Sources
c/o Socorro Rojo
Plaza Retazona
Albacete
Spain
21-4-‘37
My Dear Mother,
I just received your first letter 2 days ago, which you posted on Feb. 23rd, so you see how sometimes mail is delayed.
I am now feeling in the best of health and hope this applies to you and the rest of the family. My face and neck are all sun-tanned, due to the wonderful climate out here, and after I have my hand and arm massaged, together with electrical treatment, I believe I will be more fit physically than [I] was before.
Well, mother, I don’t know what way you judge my action in coming out to Spain but even now I am more convinced than ever that I did the only thing worth doing – helping to kill Fascism before it spread to my own country - IRELAND!
Some of the best of Irish lads have fought and died, in their efforts to save democracy – Tony Fox, only 17½ years old – Kit Conway, the finest type of soldier I have yet met – Dinny Coady, Mick Nolan, Mick May: all of them late of the IRA, they had no regrets as their deaths each resemble a nail in the coffins of International Fascism, and of O’Duffy and his hirelings.
I don’t yet know anything definite regarding myself. I will probably be examined by the Medical Commission in a few days time, and I will write and let you know their decision; I would like to see you all again as soon as possible, and yet I would like to remain here for the victorious ending – which I believe is nearer than most people imagine.
There is no imperialist differential shown here – I got the same consideration as President Azana – the same food as General Miaja. I want for nothing so you needn’t send anything out.
When things are settled up we can have a good time to make up for our present separation.
I am still writing to Glasgow but don’t know how exactly my action has been looked on.
Cheerio Mother, for the present, and give my love to all, especially my new niece, Kathleen (if she’s anything like her ‘Ma’ I pity her, ha ha).
Remaining Mother,
Always,
Your Loving Son
Gerrie XXXXXX
PS Did Nan get my ‘latest’ photograph?
G
An article by his daughter, Gerry Abrahams, is available here. This was printed in the Irish Times in 2001.
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