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April 17th 1915 - Letter from Cyril Sladden to his father, Julius Sladden

Date
17th April 1915
Correspondence From
Cyril Sladden, Officers' Mess, 9th Worcestershire Regiment, Blackdown
Correspondence To
Julius Sladden, Seward House, Badsey
Relationship to Letter Addressee
Son
Text of Letter

Officers’ Mess
9/ Worcs Regt
Blackdown

April 17th 1915

My dear Father

Another letter from me seems about due. While Mela is with you, you will have a good supply of my news. I hope you will have sufficient time to give her a good rest, and set her up afresh to start at Bournbrook ; I know Mother will look after her well, and I am afraid she rather needs it.

We have had a pretty strenuous time since I left you. Early this week we had a night out in Aire billets in Sunningdale during a two-day scheme; it wasn’t very nice on Monday as there was a steady Scotch mist falling, and the night was pouring wet. Contrary to anticipation we did not get turned out, which was good luck. Tuesday was quite a nice day. On Wednesday we started the men firing with the machine-gun, and then had to be out all night taking up a defensive position in the dark. I was sent back immediately after breakfast with the men so as to continue firing. I was strangely little tired, but awfully sleepy during the early part of the night out. I am in charge of the detachment again for a few days while Pearson is taking his leave.

We have various divisional schemes ahead, and are beginning to learn how to pack up; steps are being taken to complete our mobilization equipment.

The new officers started a short refresher course this afternoon, to be completed tomorrow morning; at present I am leading on points, so I hope I shall keep it up. I have had a little practice at odd times.

Best love to all from
Your affectionate son
Cyril E Sladden

Letter Images
Type of Correspondence
Envelope containing 1 double sheet of notepaper
Location of Document
Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service
Record Office Reference
705:1037/9520/3/52-53