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Don comments on a couple of events that were crucial in shaping the post war world — the Labour victory in the British General Election of 1945 and the ending of the war in Japan by the use of the atomic bomb. Nevertheless, fishing is still important in Austria!

Thursday 26th July

Election results declared. First news came in by Aldred. Labour 44, Conservative 14 at 11.30. By teatime Labour 352 Conservative 176. Absolutely staggering but very gratifying in that the British public have thought for once. Many Conservative cabinet ministers out.

Friday 27th July
Very hot again. Election results nearly final. Labour 386 Conservative 195! Very satisfactory. Atlee now PM. Went fishing up to Einöde this evening with my new rod but had no success with the new flies or grasshopper. Back to mess at 22.00 for a few drinks.

Thursday 9th August
Heavy rain. Work going well on duplicated maps but as usual horribly messy. Went for a long walk this evening nearly to Winklem. River very high and sweeping the lower branches. Returned to the mess for a drink. Russia has declared war on Japan today. Much news of the atomic bomb now being dropped on Japan.

Saturday 11th August
Maps continuing. Fishing this evening with John to Einöde again with waders and landing net prepared by Harold. I got a beauty about 11 inches long and three others. Sensational news today of Japan’s desire to finish the war. Condition that the Emperor be retained unlikely to help terms. What marvellous news for people with relatives in Japanese hands.

Friday 17th August
War in Japan finally finished today. Great rejoicing. Two atom bombs certainly worked wonders and must have saved millions of lives. We have kept a constant listening watch on the radio.

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