1/9/16

Dear Mother,

I’m writing this after my second period in the front line out of which I have again had the good fortune to come unscathed. The Huns were much more lenient with us this time although there were plenty souvenirs to come and share among us also, plenty of iron rations in the shape of whiz-bangs and other shells. Harold and I were detailed for burying the dead which job we performed for 3 days. It is not at all a nice job, we came fairly used to after a while and got that way that we did not mind taking discs and papers etc.

I received one of your parcels a couple of days ago while in the trenches and it came in very handy too and I hereby thank you for it. It contained socks, scissors, comb, lollies etc so you will know the one I mean. Cousin Vivian and Aunt Clara still send along theirs regularly so that I have nothing to complain about on the subject of parcels. I have noted Gerts engagement and wasn’t surprised at all. I reckon it is about time one of us started in the matrimonial line so long as Hilda is not spliced when I get back as I will want her when I get back to cook for me. You know Grace is too ‘giddy’ to last long without a partner. Gig is about fixed up, I must have one of them to shepherd Hilda for me wont you.

The Aunts in England are taking your place over here, you do tell me they are acting for you while I am on this side of the world. I really think I will have a rip-snorting time if I can get across to see them. But of course I am not supposed to be out for a ripping time, though at the present I am engaged in perambulating around the village slush and slime up to our ankles and in fact it is nearly as bad as the trench which we were a foot deep in slimy slush.

Bill Hookham has died in hospital at Bologne. He was the chap that came out to tea with me that night and who you said was pretty. I have lost both pals now that was Bert Allen and Bill Hookham. Harold and I are great chums again and the same as ever, share & share alike as before. The mail from Australia is fairly regular now. I seem to get all the letters safely. The �10 arrived in England alright and I hope you took the expense out of my English bank account.

Love to all, I remain, yours affectionately

Walter. 1/9/16