C/O D.C.F.C
        M.E.F

Stalag VIII B
Gepruft
85

[ - stamp]

10th August 1941

Dear Vic, 

Many months, fourteen to be exact, have I waited to hear something of you, now through the wife I have your address. Actually at first I thought you were finished, having made many enquiries about you, but later on we had the news, and what news too, that you were and of course still are, a P.O.W, All the lads I spoke to gave a very good account of your actions during the trouble, in fact Vic old son, I am very proud of you, you showed guts above the average. All the boys in the section tell me they owe their life to you, you have that consolation. Of course, when I rejoined the remnant of the old gang I was very disappointed to find that you were not one of us and things looked bleak concerning your welfare, however you are alive and now at long last we can write to each other.

I have not seen the letter which you wrote to the wife, I have only received the address, so I cannot answer any questions which you might have asked. Later on when I do get the letter I can perhaps satisfy your curiosity on things which no doubt you wish to know, in the meantime I hope you get this letter and one which Edna has written to you in reply to the one you wrote to her. I hope Vic that you are keeping fit and well in spite of hardships. I often think of you and the rest of the lads and wonder what sort of a time you are getting. I sincerely hope it is not too bad, in any case Vic, stick it and wish for the better time ahead which will come, of that there is no doubt.

Many times I have regretted the fact I did not have your home address, and no one knew either so you see I was completely stumped in my endeavours to get in contact with you.

We hear a bit about parcels going to chaps like yourself through the Red Cross, I hope you are getting your share as well as an occasional letter from home.

Since May 1940 I have had a cartilage out of my left knee and this old knee is now O.K. I was even promoted but lost it again! It is a pity you did not get back, I am sure you would have been a Sergeant, but never mind Vic, it is a big consolation to be alive and know that before long we shall be together again, so here's to the future, to your return when we can have some good beer together and a good chin wag, roll on that day!

Cheerio old son, keep your chin up, remember the flag is still flying and likely to fly for many years to come. Look after yourself and write as often as you can, good luck!

Yours to a cinder

Albert