H. & S. B. C.
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thanks for you letter of 16th received to-day - very swift service or did you get the date wrong? No - I see it is stamped the 18th!
Sungei Patani is well past now and Penang much the same as ever. Don't think you can have much idea of my work here. I don't actually handle cash except when checking the treasury at night. By "paying out planters" I meant the respective increase in volume of work therefrom. Once their cash is paid they can then pay clubs bills, food, rental, remittances home etc. etc. and the work for a few days merely snowballs itself into circles until it is finally smooths away to normality.
The radio is quite good here though I don't seem to be listening to it much lately. Funny you should mention it though as I may do a short broadcast soon - one of those half hour choice of records or something - its a pity I can never remember the names of things but no doubt shall get round it somehow.
Hope Alan's spot of dentistry has passed off alright. Am having three stoppings done myself. Quite a good dentist Chinese and probably trained in America.
Hope that there is nothing seriously wrong with Henry and that the incident is favourable. Its as well to have a thorough check up though and should anything be wrong it can be put right.
Had a letter from Mrs Shewan, Saigon, yesterday and learn that it is really hot there and more to come. They evidently spend most of the day in bed coming to life in the early evening and early morning.
Am now swimming on my back - a thing I had not done before coming here. Unfortunately I tend to go off to sleep every now and again swallowing any amount of water in the process. Children seem to live in the water here and appear to have no fear of it al all. They dive and jump and splash without respect for hight or deep end - its fun to watch them.
Singapore have evidently realized that cost of living has gone up and (with the Government) have increased our allowance by 25% of the basic - about $1200 per year. As this will cover my payments for the car it is welcome and I won't notice the deductions.
Couldn't get Canadian nylons - but sent Margaret 1pr American for approval and on receipt of further instructions shall be pleased to dispatch more. Think I can send them one at a time through the mail packet and a pair per month should be easily accomplished.
Plans are being laid for the opening of the new office in May and evidently most of Penang will be invited. The No 1 from Singapore will be down to open it and champagne will flow from the strong room. Only hope they manage to complete it in time as the finishing date has altered time without number.
My friend here Peter Ogilvy-Stuart has bought a half share in a sailing dinghy and expect some sport from some. Its not good sailing in these waters but it will provide lots of interest.
The bank's annual report was very good and heard that it had a big write up in the Financial Times - expect Dad saw it. Imagine the profits will not be so large this coming year as the American Hongkong trade has virtually ceased. Tin and Rubber are the mainstay in Malaya of course and with luck they won't go under just yet. Jute market seems to be springing up in Calcutta and Japan trade is still go ahead.
By the time you receive this I shall have been out cast a good six months - the fastest spot of time I've known - where it goes to is hard to imagine the weeks just seem to flit by.
Hope your Spring has really arrived and your Easter holiday is a good one,
Best wishes and love,
Peter
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
10.3.51
Hongkong & Shanghai Bankg.Corpn.
Sungei Patani,
Kedah,
FofM.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thanks very much for your two letters in one received a little late owing to the fact that it had to come via the Penang office. No worry for future letters however as I return to my parent office tomorrow.
Think that you now have all the details of the car, but in case I did not mention the colour, it is light grey, a fairly common colour since the war and it does suit this model. Have now passed the four hundred mark and will have completed the initial running in period by Monday. it will then have its first servicing with more to follow once per month thereafter.
Should you not manage the Digest idea, I have remembered another stunt which I have always been keen on, but have not done and that is the "book club". Many people out here have a subscription and are well satisfied with the results.
The area of Malaya that surrounds S. Patani is known as one of the richest in vegetation in the world and indeed its luxurious greeness is unexapable. I have now passed through three small areas from the coast, commencing from the disembarkation point at Butterworth, the coast town opposite Penang and as soon as one is out of the town and passed the airport, the road is lined with palms. The tallest, greenest and most gracefull palms one could wish for and there are enough to fill all the stories of the tropics and desert islands etc. The road at this point runs close to the sea and as the sun was setting on my first trip up country the picture of palms swaying against water coloured gently by the then disappearing sunset, was most easternish. It is only when one catches a glimpse, like this, that it bourne in on one that this is not dear old England avec snow, rain, hail etc. and one is actually in the Flaming East.
Very soon the road branches due north and enters the area solid with rubber. Trees in line with the red winding gash for tapping, marked with peculiar black crosses and lines denoting, presumably, age and quality and probably yeld also. Easch has a little cup attached, about two feet from the base of the trunk -, but this item is common knowledge even though when first seen "in the flesh" it comes as a shock to realise that the geography books were not just kidding. Sugei Patani is in the middle of this particular patch of rubber and it is not, therefore, until about twelve miles out on the other side of the town that it ceases and abruptly becomes "paddy". Rich once more, this time the commodity is nearer the needs of the people but not nearly enough as far as the quantity goes as, with sugar, rice is one of the two rationed items in the Federation.
Yesterday, being the Muslim Sabbath, we had our usual Friday off in place of Saturday, and I took a drive out that way. It was most picturesque, the fields being patterned with the varying shade of scorched stubble and containing the resting beasts of burden, the weirdly long horned cow, wollowing in the mud holes or placidly chewing at anything green within reach.
It was nice of Mrs Brooks to wish to be remembered to meand I'd be pleased if you would give my thanks.
I have no wish to keep the Bank Employee's effort up and thought I had told them so .... am sure of it in fact.
Am glad to hear that the market situation is improving though think you will have found it dwon a bit since writing. Chota ....I have not been able to get any definite info., but have found that the plantation is in the Kuala Lumpar district quite away south from here. The area given is roughly that of 750 acres and you can check this too. Talking it over with the district Public Works Office engineer, who knows this country (not the firm) he gave it as his opinion that such a small acerage could never be a good profit making concern and that if at the present time a Div. has not been declared it never will be. Rubber is around a peak perios and I think you will agree. If you can sell now showing some profit, though small I should certainly do so. Heard from the same source about a small well balanced gold mining concern which is supposed to be "go ahead" with a good manager and certain new equipment which should be worth investigation. The marking is now on the upgrade, though tens to fluctuate for no apparent reason. The proper name Im not sure of. It is at RAUB and is probably entitled Raub Gold something. It may not of course have a London marking and dividends may be subject to Malayan Income Tax. However will provide you with some interesting research, knowing your interest in all things gold and not remembering you mention anything out here. In tin Eastern Smelting is the big number with the banks. Glad Reg has at last made a purchase and see he has an eye on you as a future recruit to the great game of bowls.
My week in an exalted position is now at a close, Everything passed off satisfactory and I am now spending the Sat. aft. & evening here. The Sub Agent returned on Thursday but has used the intervening time for recuperation and has now taken over. Official letters were passed regarding the business so it is pleasing to know that both Singapore and Hongkong will have it on record.
John Seaton is out of hospital and is having 3 wks sick leave. Has not yet had an op. as the dysentry had to be cleared first. It may not now be necessary but is seeing the surgeon this week for a check.
Have not met the man who came down to Penang to relieve me and as I have decided to stay on till tomorrow shall now miss him. The food and surroundings are so pleasant here that I could not resist the extra time spent with them.
Thats about all for the moment -
Cheerio and Love Peter
(There is a diagram on the back of this letter showing the positions of S Patani and Butterworth by the Indian Ocean.)
P.S. Ian will know H. Davies as he acted in London as Sub Manager between tours last year and has a step daughter in Telegrams.
Sungei Patani,
Kedah,
FofM.
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thanks very much for your two letters in one received a little late owing to the fact that it had to come via the Penang office. No worry for future letters however as I return to my parent office tomorrow.
Think that you now have all the details of the car, but in case I did not mention the colour, it is light grey, a fairly common colour since the war and it does suit this model. Have now passed the four hundred mark and will have completed the initial running in period by Monday. it will then have its first servicing with more to follow once per month thereafter.
Should you not manage the Digest idea, I have remembered another stunt which I have always been keen on, but have not done and that is the "book club". Many people out here have a subscription and are well satisfied with the results.
The area of Malaya that surrounds S. Patani is known as one of the richest in vegetation in the world and indeed its luxurious greeness is unexapable. I have now passed through three small areas from the coast, commencing from the disembarkation point at Butterworth, the coast town opposite Penang and as soon as one is out of the town and passed the airport, the road is lined with palms. The tallest, greenest and most gracefull palms one could wish for and there are enough to fill all the stories of the tropics and desert islands etc. The road at this point runs close to the sea and as the sun was setting on my first trip up country the picture of palms swaying against water coloured gently by the then disappearing sunset, was most easternish. It is only when one catches a glimpse, like this, that it bourne in on one that this is not dear old England avec snow, rain, hail etc. and one is actually in the Flaming East.
Very soon the road branches due north and enters the area solid with rubber. Trees in line with the red winding gash for tapping, marked with peculiar black crosses and lines denoting, presumably, age and quality and probably yeld also. Easch has a little cup attached, about two feet from the base of the trunk -, but this item is common knowledge even though when first seen "in the flesh" it comes as a shock to realise that the geography books were not just kidding. Sugei Patani is in the middle of this particular patch of rubber and it is not, therefore, until about twelve miles out on the other side of the town that it ceases and abruptly becomes "paddy". Rich once more, this time the commodity is nearer the needs of the people but not nearly enough as far as the quantity goes as, with sugar, rice is one of the two rationed items in the Federation.
Yesterday, being the Muslim Sabbath, we had our usual Friday off in place of Saturday, and I took a drive out that way. It was most picturesque, the fields being patterned with the varying shade of scorched stubble and containing the resting beasts of burden, the weirdly long horned cow, wollowing in the mud holes or placidly chewing at anything green within reach.
It was nice of Mrs Brooks to wish to be remembered to meand I'd be pleased if you would give my thanks.
I have no wish to keep the Bank Employee's effort up and thought I had told them so .... am sure of it in fact.
Am glad to hear that the market situation is improving though think you will have found it dwon a bit since writing. Chota ....I have not been able to get any definite info., but have found that the plantation is in the Kuala Lumpar district quite away south from here. The area given is roughly that of 750 acres and you can check this too. Talking it over with the district Public Works Office engineer, who knows this country (not the firm) he gave it as his opinion that such a small acerage could never be a good profit making concern and that if at the present time a Div. has not been declared it never will be. Rubber is around a peak perios and I think you will agree. If you can sell now showing some profit, though small I should certainly do so. Heard from the same source about a small well balanced gold mining concern which is supposed to be "go ahead" with a good manager and certain new equipment which should be worth investigation. The marking is now on the upgrade, though tens to fluctuate for no apparent reason. The proper name Im not sure of. It is at RAUB and is probably entitled Raub Gold something. It may not of course have a London marking and dividends may be subject to Malayan Income Tax. However will provide you with some interesting research, knowing your interest in all things gold and not remembering you mention anything out here. In tin Eastern Smelting is the big number with the banks. Glad Reg has at last made a purchase and see he has an eye on you as a future recruit to the great game of bowls.
My week in an exalted position is now at a close, Everything passed off satisfactory and I am now spending the Sat. aft. & evening here. The Sub Agent returned on Thursday but has used the intervening time for recuperation and has now taken over. Official letters were passed regarding the business so it is pleasing to know that both Singapore and Hongkong will have it on record.
John Seaton is out of hospital and is having 3 wks sick leave. Has not yet had an op. as the dysentry had to be cleared first. It may not now be necessary but is seeing the surgeon this week for a check.
Have not met the man who came down to Penang to relieve me and as I have decided to stay on till tomorrow shall now miss him. The food and surroundings are so pleasant here that I could not resist the extra time spent with them.
Thats about all for the moment -
Cheerio and Love Peter
(There is a diagram on the back of this letter showing the positions of S Patani and Butterworth by the Indian Ocean.)
P.S. Ian will know H. Davies as he acted in London as Sub Manager between tours last year and has a step daughter in Telegrams.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
21st February 1951
H. & S. B. C.
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thank you very much for your letter of the 15th, received yesterday. My birthday seems quite away off yet but am pleased that you have thought of it so early. We can get magazines here OK but they are usually dearer then if sent from home. A subscription to Reader's Digest would be jolly good and it is something that I've been going to do myself so for once you have forstalled me in my practice of not knowing what I want.
As I mentioned in my last letter John Seaton will be leaving Penang for Singapore as soon as he is out of hospital and we shall have the dog. I wasn't too keen on looking after it so refused the offer of it for myself. I wouldn't be prepared to give it the very necessary care and attention that this climate demands for an animal.
Your reorganisation sound very interesting, but dont quite know what to suggest in so far as which rooms to use for dining or lounge. Carpets - well I could buy for you - not that I have any knowledge of the subject. Custom's duty would be heavy I imagine.
Ogilvy-Stuart is settling in and had two girl friends down from Singapore. They are Foreign Office people and have spent this week in Penang. Took them to dinner at the Easter & Oriental Hotel last Saturday followed by a very pleasant dance at the Runnymede. On Sunday we took the train and ascended the "Crag" - Penang's higher equivilent of the Peak at Hongkong. Had a huge Curry tiffin up there and lots of fruit - relaxing afterwards to let it all go down and enjoying the cooler air. The view is not so exciting as that at Hongkong but is pretty good all the same.
Your series of colds don't sound too good. I caught one for a few days and have taken a course of Serocalcin. It ought to be worth trying - the ony thing is to remember to take it at the right time - I invariably forget.
Have ordered a meat pack from Australia - to arrive within the next 3 months. In the meantime have sent you a parcel from here containing (2) Tea, (4) Fruit Salad, 1/2 doz small tins salmon, 2lb tin ham and two smaller of spiced ham. This stuff is all insured, so should any be damage, or not up to standard, let me know. Should the postman bring an obviously damaged parcel tell him its insured and that you are going to claim. He should, I think, verify that it was damaged on delivery.
My car arrived last Thursday. Its a fine wee thing and goes like a bomb - though am "running it in" with as much care as my erratic driving will allow. Though it is only a two seater car and have carried four. There being a space for luggage in the back up to 112 lbs. The top folds right back and is just right for driving here. It is very economical to run - about 46 miles per gallon. Very easy to drive, park and keep clean - though I have a boy to do the latter. We have an allowance of $60 per month for transport and this will cover any running expenses. I am in debt to the bank for $2900 and am happily paying them back at $100 per month.
Stuart and myself are going to stay at Sungi Patami over Easter. The sub-agent there (the only ?) wants to get away and asked us if we'd like to have a free weekend. It will be pleasant to have a look at the mainland.
Am now a member of the Royal Society of St George - sole purpose is the yearly celebration of the English saint's day. The thing is to invie a Scotsman and an Irishman so that one has a return invite to St Patricks' and St Andrews'! The accountant is Vice-President this year and of course joining was necessary - though would have done so anyway.
Work continues smoothly and am now instructed to have a look at all goings on re overdrafts. Unusual thing for me to do at present, but as we have no Agent work is being pushed around a bit and it should be an interesting addition to the routine.
This is all for now - am off to another dinner to-night - a return engagement from last weekend.
Cheerio and love,
Peter
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thank you very much for your letter of the 15th, received yesterday. My birthday seems quite away off yet but am pleased that you have thought of it so early. We can get magazines here OK but they are usually dearer then if sent from home. A subscription to Reader's Digest would be jolly good and it is something that I've been going to do myself so for once you have forstalled me in my practice of not knowing what I want.
As I mentioned in my last letter John Seaton will be leaving Penang for Singapore as soon as he is out of hospital and we shall have the dog. I wasn't too keen on looking after it so refused the offer of it for myself. I wouldn't be prepared to give it the very necessary care and attention that this climate demands for an animal.
Your reorganisation sound very interesting, but dont quite know what to suggest in so far as which rooms to use for dining or lounge. Carpets - well I could buy for you - not that I have any knowledge of the subject. Custom's duty would be heavy I imagine.
Ogilvy-Stuart is settling in and had two girl friends down from Singapore. They are Foreign Office people and have spent this week in Penang. Took them to dinner at the Easter & Oriental Hotel last Saturday followed by a very pleasant dance at the Runnymede. On Sunday we took the train and ascended the "Crag" - Penang's higher equivilent of the Peak at Hongkong. Had a huge Curry tiffin up there and lots of fruit - relaxing afterwards to let it all go down and enjoying the cooler air. The view is not so exciting as that at Hongkong but is pretty good all the same.
Your series of colds don't sound too good. I caught one for a few days and have taken a course of Serocalcin. It ought to be worth trying - the ony thing is to remember to take it at the right time - I invariably forget.
Have ordered a meat pack from Australia - to arrive within the next 3 months. In the meantime have sent you a parcel from here containing (2) Tea, (4) Fruit Salad, 1/2 doz small tins salmon, 2lb tin ham and two smaller of spiced ham. This stuff is all insured, so should any be damage, or not up to standard, let me know. Should the postman bring an obviously damaged parcel tell him its insured and that you are going to claim. He should, I think, verify that it was damaged on delivery.
My car arrived last Thursday. Its a fine wee thing and goes like a bomb - though am "running it in" with as much care as my erratic driving will allow. Though it is only a two seater car and have carried four. There being a space for luggage in the back up to 112 lbs. The top folds right back and is just right for driving here. It is very economical to run - about 46 miles per gallon. Very easy to drive, park and keep clean - though I have a boy to do the latter. We have an allowance of $60 per month for transport and this will cover any running expenses. I am in debt to the bank for $2900 and am happily paying them back at $100 per month.
Stuart and myself are going to stay at Sungi Patami over Easter. The sub-agent there (the only ?) wants to get away and asked us if we'd like to have a free weekend. It will be pleasant to have a look at the mainland.
Am now a member of the Royal Society of St George - sole purpose is the yearly celebration of the English saint's day. The thing is to invie a Scotsman and an Irishman so that one has a return invite to St Patricks' and St Andrews'! The accountant is Vice-President this year and of course joining was necessary - though would have done so anyway.
Work continues smoothly and am now instructed to have a look at all goings on re overdrafts. Unusual thing for me to do at present, but as we have no Agent work is being pushed around a bit and it should be an interesting addition to the routine.
This is all for now - am off to another dinner to-night - a return engagement from last weekend.
Cheerio and love,
Peter
Thursday, December 4, 2008
13th February, 1951
Hongkong & Shanghai B. C.
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thank you very much for your letter of 8th with details of Ian's new job etc. Very interesting and sounds full of promise. Guess Dorothy will be more than pleased and ??? Ian too. He will be lucky to get a car of any worth for 250 pounds. The market will be on the rise soon as production is being cut to make room for re-armaments. My baby Fiat will be a little over 400 pounds. It hasn't arrived yet but hope to have news of it to-morrow and will be driving I hope by the weekend. Am hoping to send the next parcel direct from Australia. I have an address and as the goods are usually Australian anyway the prices are supposed to be less for the same thing. They have a "meat pack" consisting of a parcel full of tinned meat and think I'll try that. You must let me know about tea - that is most essential and you must not allow the stock to go down!
John Seaton is going into hospital for appendix and from there on transfer to Singapore - his relief has arrived and is settling in well. More my own age too. Have been practising with his car and nearly killed a duck! Great Fun.
A planter and his wife was in Penang over the weekend and I was taken to dinner by them to the Lone Pine, a beach hotel and afterwards to the Runnymede Hotel. Had a couple of dances and a late night. Sunday, Peter Ogilvy-Stuart (Vancouver), the new man, arrived and I took them to dinner at the Swimming Club. Last night we met the Chusom, the P & O's latest' floating hotel', and we entertained one of our staff on his way to Saigon. Lots of conversation and banking chit-chat. They have lifts on the ship going from deck to deck.
Have bought an embroidered tea cloth and napkins and they serve as cover for dressing table and the napkins for vase of gay flowers and generally to stand things on. The room now looks good and complete and am after some cheap Indian rugs and a couple of curtains for one side window to add the finishing touches. Wish you could see it.
The weather is hotting up now and am still quite happy - am not too busy in the office and thats lucky. Tend to slow up towards the end of the day and am glad to get out and relax.
Hall- the Agent is now going home for good and we expect a new one in about two months - will he be just in time to open to the new building.
Suppose Henry is now nearly at the end of moving operations etc expect it will be some little time before he is finally settled though.
Two juniors are on their way from the UK on the Carthage and I hope to see them in about three weeks. As they were compatriots in London Office. I hope to have a very full evening session of news on their arrival.
So Pamela is starting a family - bet that causes a commotion. Haven't heard from Doug yet expect he's pretty busy. pam still writes though not much news. Haven't answered Margaret yet but managed a line to Reg & Maud. This isnt a place to sit and write - much easier to sit back and relax - wonderful.
Cheerio and love,
Peter
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Thank you very much for your letter of 8th with details of Ian's new job etc. Very interesting and sounds full of promise. Guess Dorothy will be more than pleased and ??? Ian too. He will be lucky to get a car of any worth for 250 pounds. The market will be on the rise soon as production is being cut to make room for re-armaments. My baby Fiat will be a little over 400 pounds. It hasn't arrived yet but hope to have news of it to-morrow and will be driving I hope by the weekend. Am hoping to send the next parcel direct from Australia. I have an address and as the goods are usually Australian anyway the prices are supposed to be less for the same thing. They have a "meat pack" consisting of a parcel full of tinned meat and think I'll try that. You must let me know about tea - that is most essential and you must not allow the stock to go down!
John Seaton is going into hospital for appendix and from there on transfer to Singapore - his relief has arrived and is settling in well. More my own age too. Have been practising with his car and nearly killed a duck! Great Fun.
A planter and his wife was in Penang over the weekend and I was taken to dinner by them to the Lone Pine, a beach hotel and afterwards to the Runnymede Hotel. Had a couple of dances and a late night. Sunday, Peter Ogilvy-Stuart (Vancouver), the new man, arrived and I took them to dinner at the Swimming Club. Last night we met the Chusom, the P & O's latest' floating hotel', and we entertained one of our staff on his way to Saigon. Lots of conversation and banking chit-chat. They have lifts on the ship going from deck to deck.
Have bought an embroidered tea cloth and napkins and they serve as cover for dressing table and the napkins for vase of gay flowers and generally to stand things on. The room now looks good and complete and am after some cheap Indian rugs and a couple of curtains for one side window to add the finishing touches. Wish you could see it.
The weather is hotting up now and am still quite happy - am not too busy in the office and thats lucky. Tend to slow up towards the end of the day and am glad to get out and relax.
Hall- the Agent is now going home for good and we expect a new one in about two months - will he be just in time to open to the new building.
Suppose Henry is now nearly at the end of moving operations etc expect it will be some little time before he is finally settled though.
Two juniors are on their way from the UK on the Carthage and I hope to see them in about three weeks. As they were compatriots in London Office. I hope to have a very full evening session of news on their arrival.
So Pamela is starting a family - bet that causes a commotion. Haven't heard from Doug yet expect he's pretty busy. pam still writes though not much news. Haven't answered Margaret yet but managed a line to Reg & Maud. This isnt a place to sit and write - much easier to sit back and relax - wonderful.
Cheerio and love,
Peter
30th January, 1951
H & S. B. C.
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Have received yhour letters of 17th & 26th and also Grandma's for which many thanks. Shall answer them all here for the moment as with the end of the month at hand I may not feel like writing for the next few days.
Have noted that Henry has moved and imagine that he will be glad to get over with - must have got the wrong impression earlier on as I thought that that house was off.
Am glad the parcel arrived and was found to be satisfactory. I see that your meat ration is down to the shocking low of 8d, so will send all meat or salmon in the next.
The bank have now seen the light and have given me the OK to go ahead without the down payment. I have put 80 pounds down anyway so shall away to a good start. Thanks for Dad's offer of a loan. I knew I could call on him if necessary but in this instance I was annoyed at the bank and wasn't prepared to give way.
Alan is certainly moving fast - Aberdeen this time! What was the result on the difficult machine that had been out of commission for a long time? The comment on Army & Official wives is probably correct - there are many of them with husbands away for weeks at a time and expect that they get bored stiff. The drinking sessions are the same in most parts of the Far East though Penang isn't as bad as Hongkong.
It is very good news about Ian - expect you have fuller details by now and shall ear more about it your next letter.
Grandma's letter was very welcome and I shall write to her again in due course. (Letter ends here)
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Have received yhour letters of 17th & 26th and also Grandma's for which many thanks. Shall answer them all here for the moment as with the end of the month at hand I may not feel like writing for the next few days.
Have noted that Henry has moved and imagine that he will be glad to get over with - must have got the wrong impression earlier on as I thought that that house was off.
Am glad the parcel arrived and was found to be satisfactory. I see that your meat ration is down to the shocking low of 8d, so will send all meat or salmon in the next.
The bank have now seen the light and have given me the OK to go ahead without the down payment. I have put 80 pounds down anyway so shall away to a good start. Thanks for Dad's offer of a loan. I knew I could call on him if necessary but in this instance I was annoyed at the bank and wasn't prepared to give way.
Alan is certainly moving fast - Aberdeen this time! What was the result on the difficult machine that had been out of commission for a long time? The comment on Army & Official wives is probably correct - there are many of them with husbands away for weeks at a time and expect that they get bored stiff. The drinking sessions are the same in most parts of the Far East though Penang isn't as bad as Hongkong.
It is very good news about Ian - expect you have fuller details by now and shall ear more about it your next letter.
Grandma's letter was very welcome and I shall write to her again in due course. (Letter ends here)
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
23rd January, 1951
H. & S. B. C.
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
I have received your three letters via Singapore and enjoyed them all. Alan's letter though just a little technical in parts was well written and very readable - the best I've had from him and hope to have a lot more too. Meeting all these new faces is invaluable experience. One thing to do and that is try to remember names of the various peoples - not necessarily those of senior people - though that of course is important - but of the juniors too. They will be seniors one day and your corresponding number in various positions and may be of great help in a variety of ways in the future.
Dad's letter was very welcome and am pleased to hear of the confidence in 1951/52. The general position seems very chaotic so I suppose things could settle down as much as get worse - a fifty fifty chance in fact.
Note that you had a taste of Benadictine - suggest sipping it with coffee - near black - I prefer the flavouring that way. I won't suggest a cigar but that makes it even better.
John did not get a move from Hongkong as he was well established in a bill dept and doing lots of interesting work. We were both sorry to part and hope to meet up some time in the future.
Am not in the office to-day, Tuesday, as it is a religious festival or something. Lots of the people are strolling down the road nearby to the nearby temple carrying gifts, banners and arches of decorations, singing chants, clapping and drumming. It has been quite exciting. Was hoping to play tennis but the ground is too wet - we have had heavy rain each night so we are relatively cool.
No more news of the loan for my car yet so I haven't been able to get out. The accountant says he things they will give in soon and grant it, so I'm just hoping.
Am going to see if I can take up golf - a friend of John's knows a bit about it and has offered to show me the ropes. Evidently the course here is a small one and the club fee is small and everyone has the chance of a good game.
Work is going well and I am gradually settling into it. Will have to read up on banking practise though as there are lots of things I 've not bothered about before - bankruptcy, trusteeship etc as far as they effect the books and authorities for arguing - plus the appropriate forms. Exchange control is new to me here and that must be covered also. It is wonderful to feel free in the office and bear responsibility and have to think off your own bat. Hongkong annoyed me - I had less freedom there than in London. Of course, if a mistake is made it is mine to rectify or take the consequences, but that is what I'm paid for presumably.
Have found out that we have a scale of raises for fourteen years. That is until I am 37. It is roughly 100 pounds per year every two years and means that without any appointment at all I can go up to 1250 pounds plus cost of living at Penang rates would be 2500 and over. The Agent here must get that as basic salary as his loans this years was 250 pounds. The first appointment seems to be that of sub-accountant and from there the scale does not apply.
Must chase off to have some food now so Cheerio and I expect I'll be writing in answer to a fresh letter from you this coming week.
Love, Peter
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
I have received your three letters via Singapore and enjoyed them all. Alan's letter though just a little technical in parts was well written and very readable - the best I've had from him and hope to have a lot more too. Meeting all these new faces is invaluable experience. One thing to do and that is try to remember names of the various peoples - not necessarily those of senior people - though that of course is important - but of the juniors too. They will be seniors one day and your corresponding number in various positions and may be of great help in a variety of ways in the future.
Dad's letter was very welcome and am pleased to hear of the confidence in 1951/52. The general position seems very chaotic so I suppose things could settle down as much as get worse - a fifty fifty chance in fact.
Note that you had a taste of Benadictine - suggest sipping it with coffee - near black - I prefer the flavouring that way. I won't suggest a cigar but that makes it even better.
John did not get a move from Hongkong as he was well established in a bill dept and doing lots of interesting work. We were both sorry to part and hope to meet up some time in the future.
Am not in the office to-day, Tuesday, as it is a religious festival or something. Lots of the people are strolling down the road nearby to the nearby temple carrying gifts, banners and arches of decorations, singing chants, clapping and drumming. It has been quite exciting. Was hoping to play tennis but the ground is too wet - we have had heavy rain each night so we are relatively cool.
No more news of the loan for my car yet so I haven't been able to get out. The accountant says he things they will give in soon and grant it, so I'm just hoping.
Am going to see if I can take up golf - a friend of John's knows a bit about it and has offered to show me the ropes. Evidently the course here is a small one and the club fee is small and everyone has the chance of a good game.
Work is going well and I am gradually settling into it. Will have to read up on banking practise though as there are lots of things I 've not bothered about before - bankruptcy, trusteeship etc as far as they effect the books and authorities for arguing - plus the appropriate forms. Exchange control is new to me here and that must be covered also. It is wonderful to feel free in the office and bear responsibility and have to think off your own bat. Hongkong annoyed me - I had less freedom there than in London. Of course, if a mistake is made it is mine to rectify or take the consequences, but that is what I'm paid for presumably.
Have found out that we have a scale of raises for fourteen years. That is until I am 37. It is roughly 100 pounds per year every two years and means that without any appointment at all I can go up to 1250 pounds plus cost of living at Penang rates would be 2500 and over. The Agent here must get that as basic salary as his loans this years was 250 pounds. The first appointment seems to be that of sub-accountant and from there the scale does not apply.
Must chase off to have some food now so Cheerio and I expect I'll be writing in answer to a fresh letter from you this coming week.
Love, Peter
17th January 1951
H & S. B. C.
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Have received your letter sent direct to Penang for which many thanks, but as yet have not had any of those via Singapore.
I don't know whether I mentioned the work in inspector's dept last time; but it consisted of working all the Malayan balance sheet and profit and loss figures into Hongkong dollars. Was very interesting and enjoyed those tow days a lot. Our bonus has come through - 10% of basic salary which means I have a present of 54 pounds, though this covers my next insurance premium in December, I have also a small amount extra which I have sent to my London a/c.
Now have a/cs in three countries but am closing the Hongkong one as soon as my January mess bills are through.
It seems one of my more interesting letters has just reached you by sea. I'm sorry about that as it was intended for AIR. The dept. concerned must have made a mistake or it may have been the post office. Hope the parcel is O.K anyway.
Was very interested in Alan's doings. Its a jolly good show and hope it continues so - nothing like breaking the monotony with the unusual. The glass of ale sounded good - it needs watching though as even 1/2 can make you go to sleep in the afternoon. Its best left till evening - though perhaps that only counts in the heat.
Am afraid Ian is in for a hectic time in telegrams - its always busy in very large office and demands constant concentration; am glad Dad is going to the "Old Comrades" Assn dinner - believe that they can be good fun - hope you enjoy it.
You can put MALAYA on your envelopes if you want. This last letter took 5 days. Postmarked 2 pm 12 Jan Balham and was on my desk first thing today 17th Jan. so Penang alone must O.K.
I think I mentioned that John Seaton was a keen polo player. Well I 've been down several times now to watch and have met most of the club. Don't think I'll ever play myself - its a bit hectic but quite frustrating to watch. A visiting Pakistani brigadier was playing on Saturday - he is an international and magnificent horseman.
Was taken down to the beach on Sunday and enjoyed a good swim. Met lots of people and stayed on at the Swimming Club till late afternoon. Got a little burnt but not much and have been recommended a good lotion. - Scoll - to put on before going in the sun. Have a good pair of clip-on sun glasses and wear these whenever outside during the day.
Last night we had a terrific party with all members of the bank, various army wives, and many of John's friends. After the majority had gone at about nine we rolled up the rugs for dancing - ending with bread and cheese at two this morning. Was very successful and everyone had a gay time. This was in our house by the way as you can guess that its nice and roomy.
My tin trunk has arrived from Hongkong and now have my various oddments adding colour to my own room. They go quite well - much smarter than in the Peak Mess at Hkg.
We are soon to have an Alsation in the house as the local magistrate is going on leave and can't take the dog with him. It'll be rather fun though the children next door will probably be trying to ride on his back.
Will have to start learning Malay soon as it is necessary to get around completely. Hope to have a lesson once a week and can then practise on the servants.
Had a letter from Margaret and hope to answer it in due course. Have a pile to answer and some are a little old - shall have to really get down to it over the weekend.
Don't know how I shall manage with future parcels but sugar and rice will be out as we are rationed here - though not too noticeably. Have mentioned the one on the Corfu which will be in next month sometime.
I sold my tennis racquet in HongKong and now have a new one of better weight more suited to my grip. Hope to get a game in soon and have joined the club.
Loans for cars seem to be going off as Singapore office have said that I should supply outright 25% 100 pounds over, for my car. I told the Acct this morning that that was out of the question and I'd walk! He said that he would see what he could do by private letter to the Singapore office as I must have a car here. I would certainly be hopeless without one, so I said that with a bit of a squeeze I'd raise 40 pounds for a start. It will mean using a little reserve that I wanted in hand but no doubt it will accumulate again.
Bob Seton left for Singapore after handing over completely to me and to-night I balance my first ledger, "spot", first tiem so am quite pleased. There is a lot to learn and so long as the snags crop up slowly I hope to be able to deal with them in order. The Barclay's training has given me a good leg up in this respect and have used it a lot of late.
We move into a brand new building soon with all modern fixtures and fittings including air conditioning. It will probably be a bid do with champagne flowing (letter ends here - pages missing).
Penang
Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,
Have received your letter sent direct to Penang for which many thanks, but as yet have not had any of those via Singapore.
I don't know whether I mentioned the work in inspector's dept last time; but it consisted of working all the Malayan balance sheet and profit and loss figures into Hongkong dollars. Was very interesting and enjoyed those tow days a lot. Our bonus has come through - 10% of basic salary which means I have a present of 54 pounds, though this covers my next insurance premium in December, I have also a small amount extra which I have sent to my London a/c.
Now have a/cs in three countries but am closing the Hongkong one as soon as my January mess bills are through.
It seems one of my more interesting letters has just reached you by sea. I'm sorry about that as it was intended for AIR. The dept. concerned must have made a mistake or it may have been the post office. Hope the parcel is O.K anyway.
Was very interested in Alan's doings. Its a jolly good show and hope it continues so - nothing like breaking the monotony with the unusual. The glass of ale sounded good - it needs watching though as even 1/2 can make you go to sleep in the afternoon. Its best left till evening - though perhaps that only counts in the heat.
Am afraid Ian is in for a hectic time in telegrams - its always busy in very large office and demands constant concentration; am glad Dad is going to the "Old Comrades" Assn dinner - believe that they can be good fun - hope you enjoy it.
You can put MALAYA on your envelopes if you want. This last letter took 5 days. Postmarked 2 pm 12 Jan Balham and was on my desk first thing today 17th Jan. so Penang alone must O.K.
I think I mentioned that John Seaton was a keen polo player. Well I 've been down several times now to watch and have met most of the club. Don't think I'll ever play myself - its a bit hectic but quite frustrating to watch. A visiting Pakistani brigadier was playing on Saturday - he is an international and magnificent horseman.
Was taken down to the beach on Sunday and enjoyed a good swim. Met lots of people and stayed on at the Swimming Club till late afternoon. Got a little burnt but not much and have been recommended a good lotion. - Scoll - to put on before going in the sun. Have a good pair of clip-on sun glasses and wear these whenever outside during the day.
Last night we had a terrific party with all members of the bank, various army wives, and many of John's friends. After the majority had gone at about nine we rolled up the rugs for dancing - ending with bread and cheese at two this morning. Was very successful and everyone had a gay time. This was in our house by the way as you can guess that its nice and roomy.
My tin trunk has arrived from Hongkong and now have my various oddments adding colour to my own room. They go quite well - much smarter than in the Peak Mess at Hkg.
We are soon to have an Alsation in the house as the local magistrate is going on leave and can't take the dog with him. It'll be rather fun though the children next door will probably be trying to ride on his back.
Will have to start learning Malay soon as it is necessary to get around completely. Hope to have a lesson once a week and can then practise on the servants.
Had a letter from Margaret and hope to answer it in due course. Have a pile to answer and some are a little old - shall have to really get down to it over the weekend.
Don't know how I shall manage with future parcels but sugar and rice will be out as we are rationed here - though not too noticeably. Have mentioned the one on the Corfu which will be in next month sometime.
I sold my tennis racquet in HongKong and now have a new one of better weight more suited to my grip. Hope to get a game in soon and have joined the club.
Loans for cars seem to be going off as Singapore office have said that I should supply outright 25% 100 pounds over, for my car. I told the Acct this morning that that was out of the question and I'd walk! He said that he would see what he could do by private letter to the Singapore office as I must have a car here. I would certainly be hopeless without one, so I said that with a bit of a squeeze I'd raise 40 pounds for a start. It will mean using a little reserve that I wanted in hand but no doubt it will accumulate again.
Bob Seton left for Singapore after handing over completely to me and to-night I balance my first ledger, "spot", first tiem so am quite pleased. There is a lot to learn and so long as the snags crop up slowly I hope to be able to deal with them in order. The Barclay's training has given me a good leg up in this respect and have used it a lot of late.
We move into a brand new building soon with all modern fixtures and fittings including air conditioning. It will probably be a bid do with champagne flowing (letter ends here - pages missing).
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