25/9/1940

Dear Matthew,

I’ve the most wonderful news - my friend Ellen has just announced she’s expecting! I’m ever so happy for her and her husband. Still, it must be rather nerve-racking for her, knowing he might be shipped off to Africa at any time. My prayers are with them both. Thinking of her set me thinking of us, and what our own future might hold. I do hope that once this wretched war is over, we can begin a family of our own.

As for the war, the nightly bombings are becoming quite the nuisance. From what I gather, you chaps are only able to fly in daylight, so the raiders come over under cover of darkness with nothing to stop them. Thankfully none of the bombs have been aimed our way - they all seem to be dropped over the centre of the city. We only hear the engines overhead as they turn for home. We scarcely bother with the shelter now, though the sirens still set my nerves on edge.

I’d very much like to meet your friend Calvin one day. Do ask if he’s unattached - Farah has been longing to meet someone decent. If you can ever bring him down on leave, I’ve no doubt my family would welcome him with open arms.

I laughed when you told me about the scarves! It’s true, our mothers ought to meet - perhaps we can arrange it somehow. Father also says to thank you, and that he’ll most certainly hold you to that offer of help with the cottage.

As for my own part, I signed up for the Women’s Voluntary Service yesterday. I’m to join a mobile canteen, helping folk who’ve been bombed out. I feel in my heart it’s the right thing to do, and I’m glad to be doing my bit at last. Mother’s caught up in it as well - she’s just sent another bundle of pots and pans to the collection. It still amazes me to think our old saucepans might be turned into the very wings of your Spitfire. It seems fanciful, but it gives her a sense of purpose, and I find it comforting too.

I promise I’ll send you something before long. I’ve been saving my coupons carefully and am putting together a little parcel just for you. There’ll be some food, of course, but also a few surprises I’m keeping up my sleeve. I hope it will bring you a touch of home.

With all my love,
Naomi

Received on the 30/9/1940