.  We're moving and consequently my pass has been cancelled.  It was a hell of a blow Darling, just when every thing seemed so rosy.  Don't be too disappointed Sweetheart, I’ll be home the week after, one way or another.

           I don't yet know where we're going to.  One hears so many rumours that you simply can't believe anything you hear.  I have every reason to believe however, that the move will be local.  I only hope so. 

         At present, I'm in the Y.M.C.A with Eric who’s writing to Jean.  He arrived back from leave three days overdue, but with customary brilliance got off the charge.

           I was amazed to learn from Eric last that he’s 22!  I always understood that he was 18!  No wonder he's fed up and after a transfer.

            Clive Gammage, one of the gang, reverted at his own request, (i.e. handed in his stripe) yesterday.  He got so utterly fed up, that he felt justified in doing so. 

             I must tell you Darling, that I went to the office on Friday last to revert, but the new CSM wouldn't hear of it and went all fatherly towards me.  Perhaps it was because I'm the youngest Cpl. in the Battalion now.  One of us is crazy, and I feel all right.

                             Well, Darling, I must close here,

                                                   All my love

                                                                    Dicker

© Chotie Darling, 2010

Sunday fights - 24th November 1940

Chippenham, Wilts

My Darlingest,

                 Thanks for the letter.  I'm glad you haven't decided to fall for a Guardsman.

     I’ve been lying awake for nights thinking the most horrible thoughts about the wretched guards, and when I have slept, I've had nightmares about them.  It was a wonderful relief to know you still care for me, even if I can't see you very often, and that comes before the Army, Victory or anything.

     If only this wretched show would end.  What a time we could have!  No having to think about getting back to camp on 48 hrs or anything like that.  It seems too good to be true now - but the time will come, Darling, never fear.  It will take more than Jerry bullets to get through me, you know.

     There has been a great change here.  CSM Gurd is going away, and another sergeant who is now in ‘L’ Coy, and with whom I get on excellently is being made up and will take his place from tomorrow.  There was a conference this morning of Officers, WOs & Senior NCOs which I had to attend and which dealt with the near future of this Company.  Things are beginning to tighten up now and discipline is much hotter.  It's about time, as things were getting slack.  I say that now I'm a senior, but I doubt if I'd say it if I were a private!

     Eric still hasn't come back, and I'm wondering if he's been hit by a bomb or something, as there's been hundreds where he lives.  He’s two days overdue from his leave.

     It’s now Sunday Afternoon, and as usual, I’m stretched out on my kit, writing to my little Cho-cho.  There's a couple of fights going on, (which is a common occurrence) as everyone has by now spent all their money and has nothing better to do.  Johnny Hill who is a L/Cpl-Instructor (PT) and I join in when we feel like it as one has to let them know who's boss!

     Well, Precious, there doesn't seem anything else to tell you, except that I still adore you with all my heart and soul and always will.

     So, don't forget to think of me sometimes, Darling, and remember I'll do anything for you, any time. 

                                Your adoring

                                                ‘ Dicker’

© Chotie Darling, 2010

Raid on Chippenham - 20th November 1940

Chippenham, Wilts

Wednesday

My Darlingest,

                                                Many thanks for the letter which I have just received.  I'm replying instantly as I have one stamp between me and starvation.  I drew 30/- this week, but as I was endeavouring to influence the C.S.M. and as we met Pete, it all went by Saturday evening.  The more I draw the less far it seems to go.

     Well, Honey, you don't mention anything re FWC*.  I see that your letter was written from work.  I hope everything turns out all right, as you certainly deserve it.

     You seem to be having a pretty hot time now.  I wish I could say the same for myself.  Things are very dull here.  On occasion we go out and drown our sorrows but that's all it amounts to.  We very seldom seem to get very merry.

     I hope you won't go and fall for a Guardsman.  They are a trifle smarter than the Dorsets you know.  Have a good time by all means, but don't forget your little Dicker whatever you do, as I'm afraid you're vital to me now.

     Pete and Co are on an NCOs’ Cadre at the moment.  That's a course of sorts.  I did my best and got out of it as I much prefer to go away on a pukka course.  Local courses sound alright but amount to very little.  This particular one is being taken by an old Sergeant, who fondly imagines this is 1914.  He's very smart but lives in the past as so many old soldiers do (Pa for example).

     At any rate nothing can be done, until I get back to duty.  Then the sparks will fly, and I don't mean maybe.

     There's going to be a pretty good change in about a fortnight's time.  Everyone is going to be switched around in platoons and companies.  I'd like a change from ‘K’ as I'm pretty fed up with it.  We've got a new CEO now who is rather a ----.  He stripped a Cpl in ‘D’ for coming in an hour late after he'd been to a dance.  I'm glad I'm not still in ‘D’ as I'd have been finished by now.

    Commissions are still on the horizon, but are approaching gradually. Nil desperandum.

     I'm writing this in an old theatre, in the wings.  We use it for P.T. this weather.

     Went to see ‘ Convoy’ last night as I’d missed it before.  Then we had a raid here.  I should think that half the Jerry Air Force were up.  Plenty of bombs came down, but not too near.

     Well, I must close now and do some work.  The CSMI is on a course, which leaves me in charge of PT for 300 men!

         So long, Honey

                    your devoted

                                        Dicker

P.S. Remember what I said about that Guardsman ....

 

* Chotie’s place of work, which was closing down.

© Chotie Darling, 2010

 

20^th November 1940 – Hungary joins the Tripartite Pact with Germany, Italy and Japan.

22nd November 1940 - Italian 9th Army defeated by Greeks.

23^rd November 1940 – Romania agrees to join the Tripartite Pact with Germany, Italy and Japan.

24^th November 1940 – Slovakia joins the Tripartite Pact with Germany, Italy and Japan.

Church Parade - Sunday 17th November 1940

Chippenham, Wilts

My Darlingest Chotie,

                                            I'm writing again as I promised to do yesterday.

    We had quite a merry little time last night, with the Sergeant Major*.  He's turned out a lot better since I got my second stripe.  I later learnt that he got it for me!  What a life.  I don't know whether I'm coming or going lately. 

    Pete has settled down here and is doing very well, thank you.

     Everyone here has taken a sudden dislike to the NCOs. L/Corp. Shingles who is my second-in-command was bashed on the head with a rifle last night when he was asleep.  He was laid out flat.  I was going to put the platoon on charge but this would stop me going out tonight so I let it go, as I don't think much of Shingles anyway. 

    I'm writing this stretched out full-length on my kit.  Pete is scrounging my cleaning stuff to do his buttons with. 

     You'd like Clp. McCracken.  Blond hair, blue eyes, everything in fact.  He's rather hot on Rugger.  He was made up a full corp, soon after me.

     We had a pretty good church parade this morning.  The O.C. was missing but everyone else was there.  The preacher (bless his little heart) got quite mad and said “And the next time we pray, you get down and kneel properly.”  Mac & I had slept on our slacks all night to get a crease for the parade, and we didn't see kneeling on them.  Having no soul, I don't see what difference it makes anyway.

     If only I was nearer home, I could see you every Sunday as we now get off from 12 noon until 10:30 p.m.  That is of course unless I was on duty of some sort.

     There's been scores of fights this weekend as usual as everyone who can get out gets completely and hopelessly tight.  They come in looking for trouble and we have to get them to bed somehow even if it means knocking them out, which is often done.  They always seem to get up in the morning as right as rain.

     Well, Darling, there's no more to tell you, except of course I still adore you and always will,

                         Your devoted

                                            Dicker

                                                        qui t’aime pour la vie.**

 

* Can this be Sergeant Major Gurd? (see letters from mid September 1940)

** “who loves you for life.”

 © Chotie Darling, 2010

 

19th November 1940 - Canada approved initiation of mass production of war bacteria.

'pretty merry' in Chippenham - 16th November 1940

 

Chippenham

Wilts.

Saturday.

My Darling,

Thanks for the letter.  The Post-Corporal whose job it is to deliver the mail said nothing to me about it, but I later discovered it tucked in the blankets in my kit.  As usual, it was just what I needed to cheer me up. 

 

Pete came back as you probably know on Friday.  McCracken and I were pretty merry when we met him in town, but what were we like when we rolled back to billets at 10-30?  Our condition was certainly nobody’s business!

 

However, I've spent the day sobering up, and am now writing this in the ‘George’, a very old pub which we frequent; when we have the price of a pint or two.

 

Well, Darling, I hope you're keeping well and looking after yourself in my absence.  You really must look after yourself and take care, as you're all I've got that matters now.

 

I don't know when I shall get another 48 hrs.  I'm pretty busy now as I’m doing duty & P.T. as well & it's pretty tiring not to mention the small amount of time I get off.

 

I can't write any more now, but will again tomorrow.  I'm afraid I've been called for Batt. Ord. Sergeant* for tonight as we had four deserters yesterday.

 

                 all my love

                         your devoted

                                             Dicker

                            S.W.A.L.K.

 

* Orderly Sergeant is the first Sergeant of a company.

 

© Chotie Darling, 2010

 

Taken off PT, Chippenham - Tuesday 12th November 1940

8th November 1940 – Italian offensive in Albania.

9^th November 1940 -  death of Neville Chamberlain, formerly Prime Minister of Great Britain, who thought he had gained ‘peace for our time’ from Hitler at Munich in 1938.

 

Chippenham

Tuesday

My Darling Chotie,

                                        Thanks a lot for the letter.  It seemed I hadn't heard from you for such a time.  Even a few days seems like years now.

     I have some rather distasteful news I'm afraid.  As far as I know, all 48 hours have been stopped for the present.  Isn't it a blow?  I was expecting to get home this coming weekend.  The only leave going now is seven days, and, as there are about 200 blokes here all due for it, rather cuts me out.  Still we mustn't be too downhearted as I expect I can manage a 48 during the next few weeks, whether they’re stopped or not.

     I was hoping to see Pete by now.  I don't suppose he's too keen on coming back as he's had such a while at home.  I know I shouldn't be

     Well, Darling, I have at long last succeeded in getting returned to duty, ie. being taken off P.T.  I heard I was in for another stripe, which would have made me a Sergeant Instructor in the A.P.T.S.*, but of course I won't get that now.

     I hope to go on an NCO’s Course in a fortnight or so.  This is what I've been after for ages.  You get a chance to do Bren, Lewis** and Anti-tank, etc.  I was talking to Mr Lawson (Lt.) about a commission, and he seems to think I stand a good chance, but as far as I can see (which isn't much!) I can't do anything for some time.  Everything here is so unsettled that nothing much can be done at the moment.

     Incidentally, I learn from Diller, that she has given Monica*** my address.  She (Diller) wrote and asked me if I minded, but I wasn't keen and forgot all about it, and now she's done it without my consent.  Don't be jealous will you, Darling.

     I know just what you're thinking, Honey!  You're just thinking he can't palm me off with that slush!  Never mind, Precious, I'll give her to Brinner for Christmas.

     I'm writing this in the Y.M.C.A., which is pretty good.  (No, Sweetheart, very few ATS....)  This accounts for the ink. 

     Well Darlingest, I must close now.

                                                                   tout à toi

                                                                             Dicker

                                                                                xxxxxxxxxxxxxx etc!...

 * Army Physical Training Staff.

** Bren & Lewis were light machine guns.

*** Dick’s ex-girlfriend and friend of his sister Dilys. Brinner was Dick’s younger brother.

© Chotie Darling, 2010

 

 14th/15th November 1940 – Coventry was bombed so heavily that a third of the factories were destroyed. Over 60,000 houses were damaged, the cathedral was destroyed and more than 500 people killed.

Bombs in Birmingham - early November 1940

Chotie Darling

Part 1         The Blue Cockade

Chapter 2           Guarding England – winter

Dedicated to the memory of my mother

and all those who hold the forever young of war in their hearts.

 

 

Dick was posted to the 70^th Battalion of the Bath & Dorsets

on 1^st November 1940.

He was in ‘K’ Company, based in Chippenham, until mid December.

The 70^th or Young Soldiers Battalions were formed about this time to take volunteers too young to be conscripted. They were generally over 18 and under 20.

(Dick was 19 in July 1940, soon after he joined up.)

 

from Record

Statement of Service            Army No. 5731671             Richard Kelner WILLIAMS 

THE DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT

Order 198/48            Unit 6^th H.D. Bn          Posted to 70^th Bn          Army Rank A/Cpl          1-11-40

 

 

3rd November 1940 – British troops arrive in Greece to fight the Italians.

 

 

NB Change of Batt.

70 Bath Dorset Regt.

‘ K’ Coy.

London Rd

Chippenham

 Wilts.

My Darling Cho-cho,

                                                                                                Well, at last I'm now able to write. It's been one long rush for the last week or so, I'll tell you all about it in a moment.

            I was very sorry to hear that F W* has been forced to close down.  It must have been rather a blow. I don't suppose you're very worried though!  Nothing worries us does it, Darling?  You can now join the ATS and get stationed near me.  That would be just about heaven I reckon.

    Talking about getting stationed near me, I'm now at a place called Chippenham, which is marvellous.  We’re billeted over a Burton's (tailors) right in the middle of the town.  I've just given the place the once-over, and when I say it's OK I don't mean maybe.  It's got some marvellous pubs, teashops & everything.  I don't know how long we’ll stay here but it's all right by me.

    I was going down to dinner on Friday when Gurd (CSM) pounced on me and yelled “Escort to Birmingham!” whereupon I proceed to pack up my goods and chattels and, having conscripted a private, set off for Brum.  It took us just about 8 hours to get there. 

     We got to Brum about 11 pm in pouring rain & blackout etc, with nowhere to sleep and no money (having lent all mine to Eric to go on leave with).  Bombs were falling all over the place.  Marshall and Snelgrove's (about as big as Bobby’s**) was reduced to an ash heap.  I ended up sleeping in a cellar under some barracks. 

    I had two days in Brum arriving back via Bristol with the prisoner who was doing his best to escape (bless his little heart...).  It was no joke, I can tell you.

    Well, Darling, I'm afraid there's nothing else of interest.  I may be able to get home this weekend, I don't know yet.

 

            I’ll write again anyway. 

                            Loving you more than ever

                                                            Your devoted

                                                                                Dicker

  

* FW was Chotie’s place of work: 

“At fourteen my Mum took me to Bournemouth for a successful interview in Mr F W Collins’ rather swanky dress shop, selling hats, furs and clothes ‘for every occasion’ in the arcade.  Mrs Pitman, the rather sad manageress (her husband was a rotter) took me in hand and trained me to be a Sales Assistant and Window Dresser.  Mrs Collins showed me how to make and trim hats. 

Mary, whose parents kept the Anglo-Swiss Hotel, also worked there. We used to hide in the lower floor and cold store room (where furs were kept in summer), putting the evening dresses against us, which were lovely, instilling in me a love of beautiful clothes.

The errand boy took a shine to me and bought me a handbag (Mum made me give it him back).  You could not, in those days, accept presents from ‘any old Harry’.

 I forgot to mention, at thirteen I won the ‘Atlanta Cup’ for physique out of all the Poole schools.  Must have been quite a dish!”  

From ‘Grandma’s Story’ written for Chotie’s grandchildren.

** Bobby’s was a large department store in the centre of Bournemouth (later Debenhams, then Bobby's again).

© Chotie Darling, 2010

"uxoriousness" - 29th October 1940

Bemerton

Tuesday evening

Dearest of all, Cho-Cho,

            Thanks a lot for the letter – I got it at dinner time and it was more welcome than a seven-course meal.

            I’m writing this, or rather endeavouring to do so, by the dim beams of a somewhat shaky candle, lying in bed in the tent.  I’ve certainly never attempted anything like this before. I hope it’s successful.           

            I went over to Tidworth this afternoon to pick up a Boxing Ring.  I had to collect it from the Gym at which I did that wretched course.

            I met the old crowd including the Sergeant Instructor who was in charge of my platoon.  He appeared (?) very pleased to see me again, and asked me how I was getting on, etc.  I don’t think he was feeling very well…

            Well, Darling, as usual I have some bad news.  I have unfortunately been done out of 48 hrs this week, in my absence on Sunday.  However, I have every chance of coming home the week after, so I can’t grumble.  I know it seems hard, Darling, but when we consider that most army blokes only get a 48 hrs every three months or so, we are really very lucky.

            I hope your sniffles are better now.  You must take care of yourself, you know.  You’ll never realise how much you do really mean to me, certainly, more than I can ever tell you.  I hope you’ll never desert me, Honey, because if you did, I’d pack up, and give up the ghost, and I don’t mean maybe.

            Eric you’ll be pleased to hear has got his seven days, which starts on Friday.  It will seem pretty dull without him, as I’ve become very attached to him, as we have one great thing in common viz uxoriousness*. (There’s a word for you to look up!)

            I must close now precious, as there’s some wretched Sergeant shouting “put that ---- light out”!

                                                                                    Loving you more than ever

                                                                                                your devoted hubby

                                                                                                            Dicker

                                                                                                            I.T.A.L.Y.

* uxoriousness = excessively or submissively fond of a wife.

© Chotie Darling, 2010

 

29th October 1940 - conscription begins in the U.S.,  the first military draft during peacetime in American history.

 

30th October 1940- RAF Bomber Command is directed to commence ‘area bombing’ in Germany.

 

31^st October 1940 – end of the Battle of Britain.

Dinton, b....y awful, but not Basingstoke - 22nd October 1940

22nd October 1940

Bemerton

Tuesday evening

My Darling Cho,

Thanks for the letter which I got this morning.

Well Darling to get down to business, I find that with reasonable luck I’ll be able to get home on Sunday. The point is Honey, that if I can get a pass all day in Salisbury I may just as well come home, and it will save you a look of trouble & expense. Also I don’t like the idea of your travelling back all that way in the dark.

There is some truth in what Mummy warns you about, even if you don’t believe it… Mind you, I’m not saying you can’ take care of yourself, but after all you’re only a lickle baby although you’re the most adorable chubby baby that ever lived. I tremble to think what could happen to you, Sweetheart, and I hate taking those kind of risks.

I was doing Battalion Orderly Sergeant all day last Sunday which is some job, & I don’t mean maybe. It means being on all day from réveillé until about 11pm, with one worry after another – but for all that, it’s good experience.

Incidentally, I was choked off the other day, pretty severely. I bet you wouldn’t guess what for? (No, Precious, it wasn’t women!) It was for associating with private soldiers vis. Eric & Pete.

I’m no longer able to go out with them, and should I meet them in the N.A.A.F.I. or anywhere, they have to address me as Corporal and not the now familiar ‘Dicker’. What a life!

The latest news as regards moving is back to Dinton which suits me admirably – that is, it’s b…..y awful but much preferable to Basingstoke.

We had a dance here last Monday. I’d had nine pints at the Conservative Club before I got there, so had a pretty good time on the whole. The women were a little better than usual but have no fears, Darling, as there isn’t a woman living who could take me away from you, (and that includes Bergman*…)

Well, Chubby, I must close now, loving you more than ever.

Je suis à toi pour la Vie,**

Your adoring,

Dicker

P.S. I terrible sorry about you’re cold. It’s just like me to forget all about it until the end. I hope you’ll forgive me Darling and get better soon.

all yours

Dicker

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

All for you! (when I come home)

* Ingrid Bergman, the Swedish film star

** “I am yours for life.”

© Chotie Darling, 2010

Dick and Chotie probably met up on Sunday 27^th October 1940.

On 28th October 1940 Italy attacked Greece.

Choosing Friends - 18th October 1940

Letter posted on Friday 18^th October 1940

Bemerton

Thursday

My Darling Chotie,

 

Thanks for the letter which I've just received, and also the snaps enclosed. 

 It's wonderful to hear from you again, as it seems ages since I saw you.  It's funny to think that in reality it's only a few days.  It's just impossible to tell you how much I really do love you and how much I miss you.

 I think that being away most of the time has made me realise this more than ever.

 Well, Darling I had to break off there rather abruptly and am continuing here on Friday afternoon.  I've just been paid, exactly £1 - no more or less.

 I saw Mr Lawson (2/Lt) who is my present platoon Commander about being transferred back to duty - ie packing up P.T.  He's going to speak to Mr White about it.  It's the only way if I am to take a commission eventually.  It will probably mean giving up my last stripe but I'd willingly give up both to get back to the ranks.

 Eric + Pete came back last night with the advance party.  It brightened me up a lot as I missed them both.

 I get on very well with almost everyone here, but when I tell you that all the members of the tent I'm in charge of come from Borstal you will understand that one has to be careful, to say the least, in choosing friends! 

 Well, Honey Bunch, there is, as usual, no news.  Pete & Eric send best wishes etc.  Clive has gone on 48 hours leave this weekend, and Eric is wangling for 7 days.

 If we're still here next weekend as I expect we will be, you must come out to Salisbury.  I expect I can get Sunday off if I tell them my fiancée is coming over to see me!

 I must close now Darling as I have to parade my platoon for tea.

             tout à toi*

                    your adoring

                                    Dicker

* “All yours”

© Chotie Darling, 2010

The other stripe - 14th October 1940

On 3^rd October 1940 Dick was appointed a full Corporal.

 

Telegram 7th October 1940

 HOME TONIGHT SEVEN DAYS LEAVE = RICHARD +

 

Dick met up with Chotie again for the first time since the beginning of September during this 7 Days Leave, which lasted until Sunday 13^th October 1940.

 

On 12^th October 1940 the proposed German invasion of Britain, Operation Sealion, was abandoned by Hitler who turned his attention to the Russian front.

 

 

Bemerton, Salisbury

Wilts, Monday eve.

My Dearest Darling Little Cho-cho,

I'm writing, or should I say, trying to write, this in the N.A.A.F.I. rather late in the evening. As you will see from above, we are still here.

When I arrived back on Sunday I heard that Pete + Eric had gone on to Basingstoke as an advance party, which is the usual thing just before you move. Then tonight I heard that the whole show has been cancelled as far as we're concerned and that we're staying at Salisbury. I was also told that a lorry had been sent this evening to bring them back, but I've just heard that no lorry has been sent. What a show! You simply don't know what to believe. We hear one thing one moment and another the next.

I heard one thing that definitely is true however, and that’s that I've been given another stripe, and that all the time I was home, I was a full Corporal! I shall get (I hope) about five shillings and threepence a day soon. Just another stripe Darling, and we'll get married (officially...).

Well, Darling, it will be wonderful if we stay at Salisbury, but I'm afraid it's not definite yet.

I must close now, Dearest as it's nearly Lights out.

Still loving you every lickle bit,

your adoring hubby

Dicker

© Chotie Darling, 2010

Bemerton Hut - Tuesday 24th September 1940

Bemerton

Tuesday

My Darling

                                                        Thanks for the letter.  As usual, it cheered me up not a little. Hope you're still getting along OK at little old Parkstone - I'm getting on all right here, but am unfortunately still on P.T.

            I believe I told you that I am now definitely in ‘K’ company and not just attached to them as I was before.  I don't know whether it will happen to me, but I believe everyone here is being transferred to the Hampshire Regiment.  Members of ‘H’ and ‘G’ companies have already signed transfer papers.  This, however, I am definitely not going to tolerate.  Imagine me, a Dorset man (?), being in the Hants!  They're going to have a job to get me to transfer.  But as yet, I've heard nothing really definite.

            I went to another dance here at Bemerton last night.  Apparently there was an ATS girl here who comes from Poole.  Everyone immediately chases around for me, but unfortunately(?) I was at that moment buying my Sergeant a whisky at the Conservative Club over the road – (and me a Liberal!) and par conséquent I never met her.

             However, she couldn't have had anything on you, darling as I told Eric afterwards.  No one in the world has anything on his Jean according to him.  But that's only because he's never seen you.

             I shall put in for my seven days after next weekend.  How long can you hang on for?  I hope indefinitely, as everything is very shaky as regards leave.

             Eric and I are at the moment at Bemerton Hut which is rather like the club - only there are no women.  We use it for dances and as a recreation room each evening.  Here I can sit at ease, smoke my pipe and read ‘The Field’ and ‘Country Life’.  Just another couple of papers that make life a little more pleasant.

             Poor Eric was on another charge - this time when he was acting as Company Orderly Corporal, and was found in bed at 6.30 am - a crime in the army.  I swore he was out there, however, when he was up in front of the Camp Commandant – and managed to clear him.

             Well, as usual, Darling I have no news of any real interest or importance - so I will close now, to get back and scrounge some supper.

             And just in case you need reassuring (?) I love you now more than ever before, and also miss you more.

                                                                        your adoring

                                                                                        Dicker

© Chotie Darling, 2010

The Rising Sun, Salisbury - 21st and 22nd September 1940

Saturday 21^st and Sunday 22nd September 1940

Salisbury

Wilts

My Darling Cho,

                                    I’m endeavoring to write this in ‘The Rising Sun ' a notorious pub in Salisbury.  There's a hell of a row on here.  The place is full of Uniforms of every description, Polish etc.  I don't suppose you'll be able to read this.  This is my first evening out for over a week.

             I have however some encouraging news this time.  I saw the Major a few days ago.  He’s going to recommend me for a commission in a month’s time.  That is of course, to see the Colonel.  If I pass him, I'll be OK.  The trouble is, however, passing the Colonel.

             As you probably know, all leave has been cancelled.  I can't even get a Sunday pass.  I'll let you know however, if there is any change.

             How terrible it seems, Darling.  You're so near and yet so far.  I'm dying to see you again, if only for a few minutes.  It's just impossible to say how much I miss you, Chotie - but I think of you all the time.  I'm afraid I love you too much to express myself in words.  I hope you can understand and realise Cho. 

 And I'm not tight (yet...).  I hope to be, however, in an hour's time.  I shall be flat broke by Monday as usual -- we always are.

             I'll write some more tomorrow, which I hope will be a genuine day of rest.

 

 Sunday afternoon.

            Du Rose & myself are in the tent at the moment, it’s raining, and we have the afternoon off.  We are endeavoring to recover from last night's spree, having had a hell of a hangover this morning.  We had to go to Church Parade at 9 o'clock this morning, which was rather a blow to us as everything has to be just so.  We managed it, however, without passing out.

             As you may know, all soldiers have to be in billets or barracks by the 30th inst - which means to say we have to move by next week.  There has been a lot of talk lately of Southampton.  This would, I think, be preferable to this place, as there is a little more life and what is much more important, I should be nearer home. 

             I only hope leave will be resumed soon.  I'll be able to get my seven days then.

             I'm afraid I've nothing more of any interest darling except that I still love you all that's possible.  I hope you're being a good girl whilst I'm away.  Eric and I have sworn oaths never to look at another girl.  He has a Jean in Birmingham.

 Well bye bye for now Darling.

 God bless you and keep you safe until I can come and look after you again.

                            Your adoring

                                            Dicker

© Chotie Darling, 2010

"Birmingham urchins" - 18th September 1940

Posted on Wednesday 18th September 1940

Bemerton

Wiltshire

My Darling,

                                                                                                       What’s happened to you!  Haven’t heard from you for ages.  I thought you must at least be pushing up the daisies by now.

     Well Darling, I’m still fed up (as usual) and trying hard to get a transfer.  Du Rose, Gammage and myself are still being chased by the RSM.  My God, what a life we get.  It’s just an existence.

            He managed to get du Rose on two charges in the same day last week, but Eric, who is almost a BA put up a lawyer’s defence and the cases were dismissed.  It was a narrow shave, though.

I’d rather hoped that we would have been stripped, in which case I should have reverted and gone back to the ranks.  At the moment none of us care either way.  If du Rose would, I know I should.

            I’ve been reading rather a lot, having enjoyed immensely Adrian Bell’s ‘Corduroy’ and having fought, I think rather unsuccessfully, with James Cabell’s ‘Jurgen’.  I also read a Penguin (these are all penguins) entitled ‘Murder at the ‘Varsity’ ’* in which the murderer, an elderly scholastic University Lecturer, has a passion for Rabelais! – which I suppose only goes to show what Rabbi can do for you.              

        I hope you will excuse this scrawl but as I write less, so my écriture** depreciates.  I’m afraid I get duller and duller in my present company.  My former touch with ‘Les Belles Lettres’ now seems to elude me.  I often misquote Shakespeare.  An unpardonable sin.  However, I rival University Dons on the ‘Immortal Bard’ when half tight; so perhaps it’s not as bad as I make it appear.              

            At present I’m sleeping in du Rose’s tent with six Birmingham urchins – and what amazing blokes they are.  Nothing seems to get them down.  They grumble about everything one moment, and are exceptionally cheerful the next.  Their language is amazing.  They all appear to live for “tabs” (cigarettes) and kypher (skirt) and come back to the tent late at night and recount all their luck and experiences until the early hours.  Needless to say it’s all very interesting.

        Du Rose is something of a swimmer.  He is the present Midland Champ and has swum against Wainwright*** a score of times. 

 

        It’s now Tuesday afternoon & I still haven’t heard from you.  Mother wrote on Tuesday last but I only received the letter on Monday.  It had gone all the way to Warmwell although it had the Bemerton address. 

        Well Darling I must close now, still loving you more than ever    

                                                    Your devoted

                                                                        Dicker

PS Write soon.

PPS. I’ve just received your letter.

                        All is forgiven!

                                                            Dicker

* Adrian Bell was an English rural journalist and farmer – ‘Corduroy’ recounts his early experience of farming.  James Cabell was an American author of fantasy fiction.  His best known book ‘Jurgen’ was the subject of an obscenity trial soon after publication.  ‘Murder at the ‘Varsity’ ‘ is by Richard Wilson Webb, and English detective writer.

**French for handwriting.

***Norman Wainwright was a British Olympic swimmer.  At the 1938 Empire Games in Sydney he was in the gold medal winning freestyle 4 x 220 yards relay team.

© Chotie Darling, 2010

 

19^th September 1940 – the German Fleet assembled to bring their troops to Britain for the invasion was dispersed.

CSM Gurd - 10th to 12th September 1940

Tuesday 10^th, Wednesday 11^th and Thursday 12th September 1940

Bemerton

Tuesday

My Darling Chotie,

 

                            Thanks for your very prompt reply to my letter.  You don’t know how wonderful it is to receive letters from you, Darling.  It always cheers me up a lot.

 

         When I think of your glorious hair, your adorably kissable mouth, it makes me weep to think I’m so near, and ‘encore si loin’.  However, Dearest, as Shakespeare says ‘There’s a divinity that shapes our ends, rough-hew them how we will.’  How really true that is. 

 

        We’ve had rather a time for the past few days.  The C.S.M. here now, is a brute.  He’s about 6ft 3, with shaven hair and the appearance and conduct of a Prussian.

 

Now at the moment we have a trio.  There’s du Rose (L’cpl), Gammage (also L’cpl) and myself, and everything we do, (or anywhere we go), is always done together.

 

Enter tragedy.

 

    Gurd, (that’s the C.S.M’s name) is doing his best to make life merry hell for us, and is making a good job of it.  He’s had du Rose on three charges this week already, Gammage on one, and myself on one.  Now what makes him mad is that each time the cases have been dismissed.

 

There was a good show yesterday.  In the morning, du Rose was walking to his tent, with his tunic undone, (which is permissible when off duty) when Gurd jumped on him, bawling:

“Corporal du Rose, what the  -  hell are you doing with your tunic undone?”!, and looking at du Rose’s stripes said, “I’ll have those down, as sure as my name’s CSM Gurd”!

 Now during the afternoon, du Rose and I were walking along past the tennis courts, when Gammage, who was about fifty yards behind us bawled out “du Rose, what the  -  hell are you doing with your tunic undone" etc. in a perfect imitation of Gurd’s voice, when who should come out from the tennis-courts but Gurd himself, in company with several other senior Warrant Officers.  I’ve seldom seen a man get so mad.  He literally fumed.  Ever since then he’s jumped on us for the slightest thing.

 

We went to a Regimental Dance last night and spent our last halfpenny.  It was held at Bemerton about a hundred yards from the camp.  There were about fifty A.T.S. women there.

 

About 10.30 off goes the siren, and we were recalled to the trenches with respirators and tin hats.  (Some of those who were well away, took the A.T.S. along with their other gear.)  Gurd, who is married, took one back to his tent and didn’t put up an appearance until this morning.

 

After about half an hour, the all-clear went and we repaired to the hall once more.  Du Rose immediately fell for a girl in pink, and Gammage and I had our work cut out to protect her honour etc.  He got quite mad when we repeatedly cut in on him.

 

Wednesday

                            I’m writing this immediately after tea.  We were all lined up on tea parade, when the sirens went and we had to retire to the trenches before getting any tea.  What abject misery!  On top of which the tea was the worst ever.

 

I’m at present in the NAAFI as du Rose has received 10/- from home, and we’re celebrating.

   

Gurd pulled us up again today.  At the moment he’s standing outside the NAAFI with his hands in his pockets.  There’s a couple here who have walked out with hands in pockets.  Gurd immediately takes his out and bawls “Three hours spud-peeling”!  What a camp.

 

Thursday Afternoon

        I’m just sitting in the tent having a smoke after a game of football. 

   

Lapse of three hours……

 

    Just as I was writing the last few lines a bloke in the next tent had an epileptic fit.  It took three of us to hold him down.  I had to ring for an ambulance and take him to hospital.  What a show!  I had the devil of a job to hold him down – I of course got no tea.

   

Well, Darling, I must close now, with all my love

                                                                

                                                                Yours as ever

                                                                                    Dicker

PS I love you.

 

© Chotie Darling, 2010

Enter du Rose - Sunday 8th September 1940

Bemerton

Sunday evening

 

My Darling Cho,

 

    Thanks for the letter.  I’m so glad you had such a cheerful birthday.  I only wish I could have been home to spend it with you.

 

    I expect you had quite a show last night.  We didn’t get much sleep, if any.  I still don’t know what happened, and I’m afraid I don’t much care.  Once again, I’ve got fed up and am going to move heaven & earth to get back to the ranks and so on to a commission.

 

    There is only one respectable bloke here now.  Actually he’s French, and one of the few Lanerjacks left.  His name’s du Rose and he’s commission crazy.  His Old Man’s a captain and expects him to become one in next to no time. He comes from Birmingham University, where he was endeavouring to secure a B.A.

 

    We are both going to see the Major tomorrow, if we can, to find out data re junior commissions.

 

    We went on the beer last night in Salisbury ending up with a fish & chip supper.  Mon Dieu, were we merry!  Nothing was going to stop us!  We were going to see the Major on Monday and tell him just what we thought of this crowd, and also his abilities as a Major….We swore solemn oaths that nothing on this earth would stop us getting this coveted commission.

 

    I’m afraid we’ve cooled down somewhat today.  However, I do hope something really material will happen tomorrow.  “Qui sait?” as the French say.

 

    Hughes and crowd came over from Dinton on Saturday afternoon to play cricket against our team.  George, of course, was amongst them as usual.  I didn’t know he was quite so old.  He’s nearly twenty, and can I believe get a transfer then.

 

    Well, Darling, I must close now to catch the post (6.30).

 

                                                all my love,

                                                         and definitely all yours

                                                                    Dicker

 

PS.   How long can you possibly hang on with your holiday?

I can’t manage anything for a fortnight I’m afraid. Don’t forget to tell me.

                                                                    Dicker

 

© Chotie Darling, 2010

Friendless at Bemerton - 29th August 1940

On 28^th August Dick qualified as an Instructor in Physical & Recreational Training.

 

 

 

Letter posted on Thursday 29th August 1940

‘K’ Company

6^th Bath. (HD)

Dorset Regt.

Bemerton

Wilts

My darling Chotie,

                                                    Thanks for the letter.  As you will see from above, I am now at Bemerton again, and don’t I know it.  I arrived here this afternoon to find that ‘G’ company, to which I was attached, has now moved to Dinton, to take the place of ‘D’ who are at Dorchester.  I’m just about fed up as I haven’t a friend in the place now, in fact, apart from the C.S.M.I.*, I don’t know a soul.

 

    Yet another calamity, even greater.  There’s a certain Major here, who is doing his best to stop all week-end leave.  I asked the C.S.M.I. if there was any chance of a pass this week, and his reply was not encouraging.  He said he’d do what he could, but could promise nothing.

 

    I am however putting in for seven days leave, in a few weeks time, ie. after my three months is up.  This should be successful, unless of course all army leave is cancelled, which action seems rather imminent.  Not a very cheerful outlook I’m afraid.

 

    But still, darling, even this ---- army can’t stop me loving you, and after all, that’s all that matters.

   

I heard to-day that Tom was buried when bombs fell close to him at Warmwell.  Apparently he’s OK, but I have heard nothing definite.

 

    Incidentally, it’s a good thing I didn’t try to come on home last week-end, as everyone who went was caught, and put on a charge.  I think they were all reduced to the ranks.  Rather a close shave.

 

   

                                 Well, bye bye for now darling,

                                                        Your devoted

                                                                        Dicker

 

 

*C.S.M.I. = Company Sergeant Major Instructor

 

 

 

 

From the end of August to October 1940

Dick was in ‘K’ company of the 6^th Bath & Dorset Regiment

based at Bemerton, near Salisbury, in Wiltshire.

 

© Chotie Darling, 2010

Returning to Tidworth - 12th August 1940

Dick met up with Chotie over the weekend of 10^th/11^th August 1940.

 

Tidworth

Monday evening

My darling Cho-cho,

 

            Just a short note to let you know that I arrived OK, and without any trouble.I’m afraid I haven’t a moment to spare as we have ‘voluntary’ apparatus tonight, termed voluntary but actually compulsory.By the time I get back it will be dark, and there are no lights here now.

 

            George was on the bus when I got upstairs, I expect you saw him. We had time for a beer in Salisbury, before going our respective ways.

 

            We got to Salisbury at 8pm, and there wasn’t a bus to Tidworth before 9pm!  This was packed full, so they ran a relief which was also packed.  This miserable bus didn’t pull out till 9.20 and arrived in Tidworth at 10.30.  From there I had about 2 miles to walk to my barracks, which I accomplished successfully by removing my boots and gumshoeing past the guards in the shadows. Quite fun.

 

I must close now darling to get to the gym in time.

 

                                All my love

 

                                            Your devoted

                                                                

                                                            Dicker

 

P.S. You might tell Brinner that I made it O.K. but don’t mention it to the rest of the family.  I have n’t time to write them.  That is of course if you should see him.

 

© Chotie Darling, 2010.

 

 

13^th August 1940 – ‘Eagle Day’, start of the major offensive by the Luftwaffe to destroy RAF airfields.

 

 

Dick met up with Chotie over the weekend of 17^th/18^th August 1940.

 

 

17th August 1940 - Hitler ordered total blockade of Great Britain.

Tidworth P.T. course - 6th August 1940

Letter posted Tuesday 6th August 1940

Southern Command Central Gymnasium

Tidworth

Hants

My Darling Cho-cho,

 

    As you will see from above address, I am now at Tidworth. I regret to say I was swindled as regards this course.  The C.O. told me it was to be a two week course, but here I am told it’s three weeks! – which means I can’t get leave for at least another month.  I’m rather fed up as I’d expected to be home again after a fortnight. There’s a chap here who was in the B.E.F.* and has had 48 hours leave in 10 months!

   

Tidworth is rather like Aldershot.  Rows and rows of barracks with suburban houses alongside for N.C.O.’s wives & children.  As I am now a Junior N.C.O. how about getting married?…

 

The place is like a miniature town, with shops & cinemas – also a swimming-pool.

 

            I had to travel here in full kit, carrying kit-bag, in fact everything that I possess.  I felt quite warm when I got to Salisbury.

   

            Whilst still at Bemerton, I met an interesting bloke of 6ft 4½, who is taking a commission in the guards.  I later found out that his father is Lieutenant-General Sir – Barnes**, who, during the last show, commanded the 4^th Hussars! – and he finds himself in the 6^th Dorsets.

 

    I’m told that life on Devil’s Island is luxury compared with this course. They say it is three weeks of living Hell!  I want my mummy…

 

    I must close now, Darling, as I have to write home as well.

                                            love & kisses

                                                        xxxxx Dicker

 

P.S. Je vous félicite ou votre français. C’est très bien***

P.P.S. I tabulate, herewith, full address (pro tempus):-

    L/CPL Williams R K.

    5731671

    Southern Command

    Central Gymnasium 

    Tidworth, Hants.

 

                        Je t’aime encore de tout mon coeur****

        Dicker

 

*The B.E.F. - the British Expeditionary Force were the army sent across the Channel in September 1939. They were defeated in Western Europe in June 1940 and evacuated from Dunkirk.

**Major General Sire Reginald Barnes KCB DSO

*** “I congratulate you on your French. It’s very good.”

**** “I love you with all my heart”

  

© Chotie Darling, 2010. 

Tom's death - 3rd August 1940

Saturday 3^rd August 1940

Bemerton

Salisbury

Wilts

Saturday afternoon

My Darling Chotie,

 

 

    I’m terribly sorry to hear such sad news about Tom*.  I was only enquiring about him a few moments before I got your letter.  Quite a number of N.C.O.s** here were transferred from the 5^th Batt., and all knew Tom well.

 

    Margaret must feel terrible about it.  I know how I should feel if anything happened to you.  She has at least one consolation, in that he was serving in the Forces, - although that doesn’t bring him back.  I hope you will convey my every sympathy to her.  I’m going to Tidworth on Monday next and will send a card as soon as I get the address there.

 

    I was made Lance Corporal a few days ago.  I was rather annoyed at only getting one stripe but will probably get another after my course.

 

    ‘D’ Company, that is, with the sole exception of myself, is going back to Dinton this afternoon.  I rather think I may be transferred to ‘G’ Company (George’s crowd) after the course.  Unfortunately, Toni & co. are all with ‘D’ Coy and consequently I must say goodbye to them in a few minutes time.  That’s the trouble.  You no sooner make friends, than you lose them.

 

    Ben and I (he’s going for a commission in the Tanks) went on the beer on Thursday evening.  We drank Salisbury quite dry, and had the helluva job to get past the guards.

The sentry with fixed bayonet said “Halt, who goes there!” etc. and Ben, quite tight, shouted “Deutschland über Allez”!, and tried to blow out the light in the guard Tent.  We staggered into the tent, fell over and woke up the next morning still attired in Service dress, gas mask etc.  What a life!

   

It’s now Saturday Evening.  I’m just waiting for six o’clock when I’m allowed out to Salisbury.  I’ve said goodbye to everyone, Toni, Ben & co. who went back to Dinton this afternoon.  They had to march in full kit! and it’s just about a heat wave today.

 

    The showers are now working here, what luxury!  I’ve just had my 6^th today.  Showers & Choties are just two things that make life worth living.

 

    Bye, bye Chubby, Darling 

        Your adoring

        Dicker

 

*Tom was engaged to Chotie’s elder sister Margaret. He was killed in a motorbike accident on manoeuvres.   

 

** N.C.O. = Non-commissioned Officer

  

© Chotie Darling, 2010. 

Lance Corporal Williams at Bemerton - 29th & 30th July 1940

 

Dick had 48 hours leave on weekend of 27^th and 28^th July 1940 and met Chotie.

Sunday 28^th July 1940 was his nineteenth birthday.

 

 

6^th Dorset’s

South Wilts

Cricket

Ground

Bemerton

NR Salisbury

Wilts.

My Darling Chotie,

                                            I’m writing this on Monday evening, my first opportunity to write since regaining Camp, which I’m trying to do in almost total darkness in the NAAFI*, in the company of Hughes and George. There’s really nothing to write as there is of course no news. I feel terribly flat. We must get really moving on our next meeting. We seem to waste so much time…

 

I was told tonight that I am going on a fortnight’s P.T. course at Tidworth, which I believe is somewhere near Salisbury. Could you let me know where this is, (ie look it up on a map or something?)

            I’m afraid I have to turn in now, but will continue tomorrow.

 

            It’s now Tuesday dinner time. There’s still no more news. I have been on P.T. all the morning and I’m rather fed up. I’m certainly going back to the ranks after I become proficient.

 

            I had a yarn with the Instructor who appears to be rather pleased with my going on this course.He imagines I’m going to come back and teach him something. He must be nuts. Still there’s no harm in thinking.

 

I have another two squads to take this afternoon, what a life! I’m not missing much however, as all the boys are trench-digging.

 

It’s now Tuesday evening. I write a little every time I get a moment to spare.I really must thank you again for this super writing case. It certainly gives me inspiration.

 

I must close now darling, as I have to slip this down to the Post Office without delay.

 

Bye, bye darling

Your devoted

Dicker

 

P.S. Je t’aime encore de tout mon coeur même plusque la vie.**

 

*NAAFI – Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes – official trading organisation of HM Forces i.e. the canteen.

** “I love you always, with all of my heart, and more than life itself.”

 

Dick was appointed Lance Corporal on Monday 29^th July 1940.

On 31^st July 1940 Dick’s medical form stated he was in A.1. condition.

 

© Chotie Darling, 2010.

Cross Country Running - 19th July 1940

On 16th July 1940 Hitler ordered the invasion of England (Operation Sealion) 

On 19th July 1940 Hitler demanded the surrender of Great Britain. 

 

 

Friday 19^th July 1940

Dinton

Wilts

Friday evening

My Darling Cho-cho,

                                                            Thanks for the letter and photos.  I thought they were pretty hot.  Thanks also for such kind sympathy over my recent illness and confinement (heights of sarcasm!...).  I thought I was with child, as the Russians say.

        I’ve just read quite a good Penguin – Carl and Anna*, which is a translation from the German by Leonhard Frank (Karl und Anna), which cheered me up not a little.                                                           

    I feel quite fit now and ready for love as the P.T. bloke says.  He also says quite a lot of other things but not in this letter….

    I got round the C.S.M for a stripe** this morning.  He’s putting me in for one as soon as possible.

    I’m putting in for leave for next week-end (the 27^th).  I think it’s pretty definite.  It had better be… There is a corporal who has just come, who hasn’t had any leave for six months, plus he lives at Wareham!*** – so I’m really quite lucky. 

        I managed to win another cross-country on Wednesday last.  There is a chap here who is junior cross-country champ of the Channel Isles & who gave me the helluva run.  He’s got a wonderful action but is too young to do wonders yet. I’m going to try to mix running and lifting after this show, with your permission…

I’m just going to have something to eat.

 

    Having had a little shandy and some sausage rolls I feel somewhat more cheerful.

    There is little or no news.  We still haven’t moved but are hoping to go, Monday next. Toni has to see some Brigadier or other, tomorrow re his commission.

    George has just rolled up.  He sends best wishes etc.           

I must close now

                                                            bye bye darling

                                                                        Dicker

 

* “a realistic, if sentimental, account of a soldier who seduces his comrade’s wife”

** promotion to lance corporal (C.S.M. = Company Sergeant Major)

*** Wareham - a town in Dorset near Poole

Dinton, sad news - 15th July 1940

 On 14^th July Churchill broadcast to the nation:

“And now it has come to us to stand alone in the breach, and face the worst that the tyrant's might and enmity can do… We are fighting by ourselves alone; but we are not fighting for ourselves alone….”

“This is no war of chieftains or of princes, of dynasties or national ambition; it is a war of peoples and of causes. There are vast numbers, not only in this Island but in every land, who will render faithful service in this war, but whose names will never be known, whose deeds will never be recorded. This is a War of the Unknown Warriors; but let all strive without failing in faith or in duty, and the dark curse of Hitler will be lifted from our age.”. 

 (Reproduced with permission of Curtis Brown Ltd, London on behalf of the Estate of Sir Winston Churchill. Copyright © Winston S. Churchill ) 

Dinton

Wilts

Monday evening

My Darling Chotie,

        Thanks for the letter which I received at lunch.

 

    I have some rather sad news. Hughes fiancée died on Saturday morning.  He was married to her 2 hours before she died.  It was the wish of both of them, and the doctors apparently thought that it would help her to recover.  She actually recovered her memory for about ten hours.  It made me feel pretty bad and also Toni, as we are rather attached to Hughes who is one of the best.

 

    I haven’t been too good lately; suffering from what I thought must have been food poisoning.  I haven’t eaten anything for a couple of days, but stuck to my usual ration of beer, and now feel much better.  I carried on as I couldn’t very well go to the M.D. so soon after starting the P.T. stunt.

 

    However, to revert to more cheerful stuff, I have seen the photos they took of us.  What do you think of them?  As usual, you come out marvellously. 

 

    I understand that Pete is coming here, putting his age on a little … (sotto voce).  I hope Brinner* can manage to do the same.  I don’t know what Ma will say however.

   

I met some really decent chaps here, from all over the place, all writing letters home…

   

However, must close now, as there is simply nothing to say now.

 

    Bye, bye, darling

 

    Dicker

PS Je t’aime encore.

 

 

* Brinner was Dick’s brother Brian, two years younger than him

  

Chotie at Fairhaven, Parkstone, 7th July 1940

  

 

© Chotie Darling, 2010. 

 

 

Dinton, a PT Instructor - 11th July 1940

 Dinton

Wilts

Thursday

My Darling Chotie,

    Have just received you letter, for which many thanks.  I am replying immediately, as usual ….

   

I started P.T. instructing this morning and hope to get a stripe soon.  Toni got one this morning, but as he’s had a lot of previous military training this is to be expected.  I went for an interview with the C.O. - quite satisfactory, apparently.  I get every afternoon off, and have been excused all parades, etc. 

The P.T. instructor is quite a decent sort of bloke.  He’s getting married in a few weeks time, poor chap.  I hope she can cook … He says he will sign a pass (week-end) for me almost anytime I like, so I think I can manage to get home on my birthday (ie about two weeks time). 

    I’m just going to have some tea now.  More later.

Having had 2 pieces of bread & jam comprising tea, I feel a little more contented.

It’s the helluva job to get anywhere to write in this camp.  I’m writing with the pad supported on my lap.  (That’s where you ought to be …)  All the camp had the afternoon off.  There was a crowd of W.A.T.S* at the gate for some time.  Most of the boys trooped down but I wrote to my little Cho-Cho instead.  I think I deserve a big kiss.  How about it?

    Hughes' fiancée has recovered quite a bit according to the doctor, but has no memory yet.  Hughes is going to see her next weekend after his brother’s wedding – hope he bungs back a bottle or two. 

I forgot to tell you that George turned up on Monday night – just after I posted your letter.  He’s getting on very well in ‘G’ Company with Hughes.  George and I won our first game of darts together on Tuesday night.  We hope this will be the first of many victories.

Give my love to Pete’s Barbara the next time you see her and tell her, I already have one Barbara, and as she’s rather a handful, I have all my work cut out to keep her under control without any more. 

 

I hope you will give my wishes to Betty** & Leslie for perfect marital bliss in the future and all possible happiness.

There’s a bloke with a wonderful voice in this tent singing “At the Balalaika***”.

        Je t’aime encore****

Bye, bye, darling,

     Dicker

PS Write soon (or needn’t I say that!)

 

* Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service

** Chotie’s eldest sister who married Leslie Hall in 1940

 

*** Song from the popular 1939 film based on Posford and Grün’s operetta ‘Balalaika’.

**** "I love you always"

 

      
 

© Chotie Darling, 2010. 

 

Dinton, third week as a soldier - 8th July 1940

From July 1940 tea and margarine were rationed. Meat had been rationed since March, bacon, butter and sugar since January and petrol since 1939 and the start of the war.

3^rd July – Britain attacked the French Fleet to prevent it falling to Germany.

 

Dick met up with Chotie again, for the first time since joining up, at the beginning of July,

probably over the weekend of 6^th and 7^th July 1940.

 

 

 

No 5731671

Pte RK Williams

‘D’ Company

6^th Bath & Dorsetshire Regt.

Dinton

Wilts

 

Monday evening

My Darling Chotie,

 I’ve written at the first opportunity after reaching camp. We only just made it – both buses being late. I haven’t seen anything of George yet.

 

Apparently, conditions have got better since Sunday. We now get up later, and we get a little more food than before.  Perhaps things will improve now.

 

 I hope you managed to get home from Bournemouth all right. I expect you know the way by now.

 

I’ll be damn glad when this show is over and everyone can settle down to civilian life as before, sailing and drinking Solder*. Here’s hoping.

 

             I’m writing this in the canteen drinking shandy.  Pause, whilst I relight my pipe.

 

 

            I’ve got some blisters on my hands through trench digging.

 

             I wonder how George will like this life. I understand he’s going to try for the pay section of the company. The pay corps certainly have a jammy time. No parades or anything like that, though I believe they work rather long hours.

            I feel terribly sorry for poor Hughes. It turns out that the Doctor was wrong and instead of pneumonia, his fiancée contracted meningitis, which is of course, almost invariably fatal. She’s been unconscious for days.

 

**Un peu en français:

 

            je peux te vois dans mes rêves, parce que je t’aime plusque la vie.

 

C’est bon, n’est-ce pas?

                                                        bye bye darling

                                                                                Dicker

 

* Solder – perhaps a reference to pewter ale tankards?

 ** “A little French: I am able to see you in my dreams because I love you more than life. That’s good, isn’t it?”

 

© Chotie Darling, 2010.

The Battle of Britain began on the 10th July 1940. German forces attacked Britain by air.

Dorset, where Chotie lived, was in the front line during the Battle of Britain with attacks aimed at military targets such as Portland and Weymouth Harbours, the Royal Naval Torpedo Works on Portland, the Naval cordite factory near Poole and Westlands Aircraft factory just over the border near Yeovil. The ports, airfields and supply dumps in the county were targets in their own right, as well as being alternatives when bombers were unable to reach their primary targets. Luftwaffe bombers from northern France, escorted by fighter planes, flew in over the coast heading for strategic cities inland such as Bristol, Liverpool and the Midlands. On their return they would drop any remaining bombs on the county before heading back across the Channel.

Spitfires from the aerodrome at Warmwell, supported by Hurricane Hawkers from Exeter and Middle Wallop near Salisbury, took to the skies above Dorset in defence of Britain. During the battle the Dorset police recorded that fifty-four British aircraft were lost in the county, with eight of them crashing into the sea. Against this total, some ninety German aircraft were shot down here - split almost evenly between bombers and their fighter escorts - thirty five of them falling into the sea.

(Compiled from information in The Keep Military Museum, Dorchester and from ‘Dorset’s War Diary - Battle of Britain to D Day’ by Rodney

Legg, Dorset Publishing Company 2004 Tel. 01963 32583 ).