Letter from Edward Thomas to his wife, Helen Thomas. Archival reference: 424/1/1/1/1/62
Woodville Street
8.viii '98
My Dearest Friend,
I am better today. I had spent many pleasant hours with Gwili in the fields; then as I walked homeward, the postman recognised me as the stranger- and gave me your letter, an hour earlier than if he had brought it here! I was so glad. Now at last your good positivity reached and touched me, I felt your joy and was able to share it. The day has been fine, with showers, but sunny and breezy in the intervals. I felt obliged to write of at once all hurried and demanded as I am, to catch the post so that you shall be quite comforted after that dubious letter yesterday.
Do as you like about the Andrewses. You think it would be a little underhanded, if you intend not to go as you promised, to Holmwood? I do. The whole thing is a little cowardly, just as cowardly as if they gave you notice in the way we had all along half suspected. Still I am glad to think you are thoroughly happy, though
busy, at home,
That thing about Guy, the Garcon, the false Saint etc, is mine : I am glad you liked it, Gwilil seemed not to : - and will you return it at once, for correction ,please. It is all I have completed here, except - as think I said - one sentence about twenty trees in the downpour of Saturday : also a sentence about the grasses moving on the hillside in wind. You shall see all soon, when I can write more at ease.
I must catch the 7.30 post. I am sorry.
Still I can see your happy face as this greets me unexpectedly in the morning! Kiss me even with that joyous face; give me your breast and your limbs. How well and joyous we both are. I will work after this. Be at rest, sweet heart. In life I am your truest, fondest friend Edwy and you ever my own sweet little one, Helen, my anemone maiden. Kiss me in your radiant happiness - in your white gown. Sweet heart, farewell. I am wholly yours. Goodbye, a a perfect night to you. Haven’t you forgot on or two things?