The members of the Beech Hill Unionist Club have just received from one of their colleagues a letter which has an unusually interesting history in that, although written in Luton, it has travelled half way round the world before reaching its destination.

The letter was written on December 30th by Mr W. T. Thatcher, of 184 Dallow Road, an old warrant officer in the Navy who has been on Naval service at home stations ever since the outbreak of war. It was in acknowledgement of "the very kind and acceptable gift" of tobacco and other comforts which he, in common with other members of the club serving with the forces, received for Christmas. But it only arrived at the club a few days ago, with another letter explaining the delay.

It appears that on his way to a new station in the West Country after Christmas, Mr Thatcher lent his coat to an old sailor who has just returned it to him after taking it half way round the world. In the pocket Mr Thatcher found the letter which he had evidently forgotten to post when leaving Luton.

In expressing his regret and asking forgiveness for what he says must have appeared a most ungrateful act, Mr Thatcher says he is quite all right but unable to say when he will be home again, as he has not been any nearer than his present address since Christmas. He therefore asks to be remembered to all his old chums, and sends along a practical appreciation of the members' "appreciation of the boys away".

"It is most kind," writes Mr Thatcher, "and it gives me great pleasure to know that I and also other members no longer able to be with you are still in your mind. Personally I am not doing much, being in or near England most of the time, but for those in the trenches or at sea your Christmas gift will, I am sure, prove a most joyful reminder that they are not forgotten."

[The Luton Reporter: Monday, March 19th, 1917]