1475th Ord MM Co (Avn)
APO 149, U.S. Army
28 August 1944
France
Dear A. C.,
Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.
Sorry not to have written sooner but business has been rather pressing. The book arrived in good shape for which I offer thanks. Have hardly had time to do more than glance at the cards, however. Other glad tidings have to do with your song, “La Gauloise”. I am happy to report that it will be given the benefit of a public rendition at a town that shall remain unnamed and at a date that shall remain unspecified – although I believe I can say that it will be in the near future. The reason that I am rather cautious in that respect is that some time ago we were told that we could name certain towns that we had been in – and today I received a letter informing me that all place names had been censored. Unfortunately I have moved from the locality where the song fest is to be so I won’t be able to give you report as to its reception but I shall try, try again. Maybe I can get into Paris someday long enough to do some good in that respect. Happened to be out on the road the other day when the French were celebrating the fall of Paris. Or rather, the liberation of Paris. Everyone was shouting “Paris libere” and “Sank you American” – wine and cider were to be had for the stopping. Some of them more enthusiastically throwing roses and flowers – even apples and tomatoes. Those who threw tomatoes were more enthusiastic than sensible as many of my boys found when a ripe tomato would splatter through their outstretched hands.
Yes, I meant Coleridges’ “Kubla Kan”. Please send it if you can as I am very much interested in getting a copy.
Although I won’t be able to give you a report as to the public reception of “La Gauloise” I can say that the music professor to whom I was directed was very enthusiastic about it. He seemed to think that it would go over well. Must close now. Love is the law, love under will.
as ever
Note: Originally published in Thelema Lodge Calendar, August 2001.
Note: Thank you to William Heidrick for making this image available.