ENGLAND & SCOTLAND

Wairarapa Times-Age, 4 September 1940, Page 7

ENGLAND & SCOTLAND

HISTORICAL FEATURES. IMPRESS NEW ZEALAND SOLDIER. A Waipukurau soldier serving with the 22nd Rifle Battalion. 2nd Echelon. N.Z.E.F., states that he is impressed with the historical features as well as the beauty of the Scottish and English countrysides. The war, with the application of black-outs, had greatly changed the complexion of London. "We had an air-raid warning one night, but happily for all concerned, nothing happened. It felt very uncanny just the same. Following upon being so well fed on our voyage we are finding the restricted diet somewhat plain, but appetising—little fruit; and we have margarine in lieu of butter. Tobacco is dear, as are some other things. England is putting every ounce into the preparations for the expected invasion, and we are confidently looking forward to the ordeal. lam happy and contented with my lot." Another crusader, writing to Waipukurau relatives, mentions that he is camping beside his brother (the first fellow New Zealander he welcomed to the English camp, where his unit, the Divisional Cavalry Regiment, had arrived early—they had not met on the long voyage) and many other Central Hawke’s Bay and Wairarapa soldiers. "We have learnt much about the war since our arrival 10 days ago. Camp life is great; we are enjoying the experience of being under canvas again. It is reminiscent of my sojourn at Hopuhopu in October and November Our reception in Scotland (I had a notably cordial reception at Brora in the Highlands) and England has been very hospitable, and we are finding much to call forth exclamations of admiration.

It is pointed out that a supply of New Zealand brands of tobacco would be very acceptable, if it could be provided on a duty-free basis. Specially notable events had been visits from the High Commissioner for New Zealand (Mr W. J. Jordan). Viscount Bledisloe (a former Governor-General) and Mis Majesty the King, who was very popular by reason of his friendly manner. "Hold fast to your faith’" was the impressive advice given to Lord Bledisloe. whose speech revealed great love of New Zealand. One of the foregoing writers (a son of Mr and Mrs A. C. Holms, formerly Masterton and Featherston residents) observed: —"We take off our hats to the women of Great Britain on the score of their splendid war-work. The coolness and courage of the people a? a whole is very impressive. "Both pay warm tributes also as to the generous treatment —private motor trips, etc., accorded the New Zealand and Australian troops when in Perth (Western Australia), and Cape Town.