8 - 10 - 42
Have been fairly busy the last couple of days and have now got practically cleaned up on Major Harrison's work insofar as discharges are concerned. Worked with him on Monday afternoon and got the Jap proformas and case sheets on Sgt. Redhead and Pte. Cusson, or rather Pte. Raitz completed. Took me in to afternoon tea with Lieut. Campbell and himself. Had toast with beef dripping plus tea and peanut oil biscuits. Did it ever go down good! Lieut. Campbell is the Quartermaster and came up through the ranks. ls a very nice chap and a great friend of Major Harrison's. Have had some nice, little talks with him and must get his address. Now have all the admissions and discharges completed so far as I can and have typed out notes in preparation for · dispatch with them to the different units. Am kept fairly busy al! day long. Get up around 6:30, wash and make my bed. Then go and hand out the plates and pick up any bottles lying around. Get my bread issue and spread on curd. Read until inspection, or rather roll call. Go down to cookhouse and get the tea made and a pail of hot water. Come up and eat my breakfast. After that either sweep or bump the floor. Then, shave, wash clothes or any other small jobs. Check up on case sheets on Ward 2 and Massage or enter up any Laboratory reports , which may be around. Go down to General Office and help Cpl. Norman Leath on any work he may have till 12:30 or so. At 1300 hrs. go to help draw the rations and then help serve same. After dinner, ` generally go to work on records in Office or else do some more with Major Harrison . Some afternoons take life easy and lay around and read. At 5:50 help draw supper and serve same, as well as help cleaning up. Some nights work with the Major till "Lights Out" or so. If not, go for a walk and also sometimes visit one or other of the boys. Monday night strolled around with a Scotch chap, who worked here as a shipbuilder over at the Yamouti Docks. His wife and baby are in Australia. Little boy was only six months old or so when war started and he has not seen him since. Showed me pictures of same and he's a lucky lad. Brought Wayne to my mind. Had quite a talk with Dick Collings other night re prices of stuff in Hong Kong ere the late conflict and there were real bargains to be had in the way of clothes, shoes, etc. Evidently, when you buy these camphor chests, the thing to do is to get the chest itself made of teak and lined with camphor wood. Shirts could be had, tailormade, for HK $3.00 and kimonos, of the best quality for HK $15.00. Must make an attempt to get some of this home if I've the opportunity, which is rather doubtful. However, can always have the stuff sent to me, even though i have to pay duty on same.
Last night, 7 - 10 - 42, worked with Major on Jap proformas and summaries for Major Crawford. Finished kind of early and we chewed the rag on things. Told me of the problems of discipline in 3 Special and was able to offer some suggestions to alleviate same. This diphtheria, without serum, is worse than juggling nitro glycerine in two spoons. The least bit of exertion, and bingo, away you go, as this toxic evidently heads right to your heart. Then we got onto venereal diseases. His father is the "Grand Old Man" of this and was the man responsible for the V.D. clinical system they have in England. Recognized throughout the entire world as an authority on same and has written hundreds of articles on same. Built and designed a special clinic, adapting it to the peculiar needs of venereal treatment, as well as with a view to economy. Father was sent to Jamaica at one time to report on situation and as a result, or partly, the Governor was recalled. Has been in States and treated royally. Also, told me more on malnutrition and the effect it has on people. Figures it will take us some time to fully recover from the effects of these incarcerations. Very delightful conversation in all and enlightening. Canada is definitely lagging when it comes to an effective means of combatting venereal disease. In the afternoon went to see Lieut. Queen-Hughes and l needless to say, got around to politics - the need for a general shakeup in the economic front and the lamentable lack of interest portrayed by the people of Canada in taking an interest in public affairs. He is a member of the C.C.F. Told him I didn't particularly hold them, as I thought they were dominated too much by the l.L.P. However, most of their policy is the result of a convention held in Calgary with the l.L.F’. and United Farmers. However, cannot be too enthused about them but must admit that he didn't pretend that they were perfect by a long shot. In fact many of their policies were in direct opposition to what he thought but he had bowed in favor of the majority. Both of us agreed that, irrespective of what party you favor, a more general interest was needed to be taken by the people. Canada is not public minded enough for its own welfare. Still Queen-Hughes has high hopes for the future and pointed out that in the last few years we have been moving closer to socialism and the war has accelerated this even more, by the setting up of different boards of control over exports and imports, finances, credits, agriculture etc. and in the future, these will be maintained to act as sort of brake on the capitalistic system. The crying need is a readjustment of the distribution of the necessities of life, which are amply produced and yet are so grossly mishandled. Also, the application of the old maxim — "Do unto others as thou wouldst have them do unto you" - is a crying wont and one, if we're ever to progress, will have to come into play far more than it has in the past.
11 - 10 — 42
It's been raining to beat the band for the last few days and very cold with it. Rather similar to weather back home in the fall but out here they get a lot more of it than we do. Don't mind it when one is dressed for same or is getting enough of the right sort of food. Had a buckshee egg for breakfast plus individual loaves, or buns, of bran mixture. Had quite a novel sandwich made as follows - yams sliced with a half—spoon of soya sauce poured on, half-a-spoon of soya on the other slice of bread plus bean curd and a little salt. Really brings out the flavor of things. Had two sandwiches like this, one of egg and another, a combination of yam and egg. A mug of soya drink - a spoonful of soya sauce to a mug of hot water plus a little salt - a bottle - half pint - of tea, which was a little stronger, and the foregoing made a pretty fair breakfast. The eggs are duck and aren't much larger than our hen eggs. Chinese hen eggs are very small about the size of pullets. Will have to try our duck eggs as I've never tasted any at all until my incarceration. For dinner today, rice plus sauce and fish formed the menu. Fish was of a type similar to whiting and was very good. Have had some that ` resemble eels - about 12" long, very narrow, chock full of bones and of a very strong taste. ln fact, half the boys wouldn‘t eat it so the rest of us really had a feed. Takes one a half hour to get it boned and then you haven't properly got rid of them. However, beggars can't be choosers and whilst, under normal conditions, one wouldn't look at it, now it is a break and anyone, who turns his nose up at it, can't be very hungry. For supper, plain rice plus yams for the two nights prior to this and soya milk. This soya milk is made from a powder and isn't too bad. Actually, or rather strangely, salt goes down better with it than sugar. Today we had a half pint of genuine milk per man and as we had a half issue of bread that day, had bread and milk for supper with the last of my sugar. Made a dish comparable to roast turkey ie. had the same sort of feeling, when I was munching away at it. Feel fairly satisRed insofar as grub goes, aIthough l could eat more, needless to remark. Have run out of sugar, unfortunately, and am I getting low on salt too - so here's hoping there's some more in soon. So much for grub, which is a vital issue these days. Had a stroll and talk on things with Cliff GaIt Friday night. Cliff would really like to pay a visit to New York some time and rather figures on coming to Canada. Is "a little to the left of centre", as he puts it, in his outlook, which coincides with mine. Has definite views on the topic of matrimony and A isn't, at the time, inclined towards committing same, due to the fact that he still has an urge to go forth to see things. "You can't take it with you" and Cliff figures that you're more or less entitled to some pleasure in life and that a man, who simply piles it up, is missing a great deal. A vast amount of truth is contained in his thinking and certainly believe the same myself to a similar degree. Would like to visit at some time or another, New York, New Orleans, San Francisco or Los Angeles and our own city Vancouver. Must definitely go to New York. lf we get six months convalescent leave with pay, it would be nice to get hold of Pop and make him take a trip to the coast with me before he settles down on the farm. Must bear this in mind and try to arrange same. lf not to Vancouver, a trip to Chicago would be all right and and l wouldn't mind seeing same again. Went to see Art Budd last night and chewed the rag over different subjects - mainly pertaining to the hospital; ie. routine, M.O's patients, staff, etc. He is a very level-headed chap and is one ofthe few genuine men as an N.C.O. in the Grenadiers. Yesterday afternoon, typed out the case sheets on Candy as well as the post mortem on same. Major Harrison gave me a "hunk" (which describes same perfectly) of cake and no cake will ever taste half so nice as this. Now have a discharge list of 63 ready for Camp but no date yet, as to when they're to go. Have some real discussions in the Orderly Boom with Norman Leath, "Speed" Thompson - the C.O.'s batman - and Bates, the C.O.'s runner, a member of the Royal Corps of Signals. News is very scarce but evidently the Aussies are doing very nicely in New Guinea and the Russkies appear to be slapping the Germans a little now. Have bombed Burma, Borneo and Sumatra. So far no sign of any Bed Cross stuff and this is a source of speculation. Have offended Bert Beare on this subject, so that he will not deign to greet me. However, he took, for a man his age and position, a very childish view and sort of imagined a parcel tied up in a pink ribbon, complete with a department store inside. So will have to wait and see how long his huff lasts. Sgt. Bomendine is still very sick and Major Harrison has him on the seriously ill list. Bommie can‘t seem to shake his fever and has no appetite. Suffers also from anemia and had a blood transfusion last week from Dick Collings but it doesn't seem to have helped much. Looks very jaundiced and is far from being fit. Well, this is all for this stretch as I'm getting tired. Also, this is one of those nights when "it's cold and wet me children; off to bed" and that's sound advice.
16 - 10 - 42
Half another month has flitted away and it seems as though we're just as far from being free as ever. However, life still moves on in an endless, futile fashion. Had quite a spell of cold, damp weather lately but it broke today. Have been doing a little T scrounging and now have a serge tunic complete with R.A.M.C. buttons and a KD. tunic with Imperial buttons. Have sewn hooks, "Canada" badges and put a set of our Grenadier flashes on — so look fairly presentable. Tunic is in fair shape and will be very welcome this winter. Trevor Roberts, an Orderly, got this for me and the KD. came from stores. Don't particularly need KD. but never can tell when it may come in handy. Had a Jap issue of a singlet, loin cloth, 3 bars of soap, toothpaste and crap paper yesterday. Soap and singlet especially were very welcome. Have been fortunate this week in having had real fish - skate and ray mainly. The skate is very " much larger than what l had in Winnipeg but tasted the same. One advantage, also, is · that the bones are very few and are also real large. Today, 16th, all had fried fish in batter - a real treat, the more so as it was done in peanut oil. Have been fortunate this week in the matter of eggs, myself. Had two general issues, two from the Ward and one Major Harrison gave me. Certainly does help the breakfast out. Don’t seem as though they have many this week, as there was no issue this morning. Worked with the Major on Tuesday night and got all the T.B.'s up to date. He says he heard that over 3000 have left Shamshuipo and that only our boys and volunteers are left. Recently,. it has appeared in the Jap paper that a ship, carrying prisoners from Hong _ Kong, was torpedoed with a loss of 900 odd lives. This is tough in one sense and yet it is cheering to hear of our subs operating that far north. News continues to be good with a story that Britain has sent 3,000,000 men out here. If this is so, some action ` should take place shortly. Wendell Wilkie and two U.S. Air Chiefs are in Chungking. Burma has been bombed and the Nips are alleged to have lost 12 cruiser and 4 destroyers in a naval engagement down. Visited Dave Moffat one night and Bowman and Ed Johnson last night. Had the usual common place talks on food, Shamshuipo, feet, release etc. Bowman is coming OK and save for his vision, really moaning over his feet. Talked with "Red" Barlow, when l visited Dave and he gave me a little news, which l have herewith recorded. The other night was lying here and lo and behold Bert Beare dropped in and was his usual self. Evidently, am now back in the fold. Still wonders about our Bed Cross parcels and it begins to look as though it‘s a lot of hooey. Still, the way the Nips move, it‘s hard to say and when we least expect it, they will appear. Bert was grumbling about the grub again and was also saying that Dick is doing a little grafting on the side. This may be so on bread and extras but know that on the rice, veg, tea, milk, etc. , such is not the case. In any event, am quite clear of any such contamination, myself, and have no conscience to trouble me in that respect. Furthermore, Bert himself, is none too pure, to my way of thinking, along the same lines. Hobson just came in from the Officers Ward with the story that the Nips told Major Boner there would be no discharge till the end of the month and our Bed Cross l parcels would be in next week. Here's hoping! Cam Maddess and I had quite a walk and talk the other night on very varied subjects. Cam, in a lot of ways, isn't a bad chap and I've rather a liking for him. lf he'd been brought up a little better or disciplined more, when younger, he would have been a very decent sort but instead he has a mean, vacillating way with him at times. Had chats with Don Phillips and Queen- Hughes on odds and ends. Was telling Phillips about Chicago as he was inquiring about living costs, etc. Queen-Hughes toid me how he came to join up, talked re food, news, release, Grenadiers and what have you. Have some real discussions with ""Mickey" Bates on different things as taken from a Canadian and English view. Had a real one over chocolate bars, as to variety etc. Mickey said, for instance, that "Coffee Crisp" was made by Bowntree and I, by Cadbuiys. After checking up, believe he is right. Also, they have no use for "preserved " eggs ie. eggs put down in water glass. -Cannot understand our aversion to mutton, as they think it is OK. Bates is a Royal Signal man and was born in Lincolnshire. A very nice chap - fair, quiet, wavy hair, rather girlish complexion, about 5 ' 6" or 7". Must procure his address so we can correspond. Down in the office they have, or should say the Sergeant's Mess own, an Encyclopedia - the Standard — published in Chicago. ls a fairly good one and get a great kick out of reading from it. Must procure a good encyclopedia at sorne date — better to wait for a couple of years so you can get a fairly up-to—date one. Am reading "David Copperfield" at the time and it is good. Must procure some copies of Charles Dickens for my own library. Jackie Aubert is still next to me and he's quite a lad. Have some talks with him on a variety of subjects - dogs, milk routes, snack shape, home life, shows, army life, and what have you. Actually, he's a kid yet and I sort of mother him along — take his cigarettes and ration same to him - 1 2/2 per day. Must have a night out with him on my return to Winnipeg. This is about the end of my tether this trip and will sign off now. Must write a little oftener.
19 - 10 — 42
Lately, we've been doing pretty good in the way of extras. Saturday morning we had homemade peanut butter and Sunday, soya beans. Today, at noon, had a real genuine onion soup - kind of brought one's thoughts back to home. Tomorrow we're getting syrup and possibly some peanut butter. Had a few peanuts given me today, which hit the spot OK. Fish has been coming in fairly consistently and is of a good size and quality. — Jackie Aubert says it's like mackerel but am not used enough in fish lore to know. However, it is very good. Have been taking life fairly easy, as there hasn't been much to do. Must get after Major Harrison to do some work on Jap proformas. Latest in regard to parcels, is that they're to be delivered this week and that there are three for each man, to be issued one per month. These are said to have been accumulated in Laurenco Marquis sine last May. However, do not put too much stock in this but know definitely that these are in the Colony and sooner or later, I imagine they'll be delivered to us. Had a chat with Bommie on prospects after the war and just what figured on doing. He was telling me of life in the PF. as he did a stint with the Straths. If one got into the C.M.S.C. with a Sergeant's rank, it might be worthwhile staying in. However, it's not exactly appealing. Art Fiudd has been down with dengue and saw him last night. Conversed on a good many subjects re Army, home, hospital etc. Art has dengue pretty bad but in a few days should be up and around. Have been speculating lately on this soya bean, with regard to putting some hack home. Certainly is quite a thing, as it's products and by—products are many and very diversiRed. is very good as a crop rotator and is excellent fodder, being very high in protein value.
20 - 10 - 42
Had a change in guards today. New bunch is said to have come from Santon and they are a hard bitten crowd in appearance. If I had the family jewellery around, would take steps to hide same - that is the impression they give one. Old Takunaga was to have made an inspection at 2:00 p.m. but he didn't turn up. Had syrup and peanut butter for breakfast. Had some pancakes which I chopped up fine and mixed with my curd. Bran bread, too, so had rather a good meal. Fish and greens at noon, so didn't do too badly. There have been two or three lmperials in from Shamshuipo, injured in a landslide. They report 28 Canadians have died from diphtheria since arriving there. Rice ration is 16 oz. per day and 4 oz. of bread, with less fish and greens than we get. Our rice allowance is 7 oz. and 11 oz. bread. Go out on work parties every second day, evidently and there are about 3300 all told. With the exception of sick men, all the Scots, Middlesex, Artillery, Signals, R.E's, Navy and part of the R.A.M.C. have left. At the present time, we are really stocking up on wood and grub - so maybe we're to be left here awhile, although I somehow feel we're due for a shift. Have no desire to leave and so long as they're satisRed to keep me, am more than ready to remain. Still no sign of these famous or notorious Red Cross parcels, despite all the rumors. Yanks are- said to have sunk two Jap destroyers by "Flying Fortresses" off the Aleutian Islands. Germans and Russkies are still going at it hammer and tongs in the city of Stalingrad. Nips now say that any Allied flyer, who bombs Japs territory and is taken prisoner, will be liable to be shot or suffer some equivalent penalty. The name of the prison ship, sunk with our boys on it, was the "Lisbon Maru“ and over half were lost.
25 - 10 - 42
This is our anniversary - one year ago we left the old city of Winnipeg, bound for the Orient. Today we had a very, very, welcome present- had our first air raid, by whom - we do not know but imagine it was Chinese from Chungking. It was a very warm, pleasant afternoon and i was sitting on the south veranda reading "My Son, My Son" by Howard Spring and enjoying the sunshine as well as the book. Suddenly, there was an explosion followed by ack-ack fire. Immediately, pandemonium broke loose — to say we were excited is a gross understatement. However, orders were to make for the air raid shelters and Hobson and I carried Grimston down on a stretcher. Everyone was chattering away and this was a better tonic with more effect than 50 mgms. of Thiamin Chloride in the arm. After a short while, cleared upstairs again and have now some plan for evacuating. All "up" patients, with the exception of those detailed to carry or help down bed patients, on the sound of an air raid alarm, are to make their way to the shelters. The rest are to stand by for orders. There were about eight planes in the raid and they dropped a few bombs on Wanchai, near Whitfield Barracks, and on the docks. Japs appeared to have had some intimation that it was forthcoming, as they had their ack-ack manned in readiness and a lot of phone activity in the morning. However, expected another one at night and at 1 :30 a.m. 14 came over. Was a very bright moonlight night and they were easily seen. Appeared to be more in the way of a reconnaissance than anything else, although they did drop a few bombs. This is very, very cheering and leads one to believe that things may be progressing much better than we had hoped. At any rate, here's hoping they return and really hand a little out. In the Ward, Sgt.-Major Collings has developed a sore throat - a case of Vincent's Angina, with the resuIt that "yours truly" is now temporarily in charge and responsible for dishing up. Have not done too badly, albeit am somewhat slow in dishing out the rice and in cutting the bread, am not so hot. Was fortunate, the first few days we had buns but on Sunday, had bread to cut. Also, a double issue of cigarettes - some of which were in tins and were short. Then we had beans and l ended up 3 rations short. Couldn't get any more at the cookhouse but had an egg, which Major Harrison had given me. So, gave half an egg to Hobson and Jackie Aubert and went short myself. Has some extra bread that Post had left, so it might have been worse. Had another issue of peanut butter on Saturday, which went down good. Have been put on sardines — two tins between three of us and this is a help. Caused a little grief, as some of the troops figured we were pulling a fast one but Major Harrison has given these to us, so that's that. A general issue of tinned fish was made on Saturday — good- sized tins, made in Japan, 4 men to a tin. Bumped into one tin that had fish, beans (same as in pork and beans) and some sort of green in it. Rather an odd combination to say the least, but one which went down very nicely. Certainly have fared well this month so far as fish. The other night, the Nips made a mistake and dropped off a few baskets of bananas. An issue was made and by the time the Nips sent back for them, quite a number had been dished out. Went down very nicely with the soya milk and a little sugar. Some poor Nip would get hell over this but they can do it again anytime thay want, so far as I'm concerned. Rations, on the whole, have been good but how a little meat would tickle the palate. Any man that's strictly a vegetarian, when meat is available, should have his head examined. Weather has been much colder and an A extra blanket has been issued all round. It's about 68 above but do we ever feel it.
Lord only knows how we would do with a Canadian winter. Do not feel too badly, save at night I can't seem to get my feet warm - otherwise I'm OK. Have had a slight touch of diarrhea but have taken some bismuth salicylate, which has cleared it up fairly well. Am kept pretty busy on this ration business and it‘s a good thing there isn’t more to do in the clerical line. However, took down some notes in shorthand on a few cases but am held up now on account of a lack of Jap proforma sheets. Must get after Leath re these again. Incidentally, Norman took the top off one of his fingers in the mincer, grinding up peanuts for peanut butter. They make this ie. the peanut butter themselves, by grinding the nuts with the husks still on — a lot of the food values is in the husks and then adding a little peanut oil. Needless to say, this is a little coarser than the usual product but it tastes very good. News from the outside is to the effect that winter fighting is now in progress in Russia, with Stalingrad, badly battered but still holding. U.S. have landed troops in Liberia, which would lead one to believe something is to take place in either Libya or Dakar. Am hoping there will be some action in these parts 'ere many moons go by. Wonder how they all are at home. What one w0uldn't give for a letter! Read where it takes 60 days for a letter to go from the Red Cross in Shanghai to Geneva, via the Trans Siberian railroad. Maybe we may get mail vis this route but after ten months with nothing at all, it seems doubtful. Parcel talk has how died down - the raid certainly taking first place in the conversational world. . Bert Beare is down with diarrhea in the Dysentry ward. Can imagine how enthused he is over all this. Have had a couple of talks with Art Rudd and must get along to see Mr. Queen-Hughes one of these nights. Well, maybe we'll have another visit tonight and hope they leave a few calling cards as souvenirs. Must sign off for now.
1 - 11 — 42
Here it is another new month. Time, in retrospect, has flown and it seems eons since we pulled out of the old CPR. The last week saw over 100 go to Shamshuipo and quite a bunch have come in, mainly lmperials. Have ten new patients in our ward, all lmperials. Neil McLean is the only "B" Company man to arrive and he has ‘ conjunctivitis. Since their arrival in Shamshuipo, the Grenadiers have lost 15 men. . Percy Iles and Wilf Moore are two victims. Sure is hard, as both of these chaps have been with us since Minto. Used to call Iles the "Hayshaker" and he hailed from Arrow River. Wilf Moore leaves a wife and family. Was a very quiet fellow and one of the cleanest men in the Company. Don is still in hospital with diphtheria but is not a serious case. Ross and Mac are both OK save Mac's feet still bother him. "Buzz" Winram has arrived here pretty sick with dysentry - so far haven't seen him as he is out of bounds. C.S.M. Logan has the same complaint. Rations over there are very limited insofar as balance or variety is concerned. lf you work, you’re allowed 21 ounces of rice per day and if you don't, 16. However, they get very little fish, not many greens, 4 oz. of bread per day and a scanty amount of sugar. Neil says they don't measure the rice now but ask how much you want, as there are so many men, who no longer eat a full ration or desire one. Things are much tougher than at North Point and the guard is stricter. ln the huts you sleep side by side on a sloping platform, which runs down one side of the hut. Masks must be worn all the time. Boys are in bad shape and it's difficult to obtain enough men for the working parties. You can go out every day, if you wish and working is more or less compulsory. Things have been pretty good so far as rations are concerned with us. Have had fish every day last week. For breakfast today we had beans, peanut butter (1 oz. per man), sugar (1 oz. per man), bread and tea. For dinner, fish fried in peanut oil batter, greens with onions and rice. Supper, rice, _ soya milk and bean curd. Fish was excellent and credit is due the cooks for the job they did. The other morning, porridge was served - very similar to the Red River cereal or Cream of Wheat and went down very good. Lee, a Gunner in the H.K.V.D.C., gets in parcels and he gave to the ward 1 lb. Greengage Jam and 12 oz. Apricot which we distributed amongst 46 of us. Really tasted fine and was damned good of him. All in all, this week we've fared pretty good. Had beans at noon time one day, as well as a peanut butter issue at breakfast. Am still in charge of the Ward and am not doing too badly. Have had a couple of further raids but the last few days have been quiet. News is very meagre but there has been a real naval battle around the Solomons. The Nips, needless to say, claim a big victory, alleging to have sunk no less than seven American aircraft carriers. Russian front has settled down to the old trench warfare, as winter has set in. Some activity on the Libyan front, with a capture of some 14,000 prisoners by us. American forces have landed at Liberia. A drive is evidently being contemplated on Burma, as the Nips have been pooh-poohing the chances of its l success. Today we have a novelty in the way of Chinese guards, armed with our Lee- Enfields and using our equipment. Rather strange to be menaced by your own weapons. Yesterday was Ha|Iowe'en and can't help but think of past ones. 1939 was the last one at home for me and there was quite a party at Pinchbeck's. Colonel Walker, of the H.K.V.D.C. here, got a letter the other day from his wife in California and 39 of the Fllfles have had mail from home. Walker's wife got his whereabouts from an unofficial list published in Vancouver. Have hopes myself of a little mail 'ere Xmas, aItho' we haven't received those Red Cross parcels as yet. Read in the Hong Kong News where it takes 60 days from Shanghai, via the Trans·Siberian, for mail to reach the Red Cross in Geneva. So, maybe some of our letters have reached home and it's pretty certain that the original casualty lists have been there for some time. Looks to me like another winter and God knows how we're going to come through it. Let us pray that something breaks very soon.
3 - 11 - 42
Yesterday, ie the 3rd, just before dinner, a parade was called by the Nips of all the Staff and "up" patients on the tennis court. When we were assembled, salto, a Nip Officer, harangued us through an interpreter re our demonstration at the time of the air raids. He asked for a show of hands as to anyone who has criticized the Nip methods. Needless to say, no one responded. He then asked for a show of those, who had not and everyone stuck up theirs. Colonel Bowie was then called out and salto slapped him in the face twice. Major Boner, our interpreter, was then called and asked why he refused to sign that he would not try to escape. He replied that he did not think a Japanese officer would sign this, whereupon he was also slapped twice and he has one arm still in a sling! The feeling of helplessness, which crept over one on seeing this, will certainly never be forgotten by me. As a result of this, the north verandah has been put out of bounds save for the purpose of going to the latrines. Every night the shutters are closed, so as to prevent any light from showing and the sentries have { orders to shoot anyone, who shows himself whilst an air raid is on. This is all the resuIt of a complaint from the Jap Navy. Two schools of thought have arisen from this; first, that the Nips are paving the way towards finding an excuse to close the hospital or secondly, that things aren't going so well with them and that this raid hurt their pride and touched them on a raw spot. In any event, they have threatened to close this B place should any further "incidents" occur. To say the least, it is an absurd situation but then they're in the driver's seat and there‘s not much you can do about it. So far, no retaliation has taken place, other than they slapped the faces of all the patients in 3 Ward. Rather thought the rations would be cut but so far, if anything, they have improved. Fish as well as greens and radishes, has been coming in regularly and it has been of a much better quality. So all one can do is sit tight and keep your fingers crossed. Hope nothing breaks and we'll have to mind our p's and q's.
7 - 1 - 42
Saturday night — farmer's night in town — but it doesn't mean a thing right now. Catching up on my diary a little - hard to remember things these days and time just slips by. Have been working with Major Harrison and have pretty well got the records on Ward 2 up to date. Gave me an egg on Thursday night and a piece ot cake yesterday. Did that ever go down! He thinks that our days are numbered so far as maintaining this place is concerned. Yesterday, after a seige of 51 days, Lieut. Harper cashed in his chegues. Was very sorry to hear this, as I always liked him. During the war, he was Ration Officer and despite the undoubted fact that we were shamefully underfed, cannot hold it against him. Personally, he treated me very well and it is too bad he had to go the way he did. Have not done his post mortem yet but imagines it will be heart failure caused by diphtheria. Nips sure supplied a lot of flowers for his funeral but think if they had given us the necessary serum, he wouldn't have died. Wrote my letter and sent it to Bertha Johnson this time, as a change. Hope it gets through all right. Have written well over my quota now, but so far no one has checked me up and shall continue to write until they do. Dick Colllngs is now back on the job, so life is a little freer again. Have some real prizes amongst this crowd of imperials — real chisellers, to say the least. Have a nice, old gent, Drew by name, sleeping next to Jackie and I. He is around 50 odd and is actually retired but got caught here by the war. Halls from Painton, near Plymouth in Devon. Is a pretty decent old chap. Has beri—beri in his legs and feet as well as coniunctivitis in the eyes. Was up to see Neil last night and he's coming along pretty good. Things at Shamshuipo sure are tough and Neil says the Camp hasn't changed much since we were there in January - same showers, water system and latrines. Place is alive with bedbugs and sleeping arrangements leave much to be desired. Haven't any desire to go there, as the same rotten system of the Grenadiers is still in force - everyone else has some representation on the cooking save us - Sinclair being still head cook. <removed>
Life here goes on in an endless fashion. Grub has been pretty fair lately. For breakfast we had 11 oz. bread, 1/2 oz. sugar, 1 oz. Peanut butter, beans and tea; dinner, 4 oz. rice, fish, soup and radishes; supper, 3 oz. rice, soup, soya milk and tea - all in all a pretty fair day. -Young Jackie hasn't been eating all his rice, so I haven't been doing too badly, as I clean it up. Feel ashamed at doing this but the need is great and if l didn't someone else would. Can't help but wonder how this is all going to wind up. News is very scarce, although it would appear we have made another drive in Libya and that the Russians are still holding out in Stalingrad. No signs of our Red Cross parcels. although the rumor is to the effect that 100 per day are being issued at Shamshuipo and that they are of a good size. Sure wish l could get a letter from home or news of some sort from the outside world. Who knows what may be brought forth for Christmas. Have been dreaming of home lately and I wonder how they're all making out. Wayne will be three years old on Wednesday and he must be quite a size now. Have there been any other additions'??? Reading a book called "Nanking Road" by Vicki Baum and in it is a Chinese saying, which is very apt and true - "Better a dog in peace than a man in war". Isa very good book and shows great insight and conception of the oriental mind and philosophy. Also, bumped into a Digest published in India. Art Rudd is quarantined with a sore throat but his throat swab is OK and he should be released in a day or two. Glad to hear this. Pretty quiet in the Ward as nearly every one is away at the concert. Never did go to concerts very much and haven't been to many here. Well, here's a heartfelt wish that this is all over within the next six months and that this time next year, l can sit back and read this from th comfort of an armchair in the old farmhouse at the old town of Gunton. ln the meantime, thumbs upl
9 -11 - 42
Yesterday, ie. the 9th, there was a sudden influx from Shamshuipo of some 30 odd — so 55 were sent from here. Am lucky enough to have escaped so far. Jackie was one of the victims and 1 sure was sorry to see him go. Things aren't very good over there to say the least. However, they’re now getting 1 oz. per man every day of “ghee" - indian buffalo fat so that should help some. Also seem to be getting a fair amount of peanut oil - lots of rice and greens but not enough balance. Gordie Sissons, Kincaid, Pavel, and Gladue are in from "B" Company. Kincaid is in our ward suffering from pellagra, otherwise he is in good shape. Still the same old "Swampy" - rather a pain in the ear at times. News in the Jap paper that the Americans have landed in Northwestern Africa at Casablanca and Algiers, evidently capturing same. This is a good move, as it will not only cut off Rommell from behind but a source of supplies to Germany will be nipped. From all accounts raw materials, foodstuffs etc. have been shipped from Algiers and Morrocco to Marseilles and thence to Germany. Should have landed and taken over a year ago but better late than never. Things must be improving in Prussia for us, as Hitler issued a statement to the effect that Stalingrad was virtually theirs and that there wasn't any use in wasting any more time on it. ln other words, an admission that they cannot crack it. So, things are moving slowly but surely. Nothing about this part of the world. Hobson has a sore throat and has been transferred to 3 Special. Old Humphrey has been sent to Camp also - was very sorry to see him go, as he certainly isn't fit. Makes one feel like a shitheel, when they leave but after all, c'est la guerre! Lord knows how much longer l shall be able to stay but sure as hell am not going to volunteer for it. Weather has been real fine for the last week or so and hope it continues. Grub has been good - beans or porridge on alternate mornings. Major Harrison gave me some sweet onion pickles and did they ever "hit the spot". Have had a fair amount of peanut butter also - so we can't complain, as fish has been coming in fairly regular.
14 - 11 - 42
Saturday night once more. Everyone is rather elated over this move in North Africa. The Americans have landed in French Morroco and Algeria. Have taken Algiers and Oran and are moving on in Tunisia. French have made some resistance and of course, the Nips really deplore this outrage. To counteract this Fritzie has gone into unoccupied France - but the French need not be alarmed as they‘re only doing so to protect them from the Nazis. Another strange part of the action is that Spain is is full sympathy with the Allied move. Cannot figure this out, as always thought they were definitely wed to the Axis. British have taken over all the French warships interned at Alexandria and the Americans, all French ships. U.S., Canada, and Mexico have broken off diplomatic relations with France. All this has appeared in the Nip press so you should be safe in concluding that even greater progress has been made. Comes as a "shot in the arm", as one rather had figured that this winter would have been void of action in Europe save in Russia. Should be able to finish up Libya and then maybe an attempt at Italy. Wednesday was Armistice Day as well as being Wayne's birthday - 3 years old. Tempus fugitl Will be quite a lad ere l set foot on Canadian soil once l more. Capt. Gavey of the R.R.C. got a letter from his wife, dated March so one gathers that there probably is mail on the way for all of us and maybe shall be able to snag one before Christmas. Have been busy getting Jap proformas into shape, as 25 throat cases went out in the last batch. Have worked practically every night this week. Had to make out a list of all the patients now in hospital for the Nips, giving disease, admission date, unit, rank, nationality and name. Wonder what’s up'? Had 200 books come in from outside for the library and there are some pretty fair ones amongst them. Grub has been pretty fair — porridge and beans on alternate mornings, as well as peanut butter, sugar and cucumbers. Fish, rice, horse radishes, greens and sweet potatoes all have graced our festal board this last week. Here's hoping things are now "on the way" at last.
17 - 11 — 42
Our anniversary date has been and gone. One year ago since we arrived in Hong Kong and it would appear that we still have sometime yet to spend here. Plenty of faces now missing from last year and probably will be more ere we reach Canada again. News continues to be good with the British and Americans steadily advancing in North Africa. Tabruk has been evacuated and taken over by us again, which is cheering. It would appear that they really mean business and are determined to clean this Africa campaign up this winter once and for all. Captain Terry, our paymaster, died on Sunday from toxic diphtheria in the testicles. A very strange case, according to Major Harrison and one which doesn't occur very often. Am still busy on proformas and have quite a few yet to do. Cpl. Mans of the Rifles died over the weekend and have just finished off his case sheet today. Poor devil - he had dysentry, then lobar pneumonia and on top of that, diphtheria. Was very run down from malnutrition - so l I'm afraid the dice were loaded so far as he was concerned. Weather has been very damp and cold lately. Sure can't go this type - give me the good old Manitoba climate - dry and cold - anytime. Have a new bedmate - R.S.M. Reid of the R.A.'s. Rather a sarcastic individual to put it mildly. He has a “bumboy" in L-Cpl. Stevenson of our outfit. Stevenson washes him every morning and even brings forth a mug of hot water! Reid is acting as a batman (!) (wonder what old Paddy Keenan would think of that) to one of the officers - so that should make Stevenson a batman’s batman. R.S.M. Bartley was telling of the prewar days in Hong Kong and mentioned that they used to sell their swill to a Chinaman for HK 30.00 per month. This chap came and lodged a complaint one day because the chaps were throwing butts, broken dishes etc. in the tubs. Bartley said he couIdn't see what difference this made to pigs. However, it turned out that these tubs were taken by him to Wanchai, the poor Chinese quarter, placed in the street and sold for human use - at 10q: per handful. You stuck your hand in the tub and could have as much as your hand could grab for your dime! Carumba! What next!
22 - 11 - 42
Another week has ended and a new one begun. Have been playing some chess lately, having entered in the league. Lost against Cpt. Campbell of the Navy and Lieut. l Nugent of our own bunch. Beat Sergeant Edge of the R.A.M.C. Helps to pass the time away and it isn‘t too bad a game. In Africa, Deena has been taken and they evidently have Benghazi cut off. The Yanks are fighting near the airfields at Bizerte in Tunisia and have been meeting with fair success. Durban has done an about face and is now on our side. Tonight we're expecting a raid and here's hoping it materializes. Nights are very bright — the moon is as large as a bucket. Harbor is fairly well filled with shipping and there is a large tanker, about 10,000 tons in drydock. So, an air raid would be very appropriate. Weather has changed once more and it is like fall back - home. Sun really feels good. Managed to get my washing done, which is something. Another bunch goes to Camp soon, probably tomorrow and so far I've escaped same. salto is to make an inspection in the near future and examine all patients. Just what this portends no one knows but Major Harrison thinks there is another batch to go to Japan shortly. Personally, when l leave here, would just as soon take a chance on that in preference to Shamshuipo. ln the meanwhile, a rather elaborate case sheet has been made to cover me - so can only sit back and wait developments. At the time of writing, have a cold and feel pretty punk - throat is sore, nose plugged and head rather foggy. Colds are the order of the day - plenty of them around. Feel possibly as a result of this, rather low and have made up my mind that we're in for another year. A Cannot see how we're to be free before 1943 ie the fall of same and figure it will be sometime late in 1944 before we can expect to be finished with the Army. lf such is the case, it would be well worthwhile giving thought to staying in same provided one could get a transfer to one of the Corps. Would be nearly 30 by then and that's a fair age to be getting established. However, that's all in the future and time enough to worry about it when we get there. Grub continues to be not bad. Still get fish every day, albeit the quantity has been cut down again. Have had quite a lot of horseradish - is similar to "swedes" only much smaller and white in color. On alternate mornings we have barley porridge or beans plus peanut butter, sugar or syrup occasionally. Have been getting some sweet potatoes and cucumbers also. Major Harrison gave Dick and I some olives - something I'd never touch before but ate them now. Cannot say I like them but at the present time, will scoff down anything. Get soup made from the fish oks like mash you feed to the pigs back home but it fills up a hole and isn't bad. As I've said elsewhere or previously, feel low and despondent tonight. You get these moods under these conditions and all you can do is to shake them off. After all, we're not unique — there have been prisoners-of-war before and will be again. Can't help but wonder how they're all doing at home. Sure would like a letter or word of some sort. Nothing more on our parcels - Lord only knows what has happened to them. Maybe they're saving them for Christmas, so that we'll still be able to believe in Santa Claus. Old St. Nicholas could certainly give us the best present we've ever had but I'm afraid it's not in the books this trip. Am kept pretty busy, which is a good thing as one doesn't have time to worry over our plight. . Also it's keeping my head in and my brain alert, as there is the great danger of mental stagnation. In the back of my mind right now is the idea to go home and get a little place to raise bees. Doubtless in after years, will laugh at this but it has real appeal at present. Would be your own boss and it'd be a quiet, leisurely mode of living. After this, anything of that nature looms large on my horizon. However, that’s in the lap ot the gods but it doesn't do any harm to ponder such matters. so that you've something lined up. So, till then, here's to good heath, good food, good quarters!
29 - 1 1 - 42
Sunday night again and another week has rolled by. salto has been and gone with the result that a lot of officers went to Camp including Cal Price and Don Philips. Managed to escape the draft, which went out Thursday, the 26th but it looks as though the handwriting may be on the wall for the next one. Bomendine, Bill Hall and Vermeulin all went out. Got 12 new patients and they are in pretty bad shape - one chap can't weigh any more than 75 lbs. Conditions aren't very good at Shamshuipo. However, they've started to issue the Red Cross supplies — 1 — 8 oz. tin of bully beef between 4 men 4 times per week and 1 tin of M and V between 3 once per week. Also got some cocoa and raisins. This is all to the good but how long will it last'? Pellagra is rife but they seem to have the "dip" under control. Ches Budd arrived in very bad shape —couldn't recognize any one and seemed to be paralyzed in the face. It now appears that he has Vincent*s Angina. However, he is rational and recognized me. Told me that Len Seaborn is down with dip. Britt got a letter from Mac and he is badly hit evidently by this pellagra. Also seems to be low mentally. Working parties are still on - have to get up at 4 a.m. and don't get back until 7 p.m., which is a long day. Things aren‘t too bad in here - rations are pretty fair, although yesterday we had no rice for supper but had an issue of hardtack. Never thought anything would taste so good as this did, especially hardtack. Was something to chew on and certainly hit the spot. Fish has been coming in regularly and have been getting sweet potatoes fairly often. Still have beans and porridge on alternate days, as well as peanut butter, sugar and syrup occasionally. Have a real job at present, as all these new patients are on special diets and we now have to dish out sardines, tomatoes, beans, butter, marmite, extra yeast, ghee (India buffalo dripping). None of them are on rice — so the rest of us are faring well - as a matter of fact last night had most of my bread rations for supper, which is something that hasn't happened to me for a long time. News still continues to be fairly good. In North Africa, the Yanks are fighting near Blzerte in Tunisia and Benghazi has definitely been evacuated. Tripoli is now the only good harbor wholly in enemy hands. Surely they can manage to wind this up ere the New Year. In the Ukraine, the Russkies are counter attacking fiercely and still hold Stalingrad. The Nips, of course, say they have been repulsed but do not make any extravagant claims. Evidently Fritzie is once more feeling the weight of the Russian steam roller. Last week had two air raid alarms with no results. However, the Japs admit that Canton was raided - so things may move in this direction yet. Have played two more chess games, losing against Pte. Keogh and beating Cpl. Chandler. Am not doing too badly and it is a very interesting game. Weather has been warm and the sun has been shining very strongly in the afternoons. Have just finished "Dynasty of Death" by Taylor Caldwell - the history of a family in the armaments business. Certainly was well written and is an eye-opener to some ofthe methods used to drum up business. Very descriptive as to people and their moods, characteristics, mannerisms, etc. Well worth reading again. Haven't had much time for visiting and I should go to see Art Budd. Will try to do so tonight. Have had a few talks with Mr. Drew and played some crib with him. He is a nice old gent - rather old-fashioned, though, and kind of close, or pinchpenny, in money matters. Have some great talks with Norman, Cam Maddess and Sgt-Major Muxlaw on different topics and also. on different places they've seen.
Am reconciled to another year of this but sure don't relish the idea ot going back to Camp but still must eventually. However, shall ride 'er through and once more shall have a beer with Pop in the old Brunswick!
6 - 12 - 42
One more week has rolled by - one more nearer home, thank goodness. The event of this week has been the Fred Cross parcels, which finally arrived on Tuesday, December the 1st, 1942. Real good parcels - individual of about 11 lbs weight and containing nothing but food. In mine, I had 16 pieces; as follows - 1 tin biscuits, 1 pkt l (2oz. tea), 1 tin (8 oz) of syrup, 8 oz. ot bacon, 1 tin curried mutton, 1 tin meat Galantine, 2 tins sugar, 1 tin cheese, 1 tin creamed rice, 1 tin tomatoes, 1 tin (1/2 Ib.), margarine, 1/4 lb. chocolate, 1 bar soap, 1 tin milk, and 1 apple pudding. Money from home was never more welcome than this. Just like a bunch ot kids celebrating Xmas day. Some chaps really tore into theirs and have cleaned theirs up by now. Am going in cahoots with Dick Collings on some oft he stuff - which is a good idea as it will last a lot longer that way. Also, dried fruit in bulk - raisins, pears, apricots and prunes came ih. Have had a couple ot issues of plain raisins and a rice and raisin dull tonight. I-lave actually been getting too much to eat lately, it this is possible. Had to ease oft a little myself but am once more OK again. Parcels sure made a difference in the morale and there should be a big help over at Camp. From now on, the Fled Cross will have a steady subscriber. The weather the last week has turned much colder and one certainly feels it. The last bunch have improved and are now out of quarantine. Still have 22 on special diets but have less work now, as we give out most of the bread issue. Punt died suddenly, after a long-drawn out illness. Wish he could have made it, as* he was a miracle man and would have liked very much to have seen him pull through. Died of bilateral abcesses on the lungs and paroxysmal tachycardia. Must have had a wonderful constitution to last as long as he did.
13 - 12 - 42
Farmer's night in town again. The time sure rolls by quickly here. 1-las been a quiet week in some ways. Weather has been very cold - have been issued with the heavy blues and have been wearing my cardigan under my tunic. Have sure got a great appetite and now weigh 134 - a gain of 8 lbs. in the last two weeks. News, via the Nip controlled press, appears to be fairly good. Dakar is now in our hands and the French fleet is now on our side or scuttled. Out here, it is very quiet although it would appear that an attack on Burma is in the making. ln North Africa, things are still more or less fluid but the fighting is all in Tunisia and Tripoli. Dill has been made C — in C ofthe Paratroops and Brooke ofthe British Glider Corps. Paratroops have been used by us in North Africa. The Fiusskies are doing fair in the south and seem to have made some gains in the south. Milan, Turin, and Genoa have been subjected to some severe bombings. Had a talk with Gordon Sissons. He's now in fair shape and sure doesn't paint a very cheerful picture of Shamshuipo. Never did like him particularly and after the war, have less reason for doing so.
Carter is getting around pretty good but his right eye is gone · sight is definitely impaired. Up to see Dave Moffat and Tommy Forsythe last week and had a great talk on different subjects - must see them again. Played chess against Captain Fraser and lost. Do not play enough, as haven't the time. Wonder if I shall ever play it back home? Am now fairly adept at the use of a straight razor, which is one useful thing I've learnt. Am now pretty well reconciled to another year, at least, unless a miracle occurs. Incidentally, the Pope sent us in some games and musical instruments; such as, chess sets, monopoly, badminton, autobridge, cards, violin, guitar, mandolin, ukelele, and a piano accordion. These are ` very welcome and will be of great help, especially at the concerts. Still no more Fred Cross parcels etc. A working party has been standing by for days to go to fetch some sugar. There are supposed to be a clothing issue for us too but so far no dice. However, one of these days, they'll come through. Most of the Red Cross parcels are cleaned up now but still have most of mine left — have only finished my cheese. Wrote another letter to Alb. Can't help but wonder whether or not they ever reach Canada. News from any one of them would certainly constitute one of the finest gifts I've ever had in my life. Should be lots of mall on the way somewhere but the Lord only knows when we'Il receive it. Grub is still pretty good - fair amount of rice plus fish, sweet potatoes, onions, greens, turnips, etc. Has a raisin duff the other night and it certainly hit the well known spot. Read an article on soybean production in the States, in Sept. 15, 1941 issue of "Time". Certainly is worthwhile looking into and shall advise Alb to give them a trial. From time to time, have chats with various people; such as Lieut. Mace, Lieut. Hunter, "Jack" Third, Staff James etc. on different subjects. Have come to the conclusion that, on the whole, the imperial troops "can take it" far better than us and are far more cheerful and make the best of things than we do. Their officers also take more of an interest in their men than ours, which doesn't say very much for them at that. My opinion of the Imperials has risen 100% since my stay here and will never stand by and hear them "run down". They have their faults and failings but on the whole they're a decent bunch. Have been repairing my runners and in after years should have a great laugh when l think of me patching them up with wire and driving in nails and screws on a weight for a last. It's a source of wonder to me what you can get by on if necessary and should be a good lesson in more ways than one in the years to come. Here's to a speed homecoming!
16 — 12 — 42
Here are a few random thoughts which from time to time pierce my skull. Needless to say, uppermost is when we're to be free. Right now, it looks as though we can make up our minds that we've at least another year to go. However, from now on, the news shall be in our favor, which is a consolation. Do not think we can expect to see Canada ere June, 1944, if then. Not a very cheerful thought, but - Many things can transpire in a short time and the whole trend of things can change overnight and it may be sooner. At this time, there is nothing to indicate this and it is better to weigh things up for a long stay. Cannot help but try to visualize what it's going to be like getting readjusted to civilian life. ls going to be quite an experience and may be somewhat grim. Still, come what may, one can always look forward with a certain amount of confidence that you will be able to make a living and compared to this, a real good one. For a time, in my opinion,there should be a boom, as there will definitely be a shortage of all sorts of civilian commodities but how long it will last is another question. Then again the political and monetary setups should undergo a drastic change. Socialization of and Government control of prices, raw materials etc. will be as essential then as now. A real problem, too, is demobilization. Certainly it will have to be staggered otherwise the labor market will be glutted. What about all the war industry, which has been created? Can they utilize these factories for peacetime manufactures? Here's an interlude - over the loudspeaker, comes the record, "Jeepers, creepers " — what memories that evokes of moccasin dances at the old Sioux! All in all, to get back to my previous train of thought, our troubles may just be beginning and certainly, it's not going to be Utopia but at least, we shall have our freedom!
28 - 12 — 42
It is sometime, indeed, since I made a few entries in this journal. Have been fairly busy l the last few weeks, as we have had quite an intlux of new patients from Shamshuipo. Alex MacFadyen was amongst them, suffering from "hot foot" ie. pellagra and more particularly, in his case, cardiac beri—beri. Now weighs 128 lbs, which is an awful drop from his normal weight. On the whole, he doesn't look bad but his feet are bothering him greatly. Lack of sleep is his big complaint next to his feet. Have moved from the main part of the Ward into the little bunk at the end of Massage. Share this with R.S.M. Reid of the R.A. This is the best quarters I've had since I've been in the Army -- strange that this should be the case, especially as am prisoner-of—war but it is the truth. The privacy is the great feature and also is much better for sleeping. Christmas Day has been and gone. On the whole, we did fairly well. For breakfast, porridge, one hard boiled duck egg, peanut butter (1 oz), bread, 3 oz. sugar, tea, 1 packet cigs and 1/4 of a lb. of chocolate. For dinner, rice soup, fish fried in batter, rice, and stewed fruit. Also had an orange, honey and peanuts. Not bad at all. The boys have decorated the Ward with home—made festoons and there is a large Merry Xmas sign at one end. To cap things off, all the Canadians received the sum of ten yen from the Canadian Government through the Red Cross. "Money from home!" Sure is a big help. Kind of tough that the Imperials didn't get something, too. In our Ward, we contributed 45 sen apiece and gave each Imperial a credit of 50 sen at the Canteen. The amount isn‘t very large but it shows that we're not altogether a bunch of heels, as we're sometimes made out to be. There has been bully beef, M. & V., dried fruit — pears, peaches, apples, apricots, and prunes - sugar, cocoa and tea came in from Red Cross but it has · been doled out very sparingly by the Nips. Bully beef hits the spot very nicely, whenever we get it. Generally, four men to a tin, which isn‘t bad. The fruit, to my mind, is the best part of the whole deal. So far no clothes of any sort have been sent in but here's hoping. After one year of captivity have not as yet received any word from ` home. A letter would be more than welcome. l imagine there must be all kinds, as well as parcels, somewhere but transportation and the Nips probably combine to make it an almost impossible obstacle. Still one of these days, when one least expects it, a note will came trickling through. Am now putting on weight. Tip the beams around 140 lbs., which is very good. Eating now like fighting cocks, as with a total of 59 patients, 42 of them are on special diet, so that we're getting plenty of rice and veg. We have lots of work, as there isn't many up—patients and as a matter of fact, 15 of us have to wait till some have finished as we haven't enough plates to go round. Generally, my dinner is cold, when I get it but that's a minor consideration. Have fun doing a fair amount of clerical work, as in the last bunch to go out, there were quite a few "dip" cases. Have these all finished but there are a few Ward 2 ones to do. Major Harrison is kept going pretty steady in 2 and to cap things, the Nips through salto now _ want an elaboration on the pellagra cases, as they will not admit there are any. The Red Cross representatives were around on the 22nd along with Col. Takunaga and they just made a flying visit. However, from what I've been told, the Red Cross aren't fooled at all by them, aItho' that is rather a small consolation to us. Hope we get another parcel soon, as it would come in very handy. However, can‘t complain after the ten spot.