My dear Mother and Evelyn,

Just a few lines to let you know I am still OK and feeling good. I have been through the big ordeal of my first trip into the line. It was not so bad on the nerves as I thought it would be but just the same there is lots of excitement at times. We are out in billets for rest now and have nothing to worry about at all. I have not received any of the parcels as yet but no doubt they will be held up somewhere.

I got a letter from Jim [Bowes] the other day dated Dec. 8th so it sure took enough time for that one to reach me. Both him and Fred were well and Jim was just back from a pass and I guess he would enjoy it. I know London would look mighty good to me at present.

Just a minute while I turn a few of these lice over and give them a rest. That’s better now I may have a few minutes peace.

I spent Xmas in the trenches and sent the old year out and the new one in walking back to our billets. We got paid our measly 15 francs yesterday and spent the whole works in about half an hour sampling French wine and champagne. Now don’t run away with the idea we all got tanked for such is not the case.

Poor Lieutenant Bowring went west the other day, killed by concussion. I sure was very sorry to hear it for he sure was a prince of a fellow. Believe me Mother, the man who puts his foot on French soil these days is sure a hero. There is considerable peace talk these days but I do not believe it will come for some time yet. One thing is certain, Fritz will have to come through for he sure is up against it good and plenty at present for we have the goods to deal with him.

Well, Musie, I am out of news so will have to ring off for now.

Your loving son,

Cliff