Keep in mind in those days the Pilots Notes (RAF and RAAF) for aircraft (Dakota, Lincoln and their ilk) did not have takeoff or landing performance charts. You just went and where the runway was short you just lifted off at the far end and hoped the aircraft would fly. While max structural takeoff weights were published there was no climb limited weights v OAT. You simply took your chances and hoped you wouldn't lose a donk. If you did lose an engine that became your problem.