Mr. Thomas Mr. Thomas Tall and thin and arrow straight with a moustache on his lip, His use of the English language involving a British clip. Though well now in his eighties-- had landed a Cessna plane, Took one look at my Sopwith “tripe”-- expressed to me disdain. “It couldn’t very good” were the words he chose to speak, Had it not been for his obvious age—might have shot back with some pique! He said that he had flown-- in the ‘14-‘18 war. 48 Squadron “Brisfits’-- been his mounts of yore. Confessed he’d never seen one--- of this type that I had made— But he was from the RFC—(not the R.N.A.S.”trade”). He gave to me his “personal card” that told me where he stayed— Then departed in his Cessna--- ‘ere the twilight hand was played. I admit that I was thrilled— to’ve met a flier from that “war”. Had long been my objective, but never occurred before. I phoned and joined him at his home—met his daughter there— Came to know him as a friend –his thoughts and books to share. Began to paint in his old age—his water colors so grand— Succinct scenes of beauty—etched from his architect hand. Told of his adventures--- (in both the wars he had known)— ‘First war’ bullets remained in his back—“second war” types that he’d flown. Even rode behind him--- as a friend gave us a ride--- Herbert Thomas showed precision—flew that “Navion” in stride. He came to know of this plane I make, and offered sage advice— (Its rotary engine took him aback-didn’t think of the type as “nice”). When came the time-- to try out my plane— so-called “maiden” flight— Elected to leave him safely at home—should “this” not turn out right. Don’t think he ever forgave me-- for not actually seeing me land- Watching the video others had made—not the same-- as watching first hand. Took him to watch a “Camel” in flight-(his first since the first World War)— Captivated by-standers there-- with first hand accounts and much more— Was lucky for me to have made him a friend-- a man I could really admire- His life then so full-- and his manner so nice-- a model of what should inspire! He departed this life at age ninety two-- left a void I’m unable to fill— His quiet wisdom--- memory sharp—would I could summon him here at my will. BillWodall