Dear Mum, Dad and Jack:

… Tomorrow there is the biggest inspection ever, General Burns is going to inspect the Regiment. Everybody has to be on that and all week the orderly room was a madhouse. I never knew there were so many documents for a soldier….

One thing you find out just why you signed all those papers when you got in the Army. It was all a mystery to me up until now. They practically know everything about you that is of any account at all.

Besides the general there will be a colonel and two lieutenant-colonels to say nothing of the majors, etc. It is what we call a spit and polish parade because everything has to be just so or it will be too bad for us. I can see the old General now getting red and mad now if someone comes on parade without something. Will let you know how it all came out.

I was darn sorry to hear that Jack cut his knee. That is a tough break just at the end of the holidays. It put the crimps on his trip to the city so he is having tough luck. Hope he is better by now—school will be in full swing. He didn’t have to lay in bed on his birthday.

I also had some tough luck. My finger is all better but the other morning in P.T. (Physical Training) I sprained my ankle. It was pretty sore for a day or two but is O.K. now. You should try getting out at six in the morning with nothing on but a pair of shorts and running shoes. Boy is it cold….

Our Sgt. Major is writing beside me, he used to be my platoon sgt. but was promoted to Sgt. Major.  It was him who got me my new job. His name is Merry and he sure lives up to it.  He has yet to be seen downhearted. He really is a swell fellow….

Oh yes Mum I have something to tell you but don’t say anything in case the wrong opinion is taken. While on leave in Scotland I met a girl by the name of Isa…just an acquaintance.  Some people wouldn’t understand but you will so keep it to yourself or the first thing I will know some people will have me in Dutch and there are lots who would love to that I know.  Anyway I was introduced to her, the only girl I met and I mentioned you liking heather.  That was the last I thought of it but the other day I had a letter from her. One of the boys gave her my address when they were out of earshot of me. She won’t say who but I just wish I knew and the fur would be flying. I didn’t want that but can’t do much about it. In her letter she said she was sending some heather to me for you or if I would send your address she would send it direct. I don’t know how to answer that one so am asking your opinion. I don’t want to keep up a correspondence but can’t be dirty about it. What do you suggest? I have a little nurse to write to and don’t want any more so tell me if you want the heather or not. She is a real nice girl from what I know of her but even so there is none that can come up to these Canadian girls.

I haven’t heard any news lately but by the way things are going we are doing O.K.  Let’s hope it keeps up. Just wait until you hear the news about us going rat hunting, then she will be over in a hurry. What for the news of the Second Division?…

After the inspection tomorrow there are a lot going on leave, including the fellow in the orderly room. That means I will be running “A” Coy orderly room by myself so here is hoping.  One thing about this inspection, we eat good for a couple of days. You see the cooks have to make a good showing too and it would never do to let the General see the ordinary meals we get.

There is a Bruce fellow from New Glasgow in this Regt. and he is a swell guy. He comes over to see me quite often. I give him all the papers you send and he sure enjoys them. There are quite a few Nova Scotians in this Regt. about fifty or sixty I think. I was in a couple of air raids recently and believe me it is an experience. You don’t realize how dangerous it is, all you think about is watching the fireworks….

Guess this is about all for now, you can send more batteries or a bulb if you will and don’t forget the cigs and eats. Also some more onion skin paper if it is not to [sic] expensive.

The best of everything in the world to all of you and write often. Will write again soon.

Lots of Love to all,

Bill