Just getting well on with Spanish Influenza when I am brought out of bed to go see Capt. Simpson, Co. Commander re Allocation board. After a lot of old old questions re age, birth, etc., he says “well Draycot, we’ll send you back to Canada.
Archives for July 2018
Tuesday 9 July 1918
Rien a faire.
Received letter from Erlysman Pinckney Esq. of Highbury, Warminister, Wilts (shire)
I have the prevailing Spanish Influenza.
*World War I claimed an estimated 16 million lives. The influenza epidemic that swept the world in 1918 killed an estimated 50 million people. One fifth of the world’s population was attacked by this deadly virus. Within months, it had killed more people than any other illness in recorded history. (http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/influenza-epidemic/)
Monday 8 July 1918
Sister Martha seriously ill in Toronto with peritonitis and appendicitis, also septic poisoning.
Sunday 7 July 1918
– very hot day
In evening to church at Englefield Green.
Saturday 6 July 1918
– very hot day
Stayed in all day to see Lt. J. Graham but he never came.
My brother Charles at Camp 43, 14th Leicester, Bourlay, Aldershot.
*A post on “The Great War Forum” indicates “Bourlay” refers to Bourley Wood Segregation Camp where newly arrived CEF personnel were posted for 28 days to prevent the spreading of disease.
Friday 5 July 1918
I take a run into London to British Museum. Have breakfast & tea @ Canadian YMCA. London quiet after the 4th.
Thursday 4 July 1918
Rien a faire.
Receive a letter from Mrs. W. Pinckney of Salisbury.
Wednesday 3 July 1918
No entry.
Tuesday 2 July 1918
Before Medical Board who mark me unfit for further service & to be sent back to Canada. (B III not likely to become efficient within 6 months).
Monday 1 July 1918
– fair, hot
To London with a colored comrade. His 1st visit to London & England. We visit Victoria & Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, United Services Museum, St. Paul’s Cath. & Crypt and other places. Dinner at Canadian YMCA. Tea @ Australian YMCA & to Aunt Rhia (Mrs. Draycot) @ 7 pm till 9:30 pm. She is much impressed with my Black friend. We leave for Waterloo & take train at 11 pm for Egham and Camp.
