Letter from Edward Thomas to his wife, Helen Thomas. Archival reference: 424/1/1/1/1/124
I am sorry to have to send this as it is and waste 1d. when I
might well have waited. But you will be anxious and therefore
I send it with all its imperfections on its head.

Goodbye, my own sweet little one. I kiss you goodnight, and
wish I need not say goodnight, but be one with you and
know no parting in sleep.
Adieu! I am ever and wholly yours
Edwy.
Goodnight!
The cake, apples, and book came quite safely yesterday, also the paper.

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7.xi.99.
My dearest Helen,
My letter is short, because porridge making is long - too long,
and tell mother (I shall write to her soon) that I fear I must
buy some Quaker Oats which only take 10 minutes. I can't
afford to spend 3/4 hour in preparing a penny worth of
porridge. However it is made now and I have had it at lunch,
but the time left for a letter is about 7 minutes.
My health is slightly better. Of course I get good walks every
afternoon, usually with Morgan. Since I fell ill,
I have gone to bed at 12 or before, and eaten plenty despite
expense. I am not yet really well, though, and I quite lack
energy. A little work tires me, and I cannot attempt anything
hard.

By the way. Mother asks for £4 on Thursday, £2 in advance, if
it is convenient. Will you at once get a withdrawal form, if
you have banked the £3, send me £4 which I will forward
to Mother. If you still have the £3, send it back to me, and I
will add £1, which I could just do,

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I think and still have enough for all expenses: and that would
be quicker than waiting for you to withdraw - you know the
way; if not, go to the P. office and ask for a form; they will
explain.

The mantel cover is a very pretty thing indeed and looks well,
though of course the dark blue is too dark.

Both Mother and yourself give a good of you, and I am much
comforted by the thought. Continue to let me know of your
health and of your way of life. Remember me affectionately
to Irene and Mary.