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XX

I would give plenty to write in detail the happenings of the past month. It's potential drama. The trek I was detailed for was a decided success besides being a memorable
experience. It was an honour indeed to be entrusted with the responsibilty as vague as it may appear to you. Nine boys
made it a veritable safari. They couldn't do enough for me. Surley it's their element. We roughed it as no one has before. The stars alone & wog infested earth was my bed-
chamber. Rann lusi (no water) but who'd thirst with coconuts so plentiful. My tongue was like leather when the hills had to be climbed. We had underestimated the time
necessary to complete the job so we stayed while food lusted I arrived back last night weary but happy. Today I have developed a heavy cold - probably through taking my swims after dark. My batman had bout of fever since we carried no quinine. After midnight - the following is one of the many concidences that have happened latley. I was
about to tell you of my no1 boy on the trip. The most likeable rougish looking native in camp. The orderly entered saying how he had left our rouge at Kaki -kawa (mad). The last
hour or so has been spent bringing him back to hospital. It's a very rare case since betel nut chewing is forbidden. I hope for his recovery - he's one of my best. Funny, we found patients missing when we entered. A town boy died in the room yesterday & fear of strange spirits had prompted them to sleep in the main quaters. I told them a few of yours to give them courage.