大象传媒

Susan Burness V.A.D, I.M.S.

England to India. 1945.

11th. February 1920. -- Born in Tullamore, County Offley, Republic of Ireland. ( Nee. Browne )
27th. October 1943.-- Married John Alan Burness at Ealing, London.

(Story as written from my mother's day to day Diary.)

May 14th. (1945)
Five days ago, I received my marching orders! Five days have been spent feverishly packing, unpacking and then re-packing, until at long last all my goods and chattels had found a home.

A.T.S. Transit Camp, London.
I arrived here at 4 p.m. this afternoon. Forthwith, I was issued with a mug and cutlery and went down to Tea! This is worthy of note, since it acted rather like a plunge into the Serpentine on Christmas morning. It- simply yelled at one 鈥榊ou鈥檙e in the Army now!鈥� We messed ( quite literally ) with the 鈥極ther Ranks鈥� without plates on which to place the crumbs of bread. It was Army Tea - enough said.
Shortly afterwards, I was issued with bedding, which I learnt rapidly that I had to drag up six floors ( 92 steps to be exact ) to my room. The latter proved to be quite nice and quite compact including wash basin. 鈥楶ip鈥� Davis (from Australia) shared the room with me. She is rather nice, the 鈥榙on鈥檛 give a damn type鈥� and would 鈥榤ake two鈥� of me. I seemed to become attached to Felicity mostly, and we went out together that night. Her father came from Tipperary (Ireland), so I guess that seals the knot. My bed is hard, very hard, but I鈥檒l sleep no doubt! If I can鈥檛, I shall count A.T.S. - there are enough of 鈥榚m here. - And so to bed.

May 15th.
Yesterday was hectic! We spent the morning at the India Office receiving respirators, tin hats, water bottles, identity papers etc.; Thence to British Red Cross Society HQ. to see Mrs. Young (our C-in-C. Transit). After returning to Depot to deposit our new accessories and having climbed the 97 step to our rooms, we decided on lunch - but not as supplied in Depot.
The afternoon grew more and more warm, until we almost fainted from fatigue in the attempt at finishing our vitae shopping. Tea had to be omitted despite our desperate need as 鈥楶arade鈥� was held at 5.30. 鈥楽pit and Polish鈥� was the order of the day since Dame Beryl Oliver arrived to inspect and address us. We were subsequently presented with a load of 鈥榗omforts鈥�. It was 7.30 when the ceremony came to an end, we had been standing in Rank for two hours. After which, in order to deposit our 鈥榗omforts鈥� we had to climb those wretched stairs again.
Later, I went to Ealing (home) for a couple of hours and arrived back for more than fit for bed at 10.30. I don鈥檛 think I have ever been so tired in my life. We rise at 6.30 am. which is really such a pleasure as the beds are so hard; We ache in every muscle.

May 16th.
Today has been more pleasant since our time was our own, apart from 鈥榩arades鈥�. In the morning, we shopped. Two o鈥檆lock 鈥榩arade鈥� was excused, so Felicity and I went to see the Variety Show at the Victoria Palace. It was good in parts only. Six O鈥檆lock 鈥榩arade鈥� was a bit tiresome, but we survived it .
Tonight, Felicity and I, after many unsuccessful attempts at finding some grub, ended up at the Nuffield Club where we suppered. We also danced there and made the acquaintance of a Sergeant of the Intelligence Corps, who hailed from Berlin. He was a Jew or perhaps just a political enemy of the Nazi Party but thro鈥� friends in the British Embassy, had found his way to England. His family were taken to a concentration camp (such as Belsen) where they had all died. He was well educated and extremely interesting. At the moment, he is writing a book on his experiences - Also, he has traveled most of the Globe, so perhaps his name, Peter Benedix, is worthy of note.

May 17th.
Today, has been very amusing and exciting. This morning we shopped a little and then decided to 鈥榗harge鈥� Broadcasting house, where we were successful in obtaining passes to see ITMA. We enjoyed the show immensely and afterwards went on the stage and were thrilled to not only speak to Tommy Handly, but also get an autographed photo. We also spoke to Jack Train and Charlie Shadwell.
At H.Q. in the afternoon, a party was given in our honour by the selection committee. Those present included Lady Limerick, Dame Beryl Oliver, Mrs Prentice and Major General Bradley. It was very interesting, but oh! so very prim and proper.

Friday May 18th.
Another day has passed and we are so disappointed as our advance luggage has not gone yet. Bad, very bad as living in London is so expensive. Felicity and I saw the Emlyn Williams show that night and enjoyed it. Otherwise, life was not very interesting.

Saturday May 19th.
At first, this looked as if it was going to be another day of uncertainty, but during the morning the 鈥楤uzz鈥� got round that we were to move off tonight. At 2 p.m. 鈥楽ecurity Silence鈥� was imposed and we were confined indoors. During the afternoon, we packed up and prepared for our night journey by having forty winks. After a substantial meal and collecting a very generous food pack, we assembled in the main hall with bag and baggage. Two covered wagons arrived to collect us at 10 p.m. and we waved farewell to our A.T.S. hostesses. St. Pancras was very drab and cold at 11 p.m., when we boarded the troop train. Everyone was in high spirits and not a little excited. After much back chat, we settled down for the night as best we could.

Sunday May 20th.
A night of fitful snoozing passed quite quickly and we found ourselves nearing Liverpool as dawn broke. We applied our war paint and struggled with our equipment and finally alighted from the train shortly after 7 a.m.
We were taken the fairly short distance to the docks by special buses. We felt deeply for our heavily laden brothers 鈥榯he tommies鈥� as they marched along. Then suddenly, we saw our ship. The big moment had come. She is the 鈥楺ueen of Bermuda鈥� but of course devoid of her peacetime glamour.
We boarded her after much signing of papers and handing in of cameras and were conducted to our cabins. We are four in a cabin and mine consists of Miss Bostock (our consul member), Ray Aitken, Cecie Aitcheson and myself. It grieves me that Felicity can not be with us , but nevertheless I am very happy. The rest of the day was boring-- frightfully boring! We sat in the Officer鈥檚 Smoke room and wrote letters and talked, mostly. Personnel were coming aboard all day and we looked in danger of being overcrowded. Everyone retired to bed early.

Monday May 21st.
Seven thirty did not seem to early to arise this morning. We breakfasted at 7.45. and after tidying our cabins, we met in the Children鈥檚 & Women鈥檚 room for general orders etc. Then boat drill, which took most of the morning. Lunch, first sitting is at noon and dinner at 6 p.m. We are awfully well fed. The reserved shy atmosphere prevailed all day but on the whole it was more enjoyable. We retired at 11 p.m.

Tuesday May 22nd.
To-day, we moved down the Mersey a bit to await the rest of the convoy. An Aircraft Carrier passed us , much to my joy - No idea what she was! (At this date, Alan, her husband was on board the Carrier 鈥業mplacable鈥� as a pilot with 828 Squadron, which was on active duty in the Pacific.)
Tonight, the 鈥榓ir鈥� which prevailed was suddenly broken by the sole effort of an R.A.F. Officer, who played popular tunes on the Smoke Room piano and so, a sing-a-long began. Felicity, Ray, Cecil and I played Monopoly with some R.E. Officers.
And so to bed

Wednesday May 23rd.
We moved into our place in the convoy and also moved further out to sea. In the afternoon, we basked in the sunshine on the sun deck. We had our first cinema show tonight, the programme was
鈥� The Fleets鈥� In.鈥� starring Dorothy Lamour. After the show, everyone played Tombola at which I won
拢2. 7s. 6d.! - We are sailing tonight, YIPPEE.

Thursday May 24th.
Boat Drill as usual this morning, but although the sea was beautifully calm, it was bitterly cold.
In the afternoon, I succumbed to gastro-enteritis which has been playing havoc with our girls. I was seen by the S.M.O. and was put on a concentrated dose of Sulphaquaindine. In all, I had 50 tablets in 24 hrs.
Being confined to bed was no great hardship under the circumstances, I had plenty of sleep.

Friday May 25th.
Doc. arrived at the fantastic hour of 8.15 am. to see me and I was pleased to report that my complaint was mending rapidly. My one desire was to get some air and I eventually persuaded him to allow me up in the afternoon.
It was such a relief to get on deck just before tea. I felt somewhat dizzy at first, but that soon wore off. Later in the evening, we played cards and followed the up with play-reading. Despite my intentions it was 11pm. before I hit the hay.

Saturday May 26th.
The morning passed quickly and apart from a letter or two, there was nothing to show for it. We spent the afternoon lying on the sun deck, but there was little sun! However it was pleasantly warm. Cecil and I were invited to a cocktail party given by the MO. We enjoyed ourselves a lot and met the Chief Officer who gave us a lot of 鈥済en.鈥� This was followed by a 鈥榝lick鈥� called 鈥淭he Glass Key鈥� starring Veronica Lake, which everyone agreed was a pretty poor show. A dance was in progress when we arrived back in the smoke room and we joined in until 2300 hrs. Followed by a breath of cool air on the deck , rounded off the day and we retired at 2310.

Sunday May 27th.
This promised to be a glorious day right from the start. Our cabin became a hive of industry in the morning as there was no Ship鈥檚 inspection. Felicity and I had gone to Communion at 7.30 and immediately after Breakfast, we went along to the Barber鈥檚 Shop to have our hair washed. The shop was really a surprise, very modern, spic and span. We then did our washing - only stockings etc. as we have a laundry run by R.A.O.C. Unit on board. Needless to say this is a boon.
The afternoon was spent lazing in the sun on deck. The Sea was a beautiful blue and the sky almost cloudless. A welcome swell caused an occasional splash of spray to sweep over the deck. I got quite a nice spot of sunburn on my arms. During the afternoon, we watched one ship sail away with two escorts bound for the 鈥楥ape鈥�. I must say I felt envious of them.
The evening was spent in the Smoke Room chatting. Community Hymn Singing was conducted on the 鈥楽un Deck Aft鈥�. This was followed by a talk on 鈥楪ibraltar鈥� given over the Tannoy. There was the most heavenly moon and starry sky over calm waters as we paced the deck before turning in.

Monday May 28th.
We hopped out of bed this morning at 6 am. and went on deck to see 鈥楪ib鈥� as we passed. We sailed nearer the African coast than the 鈥楻ock鈥�. The latter was about five miles off the port side and was not as impressive as we expected. Low clouds hung over the coast line as dawn broke. Two lights flickered on and off as we came nearer and eventually signals were exchanged between shore and convoy. The convoy split up. Our escorts and four ships sailed into the harbour. Two others headed off for Italy and we sailed off on our journey, gradually pulling away from the remnants of the convoy. From now on it is 鈥榚veryone鈥� for themselves.
The North African coast was a beautiful sight. A pale full moon hung over the hills and a wisp of cloud crossed the highest peak. The white dwellings stood out neatly on the hills and Suda Bay looked delightfully peaceful tucked away in the valley beneath. Dawn was slowly breaking and we gradually realised that this magnificence was real and not a painting. We slipped away from the coastline and once more were surrounded by sea;- The blue 鈥楳ed鈥� at last, and as we went we saw a school of fish on the starboard side. Could they be Sharks!! Nobody seemed to know. ( Porpoise). We saw quite a bit of the North African coast during the day. It was quite clear too.
The Woman鈥檚 Services invited the 鈥極ther鈥� ranks to a dance in the evening. This was held in the Cinema and the temperature was well over a hundred degrees. There were at least twenty men to each girl, the floor was very overcrowded and we danced for three hours before a break. However, we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

Tuesday May 29th.
It was very warm to-day, and we blossomed forth in civilian clothes. In the afternoon, 鈥楬orse Racing鈥� was held on the Sun Deck and Cecil and I won four races out of six. We were 7 shillings in pocket. After that, I had my first 鈥楿rdu鈥� lesson and I think I shall know a few words before I reach India. We passed Cape Bon this afternoon, but apart from the history element it attracted little attention. Tonight, we went to see the film 鈥� Sun Valley Serenade鈥� starring Sonia Heine. It was most refreshing.

Wednesday May 30th.
The greater part of the morning was spent learning Urdu, and writing letters. We also got cable forms to fill up. Just about lunch time, we passed Malta. The island was some distance away and weather conditions were anything but kind. I was most disappointed about this. We caught glimpses of the N. African coast during the evening.

Thursday May 31st.
As we passed the various points of interest, e.g. Derna. The ex. Dessert Rats took great pride in pointing them out to us. the coastline was quite clear. There was bags of sunshine in the afternoon and I had a little more tan as a result. The premiere of the 鈥淏ermuda Follies鈥� was shown to the troops this afternoon and it seems to be going down well!

Friday June 1st.
Right from the start, it was a glorious day. At 11am., Ray, Cecil, Felicity and myself were taken to the Chief Engineer鈥檚 cabin, where we had coffee and biscuits. We were then taken on a tour of the ship. We had all enjoyed this immensely, despite the heat. it was most interesting seeing the machinery which gave us fresh water in the cabins etc. The Chief then gave us cocktails and so we 鈥榬olled鈥� into lunch.
The afternoon consisted of sunbathing, Urdu and P.T. The excitement soared and so did the various 鈥榖uzzes鈥� as we neared Port Said. Everyone asked the same questions i.e. 鈥楬ow long would we stay and will we get ashore !鈥� I was extremely lucky in meeting a Lieutenant Wier who had been two years in the Middle East. He had field glasses which he kindly let me monopolise, as she pointed out the parts of interest as we came into port. The sun was sinking fast, in fact it there one minute and had disappeared beyond the horizon, the next.
The P.S. lighthouse was just beginning to function and all the lights of the town gradually sprang into being as we docked at 8.30 pm. Needless to say, the first soldiers we saw were Yanks! The natives lined the shore and whistled and cheered us. Night life was just beginning. Dancing was in full swing at the Casino and other town clubs. We passed along by the British and U.S. HQ鈥檚 and all and sundry turned out to see us. First of all, the Egyptian Police boat came along side and one or two officials came aboard. A water barge replaced our fresh water supply and some supplies were taken on. The M.O., some of the crew, and some Army Officials went ashore, but we had to be content with just looking on. The neon lighting was a novelty even if it did advertise the things that we could not have. Community singing by us kept the air alive and some natives came alongside to sell odds and ends to the lower deck troops.
With many regrets, we went to bed knowing that unless we arose at the crack of dawn, we should not see Port Said for many months. -- Happy thoughts!

Saturday June 2nd.
I was on deck at 07:15 hrs. this morning and saw the Suez Canal for the first time. At first, I was disappointed but as the day progressed, so we passed many points of interest and some of the scenery was captivating. It seems that the vegetation is at it鈥檚 best, just now. At Ferry Point, particularly the shrubs were a glorious blaze of colour. There is a British Garrison here and some Officers and men had been stationed there. Noel Weir being one of those , took great pride in pointing out all places of interest during the day. The garrison gave us a rousing cheer but they, like every other Soldier, sailor or Airman we passed, insisted on telling us that we were 鈥榞oing in the wrong direction鈥� which was becoming monotonous. The native villages were most interesting and I enjoyed a close-up through Noel鈥檚 glasses. We saw many camels, bison and the usual domestic animals, but I don鈥檛 think that I have ever seen anything like the cows they were just skin and bone.
All day we passed 鈥榝ellukas鈥� - native boats with towering sails. The large ones, usually containing huge rocks were drawn by three or so natives. I can鈥檛 think how they managed to tow such loads in the heat. The general impression given by natives was of very low mentality. We passed No.1 General Hospital during the morning. It was a little distance inshore, but with the glasses one could even see patients basking in the sun. Two sisters were swimming in the Canal as we passed - very pretty and tanned they looked too!
In the afternoon, we passed on to Ismalia through the lakes in the direction of Suez. In one lake, we saw two Italian warships which were permanently anchored there. There was a large airdrome inshore and we saw a Sunderland flying boat anchor off its base. Many of the houses were of French design and at the entrance to the big lake , there was a very inviting French swimming club. We saw lots of war craft mostly small types. i.e. L.C.T鈥檚 etc. moored around the lake.
It was terrifically warm, in the afternoon - but that is only a taste of things to come! At 6 p.m., we passed through Suez and what little I saw of it was not very exciting - I was due at the first sitting for dinner and when we went on deck afterwards, we were nearing our anchorage a mile or so out side Suez. Numerous officials came aboard, including two wren officers, all on duty and all with much fuss and confusion since locals were handling their craft. It really was funny to watch, The locals fought over positions alongside and their was much gabble and tooting of horns. They also squabbled over cigarettes and coins thrown over by the troops.
We did not come on deck again until about 10pm. and we attended the 鈥楤ermuda Follies鈥� which was very good indeed considering it was entirely amateur. It was a heavenly night marred only by the smell of Diesel Oil etc. which we were taking on. The sky was a mass of stars and Suez just a huge cluster of little lights on the starboard side. And so tomorrow, we move East from Suez and really feel far from home. We enter the Red Sea and really feel hot.

Sunday June 3rd.
As usual Sunday morning was devoted to hair washing etc. It was very hot in our cabins, which was useful for drying purposes only. The afternoon was spent basking on the sun deck. The sun was unbearable and everyone clamored for shade. I was annoyed at missing the Symphony Concert in the cinema as 鈥楳oonlight Sonata鈥� 鈥楧ance of the hours鈥� and other popular records were played. In the evening, we all went to see 鈥楾he sensation of 1945鈥� which was quite enjoyable. A stroll on deck rounds off the day.

Monday June 4th.
Today, we had our own first taste of heat, it far exceeded anything I had ever imagined. The terrific heat is accompanied by a clammy atmosphere and one just streams perspiration all the while. All attempts at keeping 鈥榤ake up鈥� on were abandoned and one spent one鈥檚 time mopping off. Our clothes were changed dozens of times per day and moisture could be wrung from them. This is supposed to be the worst time of the year in the Red Sea - and I can believe it! P.T. had to be abandoned and all my efforts at learning Urdu failed. We had a lecture on tropical medicine on the Sun Deck at 2 p.m., which was more of a Turkish bath than anything else. One VAD. named Squires is seriously ill with heat exhaustion as a result.
Cecil, Felicity and I went over to the galleys afterwards and saw the Fridge rooms. they were gloriously cool, but I think we felt worse when we came up again. In the evening, I was invited to the Chief Officer鈥檚 cocktail party, which I enjoyed. The rest of the evening was spent cooling off on deck.

Tuesday June 5th.
I slept between two towels last night and the perspiration rolled off. I had very little sleep. This morning, we had a lecture on 鈥� Pay in India鈥� and I got numerous forms to fill in.
The lecture on Tropical Diseases this afternoon lasted for an hour and a half, but was held on the port side and was definitely cooler. The temperature in the dining room was 129 F. tonight. Perhaps, it was the chef鈥檚 idea of a white Xmas, because Turkey and plum pudding were served.

Wednesday June 6th.
Today, we passed Aden and the air was just as hot and clammy. I tried to learn Urdu in the morning, but my brain just would not respond. Met the Second Engineer, who gave me a huge Jaffa orange straight from the fridge! So Cool!
In the afternoon, Cecil, Felicity and I had tea with the Chief Engineer- Mr. Mallory - delicious cakes!! I took a turn of duty this evening, i.e. nursing Squire. I had to blanket bath her and as she was on an upper bunk, it was extremely difficult. The cabin temp. was 96 degrees and with working, the perspiration rolled off me to such an extent that Cecil had to constantly mop my face.
After this duty, I was invited to the Chief Officer鈥檚 cabin for supper. We had cold Turkey and Ham with salad, straight from the ice box. I thoroughly enjoyed the evening.

Thursday June 7th.
Black-out restrictions are once again in force and so the heat of our cabin increased last night, consequently had little sleep. Had tea and cocktails with the Chief Officer. Heard that we had been in contact with a submarine and so will not reach India until Sunday.
Entire party sat on deck in the evening drinking lemonade and watching the flying fish. Felicity and I spent an awful hour in the Baggage Room packing today. Also we had T.T. inoculations.

Friday June 8th.
Nothing interesting happened today. In the afternoon, we had deck races - The Bermuda Stakes. I backed two winners and was jockey for Captain Crutchley in two races, Won one which brought him in 拢4.12s.6p. Had tea on deck with Capt. Mudd.
Cocktails in the Chief鈥檚 cabin with Bill (F.A.N.Y.S) and David (Lt. RNVR). After dinner the party moved up to the boat deck, where we spent a gloriously cool evening.

Saturday June 9th.
Slept much better last night. There are numerous rumours floating around, about when we shall arrive in Bombay. Had iced coffee with Chief in the morning. Lazed on deck until tea time , - had tea with Chief and also, Cocktails before dinner. This evening was spent with Cecil, David and Felicity on deck. Didn鈥檛 enjoy it really as it may be our last night on board and nobody seemed to feel the party spirit except me.

Sunday June 10th
At 9.30 this morning we sailed into Bombay. I stood on the deck and had a wonderful view. Mike (Maj. Graham), who has been in India for nine years, was with me and pointed out the Gateway of India (which looks a little like Marble Arch) and also the Taj Hotel, which looked splendid.
There were plenty of ships in the harbour including the yacht in which Barbara Hutton sold to the navy for 1 Dollar. We eventually docked at 10 am. with much fuss and bother as usual. Numerous Officials came aboard and our sick were taken off by ambulance. The rest of the morning, was spent in exchanging money, filling up forms and hanging over the deck rail. To me India looks quite interesting and I am sure its people will never cease to fascinate me.
Although we are not disembarking until tomorrow, we are not being allowed ashore. Some of the men are going today. All drafts had mail except the VAD,s and are we choked. I had tea with Chief and later cocktails, where I met one of Bombay鈥檚 richest Shipping Merchants who always comes to see the Chief and the Captain. he wore the two most magnificent rings I have ever seen. As we heard today that we were going straight to Poona tomorrow, I asked his views on it and I hope he is right.
The Chief gave a party in the evening and at it I met Lt. Cdr. Taylor (Tiny!), who is from the shore establishment and he came aboard as the ship docked. At one am., there was a tea party on the Sun Deck cabins and finally got to bed at 1.30 am.

Monday June 11th.
Reveille for the troops sounded at 2.30 am., so we had one hour鈥檚 sleep. We arose at 5 am. and got our last packing done . Breakfasted at 7 am. and prepared to disembark at 8.30 am. I never felt so much like weeping for many moons. We said farewell to all our friends and marched ashore at last. Two Hospital trains were pulled into the dock siding waiting to take the Q.A.鈥檚 and VAD鈥檚 off to Poona.
While we were waiting for it to leave at 10.30 am., We went to a nearby Cafe, and had drinks and weighed ourselves, I found I had nearly lost a stone! Lots of our friends disembarked soon afterwards and they came to wave us off.

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INDIA

Monday June 11th.
The train left Bombay at 10.30 am, and was most comfortable. We each had an upholstered bunk with plenty of pillows, which we did appreciate after so little sleep last night. Tea was served by the Medical Orderlies on board and we had baskets of pineapples and bananas sent us by the S.J.A.B. (Bombay) which thrilled us no end.
The journey was very interesting and we sat gazing at the parched native countryside, but as the train climbed it鈥檚 way up into the hills, there was plenty of vegetation and some pretty flowering shrubs.
Somewhat exhausted, we arrived at Poona at 5 pm. feeling hot and sticky. Trucks were waiting and took us to 126 I.B.G.H. This we found to resemble a scattered army camp consisting of stone dormitory-like houses. Each housed about 30 people. We shared B.16 with Q.A.鈥檚, which complicated matters a bit at times. We had tea , which was more than welcome at 6 pm., after which we found our luggage and had bearers take it to our respective beds. There is absolutely no wardrobe or drawer space left for V.A.D.鈥檚, so we are forced to live in suitcases a while longer.
After dinner, at about 8.30, we prepared to lay our weary bones to rest. There were all sorts of animal life crawling about, but we eventually fell into peaceful sleep feeling comparatively safe under our mossie nets.

Tuesday June 12th.
This morning brought news of weird happenings in the dead of night. Bostock found a black hand under her pillow and her clock is missing. We had a welcome speech from the Brigadier I/C Hosp. followed by a health talk given by the S.M.O. in the morning.
Still feeling a bit fed up with life, Ray, Cecil, Felicity and myself went to Poona on a shopping expedition. We bought white sandals with bag to match and an evening frock. In the evening, a party of us went to the dance given by the Hosp. Military Police and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We retired to bed shortly after midnight.

Wednesday June 13th.
Had a security talk this morning. Miss Corsair, our Liaison Officer, arrived this evening and we had our first mail. It brought me nine letters, which have changed my outlook on life very considerably.
In the evening, we went to a dance at one of the clubs in Poona. The Officers of the Company had organized it for the men just back from Burma. We enjoyed ourselves.

Thursday June 14th.
Today, we had T.A.B. all over again. It had no effect on me this time either, but several of our girls are not feeling so good. We had individual interviews with Miss Corsair. She seemed quite pleased with my passed history. It seems highly probable that Felicity and I will be posted together.
This evening , we went to the Sgt.鈥檚 Mess (Sappers and Miners, Kirkee) and had quite an enjoyable time.

Friday June 15th.
Went on duty in M.I. Room. We had volunteered for duty and were seen by matron this morning. As usual, I struck lucky in getting a soft job. Horsby is my opposite number and we do not go on duty until 8.45am. (Those on ward duty go on at 8 am.)
There is very little to do in the M.I. Room, but we set about spring-cleaning it. The general organisation is hopeless. There is a L/Cpl. in charge, an ex-prisoner (Italian)and an Indian sweeper together with the M.O. (Lt. Leis) which comprises of the staff. We do a sort out of the patients department, our patients being either General Staff or the locals, employed in the hospital. It is very often very difficult to diagnose the ailments of the latter owing to the language difficulties.
This evening, I was supposed to go to a party at the Sussex Regt. Sgt.鈥檚 mess but just as we were about to leave, Jumbo (Maj. Hall) and Ian (Capt. Robertson) arrived up from Kalyon. Felicity and I were most surprised, but it was good to see a friendly face from the ship again. We all went out to dinner at Nanking Restaurant.

Saturday June 16th.
We were all vaccinated once more this morning. Jumbo fetched me after lunch and we went to the Races. -- The Kirkee Stakes held at Poona -- and we had a very successful afternoon.
In the evening, we had Dinner at the Poona Hotel and then went across to the Poona Club to dance. We met Pip, Felicity, Ron and many others from the ship and a happy time was had by all.

Sunday June 17th.
The morning brought quite a few patients into our Dept. and I was kept quite busy.
Had another half day to-day, and went with Jumbo to the Lady Colville Club for woman of the services, where we lazed in the lap of luxury all afternoon and ended with tea. Ian and co. joined us later. In the evening , we all went to the Poona club.
Felicity and I learned to-day that we are being posted to Entally together... Bags of Joy all round.
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Sunday June 24th.
It has been a week since I last scrawled herein, and that week seems to have passed swiftly. As far as work was concerned, I seem to have done little and what I did manage was done in the mornings!
By way of a change, I have not been dancing lately. Life has mainly consisted of dinner parties and one night I went to see Greer Garson in 鈥� Mrs Parkington 鈥� at one of the local cinemas. The Governor of Bombay attended the performance and there was bags of trumpet tooting and saluting.
Yesterday evening, Ana invited me to a dinner party at the E.W.I. given by General Iverliss. All his high staff officials were present. One Major was Irish, so I didn鈥檛 feel too lost. I quite enjoyed the evening.
To-day Maj. Graham, who taught me Urdu on board the ship, came to see me. He is stationed about 15 miles from Poona. We had dinner at the Turf Club this evening, which was most enjoyable. And so another week has ended.

Sunday July 1st.
This week was quite interesting, so I鈥檒l relate at length.
Monday -- More inoculations and vaccination. Had the day off in view of our posting on Wednesday. We shopped mainly for food for our trip. Did a spot of charpoy bashing in the afternoon. Felicity and I went to the farewell party in our honour at the O.T. Centre.
Tuesday -- In the morning, I finished making my S. bag at the O.T. Centre -- did most of Felicity鈥檚 too! In the afternoon, we all prepared for the ball at Government House.
The edge was taken off our excitement by the arrival of two Army lorries to fetch us. No coach and magic wand for Cinderella!! On arrival, we put the finishing touches to our hair and faces, and went downstairs to the magnificent ballroom complete with chandeliers and panel mirrors. From the ballroom thro鈥� magnificent doors bearing the coat of arms, one passed onto a terrace where lots of tables and chairs were arranged and one could sit overlooking the moonlit gardens.
Just before his Excellency arrived, we formed up on the left of the doors leading to the terrace and the Officers of the Sussex, Glos., S.W.Border and Sig. Regt鈥檚 formed up on the right. When His Ex. entered and the King was played, we were formally presented. It was a most enjoyable evening, but midnight soon arrived. Afterwards, some of the officers invited us to a party at their Mess and off we went by Jeep. Eventually, we arrived home at 2.30 am. as we had to finish our packing and be at breakfast at 5pm. We decided it was not worth going to bed.
Wednesday -- We left 126 I.B.G.H. at 6am. and arrived bag and baggage at Poona station, 15 minutes later. We eventually boarded the 鈥楤ombay Mail鈥� which took us as far as Kalyan, where we changed on to the Forces Special to Calcutta. Needless to say we were very sleepy, but as we (Felicity and I) shared a four bunk compartment with two QA鈥檚 (also going to Calcutta) and two Lt. Cols. as far as the Dulallah homeward bound transit camp. It was in the afternoon when they left us, that we had our first nap. As a matter of fact, we slept most of the next two days, apart from wayside stops where we had meals laid on for the entire mass of officers. We saw some very colourful birds on the journey and also saw some coconuts growing.
Friday -- We should have awakened to find ourselves in Calcutta this morning, but in fact we were some 150 miles away owing to an engine being derailed on the line ahead of us, so we had to make a detour.
At 4 pm. we arrived at Hourah Station, Calcutta. It was just as filthy as any other station with Natives strewn all over the place. We had to sit on our luggage in their midst for one solid hour before the ambulance arrived to convey us to the Hospital.

Calcutta (05/ 07 1945)
16th. July 1945

My first impressions of Calcutta were rather mixed. Besides having to pass through some of the worst areas, the inside of an Ambulance is not the best place from which to view any city.
The Hospital (Entally) was a pleasant surprise to us. We drove in through the bold iron gates on either side of which extended high stone walls which encompass the entire Hospital. We were taken past the main hospital buildings, looked very imposing and consisted of white Stone buildings with green shutters, rather on French lines which is not surprising since it was originally a convent.
Finally, we arrived at our Mess. This indeed is very pleasant.

It is a two storey building with upper balcony and my room is over the dining room. The floors are highly polished stone. Matron takes a keen interest in the garden and just now with the rain, it is at it鈥檚 best. The lawns are beautifully green and with the roses in bloom, hollyhocks and gladioli, in fact apart from a few tropical palm trees mixed in with other trees, and of course the everlasting heat, one could easily imagine it was England. The same noisy rooks, chattering sparrows, planes overhead and the railway nearby.
What I most like doing is sitting in the cool of the evening (after a most satisfying dinner) on the Verhanda watching the fireflies, flit too & fro in the dark like lighted matches, while the crickets sing and the little lizards dart around catching flies.

Monday July 17th.
Time has passed fairly quickly since our arrival. Staff changes daily as most people either seem to be due for repat. or their husbands are. Yes, I admit I am most envious.
At first, I was placed on the B.O.R. ward and were the boys pleased to see someone just out from Blighty. Needless to say, I got a terrific ragging about getting my knees brown etc. They were a grand lot really but having discovered all there is to know about Dysentery and Malaria, I now find myself on an Indian Surgical ward.
This in itself is an experience. It is very amusing at times when I try my Urdu on the patients and they their little knowledge of English on me -- Usually they win. They are not really objectionable to nurse but they are very childish, with no desire to help their own recovery and take a great delight in asking for medicine and kicking up such a row if they don鈥檛 get it. If one patient gets an injection, the rest of the ward yell for one also.

Monday 24th July
During the past week, I succumbed to bed with Dengue and remained there, nursed by my bearer for almost a week. However, I have now recovered and am doing 鈥楬ome Sister鈥� duty. This is a thankless job and one which lasts from 7.30 to 9 pm, whether you are on or off , somebody manages to find a job for you. It is however a good means by which to acquire Urdu, since its the only to cope with bearers and sweepers. Actually, the whole thing is very wearing, but I am interested in the housekeeping side- A big factor is that nobody interferes!!

Monday 31st July
I was but a few days 鈥楬ome Sister鈥� before I found myself back in bed again. Undiagnosed and running a temperature of 104.8 F., I was sent off to 21st. B.G.H., where I now repose in the Officer鈥檚 medical ward. I must admit I felt at death鈥檚 door for a few days, but that is wearing off now.
The general opinion seems to be that I鈥檝e got Typhoid and so I鈥檓 isolated! Actually the folks are very kind , but the general standard of nursing isn鈥檛 very good.

Monday 7th August
Once again, I am back in the general ward, which is somewhat less boring. Have had lots of visitors, including Francis, which was a grand surprise. She is in Calcutta for a few days and very kindly finds time to visit me each day.
Francis knows a patient in the next ward, a very nice Irish girl, Moira Gorman, who comes along to see me too. My temperature still persists and nobody seems to know what is the matter , which is typical of the Army.

Monday 14th August
Moira and I having become firm friends, finally waved good-bye to Harrington street and travelled up to Lebong, a week ago. We arrived on V.J. night and although very tired, we unpacked our evening dresses and joined in the celebrations at the Convalescent Depot. These were rather hectic, especially for Moira and I , as we were the only two girls under 30 - there were two others over 40 - and at least 80 Officers!
To revert back awhile, I must make a note of the journey up here, though I鈥檓 sure it will always remain a beautiful memory. We travelled overnight from Calcutta to Siligouri, which being trans. Bengal, meant we did not miss much in scenery.
Siligouri, being at the foot of 鈥榯he hills鈥�, we changed into the tiny train which was to transport us somewhat miraculously, if not hair-raising, to Guam. 6500 ft. higher. This little train carried along a little track, which ran along the mountainside on a ledge, as it were, with only a foot or two between us and the ever increasing depths below, We passed the most beautiful gorges and waterfalls one could imagine, climbing up and up above the clouds until we felt sure we could not possibly climb further but we went on and on.
Quite speechless from the magnificence of the scenery, we reached Guam in the afternoon. This is the highest railway station in the world and quite fascinating. From here, we climbed down 500 ft. to Darjeeling by the same little train arriving at about 4pm.
We were met by the C.O. and Mrs Harley (whom we later discovered to be our hostess) and taken by ambulance down to Lehong.
Lehong is a charming little spot consisting only of the convalescent Depot, the I.B.G.H., a race course and a village - if one could call it such, consists of half a dozen of bazaar type houses. The Convalescent Depot is nothing like what I imagined - a thousand times better in fact. It consists of a number of bungalows scattered on the hillside and about 10 officers share each. Some of these are quite a distance from the Mess, which is a communal bungalow in a fairly central position. One bungalow is set aside for the female element and in this Moira and I share a room. the Mess consists of a large dining room, table tennis room, bar and two lounges. There is an excellent radiogram and piano. A small room is set aside for the bridge fiends.
Log fires are the order of the day, both in our rooms and Mess, and it is such a joy to get away into the cool atmosphere after Calcutta.

Monday 21st August
My first week of convalescence at Lehong has passed very quickly indeed. The main feature of the seven days being the continued V.J. celebrations. Although one is normally compelled to take things very quietly here for the first two weeks. The C.O. did permit Moira and I to join the parties at the Planters club and the Gymkana club. As far as I was concerned, this was in order, but I regret to say , it resulted in my having to insist on putting Moira into bed and calling the M.O. along to see her. She was removed to the Darjeeling nursing home and after 24 hours she became very ill indeed.
The climate up here, despite the continuous drizzle, has filled me with the joys of spring. I鈥檓 bounding with energy and spend most of my time riding the little ponies or climbing up to Darjeeling. I simply love the Gurkha people, they have a charm and friendship which blends with the countryside.
This indeed is the home of 鈥楾ea鈥�, one can pick the leaves whilst walking along the road. The bushes are planted in terraces along the mountain side in a wonderfully neat method. Darjeeling is a charming little town, so beautifully clean after Calcutta. All the world seems to roam through the streets doing shopping on horseback..

Monday 27th August
The past week has seen a change for the worst in Moira and the specialist has given her no more than three months to live. I visit her daily and endeavor to keep her spirits up. It seems wrong that thinking so much of Moira, I should be bouncing more and more with vim and vigor, but that I suppose is life!
I鈥檝e thoroughly enjoyed a few games of hockey this week with the men - much to their amazement. There are still numerous parties in Darjeeling and I have visited the cinema twice.
The long awaited view of Kanchenjuiga was ours to behold this week. I awoke one glorious sunny morning to find the most magnificent picture before me that I could possibly imagine. The golden sunshine on the snow covered mountains covered the panorama as far as the eye could see. We were looking down on the clouds which blocked out all sight of land beneath us and we felt we were in another world. Never had I imagined anything so beautiful that neither artist nor camera could reproduce. This however, fades from view after about 9 am. usually, as the clouds gather and once again, we are enveloped in mist.
Strangely enough, one gets so used to rain up here that it never is allowed to interfere with pleasure or routine.

Monday 3rd. September
This week I should return to Calcutta, but the C.O. has decided that I should remain another week or two on Moira鈥檚 account. She looks forward to my visits so much and I do manage to cheer her up a bit. She is somewhat better this week and I do hope the progress continues.
One of the most pleasant afternoons this week was spent in the Sikim valley. Our party left on horseback at 10 am. and rode down the mountains through the tea gardens to the valley. It grew warmer and warmer as we went until we were quite scorched by the sunshine. The Sikim valley was a beautiful spot and I was particularly taken by the magnificent butterflies and not by the odd specimen, but literally clouds of the most beautiful colours imaginable. They just have to be seen to be believed.
The Mess has changed beyond recognition. The constant laughter and wise cracking which prevailed in my first two weeks, has disappeared. We all miss 鈥楶eg-leg and Fortune鈥� the two RAF. types with whom there was never a dull moment. Also, 鈥楴avy鈥� too has gone and one or two of the old gang have retreated to Hospital again.
Each morning I verify my existence by giving Faradisim and massage to David Ensor and generally assist Doc. in the M.I. Room. At one time it seemed that I would never become accustomed to Jackals screaming on my verandah at night or the din created by the beetles and bullfrogs would cease to keep me awake, but now I hardly notice them. One gets the weirdest animals in ones bedroom here and a constant watch has to kept for snakes, scorpions and what have you.

Monday 10th. September
All good things must come to an end and so this week I鈥檓 back to earth with thoughts of 鈥楪oing down鈥�. Any excuse is better than none for a party up here and at least three materialise in Darjeeling each week. Roller skating too has become the rage and I鈥檓 somewhat black and blue. Riding still is my main occupation and so I ride up to see Moira each day and she is still progressing favourably which is a good thing and so I shall be going down on Thursday.
Actually, Entally (Calcutta) have signaled to find out where I鈥檝e got to so perhaps I鈥檇 better get back to work.

Monday 17th. September
Back to the sticky heat of Calcutta with the monsoon still in full swing. So much so, that I鈥檓 expecting to find myself floating down the corridor when I awake each morning.
I arrived back to find the astounding news that Alan is home in England, and within half an hour of my arrival here, I applied to return home. Its expecting rather much of the Army, but a little optimism won鈥檛 harm! (Alan鈥檚 operations were wound down in mid August and he returned from Australia via Colombo, Karachi, Basra, Cairo, Malta and finally to Lynham.)
Work does not go down too well after such a life of leisure and pleasure, but there is plenty to keep me occupied on my Indian Surgical ward. Calcutta is just as crowded as ever, there is no joy in shopping at all. I have applied for membership of the Saturday Club, which is the only completely English club in the city. There is dancing every night and it possesses a very good Library, an excellent swimming pool and hard tennis courts. Matron recommended it to me and it certainly looks good too.

Monday 24th. September
Work has been plentiful this week and we seem to have had a rush of accident cases. Felicity has wangled her posting and has gone off to Rauchi to join her unit which will be going 鈥楩orward鈥� soon.
Her cousin is going with her and so she seems to be quite happy.
I鈥檝e been accepted as an Honorary member of the 鈥楽eap鈥� and have enjoyed a dinner dance there this week. News from Moira appears to be good , and it certainly is a good sign when she starts writing letters again.

Monday 1st. October
I鈥檓 patiently awaiting for news of my release, Matron is back from leave and she can see no reason for my being refused 鈥楻epat鈥�. It is a cheering thought.
Night duty seems to be my fate on Friday! We only do two weeks out here instead of four. I don鈥檛 think I shall mind very much as I should think it will be much cooler than working by day. Mail is very bad just now , I have not had any since 15th. Sept. It is strange that some gets through alright, still I keep hoping.

Monday 7th. October.
Night duty is going down very well really. I鈥檝e got the entire British wing to look after which consists of three medical wards (one of which contains 70 beds, while the other two, have about 40). 鈥業solation鈥� also comes under this wing and here I have a B.O.R. dangerously ill with Cholera. That keeps me busy most of the night. Actually, I think he will pull through quite easily, tho鈥� I wonder if it will be worth it , as he is under close arrest for Murder.
The British Prisoner鈥檚 ward is also under my keeping and I鈥檓 kept busy trying to see that the guards do not sleep! Two of my four Medical Orderlies hail from Newcastle and I can hardly understand a word they say. However they are good lads.

Monday 14th. October
I鈥檓 now on my last week of night duty. I really think I shall be sorry to finish. All my charges are progressing favourably. Unfortunately, a suspected Smallpox case has arrived now , so I hope there won鈥檛 be any more.
Owing to night duty, I had much to my sorrow, refuse an invitation to General Stuart鈥檚 cocktail party. Such is life! Still no mail from home. I must say I have not found much time for writing letters on night duty as I had hoped.

Monday 21st October
My night duty has ended, but not without a spot of excitement. My Cholera Patient escaped via the ward window and over the Hospital wall on Monday night. Fortunately, as there was a guard on duty and none of the medical folks can be held responsible. I was busy in the next ward when it happened, but I鈥檝e had to attend a court, be sworn in and make a statement on the incident.
The reply to my release has arrived with an unfavourable answer. This has proved a terrific disappointment to me. Matron is, however, putting it through again with a personal recommendation.
I鈥檝e had two days in lieu of night duty and one for the month, and I spent most of the time relaxing at the Saturday club. I鈥檝e been too fed up to do much else.

Monday 27th. October
Felicity has passed through Calcutta on her way to Singapore. She looks very fit. Some of the other girls, who came out with us are with her, so we had a little reunion.
Moira is much better and is expected to come to Calcutta at the end of the month en route for Ranchi Chest Hospital. Nothing very exciting has happened.
I鈥檓 back on duty in the Indian Surgical ward and there is plenty of work. Rumour has it that the Hospital closes on the 18th. November, at least that is the last date for receiving patients. I wonder where we shall all be posted to then!

Monday 3rd. November
Social life is in full swing here now. The weather has cooled a little, and the Racing Season has commenced. The Saturday Club is very gay these days and I dance there most evenings now.
Moira has arrived back and is about eight miles out of Calcutta at the Woman鈥檚 Services Hospital at Barakoti. I鈥檝e been along to see her and she looks very well. She is anxiously awaiting to here her fate.
鈥楶ostings鈥� are the order of the day here, and the staff are slowly depleting in numbers. Work is slightly more hectic again. The mail situation has improved greatly, tho鈥� is by no means perfect.

Monday 10th. November
It seems that dozens of QA鈥檚 and V.A.D.鈥檚 are getting their release here, but still no news of mine has come. The P.M. told matron to tell me not to worry as she felt sure I would get it , so I must be patient a little longer.
Some excitement and a lot of inconvenience has been caused this week by the City鈥檚 riots. We have several I.N.A sympathizers in the ward and they have been airing their views in no uncertain manner. Our Ambulances have all been victims of brick throwing etc. Needless to say we are all confined indoors, which isn鈥檛 so good. However, nobody feels like being murdered for fun!
With difficulty, the staff who were posted, were conveyed from the Hospital and now we are a fairly small family. Each day we wonder who will be the next to be posted and secretly hoping it won鈥檛 be our own turn. All very unsettling.

Monday 17th. November
Despite the P. Matron鈥檚 鈥榳ords of hope鈥�, a second refusal has arrived from GHQ regarding my release. Were it not for the comfort and efforts of Matron and the Colonel, I think I would not have tried again, my spirits were much too low for that but they have insisted on trying a third time and have sent up a special appeal stating that compassionate grounds.
I hold little hope of this succeeding really. I鈥檝e been out to see the A.P.M. at Eastern H.Q. and she thinks that my compassionate grounds are strong enough to melt Delhi and therefore I stand a 99% chance. I wish I could think so. I don鈥檛 think I鈥檓 going to be posted until the last moment and matron has hinted that I鈥檓 going to Barrackpore. Don鈥檛 know whether I鈥檓 pleased or not!!
However I鈥檝e felt a little more cheerful as a result and so now that the 鈥榗onfined to barracks鈥� order has been lifted , I鈥檝e been out dancing again.

Monday 24th. November
We have stopped admitting patients since the 18th. and are gradually evacuating those now with us to other hospitals. My ward has closed and I鈥檓 roaming around with nothing particular to do except be matron鈥檚 stooge!
Time weighs very heavy these days, not having anything much to do and having too much time to brood over my troubles. Packing up the hospital is a most depressing occupation.

Monday 1st. December
Matron has been keen on getting things packed up this week, that she has hardly left us a thing to eat, cook on, or sleep on. We are reduced to six in the Mess now. My main occupation has been shopping and doing odd jobs for matron. Have had plenty of off duty and so plenty of time for dancing.
Moira has moved off to Ranchi with a much lighter heart as it now appears that she has not got TB and so I should think she will be home very soon. I went along to Howrah Station to wave her off on the ambulance train to Ranchi.

Sunday 6th. December
A red letter day -- The news of my long awaited release has come through. There has been bags of joy in the place today. Matron being just as thrilled as I am.
Needless to say, I don鈥檛 know whether I鈥檓 coming or going, but I鈥檝e spent most of the day wangling a passage and thanks to General Stuart, I leave for Karachi and Blighty by air, tomorrow!
This really has been the most hectic twenty-four hours, in my life.

Monday 7th. December
Today has been a mad rush of last minute shopping, packing, reporting to collect my ticket and being weighed-in by BOAC.
I spent my last evening with as many friends as I could gather together at the Saturday Club, where we dined and danced. As the plane takes off at the crack of dawn, it was not worth going to bed and so a party was held at the Airport Sick Quarters.

Tuesday 8th. December
At dawn this A.M., our Sunderland took off from the Hoogli and I must admit that I was too excited ( and tired after an all night party!) to feel sorry at leaving Calcutta. It was a grand experience crossing India by air, especially with the awful memory of a train journey across it.
We landed on a most beautiful lake half way across for refueling. It seemed more like an Italian lake, than part of India. We had lunch at the BOAC hotel on the shore. Later, we glided down at Karachi, shortly after tea-time. My first thought being how much more pleasant is the climate , than Calcutta.
Karachi , itself is a grand city. It seems so clean. We are installed in a very nice Hotel, but horrified to find that we may be here for a week, before we get a plane to the UK Such an anti-climax for my elated spirits.

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