Winter 1915-1916
After reading and thoroughly enjoying the last numbers of The Gazette, the only criticism which occurred to my mind was that there was not enough in them about the nursing staff. Perhaps this is just as well, as probably they themselves are thankful to have eluded the artists' pencils - as the pictures of them in 'The Missing Banana Skin' and 'Things We May Hope to See,' if they are meant for Nursing Sisters, may be regarded more in the light of 'chasteners' than as pleasing portraits! I feel sure, at any rate, that they do not in the least resemble the mental picture carried away by each patient who has been nursed at the 3rd London General!
It is my duty and privilege to recommend to the War Office for appointment the different members of the ever-increasing nursing staff working in our wards, and what a world of interest this task opens out. Not only do our nurses come from every part of Great Britain, but from every different training school and every branch of the profession. Some have been Matrons in their own institutions, others Sisters; and all must hold a three years' certificate. Some have specialised in research work and held important Public Health appointments, others have been district nurses, private nurses, school nurses, tuberculosis nurses, etc.; some are married, with homes of their own. But one and all have come forward (for this is an entirely voluntary service) to do their 'bit' in this great crisis. Not only have the nurse in this country volunteered in overwhelming numbers, but we have also recently had the pleasure of welcoming our sisters from Australia, who, leaving their different posts and braving all the dangers of the sea, have come to prove in very practical fashion their zeal and loyalty to the Throne and Empire.
To many it has meant a big effort, not only to come, but also to remain here. I realise this when I have to struggle on their behalf with committees who do not wish to lose their staff and want them to return, and with Matrons who are in despair at parting with their 'treasures.' To some their coming has meant financial sacrifices, and - what is perhaps more difficult - the taking of subordinate positions and the feeling almost like returning to school. It is not in human nature to find it easy to come as a staff nurse when you have been a Matron or Sister or held independent positions. All the more honour assured; when the war is over and they resume their civil duties the petty trials and pinpricks which may have loomed large at the moment will fade from their memory, and they will remember the interests, the jokes, and pleasure and cheeriness which each day's work at the 3rd London General brought with it. And they will be thankful, not only that they were able to do their duty, practically in the fighting line with our soldiers, but also for any hardship which that duty may have entailed. I should like to have said a word about our gallant V.A.D. helpers, but fear that already the Editor will be cross with me for taking up so much space.
ELEANOR BARTON
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