Dear Mother and Family,

Your many welcome letters received yesterday and sure was glad to hear from you all. But I had a good laugh over the writing paper that you sent. It sure was very thoughtful but we do not need stamps here so I will send them back again. I have not received the parcel with the scarf in it as yet but it will most likely be along before long. As for things we need out here most are socks, cigarettes and eats. Those are a soldier’s salvation and you can send them along as regular as you like.

I also got a letter from Gladys and she also sent me some writing paper.  So you must have had a quiet Xmas. Well believe me, mine was exciting enough for old Fritz handed us everything he had on the catalogue for a couple of hours but did little damage.

I am so glad that the wee boy is such a wonderful lad. Tell Ada, I will give him a fiver every birthday till he is of age and then it may come in useful to him. I often think that he will be just the right age to spoil when I get home.

When this affair is over, I know my mother will lift up her head and say my boy done his duty anyway. I tell you mother, the people of Canada cannot realize what this war is till they see the shape and condition of the women and children of this country. I sure am glad that I found guts enough on Aug. 5th to join up and although we have great trials over here I think that all want it fought to a finish.

It looks like the first step to conscription in Canada. I myself would like to see it. Although they may take Elliott away but if he joins the veterinary corps he can do excellent work and have a bomb-proof job but would advise him to stay home if possible for he is doing his duty by looking after you while I am away.

Well mother I had a letter from Gladys today and I am afraid that the way things look that I will have to look for another wife when I get home. I guess she can’t wait for the soldier boys.

But “oh hell” I should worry the Jane on the hill is not hooked up yet. This war is a funny thing as we get so used to disappointments that we never worry over anything. I guess it is a good job we don’t.

Jim must be somewhere in France but I have not seen him yet but a letter came for him to the 44th the other day and I had it open before I found out it was not for me. Jim Taylor is all OK again and I saw him the other day. He is as fat as ever and just as good natured.

Hoping this finds you as well as it leaves me,

Cliff