"... I have just been promoted to Ships Quartermaster ... Last night I saw you all waving the white sheets, and again this morning. I do hope you did not break down when the ship rounded the point, and went out of sight. You were so brave when we left the wharf & I was so proud of you my Chum, & the children too. Leonard marched all the way with us and I was so glad of his company, his heart was full too. Dearie I am realising now how hard it was for you all. You were all so brave & strong that it helped me to keep up too."