31701-0145-0001

Q52 Lt. Alan E Hooper Unit A.N.G.A.U
Sunday 20/6/43

My Darling & Beloved Wife,

It seems weeks already since I departed though fortunately I've been too preoccupied to feel lonliness as I know it.

I felt so depressed having to board the train without saying a last Goodbye. Thanks to my fellow officers my gear was loaded and not left behind. Lets hope you haven't forgotten how to forgive. My cobbers rag me endlessly about the incident. I did lean half out the window to wave, but the crowds on the platform obscured the view I wanted.

Things went from bad to worse. I didn't know prisoners from escort or where to find them. Only five escaped on the abnormally long journey. I'll demand an enquiry if they C.M. me. The first night I was really ill & couldn't sleep for lack of room. A headache distressed me considerably. The fruit saved me from certain hunger. Meals were most irregular.

At present I'm on leave for the day. The palatial officers' club is reasonably convenient
from camp. Last night after settling into our tents we rode into the township. I formed a few opinions last time I saw the place but now I'm completely disgusted. The girls are
walking jewellers shops. Three of the species of "Mrs Warren's Profession" accosted us on our way to the Club. Their addresses we ground under our heels. The only promise of any fun during the night came from a party of yanks fighting (or more correctly shamming) amongst themselves.