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Letter sent to Mr. Thompson, Chillingham Barns, Chatton Hall

To the Householder — 1939

I have received official notice to prepare for the reception of more evacuees. Although I am instructed to use compulsory powers, I much prefer to rely upon voluntary offers and I shall be glad to know how many evacuees you are willing to welcome and their sex so that if possible, I may comply with your wishes.

If the requisite number of voluntary offers are not forthcoming, compulsory powers will be used and all householders must receive one child for each room above the number allotted to householders, that is one room for each person. For example a family of three in a four roomed house will receive one child. The only exception recognised are householders over 70 years of age and those producing a doctor’s certificate of exemption.

As the evacuees may arrive at any moment an immediate reply should be sent.

I am

Yours faithfully
Ben J Kenworthy
Billeting Officer.

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