One thing did liven up Christmas: almost everyone who had money spent it lavishly — not only because it's the gift-giving season, but also because they were spending military currency. Firms are giving plenty because they expect to merit some consideration in the post-war settlements. American POWs are the chief benefactors.

A nurse told me that the Philippine General Hospital recently treated two Malacañan Constabulary for wounds sustained in beating off an enraged Filipino citizen trying to get to Laurel. The man put up one hell of a fight.