The Leather Pocketbook

Worn, imprinted surface, evidence of hardships.
Dark leather, delicately pressed, patterns emerging from the depths.
The great pyramid and Sphinx, rising up to greet you.

Slowly it is opened, the musky smell of ancient paper filling your nose.
A warm smile welcomes you in.
Her beautiful dress illuminating the photograph.

Intriguing history blossoms before you, granting access to long forgotten memories.
Photographs slip out, each portraying a country.
Stunning yet worn down by difficult times.

Letters and telegraphs alike reveal that Mona was writing to her sweetheart, Private J. Elliot.
Jock, a brave machine gunner stationed in Cairo.
But no matter how many letters are sent, the war rages on.

A newspaper clipping shows the dismal news.
Jock's brother, is dead.
Private R.M Elliot, has died of his wounds.

His face stares left, as if looking to the photo of his wife.
A slight smile plays on his lips.
You close the book, sealing its secrets once again.