Think This Will Be A Dangerous Place
Clary met one of the Americans here + found out today Mr. Chen is working for him translating maps + plans. All the bombing is being 'kwaned' from Enshih now. Think this will be a dangerous place. Simon + the babies leave tomorrow. That's going to be some job - I sure feel sorry for her. We're off in another 2-3 days I guess. Wish the Americans would come up + pay us a visit. - Annette, May 1943
Around this time, more and more American pilots stopped to refuel near Enshih. Clary was in the city often, so he got to meet a few of them and learn a bit about the situation. Mr. Chen, I believe, was working with Annette on her Chinese, and she was teaching him English. Apparently, his side hustle was helping the US Armed Forces! I wonder what secrets and clues he learned.
I'm not exactly sure what she meant by 'kwan' - possibly kuan, 寬, translated as 'wide' or 'extend.' It sounds like the bombing was coming closer, so maybe she was describing the explosions as 'extended from Enshih.' Things were definitely getting dangerous. Miss Simon left with the orphans - still no mention of how many, but what a handful! Every day was uncertain, but they were going to protect the children, no matter the cost.
Despite all the danger, Annette wanted more than anything to meet the American pilots. She would get her chance soon....stay tuned!