Iraqi prison can't break his spirit
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NHAT must seem like an aternity in an Iraqi prison has not broken the spirit of John Smith, formerly managing director of Hestair Dennis. Phil Ives, managing director of DAF Trucks (GB), sent him a Christmas and New Year card and has received a remarkably cheerful reply dated January 25.
In it John Smith discusses the state of the British commercial vehicle industry in general and Hestair Dennis in particular,-but some of his sources of information have been summarily cut off.
"I used to be able to receive Commercial Motor regularly but my dear hosts have suddenly, for reasons known only to themselves, prevented all fresh supplies of books and magazines," he writes.
"My present situation shows little sign of change as far as I can judge," he adds. "Lots of high-level diplomatic intrigue going on, but not much to show for it in results. Censorship prohibits me being explicit, but let's just say, having taken a lot of trouble to obtain a satisfactory hostage, my hosts are hanging on for the best deal they can get."
Living conditions, he says, are "not too bad but crowded." He has been sustained in his ordeal by the support of family, friends and colleagues, and particularly his wife.