Y.M.C.A headed notepaper
Pte. A.A. Smith
No 27521
Reply to “C” Company 12th Bat. Essex Regt
Stationed at Dovercourt
June 23rd 1916
Dear Father
Many thanks for your letter. I am glad to hear you are all well; pleased to say I am A.1. again now.
We shall be leaving here on Tuesday but I don’t think it will be Romford I think it will be further away instead of nearer. I believe it is France this time; they called up those that have been in the army since 17th March first, but there was not sufficient to make up the number so we clicked for it; there is about 150 all together. I thought I might as well tell you now but don’t you go worrying about it. I don’t mind going at all I have plenty of Pals to keep me company. The reason for sending us so quickly is to make room for all the married men they are bringing up; we are bound to be at the base for sometime to complete our training as we have plenty to learn yet. I reckon it will be a holiday to what it is here now they are working us all day.
I have not very much else to tell you now. You can bet I should like to have your parcel but it is no use to send one at present I will write to you again as soon as possible. I should be pleased to have a few lines from you before Tuesday if you have time.
We are booked at present for Tuesday but of course one never knows whether we shall go as soon as that; the army often alter things at the last moment.
Please remember me to Jess & Ethel & all enquiring friends. Don’t forget to keep smiling we are all merry & bright. You ought to be in camp at night we have all the latest songs before lights out.
I really think I must finish now
With much love
Your devoted
Son
Alf
P.S. What do you think of the war news. The Russians are doing jolly well. I don’t think it will last very long now.
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