26 May 1986

Dear Bill,

I am sorry to hear you have not had the best of a year, but feel confident that you will soon be back to your old self again. It’s certainly true what you say, that there are always people who are worse off than you. You have to look forward. I am sure that why many poultry breeders live to a ripe old age they want to see next year chickens.

I would like a copy of your paper in the Hawaiian publication. The funny thing is that once it is in print it is official. Before that it is just a theory. I had trouble working it in the form the scientific journals wanted, but fortunately the assistant editor of British Poultry Science was most helpful (even through some times he was cruel to be kind). Consequently I am very pleased with the finished article, especially the paper I have enclosed. The style needed for scientific journals is very short, sharp and to the point. Unfortunately one wouldn’t have many friends if one either talked a wrote like that.

Your local geneticist did not contact me - mind you my knowledge is really confined to plumage colours.

On reading your letter or rather the reunion with your army pals I can now picture you in A town like Alice. I thought that was a very good book and film.

Perhaps we should send you some of our water: we have had virtually no spring, it’s rained nearly every day. The ground is saturated and the trees etc are very late this year. However perhaps it’s better than being roasted.

Hope things continue to improving.

All the best,