Overview
Leslie Adkin continues to work on his father’s farm Cheslyn Rise, near Levin. He is also the manager of a separate property called the North Block, and he spends much of his time there. Farming activities this month include fencing, cutting tracks, pulling foxgloves, mustering and drafting, and attending stock sales. Leslie works with his father William, his brothers Gil (Gilbert) and Clif (Clifford), and their farm labourers Andy and Ernie. Contract workers assist with ploughing, scrubbing, and shearing.
In his spare time Leslie enjoys reading novels and taking photographs. He is also a regular church-goer and an active member of the No-License League. This month, in the lead-up to the General Election, local politicians speak at the community hall in Levin, and Leslie gives one of the candidates ‘a bit of a heckling.’ His preferred candidate, a member of the Reform party, goes on to win the local seat, and although Leslie expresses concern about the number of Liberal and Labour victories the Massey Government ultimately retains power.
Leslie corresponds regularly with his fiancée Maud Herd, and spends Christmas with her and her family at their home in Hastings. The couple enjoy a Mardis Gras in Napier on the 26th, and spend quite a bit of time discussing their plans for the future.
In addition to his usual diary entries about the farm, his family, and his photography, Leslie also writes frequently of the war in Europe. This month he records the arrival of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force in Egypt, and gives updates on the fighting in Germany.