1-8-45

My Dear:

The news carried in the Japanese Papers is that Attlee is in and Churchill defeated, which we take to mean that National industrialisation has won the day.

The rumours are:
1) Stalin interviewed J. Ambassador
2) Chiang Kai Shek went to Moscow
3) Chiang, Sta1in, Attlee, Truman met at Potsdam
4) The J. War Minister went to Moscow. How long will this war last?

Had my elevensies, there was such a din, there was so much cross conversation it was difficult to sort out anything. I had peanut butter sandwiches & mazurksa. I think they were appreciated.

Peter & Gay are down with the epidemic of ‘flu & recurring fever. Only treatment being aspirin every four hours.

Received $850 for seven pounds at the rate of $1200. A deduction of maximum of $250 was made. Repaid Robbie $4000, Pryor $2000 & Elsie $500. I haven’t much left.

The 2 Toscani girls suddenly arrived on Sunday. Steno was called out from Church and was told that his daughters were on their way to the camp. But as it turned out they did not arrive till 4 p.m. on the same day.

Bought one second hand towel for $300 – I am cutting it into half and binding it.

The children are down with recurring fever – forgot I mentioned it above.

Wore my white silk tennis dress and black straw hat given to me by Sister Bede to go to the Homes Committee Meeting - I was stopped by everyone I knew on the way there & back and asked about my “dressing up-ness”- I was “natural”ly clad a state un-remembered by most people here as I go about all day in shorts and fancy tops like stays. (picture)

It’s again very hot. And we are still news-less.

Love Ida

August 5, 1945 ...

5/8/45 9.30pm

My dear:

Today Sunday, we have just heard that Singapore had fallen 32,000 –prisoners.

Are now only awaitng the Emperor’s word to lay down arms. I have just told Sid that was may yet be over by Christine’s birthday. What a thought!

Have negotiated Gay’s cross for sugar. Young Marinellis seems to think we may possibly get 2 to 3 lbs sugar! What boon, if it were possible!

Received I/4lb sugar from the kitchen for Christine, and the diners too will receive sugar, 2oz per head. Better that a kick in the pants, so they say. I must say I haven’t felt so depressed and so elevated for ages - the very idea of all this ending suddenly - soon - putting an end to our misery doesn’t seem possible.

Love Ida

August 6, 1945 ...

6-8-45

My dear:

We are again all astir. Justified this time. Although Egger brought in no news we have heard that:

1) Laurie Tipton sent news last night to the effect that he was near. The camp would be taken shortly - not to worry.
2) the Japanese Guards were called to a meeting at 1a.m. today. Being told to anticipate bad news in a few days. The Camp would be jubilant but they were to remember to behave like Japanese gentleman.
3) The Diet sitting and waiting the Emperor’s word to fire or to carry on.
4) Fall of Singapore

The price of cigarettes jumped up from $300 odd to $1049. Things confirm very definitely in my opinion that the Japanese must have met with reverses.

Mrs Ore tells me that she did not enjoy Marie’s party. Irene Ladow being another guest. Called her a bluff. I myself thought it a litlte tactless of Marie to invite the 2 women, whom she knew detested each other. Nothing she could have done would have improved the situation. We are too far gone to be able to reconcile inimical people.

May have something to add tonight.

Love Ida

We have had a terribly tragic accident.

Young Alexis Marinellis fell from a tree about 40 ft high at 3.45p.m. At first there was some hope of life but he expired at 11p.m. In the light of the knowledge in hand now it was surprising that he lived at all. As a matter he regained consciousness at 9.45p.m.. He has been a trump to his family, who arrived from Chefee with nothing. He indulged in blackmarketing getting them food, clothes etc. He has been known as being extremely polite and the attendance at his funeral testifies to his popularity. God bless him and help his family.

Love Ida

August 10, 1945 ...

10-8-45

My dear:

Most exiting news have been circulating.

4) Russia is at war with Japan.
5) Japan took Vlada…… on the Amen
6) War was declared on 8-8-45
7) Russian troops in Harbin (supposedly Harbin news).

Bets are being taken now as to the time peace will reign. G. Simmons still maintains 15/8/45 will see the end of the war. Others 3 to 6 weeks. As for me it can’t come soon enough.

Yesterday was a very, very sad day for Peter Lawless, as he buried his wife. She died the evening previous after a long illness of 8 weeks.

People are now saying never 2 without a third. There is some speculation as to that. Mrs Hughes is supposed to be v. ill with dropsy. Tom Cameron has been almost a goner for about 10 days. I understand he is looking v. ill. Robbie says Mrs Hughes is quite ok.

The heat has been terrible today over 90º in the house, I am absolutely pooped out.

See you v. soon Ida

August 12, 1945 ...

12-8-45

My dear:

Rumours of course are coming in fast & furious – but I’ll only record the most jubulant ones.

1) on Friday - 10-8-45 Harbin taken
2) on Sunday 12-8-45 Russians beyond Harbin

Watanabe tried to prevent the newspapers being given out yesterday. However compromised by saying they’d be given out at 3 o’clock. However no major news, as the last date is the 6th... However tonight Joyce told chaps in the showers that some big news has come in but hasn’t been given out.

Christine’s birthday party went off very well. There were Oliver Cook, Graham Milne, Kay Allan, Astrid Danielson, Christopter Wallington, Michael & Carmen Jones, Ian MacPherson, the 2 Robinsons and our three kids. She received many presents. We gave her a holly vase(?) wooden basket, camp stool & pink dress. She received bib & feeder, a lovely ball, a charming brooch, box of talcum etc.I made a birthday cake, chocolate as well as a square 2" cake, tomato sandwiches, tangshi cookies, lollipops.

Al Voyce has just been told Guards at 10p.m. definite declaration of war by Russia and her advance into Manchuria, but complete black out news by radio & papers. Upsan being asked why he didn’t listen in to Los Angeles. He said he’d get his throat cut.

Meta Jones in bed with typhoid. She isn’t seeing visitors. Graham Milne had a slight accident.

Will know tomorrow. Lights already out. Goodnight. Love Ida

August 14, 1945 ...

14-8-45

My dear:

The weather is still HOT-92º indoors. I am in a sweat all day. Its terrific. Christine make a terrific wet patch on her bed, but due to good hospital anti-heat-spots she has very little. Astrid Danielson has had her adenoids taken out. They were done yesterday and returned today. I believe in ordinary life adenoids are taken out during clinic.

A Jap. guard came to warn Argee Ladow at 4.30 a.m. to put away all empty bottles as McGilchrist & Wilkie were caught drunk. However they were only retained in the guardhouse for a minute during which time they distributed cigarettes all round. What a difference with the old days.

Porter & Ramage being given a fortnight for being drunk & disorderly.

Played duplicate bridge with Stan last night, and shared tops with Arthur Kerridge & partner. Play with him for the 4th & last round on Monday. Hope he’ll be finished first and I’ll be third. Very improbable latter as total aggregate to date 65 and top aggregate, Marie, 82 1/2. Hope to play with more verve. Telfer was playing with Marie & during a hand with Stan away Telfer imparted something terrific to Marie. I could not help but note the astonishment on her face. I suspect it had something to do with the war.

Rumours:
1) Harbin in flames
2) Darien taken (presumably by allies)

Bought 5 prs black laces for $60 - Expecting millet in today but fear price, did not order sesame paste at $500 per lb.

I got both my crucufixes back. I am relieved. Even Goyas did not like handling it. Dick Parry says he is buying $40,000 FMY for £5.0.0. The money has gone phut but it is still the medium with which we can buy things, vide millet.

Received handsome parcel from the Walravens. Even cocoa & glycerine. They’re bully. Egger’s runner in but so far no repercussions. I am feeling sleepy, my sleeping draught working. Just remember tell you about ice water & ice cream racket in hospital.

Love, goodnight Ida

August 15, 1945 ...

15-8-45

My dear:

The secret is out war is over - has been for 2-3 days. On Monday at bridge I left my table for a second and when I returned I saw Marie’s eyes shining with stupifaction, and then heart Telfer tell her “shute - no one”. I knew it was about the end of the war.

All the Japanese authorities were called into the Captain’s office and were given some news. At 2 p.m I suspected something portentous as on my way back from the showers I saw a small crowd on the main street awaiting the sortie from the Captain’s talk. Recall Watanabe refusing to give the papers on account of “bad news”.

Situation vis-a-vis us as we are in Guerilla territory. Japanese Guards promised safe conduct as soon as they lay down arms, but on the other hand they must protect us and hand us over to a competent body.

Mrs Levi, 4 months ago that at 4 o’clock on August 7th war would be over. It was. Sandy has been offering $500 U.S. to any body that the war is over, but no suckers.

We hope to celebrate tonight.

Love Ida

August 16, 1945 ...

16-8-45

My dear:

The Robinsons & ourselves celebrated in true style the “end of war”, with champagne/brandy cocktail & paikel eggnog. My hangover lasted till this p.m. At 7.15 McLaren after a meeting with the Chief of Police & others read out the following proclamation to the effect that war is over and do neither confirm nor repudiate this. However, we, the Camp Committee feel the war is over.

The courtyard was full of people and the buzz buzz of chatter could be heard miles away.

Marie gave the children 3 lumps sugar & squares choc. each in honour of the day.

Today - this a.m. Mrs Cecil Broome was standing in front of the canteen, when suddenly she saw her cook’s son. He had helped bring in the tomatoes. Her surprise was great and the following is comunication made to her:

1) Tsingtao not bombed
2) Father slightly ill
3) Don’t buy tomatoes your own are already up
4) Father expecting you Tuesday or Wednesday. He is anticipated in again tomorrow.

The Authorities say the Americans are coming to take over on Saturday. Last night many guards sold their sugar & jam. Angee Ladow is reselling at $6000

Egger’s messenger came in today. The people lined Main Street for hours for a glimpse of Egger & 2 Amercan officers! Needless to say they didn’t turn up.

MacLaren went to the Chief of Police for permission to have a radio. His reply was that it was almost certain we had one as how was it possible for the internees to get news so accurately and frequently before they did? MacLaren promised to let the Chief in on how we get news before he leaves. I am interested too.

Understand Egger’s messenger is supposed of said that Egger was too drunk to make the journey. What a disgrace.

We’ve already had 2 cars in between 8.30 & 9.00 p.m. Each time have rushed to Main Street to get the first glimpse of the Americans. As a matter of fact the first time even the faithful dashed out of the Assembly Hall when they heard the Americans were here.

It is rumoured:
I) Davies occupied by Canadians
2 Weihaivei occupied by British
3) Chefoo occupied by British
4) Tsingtao occupied by Yankees

I have had a bad attack of quizzles perhaps due to hangover, but more possibly due to weakness of stomach after exciting news. Dr Corkey tells me she has many such patients.

Forgot to mention Mrs J. Pamilis the day before yesterday gave birth to a son, John Frederick. Meta Jones is improving. Dr Gault will be out of hospital by end of week. The schools have been given a holiday.

Gay played her Gypsy round extremely well at the dress rehearsal, so Mrs Bazere tells me.

Apparently a few days ago one of the friendly guards told an internee pal “the war is over” Naturally his listeners were thrilled. Some time later he said he’d made a mistake the war was not over, but the Chief of Police & his assistant are all trying to trace the author of “war between Russia & Japan is over” on the bulletin black board on which is customary to write the summary of the day’s news.

Father Wenders started the ball rolling on the 15th morning at 11 am.by dashing to the hospital and telling Jaten the war is over.

My sleeping draught is taking effect.

Goodnight. God bless you. Ida

August 17, 1945 ...

17-8-45

Well my dear, our most thrilling day materialised today. As I was taking Christine to her nursery school, the plane zoomed very low overhead, crowds who were awaiting the return of passports cheered & cheered.

Presently it came back, and again, then on my way home I saw the parachutists.

At first I thought they were dropping supplies, but presently when the ‘chutes unfurled and the forms took the shape of men. What a glorious sight. Then Sid dashed for the gate and so did many others after him. The Guards at first wouldn’t let us pass, but we swarmed past and into the fields. We went through the melon fields, cornfields, Kaoling fields, on and on towards the chutists.

Meanwhile the plane returned twice or three times more and dropped what we thought were supplies.

The Chinese peasants etc. lined the route & paths showing thumbs up.

How Caesar would have enjoyed the sight of even the poorest peasant understanding “thumbs up”.

Eventually after trudging miles & miles (as it seemed) came up to Taffy with a red ‘chute. He asked me to look after it as “if it is not wanted I want it as all my life I have wanted one”. However Mrs. Oates came & took it up and I followed her, however I stumbled and into a pitfall I tripped, was just dropping into a watery grave when Frederici and another Italian grabbed hold of my arms and saved me.

Then suddenly a ‘chutist appeared followed by a horde who grabbed me by the arms and all I could say was “thank you for coming”.

Then the major got on a mound saying “as there is much to do, would all the women & children return to the camp.” So we did. On my way back saw Mrs. Marshall prone on the ground calling for Dickie “he’s all I have you know”. I stayed a while holding Mrs. Marsh’s apron over her. Eventually I trudged home. Saw Sid & Christine on the wall, so I joined them. Presently the parcels followed by the ‘chutists, came in and did we clap & cheer.

5 American, 1 American born Japanese & 1 Chinese.

Marie patted them all, but Mrs. Gerfer & Mrs. Klamer gave them kisses.

Eventually we landed up in Robbie’s room where Louis installed with a bottle. Stan, Sid, Louis, Marie Mrs. Cole, Johnny Hilburn, Percy Jones were all in there having snorts. J. Hilburn gave us girls a kiss before settling to a drink.

Dennis Carter was outside the Police Office when McLaren walked up with 2 Americans. When they walked up to the door of the office, they drew out their pistols, when the Chief saw them he drew out his pistol & laid it on the desk. Then the Americans put their pistols back & saluted. The Japanese bowed after the Japanese fashion. Then followed by handshaking.

We understand following upon the 2 atomic bombs, which destroyed everything within a 5 mile radius, the Japanese sued for peace. Apparently that territory is so vile that no living being can ever approach it even after several months have lapsed.

Alec Broome was much perturbed by ‘chutists in No 2 kitchen not only refused seconds but even firsts at lunch. I myself have had anything to eat since breakfast only cups of coffee galore with heaps of sugar.

A Chinese Mission Delegation is already in, Hugh Hubbard & Father de Jaegher acting as hosts.

The Chief of P. sent for McLaren last night & asked him was it true Watanabe’s life was threatened by internees. McLaren replied ‘not threatened but he’ll be sure to be manhandled. So this morning early he was smuggled out.

Mr Egger is in. So far we don’t know the object of his visit.

Mr Kojo came up to the gate. When the door was opened by our Police, he wanted to know what had happened. “ Don’t you know?” – “No” – “Well, the Americans are here!!!!”

I hear that the three Americans have gone to Suih Shih Li Pu to take over the airfield. Apparently when they landed, they were quite expecting to have to fight their way to the camp. So they laid doggo until they heard our voices.

Mrs Thomson says, after conversation with Sgt Harmond(?) that they were anxious about our safety as our camp is the worst situated owing to the Chungking & Yennan troops warring.

So they dropped on us to see how we were and to report.

The wireless transmitter is being set up now.

He asked her what did the camp need most – sugar, she replied. That was coming in quantity. – Cigarettes – That too, we’d be getting plenty. – Beer – “No, lady, we haven’t had any ourselves for months – Lang Gilkey tells us they are coming with our kitchen for supper. Our bill of fare will be boiled potatoes and a cinnamon bun.

Coralie Ross had an amusing set to with Denise Winslow. I was returning from my shower and unashamedly eavesdropped on Coralie & Rusty. “Yes”, she said, there is no truth in this evacuation stay”. – No truth in what, says Denise popping her head over her fence. Coralie repeated. Well, says Denise, Jimmy has just been speaking to one of the ‘chutists and he says there will be an evacuation”. – No, says Coralie, the men dining in our Kitchen said no.” “Do you mean to tell me Jimmy is lying?” retorts Denise flushing angrily - I don’t know whether Jimmy is lying or not but I believe the marines.” Answered Coralie and walked away.

- That is the temper of the Camp but the amazing thing is the way the Japanese & American ‘chutists ignore each other. The J.Guards are taking it well. Good Scouts!

We have a 100% cockney in Camp and his job is to tend the boiling water boiler for drinking in our Kitchen.

This a.m. he relates that: ‘Alton came in a flush and ‘urry and said ‘ere quick I want tea for the Americans. ‘Alton is a fool thank goodness I ain’t a bleeding committee member. When do you think I’m going to get tea from, do you think I am a bloody Lipton’s tea plantation!!

A Chinese official came in the afternoon to ask if the Camp Committee would mind Hummell & Tipton returning to the Camp! We thought they were home! as it was their object when they left here.

My sleeping draught is working now as I’ll say good night.

The ‘chutists are still trying to make contact with G.H.Q.

Love Ida Deo Gratias

August 18, 1945 ...

18.8.45

My dear:

With what joy and pleasure we welcomed Tipton and Hummell. Diana Candles stood at the gate to welcome Hummell. What clapping. The Japanese Guards only looked on.

Do you know that our local political situation is unique the like of which never has existed before & never will, namely the vanquished are still in charge and protecting us, the conquerors. Understand Tipton & Hummell never got beyond 25 miles from here with the Chungking forces. One day fighting Japanese, next day 8th route & perhaps the next guerillas. They had been dropped from an American plane a receiver & broadcasting set with which they used to broadcast to the States etc.. However they had had a surprise attack from the Japanese and were compelled to lose their set.

Today we witnesses the first departure Tom Cameron, old man Taylor, Robert Hall & Delagespi, Peyton & Mrs Miller are being shipped off by plane to Chungking & then home.

We are all agog. All day long we stand around Main Street Way waiting for something to see. We did see Watanabe walk in steadfastly. Brave he was some atarted to boo but were rapidly shut up.

It is on the notice board that a – daily expectation of 5000 lbs of foodstuffs brought. The Prefect has sent us eggs – sugar, potatoes etc... But I understand the quantity is insufficient to go round, we don’t mind.

Later: The American plane was several hours late, and when it arrived at about 5.30 it circled over and over, and the all clear signal shown on the playing field outside the camp was quickly changed to “no”- It finally flew away. The ‘chutist major and party dashed off to the field.

The Japanese plane which had been on the runway flew after the US plane, no apparent sign of anyone else but suddenly groups of Japanese with drawn bayonets and helmets.

The major approached the colonel for explanation but they were non-committal, and the situation ugly so they returned to camp. Apparently the Liberator B.25 although in possession of 16 guns had no gunner but 30,000 lbs foodstuffs, and in a scrap with the Japanese fighter she would not have had a ghost of a chance.

The sick party when arriving at the airport was met by the Jap fighter which dove almost into her, everybody but the 3 seriously ill jumped off and took shelter in the kaoling.

We feel that Kogo, Idgu & Watanabe are responsible for the Jap plane being here, namely that if the Japanese are still in control what right have the internees etc to send away the sick?

A meeting was called for 8.30 p.m.

Love Ida

August 19, 1945 ...

19th August 1945

My dear:

We had our Victory Mass during which the Last Post was sounded for those killed. Father Rutherford gave a very appropriate sermon, but Father Geryisling, S.J, and his long drawn out singing was terrible. The second verse to his last hymn was sung to a practically empty hall.

I understand at the meeting last night that the Japanese showed their anger at the presence of Tipton & Hummel. The Major seemed to have asked the question “who won the war” - and expounded on his duty to protect all allied citizens regardless of reasons. However I understand Tipton & Hummel left camp this a.m. whether permanently or not I don’t know.

A proclamation from G. Affairs was posted yesterday morning to the effect that those wishing to evacuate were to give in their names. Jean Milne & Phyllis Watson, as well as Kay Hall and Emma Allen. Nathan discouraged everyone and gave to understand that they could not rely upon assistance from the Administration. So subsequently only Kay Hall & Emma Allen retained their names. Kay I suppose has an eye to business too - Teddy would most certainly need her assistance.

Egger apparently when he arrived on Friday morning was taken aback by the internee policeman opening the door for him. He asked whether American planes had been seen? Yes, he was told what’s more there are six airmen here! And yet that night at a dinner party where he was a guest of Joya’s at which the Robinsons were also co-guests he made out that he knew everything.

Robbie has had a long chat with one of the airmen and these are the juicy bits:-

Out of the 20,000 American prisoners at Corrigedor only about 800 survive the others tortured, starved or being bayonet practised on till death.

Despite this type of cruelty Germans are worse: one ‘chutist dropped behind the lines in Italy and witnessed several thousands weak, emaciated Russian prisoners being torn to death by 20 odd German wolf hounds. The hounds were given a certain time limit in which to do their darndest.

The Atomic bomb was the result of pooled resources of the Allies. Not one country is the sole owner. A spoonful of the bomb dropped into the Colorado raised temperature by 5deg for a length of 40 miles.

Used the 2 on Japan as coup de grace.

The Okinawa battle took longer than anticipated as defense was good. For instance, all rocky elevations fortified, but tunnels were excavated from fortress down to beach, so when the Americans thought they had captured the post the Japanese would emerge from the well camouflaged beach exit and start all over again. Eventually tankers were beached and pipelines laid to caves, crevices etc. filling them with oil and igniting them.

That is how that evil has been overcome. Apparently Japanese camouflage superb-undetectable.

Sid says the Russians discovered an underground concrete city with tunnels opening into Russian & sufficient supplies for 10 years!

Dr Grice has gone off to Weihsien to attend to Japanese Colonel suffering from apoplexy.

Jock Allan who went into Weihsien yesterday saw Chinese were in process of tearing down Japanese posters - showing the Chinese now rule Weihsien.

Amazing how these handful guards walk around steadfastly & arrogantly as lords of the property still.

The utter crass!

Love Ida

August 20, 1945 ...

20-8-45

My dear:

Woke up feeling leaden this a.m. too much sleeping draught.

However eventually at 7.40 a.m. got up meanwhile dear Sid had gotten everything ready even put the potatoes to fry on the fire. Decided to buy eggs over the wall.

You would never believe it were possible the way the hawkers come inside the barbed wire right to the base of our wall, shouting their wares of cigarettes 4 pkt of 10 for $100 - melon for $500, 2 eggs for $100. Reminded me of ship rail purchasing at Tangiers or Colombo. One has to lower a bag or basket. Young Bobby Odds dashed home with Meiki Paternoster (camp scamp) seeing money on the table grabbed it, got himself lifted on the wall & purchased a small melon for all he had (several thousand dollars). Bobby proudly brought in the melon, when Mrs Odds heard how he got when almost frantic, and eventually all but $600 was recovered.

The ‘chutists live in No 29 and all day until lights out then children sit around waiting for the ‘chutists to come out, when they do whether its to go to the shower, lavatory or business, dozens of children hang on their arms.

Voyce Kopperes Cameron has made a dead set for Sparks, but he is always on duty so she spotted the Major one day and said to him “I’ve got a friend who is a wireless operator, couldn’t you give a day off to Sparkes and let my friend take his place? --” it isn’t not because he is a wireless operator that he cannot get time off it is because he knows the code!”

11.50a.m. Some American troops have just come in. Their plane had to make an emergency stop from Korea where they went to see the prisoners of war but were refused by the Japanese, so they say they are now on their way back to Sian. Eva Welsch, Majorie Thomas & Vera Cooke collared the first fellow and armed him home. He says more are expected.

2.30p.m.
Donald H. Gill tells me that one of the chaps who came in today had been in a German prison camp & escaped together with a chap of whom he lost sight in Russia, and met face to face together for the first time in Weihsien.

Another went chasing all over for a Miss Meadows as he had a message for her from her brother Jack Meadows who was in a prison camp. Not until after he was almost desperate that someone mentioned Grace Hopeful. She was Grace Meadows!

11p.m.
The Victory Supper Dance over. Mr Hennings, Billinghurst Robinsons & Talbots had our eats in our house and had our benches on the ballfield under our windows. Managed to see the floor shows. Mrs Balliany was magnificent and Betty Lambert in her Hula hula received several big hands.

The Press Photographer of the airbornes was sober enough to take pictures up to Balliary Torch Singing.

We got to talking to Jim More the C.I.M. He got peeved when I tactlessly, purposely told him I thought Bruce narrow minded as hell. However he dances like an experienced dancer and certainly can push it back. They’re still singing orchr chornia under our window - Balliancy. Boy she’s hot.

Then I witnessed the departure of the 12 Airborne for their ship 2 fellows rendered the St Louis Blues with variations - it was good entertainment. George Beck accompanied them on the guitar.

Before I forget I must ‘fess poor Mrs Pryor had an embarrassing few moments when there so much noise so that she couldn’t commence her song. Eventually she did.

Goodnight. Love Ida

P.S. A plane overflew at 5p.m. whilst Mrs Ore’s tea party was on, of course it just spoilt the party as we all dashed out. Soon after I had to leave as I had a Home Committee meeting for the distribution of vests, underpants & socks handed in by the Weihsien City elders.

Also forgot to mention that a plane came over early in the p.m. and dropped pamphlets.They came a week too late. Had we had these Monday or Sunday they certainly would have stimulated us no end.

(affiche attached)
Looking back on 15-8-45 the internees literally seized the camp, when we had decided that war was over - and what’s more the internees brought the ‘chutists in, if we had not streamed out in our full numbers who can tell what the attitude of the Japanese would have been in the light of what happened to the Korean Mission. This is the story as I got in from John Watson:

The Mission was sent to Korea to inspect and give medical aid to the prisoners of war.

500 miles out they wired the Jap Authorities for safe conduct which they received.

They landed when the purpose of their mission was exposed they were refused permission to visit the camp and herded into a room.

Presently 2 tanks rolled up with all guns trained on them. Eventually they were forced to take to the air again. Much to their apprehensive 2 Jap fighters took to the air after them, as if they had been challenged and downed over the sea no one would have lived to tell the tale.

However they landed safely in Weihsien.

[click here]

August 22, 1945 ...

22 - 8 - 45

My dear:

The Japs are still trying to show who runs the camp.

The airbornes returning from the airport this a.m. were kept waiting at least 20 mins. At the gate Red tape I hear, probably will know all about it soon. Apparently the Americans with Discipline and the Japanese agreed to cease the practice of free entrance. This morning Major Staiger forgot to advise the Japs that these Americans were coming in! Apologies exchanged!

The camp is in such a state of turmoil. No one can settle down to anything; more frequently than not there is not water to be had. Mitchell with one assistant cooked for three whole days.

Benny Rogard got ticked off by the Major for shooting his mouth off about “we Americans” doing this and that in this was we should say “we & the allies”. Its going around so fast that it must reach him v. soon. we exchanged a bundle of old clothes over the wall for sugar, eggs 2 chickens & corn. I don’t think we had the better of the bargain, but Robbie did when he received 7 eggs for his well known holey flannels.

Captain Sergant, a member of the Korean Mission, was a member of the Presbyterian Mission 13 years ago and taught at Chiloo, Tsinan. He left due to pressure of his superior. Old septuagenarian, Davies is being kinder than those days and has spent much time with Captain Sergant, he even may return to mission work after demobilization.

Lt. Col Bird of the Rangers within 8 days of leaving Washington visited London, Paris, Rome, Cairo, Karchi, Kunming, Sian, Korea & Weihsien. Isn’t it a marvellous thought that travel is easy and distance of no account.

A plane came today, but we understand only gasoline supplies came for the Korean Mission. Understand they’re going tomorrow.

Since yesterday we have been having so much food from the kitchen and which regretfully we are unable to consume. Last night we receive 1 apple, tomato, mayonnaise & date cake. Today we received each egg, apple & tomato. Another apple with our tomato soup! Heavens how restless we are. Every time the purr of an engine is heard we just drop our work to listen more attentively.

One lady said to Hummel that his flight had put some hardship on to the camp. “Maybe,” says Hummel, “ but I did a lot for you.”

August 22, 1945 ...

22 - 8 - 45

My dear:

At seven today the Korean Mission plane flew away: I didn’t have the energy to run out to wave it good bye. Captain Gengin has been left behind. Although ‘tis rumoured that half their number is still in Weihsien. Egger popped in again apparently he couldn’t get away. He gave the Committee 2 million F.R.B. $ with which to buy additional food. We had 2 eggs, & apple for brekker; for supper 2 eggs, 1 potato, 1 cucumber, 1 tomato & salad dressing. I had to open a tin of salmon to add to the meal.

These Americans are frightfully accommodating and willing & pleasantly answer all questions. I spent 2 hours with Captain Gengin this afternoon. I asked him all sorts of questions. He confirmed that the Germans were within sight of Alexandria, but a miracle turned the tide against Rommel. The British laid a pipeline for fresh water. After one of the battles it was exposed, the thirsty Germans riddled it for water - but were rendered mad by the salt water. It happened that the British engineers were trying out the pipeline with salt water.

The Govern. General of Crete was kidnapped by the British in what seemed a child play fashion. They rowed out to Crete, stopped his car by point of gun and took him to Alexandria, or Cairo, leaving a note in the car to the effect that they were sorry to have to leave it as it was a beautiful car.

The night before the Italians invited Maj. Staiger to speak to them about Italy, he declined the invitation as he had not been to Italy but sent Lt. Harney who had seen fighting in Italy. He ended up saying that it would take Italy 50 years to make the south livable, and that the Fascists were cruel even to their own folks and would have been every inch as cruel as the Germans had they had the guts! He said he would not be responsible for his actions if he came face to face with a Fascist. I wonder Bruno Permey & Mario Prodon liked it.

I don’t know whether it was the same group leader or not, but Yankee talking to a group describing horrors of Nazi cruelty to prisoners in conclusion said “ my hatred for the Germans will never be quenched” - let me get hold of a Nazi - ...Mrs Gerber an Nazi par excellence silently slunk away - the spokesman was indicated

Another describing the bestiality of the Japanese to Miss Phillionne who replied “surely not all the Japanese are bad & cruel.” - “No ma’am but there are so few of them that it isn’t worth our while weeding them out.

Went to Stan & Eileen Avery’s wedding anniversary - 14th - we had delightful coffee & an apple pie made by Stan with a huge knob erect in the centre which let loose Robbie’s tongue, much vulgar & low remarks were made. Eva Welsch & Marj Thomas had a party at the far corner of the tower & what a row was made. Despite my sleeping draught I was unable to fall off, so have reported the matter to Discipline & suggested that perhaps the Camp Police might to make a tour of the camp at light’s out.

The bread was lousy due to moribund yeast. Sid told Chapman in no uncertain terms regarding his opinion - and we hear Gerry Luckers has left the Yeast Making Dept.

I had an amazing experience. The villagers are now allowed to sell their wares to us internees during certain hours of the day. They are numbered by the hundreds and line both sides of the lane about 5 minutes’ walk from the camp.

The shouting, the laughter, the bargaining made a terrific din but the most amusing part of seeing the internees swarm down with baskets, boxes, pails of old clothes, good clothes, tin cans etc. and return with grapes, soap, cigarettes, apples, eggs, chicken. What a gorgeous, colourful bustle.

Bought 3 boxes of talcum & 1 lb joss sticks for $250. We seem to have so much sugar now but I don’t know what to do with it all

August 24, 1945 ...

24 - 8 - 45

Still no planes; no supplies & no reinforcements. Many of us are giving way, I’m afraid. Our nerves can no longer .. the strain. The very sick have been told since last Saturday that they will only be given half hour .... prior departure. They’re here. Tonight, O.T. Barnes tells us that in the Major’s (Marj. Slaiger’s) opinion we will leave by the end of next week. Went out to market twice today. Got Soya sauce & heaps of delightful apples.

I baked apples & stewed apples and baked custard for children, our stomachs are being satisfied, but our nerves are taut, the children are suffering.

Passed by the moongate, where the Yankees are living and where they have their meals. Saw Musley woman supervising with Joy Welbourne & another helping. With crowds of children sitting outside waiting for the meal to end so that they can met the men.

Betty & Dicky clean out the rooms & seem to enjoy domestic work for such romantic guys. Robbie obtained a ‘moon & 3 stars’ bottle but bottled in Tientsin - so it isn’t so hot. Goodnight my dear, its thundering & lightening without so I expect we’ll have rain.

love Ida

August 25, 1945 ...

25 - 8 - 45

My dear:

The long waited for plane arrived at about 5.30 - oh what a marvellous sight it was.

She had to describe a huge circle before she overflew the cross of the green in the vicinity of which parachutes comforts were dropped. We first sent 3 green verey lights then a green smoke screen, then a yellow & followed by a green. Hear 7000 odd pkts of cigarettes & lots of chocolate as well as 3 oz tins plum puddings etc. have arrived. We are just wondering how they’ll be shared out.

The Maj. was somewhat cross with the Japanese Authorities. He apparently shouts at them and altogether adopts a non-quiescent attitude. He told them that it was decided to alter the time to Greenwich time, no longer recognise Tokyo and therefore everything appertaining to it. Then said the Japanese the lights will have to be put out earlier. Oh no, replied the Major, it is exactly for such contingencies as these that they were here, and it would be no trouble at all to take the switch over.

The Major has decided that all the packing cases in which the comforts came would have to be restored to the camp by Sunday.”Then belong not to the camp.”

Al. Voyce, radiant with joy, showed us his recommendation on General Order No 1 as Interpreter to the United States Army in China signed by the Major. His future could easily be set if he were willing to take on such a job in Japan during the occupation and a gold dollar bonus after this internship.

To.... Tad Nagaki of the U.S.A. was promoted to Sergeant by Wimsley. I wonder why he has been singled out for so much notice?

General Thomas reads us wireless news thrice daily. Perhaps it isn’t as exciting to hearing the news direct from wireless in our own room but still.

Hummell seemed to indicate that he was disappointed in his achievement or rather non achievements. He hoped to do more for us than did. But still he kept us supplied with news via ‘rumours.’

Today a Chinese vendor was caught selling salt instead sugar, as a result was thrown into the creek followed by his goods. My long green padded gown does not seem to fetch much. Artificial silk has no market. They won’t even give me a tin of Chinese condensed milk for it! Strange.

We hoped it would rain last night so that the heat would break, but no such luck. it is still extremely hot.

By appointment I went to the Vio’s to help her cut out a short fur Tony. I had forgotten about until I saw her emerge with Bridie to go to the Market which was 3.20 I tried to get through to the Market but people were turned back on account of the possibility of the plane arriving. Didn’t see Vi & was straight to her home. Dr Vio invited me in & gave me a cup of tea. However I waited & waited - eventually and decided to cut it out. I did. Dr Vio was livid. He fetched his wife, but didn’t return. Pants crazy.

After the radio broadcast Gerry Thomas told a story of Robbie: Robbie’s problem has been water – professionally, exchanged difficulties with Colonel Stewart. The U.S. Army too had to contend with illness due to bad drinking water. So they got into a huddle & the Colonel told him was quite simple:-
Boil all your water
- yes -
Put it into a ordinary house filter.
- yes, then what
- then we all drink canned beer.

Bought 2 lemonade bottles of genuine Pai Kel for $500 apiece.

Love, Ida

August 27, 1945 ...

27 - 8 - 45

My dear:

Our long promised parachute stores arrived on Saturday.

What excitement there was. The folks cheered and went wild. It was the Armoured Angels which dropped the comforts, and he flew so low that we could actually see the man look back to see the landing place of the parachute.

Druse was commissioned to purchase on our behalf 2 lemonade bottles of Paikel for eggnog for Sunday. But he became so completely non compus that it was actually comical. He lay on the Council Square opposite No 23 carried on a lively argument with himself. He deceived himself so well that one kind hearted chap got out of bed to arbitrate and he saw that Druse was alone.

On Sunday a.m. I went early to Mass had a hefty breakfast of omelette, fried potatoes & tomatoes. Then went to market. Got 3 tins Condensed milk with which I made fudge, it was ripping. I had forgotten how to make it, but all came back as a shot. Then I proceeded to make apple & custard pies, there was so much interruptions that it was not till 7 p.m. that I realised I forgot to put shortening in the pastry. I was distressed but nought be done. One small bottle materialised I was glad to be able to treat Allan. Elsie enjoyed it too - I fear her former abhorence of alcohol was purely psychological - she confessed if she had too many her face looked a mess - and perhaps too she indulged too old maidenish mahjongg pals. Robbie and ourselves have altered her outlook.

Onjce Camereon she chases them so hard that Lt. Hannam actually doesn’t come down to a meal when she serves.

Tommy Churchill told me whilst baking my tanghse cookies that yesterday he had had a lovely chicken. This is how he got it. Booboo came along & asked him how to kill a kitchen(sic) Says Tommy, you can either shoot, drop an atomic bomb on it or chop its head off with an ax or wring its neck.’ He goes off quite happily. Presently Alice arrives weeping. ‘Please take the chicken. Booboo pulled his neck and it is still flopping around. The girls and I have decided not to eat it, will you take it.’ That’s how he acquired it.

We have a most exciting day, say about tea our friend the armoured angel arrived, and flew round & round, presently joined by another then by another. finally they were ten. The Angel dropped leaflets telling us of the surrender of Japan.

One packet failed to open dropping into Paula Dreggs wash tub & smashed it to smithereens.

Then they started dropping the foodstuff. Only our old friend dropped on the white cross. But some parachutes didn’t open, others came away from the ‘chutes so far the damage is reckoned at 25%.

My what a day. Then from about noon at 5 p.m. I helped wash the dirty tins. Then I organised the heaping of the tins.

Lt. Hannan was taking a picture of the pile of Camp bells ... whilst I was piling them, so I may be in on it. One of the last drums, this is two petrol drums soldered together but 1 had been smashed to smithereens and there was a river of chocolate running out comprised of chocolate, cocoa, smashed evap. milk, & says the kids were having a grand time!

Then Gryce Ladow comes in to help. I unconsciously watched him, but enough, he picked a good tin threw it to Roccocucci to take to Helen, Old Roccocucci did the same. Denny Carter I hear has collected 30 tablets chocolate! How and when will thieving cease.

Jimmy Jamieson caught Gryce Ladow swiping cigarettes, when the retrieved parcels were being brought in, and alluded to it vociferously. A few seconds later Gryce caught Jimmy. Then the fun started. Jimmy said you needn’t broadcast it. Why not you shouted out misdemeanour .. loud enough. Jimmy’s parting shot, very ineffective as it was ‘when I want a cigarette I buy one.’

It certainly was a marvellous sight seeing those planes zooming overhead. They came from Okinawa where there are sufficient supplies for 3 years! Tonight we received what the Circular leaflet promised us - 2 truck loads full - and I am told we can anticipate 3 cartons each,. These were landed by plane this p.m.

Last night I understand a plane came down and brought in much ammunition. And much firing was heard outside. Yenan troops & Chungking troops scrapping. I understand Tipton & Hummel are fed up not being able to join pals. Major Staiger positively refuses.

One parcel fell into the stream so that must be considered a dead loss.

Had marvellous supper; pork & beans, fruit salad, vanilla custard & corn. Do you know we are getting so much food we simply can’t eat. There is no question of making cake etc. for tea, as we no longer have tea.

The Americans are having a reception to welcome the Yankees. We feel it is not tactful, as the present day effort is not for the allies to consider themselves a separate unit when it suits them but always to consider themselves members of the Allied Nations - Mr Hinkly, ...Pike, Geness don’t see that although Americans of their type love to generalise they couldn’t look upon themselves through the same microscope.

A. Thomas gave a ...... after the news - Someone informed the Officer about our deluge on the 1st- 4th July.. He was lukewarmly interested. He said they flew through a rain storm too, resembling the deluge - ‘What’s a deluge?’ - Don’t you know about the deluge, Noah, the Ark,....etc’ - No I don’t, we have received papers for 4 or 5 days!

Good night Love Ida

August 28, 1945 ...

28 - 8 - 45

My dear:

I am alarmed. My memory is definitely escaping. Had a date this p.m. with Mrs Hubbard & Mrs King which I failed to keep although I remembered on my way to the shower. When I returned, seeing my empty egg basket, I decided to go down to the fair exchange old clothes. I got 6 eggs, 12oz sugar & 1 tin sweetened condensed milk. The exchange, I confess, did not prove my capabilities as bargaining but there you are, I feel these clothes would be left behind anyway. The man was Tommy Wade’s blackmarketer man, and he was responsible for the 24 bags of sugar coming over that memorable morning when the Japs fired at them and Robbie & I thought we were the targets. How we shivered in bed.

I will try to get Paikel with Druse tomorrow. That is I’ll meet him there & try to get the stuff in.

The sick, 12 all told left this a.m. Apparently Maj.Staiger did not advise them of this move till 9 p.m. Robbie was hauled away from his bridge to write down cases for the extra people included. Girlie burst into tears on the ballfield when she waved to the plane her pa was travelling in, I realised it was from the bitterness of regretful knowledge that she might have done more for him. He is not anticipating to leave Kunming. Although miracles do happen and this great anticipation at even such a time of life might help to restore and give him a longer lease.

I made 2 sponge cakes for the first time in my life. One for Sid as he has insisted upon apple jam filling, I am going to put in custard filling plus walnuts. Much to my surprise the children have finished all the fudge & tangtse cookies. Yet Christine was hungry tonight and would only eat plain bread. We are really having a surfeit of the sweet things. I am longing for cocktails & anchovies.

I have been damned tired out today, and yet there is a crowd outside under the Assembly Hall trees - they seem to be waiting for something to turn up.

The most amazing sight and without its parallel in history, I guarantee, is the sight of Japanese Guards, fully armed on trucks bringing in supplies from the airfield. F....ly the Japanese being here to protect us. Of course the Japanese, in my opinion, have lost the War in a manner totally differently from the Germans. China did not beat him, nor did Dutch East Indies, India Malaya. Perhaps that is why they treat their defeat differently.

Told Margot Bishop at the shower that Jack ..still fly over to fetch him or to visit her. Since the ... & Peking Concentration Camp have been freed. Robbie is furious that in the world news Weishien is stated as being slightly under weight & only 10% hospitalization.

My sleeping draught is working.

Goodnight. Love Ida

P.S. In my dreams last night your refused to see me. Your boy said you were sleeping. I went round to the front & saw your eyes flickering I was distressed needless to say. Ida.

August 28, 1945 ...

28 - 8 - 45

My dear:

I have been so over anxious about the safety and well being my brother Arthur that I felt sick to heart all day - capped by the horror stories carried by all the magazines which have come in.

Each alley has been allocated six papers. What papers. However I decided to see Majot Staiger in order to try and get a message through the War Office. He was busy, but Lt Hannon was in the Major’s office and I told him of my trouble. He solved it for me, as I thought beautifully, by stating my case to the HBM Consul General Chungking I did. This evening I took the letter to him and drew his attention to the fact that the envelope wasn’t stuck down. I saw him putting my letter in the envelope as it was, with the added remark that he would send any other I wished. I thanked him. He said he was very happy to have been of assistance!

Today we received chocolate & chicklets & umpteen tins of stuff as well as 3 cartons of U.S. cigarettes each as well as 2 towels & 5 hankies - all adake Tomorrow I believe the clothing will be handed tomorrow.

I went to the village with Girlie and bought 1 large bottle Paikel for $1000 as well as a bad imitation whisky. Mrs Bonnar and I bought the latter which turned out to be a watered paikel, so he refused to pay full price only the price of a paikel.

I understand an allied mission is expected in soon, either to replace the present group or to supplement it - some British are expected in among the lot.

I oughtn’t be writing much have had some alcohol from Robbies and now we’re going there to have some eggnog & coffee.

Goodnight Love Ida

P.S. Gerry Thomas’ joke was: A Central European lady went to the market and told him she had bought a roadster. ‘oh’, says Gerry, I didn’t know you could buy cars there’. The lady half down the road stopped ‘ you think you are smart, not motor car but - a - chicken husband!

August 30, 1945 ...

30 - 8 - 45

My dear;

I fear, deep in my heart, today is a sad day for me. Sid discovered the location of Stalag VIII B - the Lambsdorf camp Arthur lived in till January 23 1945 - I pray to God he is alive and well but I wonder. How could he have survived all that brutality - if he does how will England ever repay him and his kind for what they went through!

A plane came over after mid-day, she didn’t circle much - understand must have been the mail plane.

Saw Pop Greenland later with a variety of letters in his hand even a German War Prisoner letter - I recognised the form.

Sid received another pair American boots, we all received webb belts, hats. Also 1 cake camay & 1 tube Colgate.

Yesterday we each also received Nylon tooth brushes. Tonight our kitchen supper consisted of 1 cucumber.1 potato, 1 pear & 1 baked apple. Fortunately for us we had Campbell’s soup, of which we opened 3 tins,which were still insufficient for a meal.

We have in the house Life dated May 21st - There are quite a few mags. in camp, and we are starting to twig in to what the world has been thinking & suffering. Fantastic that on that 8th August we bamboozled Japs into believing War was over and took over the camp! Hummel & Tipton of course were responsible for it coming but then they heard the phoney message from ‘Fristo “the war with Japanese over”.

I see in the States a price is on the head of the one who did that - but who knows the prankster did bring the end sooner by a few days? ( see many supposed to be experts expected the war to last another one or 2 years!

Mrs Bar wants to exchange a pair of shoes for undies and sell a lipstick for $2000 - I am tempted but she is too expensive. Fancy pricing her Bata canvas shoes at $5000.

I suppose’ll have to start weeding out the goats from the sheep - but simply don’t know how to start - where to.

Yesterday we had to state what our destination was, and today we have had to give the address: My dear, you’ll be welcoming us soon. I wonder how glad you’ll be? I am trying my hardest to save some ‘merican things for you. As long as we’re getting enough to get along with I’ll have no difficulty - but somehow I anticipate difficult days ahead.

Shots are being fired every night. Posters in Chinese advising patriots that this is an allied civilian camp etc have been posted at strategic places. Understand the Yenanese are quite close here.

Goodnight, my dear. Love Ida

August 31, 1945 ...

31st/8/45

My dear:

I forgot to include another old chestnut of Gerry Thomas’: Mrs Grice went to the library & borrowed book. At noon she had no time to read it, but at night she got her book and asked Liesee: ‘Did you tear some pages out of the book?’ - N’mummy.’ - Then she asked Dr Grice. ‘No, says he, I don’t think so - oh, may be I did.’ Let me see, its the appendix of course, I may have taken it out unconsciously.

We bade farewell to the Hope Gills, Buses, Franches, 3 Paikui children & 2 Bartons & Mme Gauffinet.

Forgot that early this morning, Sid on the way round the corner saw a truckload of Khaki, he thought at first they were Chinese, but when he saw them wave he dashed up closer. They were Yanks all right.- The Attie girl popped a sleepy head out, but when her eyes confirmed her thought she dashed it in, and in no time popped out fully dressed & painted up.

We were bucked up no end to learn that several hundred pounds of coffee were brought here, but the Colonel is a tough bozo. He has decided that all foodstuff should be centralised, he doesn’t realise that this camp lives much at home. All meals are brought home, and by far the pleasantest meal is the elevenses and p.m. eightses.

To illustrate him - he popped in to the common room and asked ‘ who is p.m.o. here?’
‘I am’ replied Dr Grice
- ‘Pleased to meet you,’ was the retort, anything you require?’
- A requisition has already been sent in,’ says Grice.
‘No good, send in new one! Then he wanted one of the out- of-bound houses for his troopers, but the Japanese told him they’d have to refer to Tsingtao.
‘Is that so, clear out now’ - and one house was cleared for him. He is now putting Major Staiger into redundant position. Wonder what’ll happen.

We have much duet firing tonight and a huge fire is in progress Weihsien. It is feared that perhaps the 8th Route are trying to take Weihsien City. Sid was up in the tower where the Japanese are on guard and they were facetiously saying to each other ‘Where is the Major?’ I wonder what the joke is.

Heard that the new Yanks are surprised to see so many children here, never seen so many at one time. Of course to come to think of it out of 1450 strong 1125 are registered smokers, that is no one in amongst the 1125 being under 18 and the rest children ranging from 6 months to 17 yrs -

This afternoon American Army issues were given out - within an hour hosts of men, women & children could be seen in khaki slacks, shirts & caps. This camp will soon look like a military camp. We are to have films, soon too - at least then we will be a good deal ahead of you, as we are bound to see the most uptodate films, the U.S. Gov. knows how to keep its fighting folk happy.

Understand a lone American flier, brought down by Japanese but landed in robber area. He has been there for quite a while, and the German priest who negotiated for Hummel’s & Tipton’s release has been in several times with messages from the Robber General regarding his captive.

But of no avail as the Major has no authority to jeopardise life of internee - the Chineses General wanted an American to meet him half way.

His condition I believe is official recognition by Chungking. So German Priest is now armed with power of attorney to act on behalf American Major.

Gerry Thomas told a few funny ones regarding the issue today:

overhead one man describes to another the qualities of the American boots - what size do you wear, ‘usually No 9’ but today I went into No 1 kitchen tried No 10s they fitted so well that I am taking size 11s When Dick Parry ( weighing about 300lbs) went up for trousers and gave size 42. He was told they did not handle bell tents. Now he is asking for two 21s and Mrs Potter of the Sewing Room will cut them out at the aerodrome.