Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales

Letters from Edith S. Thistlethwaite to her sister, Ethel Jane Thistlethwaite, 20 June 1915-26 April 1917, 31 May 1921

MLMSS 7703/Box 6/Item 6

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June 20th, 1915
The Palace,
Heliopolis,
Egypt

My dear old Jane,
Received your most welcome letter Friday night No 7. Strange to say the only one from Australia to me. I have received papers from Mr Osburne but no letters. Papers from Mrs Roddick & a letter. Papers from Mollie & letter. I pass my papers on to Charlie, which he is very pleased to receive, he is a great boy – helps everyone in the ward and does ever so much writing for the Sister but he never says a word about what he does. Poor boy is improving steadily but will be months before he is able to do much. 11.30p.m. Really this is a desperate place to write, cannot get quiet corner to one’s self. Began this letter about 9p.m. when one poor soul who felt homesick came along to tell me all her troubles. I’m most fortunate at present with friends & have heaps of invitations to go out. Dorothy has just returned

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so must finish this to-morrow some time. 21.6.15 Have had a furious morning. Poor Sister Bicknell has got a germ into her system, was warded Saturday night & has been very ill. Major McLean had to operate on her shoulder this morning. She had a very small sore on her R. hand , so must have got the infection there. I am nursing her; it is very hard to see one’s pal in such agony. Hope she will be better now. I am off for this afternoon & the mail closes at 3.30P.M. so must write first. About 4 of us are invited to Col. Bolton’s house-boat on the Nile R. A motor is coming for us at 3.30p.m. so must be ready. I have seen Keith several times this week but have not been out with him since last Sunday 13th. Shall meet him to-morrow night. He looks well. Had a talk with

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Charlie this morning & he said Perry Hartly is he as an A.M.C. boy. He went to see Charlie yesterday- afternoon, said he looks very well. I have had a very gay week. Last Monday night went out to dinner with Essie Craig & two other sisters (4 altogether); to a friend of Essie’s. It was a very swell affair, we all wore our evening dresses & the party was 4 men & 4 sisters. I had met two of the men before & they were all most charming. We had a beautiful dinner outside on the verandah. Last Thursday 6 of us were taken to see “The Citadel", now used as an hospital. It is a most wonderful place. Drove from Cairo (about 3 miles) in a “Garry" (a carriage like a Victorian). Returned to Cairo about 8p.m. had dinner & reached the Palace about 10.30p.m.. We were introduced to the matron, a very charming English woman also a number of New Zealand nurses. On Friday night Lieut Main from Terang, called to take me out, so we went to Cairo & had some nourishment – then got a Garry

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& had a lovely drive along the banks of the Nile R. Oh, it was a beautiful sight I’m just longing to see it by daylight today. We have not had many wounded in, just lately, mostly from heat exhaustion. It is fearfully hot & the poor fellows feel it very much, the dust & heat is too much for them. We expect more poor wounded in the morrow. Our brave men have had a bad time again. I hope to write more next mail. Fondest love & kisses to you all. Love to all my friends. I’m very well & happy in my work. It costs us nearly £ 1.00 a week for mess. So I shall not be able to save any money. Glad the Sydney Ice gave a Div., hope Bill will be able to settle my debts alright. Must get ready now. Good-bye lots of kisses & love. From Edith

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The Palace,
Heliopolis
Aug. 3rd 1915.

My dear Jane., Received your welcome letter of 24.6.15 last night also Alice’s of 21.6.15. it was such a lovely surprise when I returned to my room to go to bed to find a whole crowd of letters awaiting me. Well, I was so busy reading them, that I did not notice the time, until the night Sister came & ordered me to put out my light 11.30p.m. Anyhow I awakened early this morning & read them all over again. I received Annie’s 3rd but it is the first one that has reached me. Tell her I shall write to her I shall write to her soon but hope she will write often. I just love to hear from my old friends. It is still very hot & the place we are working at is much warmer than the palace but we have plenty to do & the patients are awfully good & cheerful. We are all very happy down there, hope to all live in a house near the hospital & also Mess (feed) there. It is very tiring going

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backwards & forwards. Also a fearful waste of time, half the time the Motor Ambulance Car forgets to call for us, so we have to walk frequently. There seems to be a good deal of mismanagement about everything but suppose things will right themselves, in time. Dorothy is still at Suez, I’ve had 2 letters from her so far but she does not like being down there. There is great preparations for more wounded soldiers. We 10 Victorian Sisters all belong to No 2 Auxiliary Convalescence Depot but still address letters to 1st Aust. Gen. Hosp. Egypt. I shall send you a photo of “Atelier" (our hospital) in a few days. We have very bad cases though it is named Conv. Depot. We get more time off duty too. I am having a day & a half this week. Friday afternoon & all day Saturday. Last week I had Saturday, so we are in luck. I had a lovely rest & busy day with washing & ironing, in the evening Fred Hutchings called for

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me, took me in a Motor to Shepheard’s to Dinner & then a Garry drive back to Heliopolis. I wore my pink evening dress. We had a very happy time, he is quite delighted to have a Sister to take out & is being very attentive. We have 3 of his men in our hospital & he is awfully good to them & they are all very fond of him. I miss poor old Charlie very much, hope he has a pleasant trip – have heard since he left that the boat was a miserable ship. His mother & father will be delighted to see him & thought he looked splendid when he left. He will tell you all about me & no doubt you will find him most interesting. It is grand to think of the dear kid being such a brave soldier. I was awfully proud to be a friend of his, but really all of them are wonderfully brave & bright. Oh, how I should just love to have a peep at you all when the dear boy goes to see you. Poor Sister Murray

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Kisses & love for Eddie

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is still in the state of packed ready to go on transport at any moment. She has not left yet, so your presents will reach you some future time. She is with us at “Atelier". The Matron has arranged that we have our day off together so we are going to Alexandria on Friday by 4.15p.m. train, arriving there at 8 p.m. stay until Saturday night, so hope to have a good time together. I’m still having a very good time with kind invitation of all kinds. Yesterday afternoon Lt. Main from Terang came & took three of us to afternoon tea at Heliopolis House Hotel. Then we three went into Cairo & did a little shopping, had tea in there & returned to Heliopolis Hotel where we met 3 officers & had ices & cool drinks, returned to hospital about 10.30 p.m. Today worked all day & now trying to write this letter with about a million interruptions.

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Last Thursday I had a half day off duty & we had a most delightful trip. Four of us took train to Barrage. Two of us rode on donkeys & the remaining 2 on a trolly pushed by Arabs. Well, it was simply grand, we had about 45 mins donkey ride there & the same back. The Barrage is a kind of a lock of the Nile, there is also a large “Delta" with most wonderful bridges. There is a Museum with models of the different bridges of the Nile. Then you go on a little further & come to a most beautiful Botanical Garden, which I hope to spend a day in some time shortly, then we returned another road to the train passing the large native prison & through beautifully cultivated land. We reached Cairo at 7.30 p.m. Had a great dinner at Madam May’s returning to hospital about 11 p.m. very tired but slept soundly & felt fit for

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any amount of work next day. It was awfully good of you to think of buying a present for dear old mother from me. I did not know what to do but thought of you all celebrating the birthday. I shall send you next mail a few photos of different places of interest. Hope you are all keeping well & that you are not feeling the cold too much. The heat here is terrible – I’m always in a state of moisture, at times quite disgusting with perspiration dripping off my chin. Give all my friends my fond love & tell them to write often. Fondest love & kisses to you all. From your loving sister Edith.

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The Palace,
Heliopolis.
Sept 6th 1915.

My dearest Jane, Received your delightful letter after Belle’s, so it is your turn for a letter. I think you are very good at writing so often & hope you will continue doing so. I spent my birthday in bed but felt splendid, was up yesterday and was alright, suppose I shall soon be off to Alexandria now. I’m so glad to think that I shall soon be quite well again. So sorry that you have all had Influenza trust you are all well again. It is a horrid complaint but seems the usual thing at Ilkley about July & August. I had such a number of letters last week, had two Australian mails in. Funny I received No. 17 before No. 16. Thank you all very much for birthday wishes also the presents, which I’m sure you cannot afford this year. The two p. cards Eddy sent arrived safely, thank you very much for dainty collar, it is just what I wanted. It was also very thoughtful of you. I should have received it Saturday but the mail was

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not properly sorted, so got it Sunday – The sabbeth makes very little difference here – how we have two C of Eng. chaplains & two R.C. chaplains that we will have more services here – be able to arrange times to suite the sisters etc. Somehow today I cannot write, so much noise & a convalescent sister walking around & talking nonsense, that she is making me quite nervy. Essie & I cannot read nor write through here. She has been discharged but disappointed at not getting a few days at Alexandria – so is laying around waiting for the old Col Maudsley to worry him. Really some people make you quite disgusted – I had such a lot I wanted to write but my brain will not work. If my photo is any good & you think it worth it, get a dozen & send them to my special friends for a Xmas Present. Mrs & Mr Osburne are so good, every mail I get heaps or weely papers from them & such lovely long joint letters. If anyone should get it, send it to Mrs Osburne of Terang with my fond love.

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She must be working very hard for the Red Cross – but she does nothing by halves – if she takes up anything she sees that it is a success. She is sending me some cocoa for myself & some cigarettes for the soldiers – the cocoa is a brand that I liked when in Port Fairy & she has remembered – I could not take it now but will be glad of it later on, no doubt. So sorry to hear that poor Laing is ill again – he is a delicate bot. I’m afraid need very careful treatment all his life. Last Friday poor old Fred came to say good bye, they did not go the week before, were ready all the week waiting to leave every day. He brought me a p.card photo of himself, taken on his horse. He was looking well & very delighted at getting a move on. I have not heard if they have left Alexandria yet, but suppose so. Such a fine lot of men – they had to leave their horses here – so went as dismounted Inf. The horse is of no use in that country.

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Yesterday was a fearful day. Four or five trains with wounded & sick came in, I believe we got 700 here, as you can imagine had dreadful things are – We can see the hospital train from here our bedroom arriving at the station. Most of the cases are medical – Typhoid and dysentery – poor fellows are very bad. I do wish I was well enough to be on duty, such a lot to do now, - A new ward was opened with 100 beds all medical cases. The 49 sisters that came by “The Orontes are on duty, the sick-sisters are the only ones not working. While I was asleep this afternoon Sister Dickenson came to see me, so was asked to call later. Hope she comes, then I shall here some news from Melb. Mrs Barrie wrote saying Mrs Robertson’s sister was coming by the “Orontes". Tuesday 7th – could not finish this yesterday – Sister Dickenson did not return, so expect she will call another time. We had We had some beautiful roses brought to us yesterday 4 huge bunches – they look so lovely. I have just arranged them for both sick sisters rooms.

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[Page not transcribed. Looks like a game of noughts and crosses]

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I/m able to do that now. One of my pals Sister Bolton was warded last night Saturday, very bad with rheumatism. She is in the other room, poor girl is suffering most fearful pain, in her R. hand. No doubt she will be sent back to Australia when better. She came on the “Kyarra" with us. Dorothy is still at Suez, has not been up to see us yet. I wrote to her yesterday & sent your message. Mollie & Jess are awfully good write nearly every mail & send different weekly papers – so you see I have lots of kind friends. Glad to hear your blouse is a success – I do not think it is any use getting a blouse made for me, unless it is a white muslin & then I think I could get it here. I must get a new dress of some kind, when I’m about again. Give my love to all my pals & friends. Tell them I’m always thinking of them even if I don’t write. Sorry Mother Peel’s p.card went astray, she should have received one by the same post as Emma. Fondest love & kisses to you all. From your loving sister Edith.

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P.S. Did I tell you that Norman Bower wrote to me from Alexandria, said he was coming to Cairo for 3 weeks & would like to see me, so I wrote & told him to come to hospital, where he would find me. He sent his love to Aunt Belle, & to cousin Belle, Ethel & Alice. He wrote such a nice little letter. Had just got one from his mother, saying I was here. Poor old Keith wrote me a short note just on leaving camp & asked me to tell his mother they were all well & in good spirits. Must stop now. Fondest love & kisses Edith

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The Palace, Heliopolis, Egypt Sept. 27th 1915.
My dear Jane, I have been expecting a letter from home for ever so long but have been disappointed. I got one from Miss Crissie Stirling to the “Soldier Boys", with a short note to myself. I have sent it to one of the wards & the Sister said that the Boys were enjoying it & that she would pass it on to tother wards. I also let Major McLean read it & he said he would write to that lady. Thought it a very nice idea & was sho sure the soldiers would enjoy it. It was a really a splendid letter. Sister Martin came to see me this morning, she returned last night. She said you were all well & that you sent your love etc. I was glad she managed to see you all. She is looking very well though they had a very busy time only two sisters & 1500 troops, so she would have plenty of work to do. She will be working at Luna Park again but is to have a couple of days off duty. So I shall see her again to day some time.

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I am much better, going out every afternoon for a drive. On Friday I had my first outing for 7 weeks. Sister Rhoden, who came with us on the “Kyarra" accompanied me for a Gharry drive. It was a beautiful day & we quite enjoyed out little outing. I was only out for one hour you can imagine how delighted I was to get out once more. On Saturday I went on with Sisters Hart & Pilkington (also of the Kyarra) to Cairo Gardens & had afternoon tea, getting back at 6 p.m. We had a glorious time. On Sunday (yesterday) I got up at 5.30 a.m. and went to 6 a.m. Communion. The room where it is celebrated is quite close to this room, part of the Officer’s Ward. The Chaplain is a high churchman, anyhow it was a very nice service & I was so pleased that I was able to attend. In the afternoon Sister Craig, Ralston & self went for another Gharry drive along the Suez Road. It was a perfect day. Then Essie Craig & I went to the Church Service (C. of E.) in the Shelter Shed – Quite a number of the Convalescent Patients

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were there and about 6 Sisters. It was a very nice service & the Chaplain gave a very good sermon – just a little quiet talk to the men & they were all very attentive & joined in the singing splendidly. He seems to be a very good man for this work. We have two resident chaplains now. The service was at 6.15 p.m. & lasted about 40 minutes. We returned to our ward & had our dinner, then got into bed and slept soundly after our big day. Of course I had a sleep after luncheon for a couple of hours. It was dear old Dad’s birthday on Saturday, and I kept thinking of you all. Hope to get a letter from you in a day or so. I am feeling splendid today & my arm is much better. I am going out this afternoon to another Garden near Cairo. Essie Craig may leave for Australia this week. I’m afraid she will never come back to Egypt. Is to have 6 months rest. I had a letter from Mr Cunningham the other day & he had had influenza but is better again – was wondering how I was & that I had not

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got to Alexandria yet. Suppose I shall go some day. I have not seen Norman, suppose he is still in Alexandria & expecting to hear from me there. The other sisters are getting better, some have gone to Alexandria to convalesce, so now we number ten sick sisters in wards. Poor sister Bolton’s hand & shoulder is still very bad with rheumatism. The others are all improving like me. I wrote to Alice, Emma & Maude Thistle this mail. I’ve had some good snap-shots given to me – so will send them by Sister Ralston – she is leaving for 3 months to Queensland – Shall be travelling in the same boat as Essie Craig, so if they have time in Melbourne, she will go out to see you. She is an R. Catholic but is an awfully nice woman I’m very fond of her also she has been very kind to me. So hope you will make her very welcome for my sake. If I can get to shop before she leaves I shall send a small parcel with her. Essie will have too much to take so I wont ask her. No doubt she will get out to

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see you some day & tell you all about me. Hope my different friends are not troubling you, if so write & let me know. Mind you keep on the telephone & pay for it out of my money. I cam manage very well with my pay, hope to be able to save a little soon. Trust you are not feeling the hard times too much. We have just heard good news. The French & British have advanced 12 miles in France, hope it is true. I’m sending a few photos with Sister Ralston, keep them until I return & I can explain them. Think I have told you all the news & my arm is very tired – Fondest love & kisses to you all & hope you are all well. From your loving sister Edith.

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1st A.G.H. Heliopolis Egypt 29.11.15
My dear Jane, As usual we do not know when the mail closes but shall try to write a few lines to you now & then shall be ready when get notice. I answered dear old mother’s last week, hope she will repeat the dose, it was a lovely letter & I did enjoy it – Your letter & Belle’s came by the same mail. Did I tell you that Nellie Moore wrote me a very nice letter, which I received last week. I had a few from the front last week & all my friends are very well. Amongst them, one from Fred & he was well. It is a beastly day, the wind is blowing clouds of sand, it is quite cold too, I’m very glad of my rug at nights now. Yesterday afternoon I was off duty but rested. I was no very well Saturday-night, had some baked onions for dinner but never again. I have

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to be very careful what I eat these times, anyhow I’m quite alright again & feeling very fit. Am off just now for one hour’s rest before luncheon. We are not quite so busy to-day, so take a little extra time off when slack. I was at a Picture Show & out to dinner on Friday-night with a Captain Combes. He is a patient I nursed when first I came over. He is on the Staff at Details Duty Office, Cairo now – he was in Alexandria while I was there & gave me a good time. When leaving I introduced him to another Sister, a friend of mine, & I beleive it is a serious case with them, he is awfully in love with her & I think she is too. So I’m doing a little match-making. He is a bit young for me, or I should be jealous, but am very pleased. Eric Baker called to see me on Saturday & he looks grand in his uniform. He has grown a great height since I last saw him. Am meeting him to-morrow night. I must write to

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Norman this day, he wants me to take a party of sisters out to visit their camp. Matron Cornwall is much better & has gone to Alexandria for a rest. I see Sister Murray every day but we cannot go out together, because our time off is different. She was very good to me Saturday night, getting sodi-bi-carb & hot water for my bag. She stayed with me until I felt better. I also took a hot brandy, which soon fixed me up. Dorothy was out & when she came home, was very surprised I was not well. She is getting quite fat and is very happy – this love affair does not worry her like the other. She is a hard-case and when Connsie Murray & she get going it is awfully funny, they have me in fits of laughter. I get letters from Mrs Barrie often, she is a kind old dear & her sister writes awfully kind letters & sends papers. So glad to hear you are having some visitors, it is very lowly for mother

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if friends don’t call to see her. Sorry the Thomas’s are so delicate. They must be very tired of sickness. Miss Stirling writes such nice letters to the boys & they do enjoy them, so do I. Glad to hear you have been out to see Charity & that her garden is coming on so well. I wonder if Vi is better I had a letter from Mrs McCallum telling of her poor old mother’s death and that Vi had measles. Hope you will all have a Happy Xmas & that you get your Xmas present from me, you will know what is best for dear little Eddy and his birthday will soon be here & he will be six years of age, how the time flies. Wish I could see the pet. I had such a nice long letter from Mother peel, it is lovely to think one is not quite forgotten. Charlie sent his photo in a letter to me, taken by Marion & it is such a good one, he looks very happy & well. Dear old

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boy, I do hope he is getting on alright and having a real good time – He is one of Our Heros & I’m awfully proud to think he is our friend. Give his mother & father my love. Tell Mr Capp I receive the Church papers & find them very interesting. Shall try & write to them soon. Poor old Keith must be on his way to Australia I think, I cannot find out where he is. He has not written to me since, the one I got from the Hospital Ship. The mail closes in the morning so a few more hurried lines. Well, Dorothy & I went into Cairo this afternoon & had tea, returned early & found a note from Eric Baker saying he was on Picquet duty for 7 days, so could not keep appointment. Dorothy received a lovely box of eatables from her folk, so we sampled it & had a goo feed in our own bedroom – then walked down to Gordon House to see

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Sister Martin & she was better, did not stay long, so are both busy writing our letters. I received a letter from Mr. C. from Alexandria & he sent me information of Keith. He is in the 5th London General Hospital Lambeth, so I shall send a p.card to his mother in case she does not know. Give my love to all my friends & tell tem I shall write as often as I can. Fondest love & kisses to you all & trust you are all well. From your loving sister Edith

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1st A.G.H. Heliopolis, Egypt, Dec. 22nd 1915.
My dear Ethel, Received Alice’s very interesting letter last night and was delighted to hear you are all so well. It is nearly Xmas Day and I thought I should be spending a very quiet one but had a pleasant surprise the other day; received an invitation for Dinner on Xmas night to a private house. Where we spent a happy night a few weeks ago, (Norman & I). Had a bit o excitement last night, George Bower called to see me, and he looks so well, the dear boy was awfully delighted to think he had given me such a pleasant surprise. We intended to go out and surprise Norman but the poor kiddy sent me a wire to-day, saying he was leaving Cairo to-day, so goodness knows where he has gone – Poor old George will be fearfully disappointed when he

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hears that he has missed Norman. Hope George is here for awhile. Have not heard from any of the boys from Anzac this week but suppose they are still well and going strong. Poor old Fred is having a very cold time, wish they could come here for the winter. All the sisters received a Xmas box from Victoria. There was great excitement amongst us all, opening our boxes. I was a lucky one, matron had a few extra parcels (not boxes), so had a dip in the lucky bag & I picked a number, so got a few extra little useful articles – My box contained a pair of red slippers, a hair pins, pins, tin of biscuits, tin of short bread, tin of chocolates, post cards, 2 handkerchiefs, 1 cake of soap, 1 small bottle of Eau-de-Cologne, tooth brush, lanoline & tooth paste also a pretty little Red-enamel cross; all contained much the same. It is very kind thought of the Victorians & we all quite appreciate their goodness. All these little acts of kindness makes it a bit like Xmas time.

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I have just received the parcel you sent me, and think Alice is very clever, the garments are made beautifully. The stockings are very useful indeed. I am wearing my cashmere ones now. I’ve also begun to wear my warm nighties, so am wearing the pretty one you sent to me by Consie Murray. Dorothy & I have had a grand trip to-day. Drove to Ostrich Farm, then to Obelisk, the Virgins well & Tree, Matarich – then to Koubbeh Gardens for afternoon tea. It is a beautiful drive & the day was perfect. Got home in time for 7. P.m. dinner, so getting some of our letters written. Think it best to write when we can, because our letters are censored now, so do not worry if my letters are not so regular. Cannot always tell when the mail leaves for Australia. Little Eddy must be getting a big boy now. Suppose the darling will have forgotten my by the time I return. He is progressing

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with his writing, . –
24th Xmas Eve – Oh, how I’m thinking of you all to-night & wishing I could just peep in and see you. Dorothy & I have been into Cairo & got a few cards & handkerchiefs to give to our friends in the a.m. There is a great amount of excitement at present – some of the wards are decorated with flags etc & the Red Cross people are giving the patients all kinds of goodies, so it will be a bit like a festive occasion. We had our Xmas Dinner to-night. Madame may (our caterer) gave us a great surprise, had the room decorated beautifully and a little present on each plate, (different kinds of Egyptian beads) and a most sumptuous dinner. I shall write next week and tell you about our doings

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22/12/15
It is getting late & we are getting up early for Church, so must stop. Fondest love and kisses to you all. From your loving sister Edith

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1st A.G.H.
Heliopolis.
Egypt
Jan 17th 1916

My dear old Jane, So delighted to receive two letters from home last Saturday, one from Al, Dec 7th & the other from you Dec. 13th – they are both nice newsy letters. So glad the birthdays were a great success & that you all liked the presents I sent. Hope Xmas was a happy time for you all. I told you in the previous letter how I spent Xmas & new Year. This year so far has flown & the days are not nearly long enough & my strength not strong enough to do half what I wish to. Anyhow, it is better the time should go swiftly than hang heavily on ones life. I have been going out a good deal lately. I seem to get a number of invitation & this climate makes one very restless, such a number of interesting places to go to & the weather is beautiful now, one cannot settle down to write.

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I have applied for a week’s leave of absence, so if I get it shall be able to answer all my friends kind letters etc. I received such a lovely lot of letters, papers & cards on Saturday. Fred is back in Heliopolis. He came to see me last Thursday, and I’m glad to say he is looking so well. Is busy reorganising his regiment. May be off to the firing line in a few days, so we are making the most of our spare time to be together. I had dinner with him on Friday night at Shepheard’s and we had a jolly time, had a lovely motor spin afterwards & returned at 11.30 p.m. I went to “The Kursaal" with George on Friday, we had afternoon tea & then to the matinee performance which begins at 6. p.m. & enjoy it very much. George came round with me to meet Fred, so he will be alright now. George could not stay to have dinner with us because he had to be in camp by 9.30. p.m. Anyhow Fred called to see me last night

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& said that George & his friend are in his company now. He came to ask me to go out with him today but I could not as my time off is this morning, but I’m going to dinner with him to-night, after duty. On Saturday I had the afternoon off duty and had a busy time. Saw some of my friends who have just returned from the Peninsula. Went into Cairo with two of my friends (sisters), met Mr C. from Alexandria on his way to Luxor, so had a jolly time with him & dinner. Three of us wanted leave to go to Luxor but believe it is out of bounds for us, so shall be contented to stay & rest. Mr C. is looking very well & said Teddy had written & mentioned getting a p.c. from me. Last week Dorothy & I joined party to Helouan, it was a perfect day and a great spin out there, left at 2.30 p.m. & returned at 7.30 p.m. Yesterday-week (Sunday) Sister Rhodes & I were invited for afternoon tea & dinner to a Mrs Cole’s, such an awfully

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nice woman, who lives in Cairo. We had a ripping time. Our hostess is an Englishwoman but is very fond of we Australians, she had six officers there in the afternoon, so you can imagine the fun we all had, fellows full of fun but poor old chaps had to leave at 6. p.m. to go on duty, away with their men, somewhere. Then three more Australian soldiers not officers) & one Englishman arrived. We simply had a great evening, one of the boys sang beautifully, another played the piano & the three were real nice happy boys. The Englishman, said he has never enjoyed an evening, so much before – was quite in love with us all. Really the people we meet are so good to us all. I’m afraid we shall be spoilt. So delighted to hear that darling Eddy had such a beautiful birthday, it was very nice of Marian, Charlie & Flo remembering the dear kiddy. So pleased to hear about poor old Flo hope she will get along alright.

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I have not seen anything of Archie yet, he is a good way down the Canal from here. Would not be surprised to see him come in one day. So sorry to hear that poor old Bessie is not too well. Hope she will soon get better. You need not worry about Mr Ron he has not troubled to write nor call on me, nor has Master Jack, I’ve been told he has arrived in Egypt also. He has not even found out Fred, but we don’t talk family affairs – quite enough of very interesting things to talk about. I had a nice long letter from poor old Vi, she must have been very ill, trust she is better & back to work again. I also received a number of papers from my Terang friends. I did not receive the snapshots Alice spoke of, suppose you forgot to put them in. I wonder how you liked my photo? I cannot imagine Ida living priviately – what changes there, since I visited them. How awfully sad about Mrs Aitkin. Very unfortunate Dr R. had

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left the district. I do wish I could bring a donkey home for Eddy. I hope you are all well & happy and that you will continue so. I am very well & taking care of myself. Mus get a p.c. to send to Eddy. Fondest love & kisses to you all. From your loving sister Edith

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1st A.G. Hospital, Ismailia. Egypt Feb 12th 1916.
My dear Jane, I’m afraid this will not be a long letter because I’m too sleepy. I am just splendid again and getting spoiled – Chicken, fish, custard, rice & toast is what I’m living on at present. My “little Mary" needs a good deal of care but matron is so careful with me, that I’m sure I shall be stronger that ever after this. She is most considerate about the work I do, too – come over every now & then to see that I’m not too tired nor doing too much. I went on Duty on Wednesday but she has sent us an extra sister every day since. We are very busy but not nearly so much had work as we had at first also weather is beautiful. Last Tuesday we rode had a drive out to the Canal – Three sisters and a friend in civilian (man) clothes in a Garry with two Officers on Horseback

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as escorts – We had quite an exciting afternoon, met Fred’s Regiment moving out. So you can imagine my joy at seeing the boys again & knowing they were alright. George looked very brown but well & they were all so dirty. Fred was also surprised to see me – I met ever so many more friends along the line and poor old chaps, all looked so tired & dirty – they had been a good number of days on the march. We could not get to the Canal, but stayed & talked to all the boys. I received a little letter from poor old Norman but of course he could not tell me where they are, but old address would find him. He was well & enjoyed the cigarettes I sent him. Tell Alice Bower I wrote to her last week. Hope you get all my letters. I’m awfully disappointed at not receiving my Aust. mail to-day – none since last Thursday – week, so am longing for them.

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On Thursday afternoon had tea on board “The Monitor", she is a most interesting ship but cannot write much about it. We had a ripping time. To-day (Saturday) three of us (sisters with our escort on horseback went out to Fred’s camp & had afternoon tea with his Colonel – It was most interesting – went across the Canal on a pontoon – the first time we have ever been on one, or cross to Arabia. We were met by Fred the other side & then walked about 15 mins to their camp. The Colonel is a charming man and made us all very welcome. We had a delightful tea – had our photos snapped in everso many different positions and then had to part company. Fred & the Col. walked to the pontoon with us & then we got our Garry and drove back just in time for dinner. We are very lucky to have been

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sent here – everything is so full of interest and the drives are beautiful, mostly avenues of huge trees with autumn foliage. The coloring in this country is marvelous. To-morrow is Sunday & I’ve promised Matron to get up & go to Communion with her so must stop now. I hope you are all well & happy and that things are going smoothly. If Belle has time, I think I would like to know, what my banking account is now, & tell them to write often. Fondest love & kisses to you all. From, your loving sister, Edith

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1st A.G.H. Egypt March 7th 1916
My dear old Jane, I have just received Belle’s letter dated Jan 24th, and so sorry to hear that you & Eddy had not been well, but trust you are both quite alright by now. Your T 98.4 is normal, I suppose Belle meant that by 98 ½ - It seems a long time to waite for letters now, it is a fortnight to-day since I received the last mail but I have not got one newspaper since I’ve been here. The weather is getting very warm again, hope we will be in a cooler place for the summer. It is very nice here but it is Egypt & one summer here is enough for me. On Sunday I went to early communion, it was our Chaplain’s last Sunday with us, he has left for France. We are all very sorry to part with him. In the afternoon Lady Maxwell gave a Concert to the patients and all the Sisters

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who were off duty went. It was a very good programme and we all enjoyed it very much. We had a flashlight photo taken, so if I can get one I shall send it home. After the concert the performers came around to our quarters for tea, we had quite a number of our friends from the camp. Fred’s Regiment has moved camp – passed through here Sunday-morning but they are camped nearer now. Some of the Officers were in Sunday afternoon. Fred came in last night & we went for a little walk, four of us. Sunday-evening all of us went to Church and our dear Chaplain gave an awfully good address and the whole service was most enjoyable and helpful. It is marvelous the way the men all attend the services. We have not met our new Chaplain yet but suppose we shall in a few days. We have church in a tent now.

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Last night Today we were invited to afternoon tea on board of “Monitor" it is lying out a little from here – Four sisters & two of out Officers accompanied us. We went over in a little rowing-boat. It has been a perfect day and we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. I have been several times on the same boat before. As we were nearing our quarters we met Fred & one of his officers on horse-back, so they are coming after dinner to take us for a little walk. I got a few other letters from Australia to-day, one from dear old Annie, Alice Bower & one from Mrs Barrie’s sister from Penzance. Perhaps Sister Hart did not stay in Melb. she was bound for Queensland, so don’t suppose she had time to get out to see you. I have not seen Archie McCurdie yet & no letter from him since I’ve answered his – one never can tell how long letters take to reach their destination. Hope I shall get you photos soon. What a good thing Dr Perry is

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back again. Eddy likes him so much & he is clever with children. Poor little chap, I shall send him a p. card this mail. Hope you will all be able to go to Sassafras & have a good holiday. Poor old Agnes Mac will not like the thought of him having to enlist but if things don’t turn I’m afraid all our men will have to come to help. It is a fearfully long anxious time for everyone. We have had some glorious violets in our garden, here, it reminds one of Home. We were surprised to find violets in Egypt. I wonder if poor old Keith is in Australia yet. All take good care of yourselves & don’t try to save & stint yourselves. Enjoy things while you can, there is enough sadness in life. Fondest love & kisses to you all & hope you are well. From, your loving sister, Edith

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1st A.G.H. Same Spot, 27.3.16
My dear Jane, Have received two lovely mails – one on Saturday & the other Sunday. Amongst them one from you Feb 14th and a jolly nice newsy one too. So pleased to hear you and Eddy are quite well again. Hope you have a good time at Sassafras and return strong & fat. What a pity you could not all go away to the seaside, poor old Mother & Belle will be very lonely without you three. Where is Belle going for her holiday? I suppose to Annie’s? Glad to hear you had a cool summer, we are still having perfect weather. Cannot say how long we will be here, but fancy we’ll move on in a very short time. No 2 A.G.H. left Alexandria the other day – for different parts – No 1. A.G.H. is embarking Wednesday for parts unknown. The place is empty, all patients gone & only

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the staff of Sisters etc, staying there until Wednesday. Hard luck for us, not to be with them all, but perhaps our luck will be better. We are all very happy & comfortable here and very glad we were sent here, so no doubt, our Unit will soon go with the crowd. Had a letter from Dorothy to-day & she does not say anything about joining the 1st A.G.H. I’ve had my teeth fixed up, so feel very happy about my mouth, once more. Fred is camped near here again, he came in Saturday & took me to dinner. We went to a very nice Restaurant called “The Belgian" and got back just before 10 p.m. Sunday-afternoon Fred & two of his officers came in & spent the afternoon. We had such a number of visitors, quite a crowded room. We really are a very popular unit , and the boys do so like to come & have a little home life. I went on night-duty last night, so stayed

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in bed all to-day, slept fairly well. Am in the officers Ward still but we are very quiet, not much to do at night, Matron thinks it will be a rest for me, after so much hard work, while on day-duty here. They have an extra Orderly to help in the day time, so it will not be so heavy for the next sister. I had Saturday afternoon & Sunday until 7.30 p.m. off duty, so you see we are having much better hours. I do not think I shall be coming on transport yet, if we do not move on before May I shall volunteer – Of course I may be sent, one never knows what my happen. I wish I had bought some brassware while I was in Cairo, always intended to get some to take home but now it will be so hard to get it & then we are not allowed so much luggage. May be able to get a few ornaments & send them home. Must get rid of some of my luggage. Am sending a small parcel this week. I got

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a Kimono for you three & a shawl for mother, which I intended bringing home but must send them now. Hope you will like them. Three or four of us are going out to afternoon tea to Fred’s camp this week. I’m enclosing a few snapshots, taken by on of Fred’s Officers out at the camp before they went away. Matron is the very tall one. I shall write their names on the back. I think you may be interested to see my photos, so am sending them to you. When I return I shall get a book to put them in, so mind you take care of them. I must try and get some little novelty for Eddy but it is very hard to buy things for a boy. I’m enclosing a couple of silk handkerchiefs, most brilliant colouring worked on them, given to me by two of my poor wounded soldier boys. Tell Eddy I shall tell him all about Donkeys when I return, it is very hard to make them go

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usually one has a little Arab boy (donkey-boy) running behind & he has a peculiar call to make it go. I had a nice letter from Mrs Capp & so glad she liked the photo. Also poor old Alice writes to me very often. I hope to see George this week. Fred said he is a grand fellow & says he will get on. I do not know where poor old Norman is but must try & send some more cigarettes to him. I think he is out on the Desert not very far from here. Hope Charlie gets his Commission before he comes out again. I had a nice letter from Ella & Doll from Tasmania. I shall try & write them a few lines this week. Dr Cordner was operated upon for appendicitis at No. 1 A.G.H. the day before we left The palace, & I have not heard how he got on since. So glad to hear Flo is so well, I’m awfully sorry I missed seeing Archie. May meet him in France. Talk about Fleas!! You should see our fleas –

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hunt every night & morning. It is nothing to find 6 monsters at a time – We use plenty of “Keatings powder" in our boots, bloomers & bedding. My – I shall be use to all kinds of beasties when I return. My room mates say they should love to have a snap of me flea hunting. On Sunday morning the prince of Wales visited out hospital – so I got dressed & went on duty to see him. Took a snap of him but cannot say if it is any good. He looks very young, about 16 yrs, but believe he is 22 yrs. He has such a nice face & spoke so kindly to all the men. He is very shy too. Of course we had our much beloved General Birdwood to take him around. Oh, he is a grand fellow, such a happy smile & kind word for everyone. We see & meet all class of peoples. Generals are very common now. Princes, Lords & Ladies. Think I have told you all the

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news now. I shall have another look at my patients, then make a cup of tea, to keep me awake. It is nearly 1 a.m. Glad to hear about Bessie, I do hope everything will be alright this time. Fondest love & kisses to you all. From, your loving sister, Edith.
Hope you are all friendly with Lucy again.

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1st AG.H. Egypt. April 25th, 1916
My dear Jane, No Aust. mail in since last writing to Alice. Strange to say I’ve received quite a number of papers this week, so no doubt more letters are on the way. Mr Copp has sent me some by this mail, it is awfully good of my friends thinking of me. I’m still on night-duty. The sister who was to take my place is ill, so I’m staying on a week longer.

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I’m not a bit sorry because we are very quiet & now that I have an orderly on at night, it is not so lonely. Also my best beloved is in Ismailia, since Friday, so I can go out with him every afternoon. Oh, I’m in love this time & of course he says he is but it is all so sudden that I shall make it a little longer so that we may get to know each other better before I become engaged.

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Well, my dears keep this little matter to yourselves but I’m awfully happy at present & he is a man I’m awfully proud of. How do you like the Censor’s name? Sorry I cannot tell you more but you can feel quite satisfied that if it comes to anything, I shall write & tell you all you wont to know. There is not much news since writing because I have not been out to any camp, nor seen any of my old pals, since writing you. While he

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was away at Luxor I stayed in or just went for little walks with some of the sisters. Since his returned have spent my spare time with him. This morning (Easter Sunday) I went to 7.30 a.m. Com. Service at St. John’s in the Wilderness Church. It was a beautiful morning & a second service, yet the church was rather full. I was the only Sister but a few other women were there. Matron & the Day Staff went to 6.30 a.m. When I returned, I did not take long to get to bed

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& was sound asleep in a very few moments. Went out at 4 p.m. for a lovely walk & had dinner at Belgian Restaurant with my love. Most likely I shall be off-duty on Friday & go to Cairo in the afternoon with another sister, who is due off. We stay at a Nurse’s Convalescence Home near Cairo. Returning on Saturday-night. I shall try & buy a brass ornament like the one I sent Mrs Osburne while there & send it home. Had a very interesting letter from Consie Murray from France the other day. Suppose our turn shall

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be next to go there. We quite expected to be away long before this – but no good worrying – things will soon come wri right. “Anzac Day" on Tuesday & Fred is giving a dinner I was to have gone but have had to ring up & tell him that I could not go. We shall have a little dinner of our own. They have not met yet but shall soon. I’m sending a few more snaps home soon. Hope you get them safely. Trust you are all well & had a good holiday. Fondest love & kisses to you all. Hope you all & Lucy are friends now. From, your loving sister, Edith

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My paper are arriving alright now.
1st A.G.H. Egypt. June 11th 1916.
My dear old Jane, Think it is your turn for a letter. I received a lovely Aust. mail yesterday. – One from Belle from Sassafras – One from you & Alice. I’m quite happy to-day to know you are all well. Sorry you did not have such a good holiday as you expected. I think it is a mistake to go to the same place so often. Hope you will all be able to take a nice holiday somewhere else. Belle should go to different parts too. I prefer a change myself. Hope you are not too worried about money matters. Everything must be much more expensive now. Wish I could send you a couple of thousands. It is hard-luck being short. I’m very comfortable & money matters don’t worry me – thank goodness. I have plenty to go on with – of course I could spend – heaps – such temptation to buy pretty things, especially when I’m thinking

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of collecting a few things. Must try & save money & then buy necessaries. I had a day in Cairo on Wednesday. Two of us left by the 6 a.m. train & returned by 6.15 p.m. train – it was a rush also very tiring, shall not do it often. Did a little shopping in the morning, luncheon at Shepheard’s & spent the afternoon at The Empire Nurses’ Club entertaining my friends – some of the sisters who have just returned from transport. We were very tired next day but went to bed early so soon got over it. It was much warmer in Cairo – glad we are here. It is fairly warm but nothing like last year’s heat. Had a nice letter from Consie Murray & Dorothy this week. Consie is not very happy but Dorothy rather likes it & wishes I was there - not more than I do. – It is only 3 weeks since my dear boy left & it seems years, also no cable nor letter yet. They

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are not permitted to send any word, so must hope on – Thursday worked all day & fearfully busy – have some very sick patients. Friday afternoon off-duty. To my surprise Ron Thistle called to see me, he brought a friend with him named Smith, such a nice man, was quite pleased Ron has such good taste in choosing him as a pal. They had afternoon tea with us, then I went for a walk with them and we blew-in at the Canteen for a cup of tea about 6. P.m. They brought me back about 7. O’clock. I had promised to go to the French Club to dinner that night. We had a party of six – Sisters Fleming, Graham & self with three Officers (ex-patients). Had a most enjoyable evening. I do not go out with only one now. Had to stop writing this for an hour or so. Young George Bower has just gone, called in to see me – he has got a commission, he is Lieut Bower now, he has left Fred’s Reg. Joined the Inf. Brigade 60th Batt.

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I think he is wise, no chance of promotion in the other Regiment and from what I see of things, every man should try for a commission if he has a chance. He is well & very pleased to have his star. What a dreadful tragedy Kitcheners death is? Awful for a great soldier. He will be sadly missed. The Empire was fortunate in having such a leader & head at this crisis in History. Two of us are going to Church to-night so cannot write much more. Begins at 6.30 p.m. & it is nearly that now. Hope you are all well & happy. Wish Eddy was a stronger boy. So delighted to hear that Bessie has a little girl – hope she will be a healthy baby & Bess get on well. I shall write to her in a day or so. Love to all my friends. Fondest love & kisses to you all. From, Your loving sister, Edith

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Jackson was very anxious about me Had not received one of my letters when he wrote. I have written twice every week.
1st A.G.H. Ismailia. June 27th 1916.
My dear Jane, I’ve not found out whose turn it is for a letter this week, so am starting with you again. Have not received any Australian mail since those of May 8th & 10th – Some Australasian & Melb. Punch arrived during the week so perhaps a few letters are on the way. I’ve received word from my beloved at last – on Friday I got three, written on May 28th, 30th & June 6th – so I’m quite happy knowing he was well then. He could not say where he is but I think or sure it is France. We are not moving, so think we shall be here for the end of the war. Oh, how I wish we could get to England or France. Jackson said if we go to England he will get leave & come over to see me. It is very hot but I’m

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not feeling it so much as last year, have more comforts here. Have gone in for bathing & am getting on famously with my swimming. Our medical officers are all very good to us – they swim over to our part & take us out. Some of them are very strong swimmers. I’m well cared for, our O.C. always takes me out & I do a little more each time. Shall try & send you a snap-shot of us, one of the Sisters photographed us. I’ve got a new bathing-suit & cap. Came from Port Said & it looks just the thing. We bath in the lake. Last Friday Sister Bell & I had our last sail with Lieut. Wylde – it was a beautiful afternoon & we three agree so well, quite sad he had to go back to duty on Saturday-morn. We returned after 6.30 p.m. We two sisters just got back in time for dinner – then at 9 p.m. the N.C.O’s & Orderlies gave a Concert & the Sisters

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& Matron were all invited. It was an awfully good show, they also gave us lemonade & biscuits, at the Interval. The patients were invited too (the Conv. one). So Mr Wylde came with me. Sister Bell is on night-duty so missed the convert. We did not get back until nearly mid-night (11.45 p.m.) shocking, wasn’t it? Matron gave me permission & also stayed herself. We are giving an “Evening" to a Sister who has had the honor of The Royal Red Cross, conferred on her. She belongs to our Unit – only been one month with us. She came out with the first “Kyarra" & has nursed a lot in Imperial Hospitals. Have got the loan of a piano, it came yesterday, so you can imagine the joy it cause amongst the musical ones. All the medical officers are invited too, so we hope to have a jolly night. Unfortunately I have not got a man

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to invite – so shall be on my own, but I shall not be the only one. All our male friends have left and we do not know the Tommies. Suppose you will all think I’m foolish staying here for another Summer but really I think I’m doing the best. Though I do so long to get home to my dearest mother & fond sisters & darling nephew. I’ve sent my dress-basket by Cook’s & Sons, hope it arrives safely. It should not cost you anything because I’ve paid £ 2.0.0 this end. I had too much luggage, so decided to send it to you – Hope you will be able to make use of the articles. If things go well & I want civilian clothes before I return I can easily cable for money & buy new ones. I have plenty of money to go on with. My uniforms are getting rather shabby. This climate fades the grey so & the washing is not too good. I’ve been

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trying to make my clothes & boots do until we go to England or France but am afraid I shall have to renew some here. I’m having a Day-Off-Duty-, so taking a good rest. Washed my hair, stocking, singlets and now writing a long letter to you. Shall be helping this afternoon arranging for to-night’s Party. Cakes etc ordered from Cairo – Hope they come! Had a very sad time yesterday. An Officer took suddenly bad & died. He was a C. of E., so had Communion & wanted another sister & myself to have it with him. We have some awfully trying times occasionally. The poor fellow died about 20 mins afterwards but he was quite conscious through the service & answered the responses. if the war does nothing else it makes most soldiers & nurses realize that there is a Supreme Being. Well, my dear folk, you will wonder what’s happened to Edith writing like this – Fondest love & kisses to you all. From your loving sister, Edith.

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1st A.G.H. Egypt. July 16th 1916.
My dear Jane, We are expecting an Aust. mail in to-morrow – Have just received six weeks papers Punch, Bulleting etc., no doubt they have been to France. So I shall have plenty of news to read for awhile. Wish we could get some letters, it is nearly two weeks since I heard from Jackson, hope he is alright Things are moving there and our boys are in the middle of it. We have had a fearfully hot week but to-day, so far, there is a cool breeze. (11. a.m.) My ward is fairly busy but they are all comfortable for an hour just now, so thought I would begin my home letter. last Tuesday I had the Day-Off and had a lovely time as usual. Went by boat to Serapium with two other

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Sisters and a few of our men Staff. It was lovely on the water and we had quite a jolly picnic. Had morning tea on board & returned about mid-day – Had a good rest until 5.30 p.m. then went for a swim. Then my devoted friend & his pal took another sister & me to Dinner at the French Club. It was a lovely moonlight night & in this place we all mostly live out door after sundown. We got back just a little before 10 p.m. so had a ripping day. most of us sleep out – we have a balcony all around & it is just an ideal spot for that purpose. I have been doing so for some time now. I’m as brown as a berry. The bathing is lovely & try to go every day. On Wednesday-night a party of us went after dinner & it was great. Thursday on duty until 2 p.m., then rested until 6 p.m. went for a swim, returned about 7.00 p.m. had dinner & then went to dressmaker.

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I’ve got a new mess-dress – Crepe-de-chin & it looks awfully nice – My old one was only a cotton crepe & a crepe-de-chin red cape, so I did not have to get a new cape. The old one I’m wearing as an outdoor dress & they soon look very shabby. If I haf known we were staying here so long I should have had the silk one long ago. Still for all that my friends (men) say I always look awfully nice & admire my mess dress. Am getting some new uniforms made, have also been trying to make the old ones do until we got to France but no signs of a move, so must make the best of things. On duty all Friday – Saturday afternoon off duty – so Sister hart & I went with two officers for a beautiful sail. it was simply beautiful but coming back a “Khamsin" got up & it was very rough, we were drenched to the skin, still it was very safe – so we

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had to get back to quarters, have a bath & put clean clothes on. Had dinner at 7.30 p.m. then did a little washing & tidied up my boxes etc, went to bed early. Got up early this morning & went to early Communion. We have a new Chaplain & he is an extremely “Low Churchman" – the last was a very “High Churchman", so you see we get variety even in our padre’s. I’m on duty all to-day and have some very sick “Chocolate Soldiers", some came by boat yesterday from Serapium. Hope my basket arrives home safely. It cost over £ 2. to send it but think it was worth it. Have not heard from Fred or any of my friends who left the same time. Their letters are detained for some reason. if my friends say that I have forgotten them, not writing, tell them it is really too hot to write much, but I love receiving letters.

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Later – Received Belle’s letter of June 12th, a few hours ago. Pleased to hear you have got the “Anzac" Paper alright. Dont you think it very clever? One copy is for Eddy & one to keep for me please. I’m very well & as happy as it is possible under the circumstances, if I could only be in England or France & know how my boy is doing, it would be much better. Suppose I shall get a letter in a couple of days if he is alright. I wish I could see you all & have a good talk about things but letter writing is very unsatisfactory. Dear old mother’s birthday is passed & I was thinking of her & just picturing the morning – greetings & excitement. Hope Jess is all the better for her rest & that she had a happy time with you all. We shall have to teach Eddy to Salute went we return. (Jackson & I.) One never knows, I may want to life at home always –

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Fancy not telling you the name of my Beloved - well Sydney Jackson Chapman. I thought I had described him too – hope it wont be long before you all know him. So pleased to hear that Charlie has got his Commission. I wonder if I shall meet him out here again. Hope we meet in England. Received two Church Papers from Mr Capp to-day. Give my love to all my friends. Had a most interesting letter from Will Loughrey last week – it has travelled a bit. He is a good old sort & Charity is a lucky girl having such a good husband & able to be at home with her. Must stop now it is getting late and I must write to my beloved one, in case a mail goes to-morrow. I believe I’ve a day-off to-morrow & going on night-duty next Sunday so must get my things ready to move to other house. it is the rule now. Fondest love & kisses to you all. From your loving sister Edith

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1st A. Stat. H.
Ismailia
Aug. 4th 1916.
My dear Jane, An Australian mail closes in the morning, so shall try to write a few lines to you. We are going to England. Fifteen of us have been accepted. Four of the SIsters left here for Cairo to-day - & shall wait there for us. They had some boots, dresses etc to get, so they were

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2.
allowed to go & get them fixed up. Four other sisters arrived to take their places and one poor girl got ill & had to be warded. Has a bad throat. I should much sooner stay here until the boat time to embark but may have to go with the rest on Monday or Tuesday to Cairo & wait there. It is such a trouble

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3.
with ones luggage & then wearing different clothing. No doubt a couple of days would be ripping. Had a letter from Capt. Smedley yesterday & he is much better. Able to go out a bit & wishes I could get up there to have a spin around with him. Hope I shall be able to do so. I’m fearfully worried, no word from Jackson this week so far. It is

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4.
over a month since I got the last letter. Received one from Dorothy yesterday & she was expecting to get leave to go to France England for a week or more. Also received letters from three other Officers in different Battalions. They were all over a month old, so no doubt their letters are held up. It is lovely to get letters from my pals (men) & know they have not forgotten me.

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5.
I have not heard from poor old Fred, suppose they are having a busy time too. I’ve written to him but evidently they do not get their mails very regularly. We may not leave for England for a couple of weeks yet but never can tell in the Military. I must write to some of Mr Capp’s relations & let them know where I am when I arrive there.

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6.
Wrote to Mrs Barrie’s sister, hope to be able to visit a few places. There are so many Australians in London that I dont suppose we shall feel very strange. Some of the nicest Sisters of this Unit are going with us, so we expect to be a very happy little family. Sister Allen’s fiancée is a M.O. (Medical officer) at Harefield park, so it is just the thing for her.

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7.
Naturally we are all very excited about going. No mail from you this week, should not be surprised if we dont miss the next one. It will be ages to wait but I shall cable as soon as we arrive & write as soon as possible. I think I gave you my address in my last but in case I did not, shall repeat it:- C/o Miss Conyers R.N.C Matron-in-Chief A.A.N.S. London

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8.
I’m thinking I may want more money in England if so I shall cable. We hear all sorts of rumours about our uniform being altered. Hope shall not have to go to too much expense, want all my money, in case I think of settling down. From your letters I’m sorry to see you are not friendly with Lucy. I have not heard from her this last mail or two. Hope you are all well & happy. if I have time before I leave Egypt shall write to my friends. Fondest love & kisses to you all. From Edith.

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3rd A.C.C.S. A.G.H. France 26.4.17
My dear Jane, I do hope you will get this before your birthday. Many Happy Returns of the Day & I hope you get plenty of presents & I hope you get plenty of presents & heaps of Good-Luck & joy, also that I shall be home for your next. We are still fairly quiet & the weather is much improved, so our staff is feeling much happier. We are still in the same position & think shall remain so for some time. Things are to be very, very busy here in a few days. Hope it will be the last for our Boys. Somehow I don’t think I shall be allowed to stay here much longer, so many others want to get here & I’ve done 6 months. I shall be awfully sorry to leave here. We are getting very comfortable

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2
building huts for us and have the Electric Light in our Mess Tent. Our Ward Tents are much better arranged & the patients are very contented & happy. I’m very well & got my voice back again. had three days off & put on Wine (Port) also a Tonic, so feeling very fit. We are able to get a little time off-duty each day lately, so that is a grand thing for us. I believe Fred has got his leave at last & gone to Blighty, he will be disappointed at his wife having to remain in America, especially after waiting so long to be able to meet her. it is very hard on the married men, in fact all the men to be so long away from their homes. Fondest love & kisses to you all & heaps of luck for the next year. From, yours lovingly, Edith.

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No. 11 A.G.H. Caulfield. 31.5.21
My dear old Jane, Many Happy Returns of the Day. Hope you will have a very happy day and a Lucky year. It is very cold here & wet tonight but hope you will have a fine day, to be able to get out & enjoy the country. I went home yesterday afternoon & Mother & Alice were getting along quite nicely. They had a very quiet day Sunday. Alice has a sore throat but better to-day. I ran home for a little while this afternoon. Went to Melb. first for some black wool for Mother for mittens but Mrs Capp is making her a pair. She & Marion called in to see them Monday night – Annie Thomas was there for tea – To-day Miss Bennett was there, so they are not very lonely. Alice will be writing & telling you all their doings. She told me she had a letter from Lea this a.m. & that you were all enjoying

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yourselves & that Ted would like to stay another week. Hope you & Belle are having a good rest & feeling better for your holiday. The weather has been better than we expected, at this time of year. The old gardener was there to-day & cut back a lot of the trees near our house. Much improved. The garden looked very nice. I’m not sending my present but the usual £ 1.0.0 will be waiting for you. Hope you wont get Drunk on the strength of it. Much love & kisses to Teddy Bear. Much love to Belle & hope she is enjoying her little rest. Much love & the best of wishes for you birthday & years to come. From, Your loving sister, Edith. In haste

[Transcriber’s note: Sydney Jackson Chapman mentioned as beloved of Edith Thistlethwaite in letter dated 16 July 1916. He was a captain in the 26th Battalion and was awarded the Military Cross for conspicuous gallantry under heavy shell fire. He returned to Australia 18 July 1919]

[Transcribed by Colin Smith for the State Library of New South Wales]