Mr Arthur Kent, of 59 Hazelbury Crescent, Luton, has just heard from his daughter Ethel and son-in-law Jesse William Funge, who are at present in Russia. Mr Funge was formerly employed at Luton Hoo until, with his wife, he entered the service of Prince Bibescu, of Roumania - he as a gardener, and Mrs Funge to take charge of the Princess's Persian cats.

Soon after war was declared between Roumania and Germany, they became fugitives before the great German drive. After a series of adventures they landed in Russia, and for the past 12 months have been expecting an opportunity to come home, but this, unfortunately, has not yet presented itself.

Jesse and Ethel Funge and their daughter are pictured, right.

The letter Mrs Funge has written shows the terrible conditions prevalent in Russia. It was dates October 4th, and from it we take the following extract:

"It's beginning to get cold here now, and we shall soon begin to expect snow - it's getting rather frosty at nights.

"he worst trouble now is getting shoes and clothes. Shoes are £8 and £10 a pair, and good cloth is impossible to buy. Food in different parts is terrible - butter 35 shillings a lb...

"It's hard to say how long we shall stay here. We are longing for settled times again, and I can assure you I hope they won't be long as we have had our share, but I have no doubt there are others worse."

That Mr and Mrs Funge may speedily be able to return home from the land of turmoil and the unpleasant conditions in which they are living, will be the sincere wish of their townspeople.

[Beds & Herts Saturday Telegraph: December 15th, 1917]