p.

3.

Col. Leicester & ask him for his advice. I have one
advantage at the moment - Col. L. has become
Area Commander for the time being, the other Col
having gone away & I am hoping he will keep the job.
He said first of all, that my wanting to go to the 7th
would cut no ice at all, with which I suppose I
must agree - so many people being the same way.

In my letter I had said our position was desperate-
he said he did not agree with that - but thought
that perhaps I had a chance. He said I was too
late for this time, these people I am told, are
going off just now. But that I should wait until
applicants are called for again, & then send my letter
in. He thought this was the best way & told me
to go & see his senior staff officer. I did this & he
confirmed Col L's statement - & advised me to
prepare my letter very carefully & then it was
possible for the Area Commander to work it with
his ideas, if he sent it on to G.H.Q. So, my
darling, I have the advantage of what I think
is a strong case - being a Major & a C.O. I
can make myself heard a little better - & if Col
L is still Area Comd when the next time comes,
he knows me & that I am not a fake, & so my
application has a better chance of getting over
the first fence, & possibly with his blessing.

On the other side - it is all a little chancy
depending so much on who has the final say.