4th May 1965

The Hongkong and Shanghai Bank
Central PO Box 227
Osaka
Japan

Dear Mum, Dad and Alan,

Well that is some birthday gift!  Thanks very much.  I have not taken it in yet as it was so unexpected, but have written to my Income Tax department for their views on the tax situation.  I do not suppose they will be very pleased with such a spot query as no doubt they are burning the midnight oil thumbing through the Finance Bill.  I do not suppose I am liable for tax as I do not see how they could collect it, but we will see.  For the moment I imagine the money will go towards the house we hope to be able to buy on the next leave as I hear the bank has reinstated loans for houses once more.

The football pools came up with another 7/- which I reinvested for next week's Australian matches.  I shall begin to think I am due for a big win soon!  Did Alan enjoy his Paris trip?  I suppose none of his machines come to Japan?  I cannot see Ian running a pub & working in the City.  Running a pub can be real hard work, I wonder if they fully appreciate what it all entails?

The pictures of the reception were OK, I think I am in that main one bending dow.  I can't remember the Indian's name for the

(rest of letter is missing)