6th September 1916 – Bois Des Tailles to Citadel to Billon Camp
Dollie has sent Arthur details of her proposed going away outfit, of which he approves. His reply mentions no details of the fact that they are approaching the Front line: “We’d settled down last night, not expecting to be moved for a week or ten days; but orders came in late and this morning we were up at 4.30 and on trek again … Luckily the weather has cleared a bit and it is now fairly fine. The news is most awfully good all round. I expect that by the time you get this, dear, you’ll have read in the papers how well we’ve got on [Guillemont was captured on 3rd September]. Add to that the news from Russia and Rumania. If only the Hun would throw up the sponge and let me come home to you, little sweetheart”.
Arthur to Dollie
Wed. 4.30 pm
There are no posts again to-day. I am fed up. Still I’m writing in hopes that one may get out to-night or to-morrow morning. We’d settled down last night, not expecting to be moved for a week or ten days; but orders came in late and this morning we were up at 4.30 and on trek again. This time however we only did 3 – 4 miles. We are still very unsettled & shall probably have to move again this evening. I do hate it all, for I’m not in a “wandering” mood.
Luckily the weather has cleared a bit and it is now fairly fine. The news is most awfully good all round. I expect that by the time you get this, dear, you’ll have read in the papers how well we’ve got on. Add to that the news from Russia and Rumania. If only the Hun would throw up the sponge and let me come home to you, little sweetheart. There is no news of leave and I want you so badly. I want you with every possible kind of longing, dear lover mine.
I was awfully pleased to hear that both ring and brooch are a success, especially the former. You darling, nothing is too good for you. Dear heart; about going-away dress – your idea is good. It should suit you – and a “big” hat, especially if it going to be the fashion. But leave room for me to come in underneath, won’t you, dear? Yes, darling, I understand quite about Fr. Mc. I’m so glad to hear that he’s getting better. I think you can wait, dear, don’t you, until news comes of leave being opened; then we can see how he is and decide whether he can come to town or whether you could see him at Guildford.
Well sweetheart; oh my darling, I grudge every minute spent away from you. May God watch over you and bless you & keep you happy. Remember me most kindly & affectionately to the Mater…