(not original copy, taken from Seilas mot Himmelens Kyst)

I now have only a two hour dinner break, since I am at the barracks day and night this week. The company commander called me in today and said that both he and the corps commander agreed not to approve my request for leave. He asked if I wanted to submit it anyway, and I answered, “Yes!” Then I went inside, and one of the gunners showed me their recommendation, which read:

“The applicant is of good character, has not previously been on leave, and is not due to be called out for active service; nevertheless, he cannot be approved for leave because the requested assignment is not deemed to be of benefit for a petty officer.”

Despite the fact that I was not recommended, there is a recommendation in it nonetheless, and I think it will go through. Regardless, it will be submitted.

The Fleet Admiral is a free-spirited man who often acts contrary to all recommendations. Just a few quick words in passing.