There were proper English soldiers from an adjoining camp who were occasionally sent as guards to watch over us. They became friendly with our men and often took letters to pass on for them.
Aftersome time this was discovered and the guards were changed. Their officer addressed his unit as follows:
‘Do not have any dealings with your prisoners. The previous guards were taken away as a disgrace to their regiment. You men now hold the honour of your regiment.’
No sooner were the new guards on duty but they asked our men if they had any letters that needed posting home!
So you see, the empire was beginning to fall to pieces.
… more later …