G Branch

HQ I Corps

APO England

Monday 12 June 44

My dearest Maz,

It’s a lovely day here, a trifle noisy at times but I’m writing this very peacefully in the mess tent – I’m not on duty until 2 ocl and then am off again at 10 pm.  Bill Hambleton I hear is fairly near at hand so I must try and get over to see him – possibly tomorrow morning, all being well.  Do you remember Owen Hunt, a great friend of mine at Uppingham with whom I played at Queens?  I met him last night, in great form, and we had a long chat about old times over a tot of whiskey – otherwise I’ve not met many people I know, the only other ‘outsider’ I’ve met was Jack Saddleton, with whom I shared a cabin coming back from Africa.

I was so very sorry about the letter which I wrote to you on the ship and then never posted, a most regrettable occurrence, I hope it arrives safely though.  Our Air Force has been and is being, splendid, quite invaluable.  I listened to the news this morning which seemed very good – good from Russia from Italy and from here – I’m convinced that I shall win that bet I have with you!  I do hope you are getting some good tennis.  I would give so much to be joining in but this time next year you and I will be approaching the finals of those cups we hold!  Sorry to hear about Nora King, I hope she’s soon up and about again and feeling fitter.  This isn’t a very exciting letter I’m afraid but there’s no news from here, at least nothing which I can say, so one’s style is a trifle cramped – I must away now for a spot of lunch and then on duty.  Much love to you, Maz dear, am thinking so much about you and longing so much to be back again in the bosom of the family

            Yours as ever

very affectionately

                        Peter

In envelope headed ‘On Active Service’ addressed to Mrs Gerald C Benham, 5 Oxford Road Colchester Essex.

Postmarked FIELD POST OFFICE 735 dated 12 JU 44.  Signed P.C. Benham Capt.

On back of envelope Rec June 17^th 1944 dated June 12^th.     (5)