I believe the poor man had so many bouquets

TCD MS 11290/39 folio 1 recto

TCD MS 11290/39 folio 1 recto

18th October [1918]
Dear Mary

I’m going strong & well but a bit jaded so wont write long. I have had a good deal of excitement this last few days & quite a lot of work. I was attached to an advanced guard for a while and so got well on. [H]uge enthusiasm when we met civilians first[.] I was lucky enough to see the General clamber across the remains of a blown up bridge the other side of which were collected a crowd of civilians. They recognized that he was a big pot by all the gold braid & red tabs. Cheered & demonstrated for all they were worth till he got over the canal when they all grabbed his hands & had a shake all round. Next a fair damsel

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TCD MS 11290/39 folio 1 verso

TCD MS 11290/39 folio 1 verso

rushed up & delivered a bouquet after which he made a speech which I couldn’t hear but was greeted with laughter & more cheers and then proceeded on his triumphal progress. I believe the poor man had so many bouquets by the time he got back that he couldn’t carry them. I haven’t crossed the canal myself yet as we have been working bridging ever since.
Best love to all & will write again soon
Henry

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