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admiration of our strength. To them we were real 'he-men'. The wonder the natives have always treated us with respect. At present natives are sent out to our 3 Mile Murray Barracks as a punishment. - They fear us for the work expected of them. The Major's idea in working us so hard in this cruel heat, is so that we shall harden ourselves. No enemy could walk five miles in this type of country without exhaustion. This last few days officers have discarded their shirts and worked by our sides. Yesterday morning I had to have my eyes doctored. Perspiration during the day makes them so sore & stinging that you just can't see. The road will be completed by tomorrow and then we begin another 3 mile stretch directly over the range to Konedobu. I am particularly interested in this venture as you may recall me telling you that the Major and I surveyed its possibilities. The trip disheartened major so I suggested an alternative route. – and he approved. I'm only sorry that camp-site photos are censored, otherwise I'd love you to see our work.

Monday night was sensational. I retired to bed extra early, being very tired. I was awakened a few hours later & was rather bewildered at the mad excitement. Everyone was dressing in battle

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