My poor James died yesterday after a particularly bad episode, and of course I must go and see to all the arrangements before his family take over and go against his wishes. Thankfully, he was sound enough in mind for a little while to write a will before he was committed to the asylum, and although his family want him to be buried in their village churchyard, he’d always had an abhorrence of the idea and so expressed the wish to be cremated, and his ashes scattered across the Channel.

You will no doubt have heard about the lunch I had at the Officers’ Club with Major Radwell. Henry’s a good companion, and has turned out to be a most helpful friend. When I found it impossible to obtain a travel warrant to get to the asylum, he called in a lot of favours and secured warrants for both of us as he was being discharged that day from the Memorial. He even hired a chauffeur-driven car to take us all the way up there, so I could travel in comfort and take Monty, who would have been an added burden to you when you have so many other commitments. I’m sure Henry will prove to be an enormous help when it comes to all the paperwork that’s bound to be involved, and I feel rather blessed to have him at my side during this difficult time, since I couldn’t have you.

I will give this letter to Stan, whom I trust will pass it on with little delay, for once again I will need your help in keeping the Anchor going while I’m away. You will have Brenda to help you, and can rely on her to remind you of all the things you’ll probably forget.

I’m so sorry I didn’t get the chance to speak to you and smooth things over between us before I had to flit. But I should be home within a fortnight, and we can talk then. Thank you for all the years of love, support and laughter you’ve given me. I will hold onto those memories as I sadly turn the final page on my marriage to James and try to come to terms with what his passing will mean.

I will write no more of my thoughts now, for I am tired and will probably not make much sense. As you will note, there is no address on the letter, for I have no idea of where we’ll be staying.

With love,

Rosie