21 Jun 1942, Chronology of Events Related to Stanley Civilian Internment Camp
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Extracts from an internee's letter, perhaps taken out by an American repatriated on June 29/30:
Our Chinese friends are doing a wonderful job getting parcels to us all. Things are very bad in town and where they manage to find the money I don't know...
Life has improved tremendously since we have been here, and now is not at all bad. When we first came we were terribly squashed and suffered badly from lack of food and bedding...but after six weeks things began to improve and have continued improving ever since. We now really have enough to eat and are allowed to bake our own bread, which has made all the difference. We have a canteen, are allowed parcels and I am at last sleeping off the floor....
I play bridge, walk and sweat (all profusely) for relaxation, and the rest of the time dress-make, wash clothes and do the household chores. A very healthy if somewhat monotonous life and it has taught us to appreciate the smallest things to the very utmost....
The Americans have been terribly kind to us. They are just about to be repatriated and have done everything they possibly could to leave us comfortable and as well provided for as anyone could be in this place...
Source:
The Hong Kong Fellowship Newsletter, No. 2, June 1943, 7
Comments
"...enough to eat..."
Barbara Anslow replied:
I am surprised to read that internees 'had enough to eat'! It's true rations improved after the first months, but not to the extent of regularly feeling satisfied.
However the writer speaks of receiving parcels from Chinese friends in town, so that might explain why she had enough to eat!
I was surprised to read it too. Another explanation could be that the author wanted to reassure whoever they were writing to.
Regards, David