Cocks letter diary, 1916-1919 / Verner Cocks - Page 574
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[Page 574]
This was a favourite place of the Queen's besides Nice. It is also another Yank leave centre. The American Y.M.C.A. were very decent to us making us at home packing a dinner for us next day for the train for which they declined payment. We were the only Aussies who had ever been seen in the town I think for the Yanks stared as we passed and swarmed round us in their Y.M.C.A. to have a yarn and to shake hands with an Aussie about whom they have heard so much from some of the boys who were with us. One chap said 'You ought to see 'em fight'. I talked myself hoarse that night answering questions about Australia. We went a trip with them to the top of a Mount Revard. There was snow there still about 10 feet deep in places & from the top one can see Mt. Blanc the highest Mt in Europe and high peaks in Switzerland & Italy. We tried to get into Switzerland to Geneva, but it was impossible since it is a neutral country. We wandered into the baths & had a dip in the "officers only" pool. (It is wonderful what an Australian uniform will do especially if there are not many about). My word the Aussies have made a hit over this side. They are friends with everyone. We told the Froggie attendant we were Australians and Ambulance men so he said "I will tell the Garcon you are doctors and you can go into the officers pool".
We left Aix-les-bains after a send off by some Yanks who happened to be on the station and came by Dijon to Paris. Spent half a day in Paris seeing Miss Swan the English girl and M'lle Panaget and crossed over to England, Le Havre to Southampton at night. Wandered round London for a day and returned to camp.
What do you think of that for a trip? I am quite satisfied to come home now. I could never have imagined anything like that. When I arrive home I will work out for you a six month tour of England and Europe so as you will know the ropes when you come. It is worth ten years of anyone's life to experience these places.
If we get any more leave I will go up to Scotland to see Mrs Crawford but I don't think we have much chance. On Anzac day 25th we are all marching through London in the celebration there. I think we will be leaving England about the first week of next month. It is Easter day today. I once thought that I may have been home by now but I think it will just be in time for my birthday.
We are very comfortable here in a nice camp in a pretty part of the country. England is beginning to get green and is looking very pretty. We visit all the little village churches round about. They are all centuries old & grand old places. The people take great care of them. What a difference between the English & French villages. Here they are picturesque clean and well kept. The old thatched roofs and pretty little cottages you would love. The primroses just now are flourishing galore.
Tell Dad that I drew £25 at the Commonwealth Bank and £15 from Mr. Reeves for my holiday. This ought to see me home if we do not get any more leave. I forgot to tell you that we sent a cable from Nice.
I have sent a few souvenirs of the Trip home. Some photos and a cap for Jack.
Remember me to everyone and love to all at home - will be home soon.
Your loving Son
Verner