Greenslopes Repatriation Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland

15 January 1943

[The handwriting of this letter is noticeably different; instead of Matthew's usual scrawl it's a neat, looping script - presumably Edith Warren's]

Sweetheart,

I'm so sorry it's been so long since my letter, and that it's also been a few days since our phone call; I've been better, and I'm not sure I can exactly tell you what happened to me without it getting censored, but I know Edith has told you the extent of my injuries.

She's taking good care of me, sweetheart - doesn't let me wallow and makes sure I'm getting up and moving as things heal. She's a regular drill sergeant and I'm not looking forward to physical therapy with her as my arm heals.

[in parentheses below this is the following: "He's whingeing to get more sympathy from you, I'm not THAT hard on him - E."]

Addy has settled in nicely - charming all the nurses and doctors, especially Edith. (Lies, she's a feisty little thing and I'm her favorite - E) Most of them have stayed away since she brought a lizard into the ward, but hey, she keeps the mice away at least. Edith's helping me try and figure out some logistics of potentially getting her home to you, but for right now while I'm recovering Miss Addy doesn't want to go anywhere. I appreciate it because being in the hospital is awful and it would be worse without her and Edith here.

How are your classes going? You're almost done, sweetheart, just two semesters, isn't that right? Is Mac helping you search for jobs? How's Wardlow?

Our Jane Austen reading got a little interrupted, but I'm almost done with Mansfield Park; we'll have to pick another one to read through soon.

I don't hate Queensland as much now, anywhere is better than where I was, but I wish I was home with you, sweetheart.

All my love,

Matthew

[written below in a sort of postscript is a note from Edith: "I'll take good care of him, Allie. He really adores you and I'm so happy your soldier survived and you get another chance with each other. He'll be here for a bit, and I'm stopping by as much as I can (helps that Adelaide has been a terror to the others and they're just happy one of us can give Matthew the medical attention he needs). He'll recover, he's stubborn enough to work at this physical therapy with all he's got; let's hope this is the last time I have to see him here. He's safe, and so am I, make sure you rest and take care of yourself. - E"]