When every available corner was filled and the final rope tied in place, every woman present breathed a happy sigh of relief, at the same time voicing heartfelt a prayer that their delegate and the truck would reach its destination and return safely. The only three seats available were occupied by the driver, a military guide and Mrs. Soong, who sat in between. Several others who wanted to go were sadly disappointed, being consoled with the hope of a "next time".
Dispensing with the usual feminine appurtenances, such as à vanity case and lipstick, Mrs. Soong fortified herself with chocolates and apples. Sh disdained the use of a steel helmet, which had been secured for her, preferring to give her shining locks the benefit of the country air.
The "expedition" left at about 4 pny. The route taken was not revealed for military reasons but, according to Mrs. Soong, it was extrem moly narrow and muddy, it being difficult to proceed with any speed. Several overturned trucks ana Before reaching her destination, Mrs. Soong saw several wounded soldiers with arm or leg bandages on their way to a certain place. She offered them a lift on the running board, but they declined politely.
On the trucks arrival, after the officer in command had been called, it was unloaded by several soldiers Who joined the commander in expressing their gratitude for these comforts. As Mrs, Soong left earlier than expected, she found she had y of chocolates and apples left These she handed to the officers to their great delight.
The return journey was uneventful, The truck travelled with dimmed lights amidst the desolate and deserted countryside. The eerie silence was occasionally shattered by the challenge of a sentry, who would suddenly appear and demand the password. This the driver replied to with extreme promptness They returned to Shanghai after several hours' absence.
Asked if she felt any the worse after the duous trip, Mrs. Soong said that only her throat had been slightly affected by the smoke of gunpowder, One thing this experience had taught her, she vigorously emphasized, was he necessity of bringing a nice, soft cushion with her on the next trip!
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.