Z549/17/126

Letter sent from Brocton Camp, Staffordshire by Cyril Verdcourt to Louis Verdcourt.

Sunday 20 April 1919

From: 1919 To: 1919

Dear Louis, Rumour has it that we are going next Wednesday but then rumour is worthless, and as we are being delayed so much, there still remains the possibility that we shall not go at all. Each delay in my opinion strengthens the possibility. Bryeeson, Cazaly and I went to Walsall yesterday spending a fairly enjoyable time but such a visit is hardly sufficient recompense for the long walks and expense it entails. We visited a theatre in the evening and saw a third-rate company in a second-rate play. The plot was quite good although quite ancient, but the acting was absurdly forced and stilted. A thrashing administered with a horse-whip, made us laugh heartily although it was I suppose intensely dramatic but the funniest thing was when a boy, who had been drugged two minutes before was seen to walk off the stage in the half-light during a change of scenes. However, the audience was vastly appreciative. From what I have seen of the north, I must say that Luton and the South is quite genteel in taste and manners in comparison. I picked up a lady’s silver purse as we left the theatre, and yelled out ‘Who’s lost a purse’. It was promptly claimed and I never received a word of thanks, although doubtless it was the owner that claimed it. I have started a pipe and appreciate its soothing qualities considerably. It supplies many wants. Cazaly, Bryeeson and I look quite strange I should imagine, each with a pipe in his mouth. So if mama ever wants to send anything she can enclose a tin of ‘Chairman’. It keeps moist in tins. We have had two lovely swims, Alf and I. Really I think I prefer Stafford to Walsall, although the super abundant opportunities for ‘getting off’ makes the latter place more popular with the majority. Please give my love to Maude and her aunt. With love to all Yours sincerely Cyril Partial ink sketch of front view of top half of man wearing uniform, including pith helmet.

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Verdcourt, Cyril,
Verdcourt, Louis

army, Brocton Camp