Dear Mum, Dad, Bette and Jack:

…The registered parcel with the two pair of gloves arrived today and thanks a million.  The old fingers were beginning to get slightly cold in the mornings. Those fur-lined ones sure are swell and two officers saw them and at once offered me two pound ten shillings for them.  They were wasting their breath though because I wouldn’t sell them for love or money. I value those for sentimental reasons. Gloves like that just can’t be bought over here at all so I will have to keep them well hid….

I was rather disappointed when I found the ring wasn’t there. I remember Mother saying she would send it along with the gloves. I went through every one of the fingers expecting to find it there but no dice…. I really miss it and now I have no jewellery at all. So when you send another box put the ring in it if you remember please.

…Today was the day the fellows all wait for—payday. I drew two pound but that will last me a month. I never go out and the only thing to spend it on is a coke or two at the N.A.A.F.I. (Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes) and stamps. This money over here is crazy. A pound note is just like a two dollar bill back home. When you break it you get a ten shilling note and a few half crowns. No wonder it doesn’t last long.

Well Mum, I hope by now you are all O.K. again and do take care of yourself please.  You make her do as I say Sis, and Dad you can supervise or act as the Sgt. in the Army. I am still waiting for your letter Jack. It better come soon or I’ll put a licking on you when I get back, maybe if you are not too big. How is the Navy Sis?

Lots of Love to all of you,

Bill