Huggins Road Block Area, 21st Brigade HQ, Sanananda, New Guinea
8 May 1943
My Darling Wife,
(Don't scrunch your nose up at me, sweetheart, let me enjoy this feeling as long as I can). I've gotten settled back in with the boys - they missed me terribly it seems; Hugh's back with us too, which I'm so grateful for. (Apparently, Dot told him the news of our wedding - he sends his congratulations).
I did make sure no one had a connection to the university before telling the rest of the boys; the last of that awful campaign finished while I was in the hospital, so we're a lot better off than the last time I was here, but any good news is very much appreciated. They're happy for us, sweetheart, I don't think I've gotten that many handshakes, shoulder slaps, or hugs in celebration since we got news of our leave years ago.
I'm still adjusting to being back here, but it's been rough; I'd gotten used to being close to civilization again, to having access to things we don't have out here (the very least of all a proper damn bed) and being back in the jungle hasn't helped keep the non-physical wounds away… but I'm hanging in there.
(Thank you, for taking Adelaide home, sweetheart… the boys understood why and we're all very glad she's not in any danger anymore. I don't know what's in store for us - whether we'll move or stay - but it's one less being to worry about… spoil her rotten for me, will you?)
I've been keeping myself busy, though, by volunteering a little with the medical units whenever they're run ragged; it's not as bad as before, but they deserve breaks as much (if not more) than we do, so the help is much appreciated. I don't help out in the OR if you're wondering, I mostly help with keeping the tent clean, keeping the men company, and helping shift the bigger blokes when they come in injured. The nurses were very curious about you, sweetheart, but most of them wish you luck on your last term of med school (don't worry about the ones who didn't, they weren't worth my time, so they're not worth yours). Tell Edith I actually miss her gossiping, I've no idea who anyone's talking about here anymore.
Not much to write home about this time, but I wanted to let you know how it was all going. Send my love to Mum and Vera and everyone at Wardlow.
Your Dearest Husband,
Matthew
AN: short update, but the end of school is in sight! - Dee