8th June 1959

Written on a HSBC Jesselton airmail letter

Dear Mum Dad and Alan,

Many thanks for your letter. We have greatly enjoyed our weekend, at Kota Balud. It is not in the hills but we had to travel along many rising twisting narrow roads to cross several hill ridges to get there. We passed through lovely countryside and had good weather. On arrival we found Army around connected with the Seato exercise and saw lines of Battleships at sea from a nearby hill. We were near the 13000 for mountain and could see it clearly. In the early morning the river below the Guest House, ducks, cows and surrounding greenery made it seem to be a part of Switzerland in summer. Several Jesselton people were there so we had quite a party and went around the market on the following day. Margo said she felt that we had been away for a long time - the children were in fine form when we returned to them and did not seem to mind - though were very excited when we arrived. Do not understand how Ian had not backed any horse as he had confirmed it before it was scratched - perhaps you have mixed it up with Ken Rices bit. Still do not know the result as it was not in the local paper.

Shall be pleased to have "Adventure in ? " When you have finished with it. We are invited on board an RN destroyer for cocktails on Wednesday and will be entertaining 4 officers to curry tiffin on Sunday. So we shall be very navel this week. Have taken more photos - mainly of the country so stand by - they will be ready some time in the next few weeks. Have had an enjoyable day on the final reorganisation of accounts - it only remains till July to see if they work. As I dont have to do much I can always blame the other officers if they dont carry out our instructions, which is a happy position to be in.

Cheerio for now and love from
us all Peter.