Woodcote.
1.10.45

Rita Dear,

I have just received your letter and am naturally pleased as Punch to know that you are already meeting Frank’s parents and fastening your eyes on Bravington Rings.

It is so contrary to your nature to stride ahead with such giant’s strides that I still wonder at times whether you aren’t pulling my leg. But then I realise that never before have I had such “mature” letters from Rita and that this “maturity” must have been brought about by a revolutionary element!!

To lose one’s heart is not a peaceful process – it stirs the soul and needs readjustment. It is bewildering and at the same time the most natural thing in the world.

I think it is a wonderful realisation for people like ourselves to feel once again that we belong to someone and that life has after all a great and deep meaning. No-one can be complete by him – or herself because life is made up of giving and taking, and where can you notice this more than with the person you love?

Happiness which comes from within is true happiness, and it brings with it understanding. And understanding, in turn is the basis and the bond of comradeship, and comradeship is the meaning of marriage.

I used to be of the opinion at one time that man and wife were one personality. I thought that if someone liked Mr X he would of necessity like Mrs X. Man and wife were to me an inseparable personality.

I see now how wrong I was and how sweet and childish! For one can never get over the fact that there are two personalities concerned, that disagreements are unavoidable because two minds are at work, and although this realisation at first shocked me, I see now that it is for the good of self-development.

To keep a balance is important because you know yourself how terrible it can be to be someone else’s shadow – that is being untrue to yourself.

Please don’t think that I am visualising you becoming the shadow of anybody, because you are far too stubborn for that!! I was merely speaking generally.

I have not found a flat yet and the situation is very depressing. Also, furniture is a terrific problem and I feel quite depressed by the aspect.

My auntie Eileen who has returned from Canada promised to save a flat for me at a friend of hers. But when I saw her today I realised there was nothing doing and, as always, she merely indulges in grand sounding phrases without lifting a finger. I must say I was bitterly disappointed and I hate her for her self-centredness and double-tongue.

I must go to bed now. Write and tell me when I can see you. Any day will do for me, except Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Tuesday evening!! Monday, Saturday and Sunday will be OK.

All love,
Lore.

P.S.  Elizabeth’s birthday is on 15th October. She has had a party. There were lots of squeaky infants and delighted shrieks.