War Diaries (May 24) (nonfiction)
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Diaries
Frank W. Springett: May 24, 1917
... Yes we did have an awful storm Sunday night. It was alright under canvas I can tell you. We were lucky to get a good tent so the water did not come in, but in some it was awful they were washed out. It did rain and no mistake, and it lasted about three hours.
I am sorry to say I shan’t be home for Whitsun. What a shame, and I was looking to go home ever so much. Still I suppose I shall get a leave before I go across the pond. I am afraid I shall be wanted across there, even if the fighting finishes soon. It will be a long job I am afraid.
It is a grand day here today. We are still very busy with bayonet fighting and gas helmets and plenty of Company Drill. I am used to canvas life now, but it is not so nice as billets. We have to parade at 6.30 in the morning. The grub we get is a trifle better now, but of course I have to spend all my money I get on cleaning stuff and food. We are having some sports for Whitsun so perhaps it won’t be so bad a holiday. I don’t think I have any more to say this time so I will close ...
—6649 Pte F.W. Springett, D Company 1ST Platoon. 22nd Training Reserve, St. Albans, Herts (letter to his brother Sid)