F. Smith letter 16 August 1917.
Aug 16th 17
Dear Father
I will now endeavour to answer your welcome letter also the enclosed 10/- note thank you very much it is very kind of you indeed.
Well here goes for a little bit of news in general. I had a parcel from Albert to-day, also a card to say he was safe after the air raid; did they visit your way this time?
I see you are on your lonesome at present but no doubt you manage to pass the time away by running round the houses & having a chat with some of your old friends.
We have been having a rough time lately went in the line last Friday & came out on Tuesday it was a very rough shop & the weather being so wet made it much worse. We are a little way back at present & don’t expect to go in again I believe we are going right back for a good rest very soon.
I mean to have a good time too. Your money will come in fine then. I am always glad to have a parcel but it is rather fortunate you have not sent one lately as we have been on the move so much. I hope we shall be settled down in a few days again & I have it a bit easier it has been all work cleaning up &c have not had any leisure time.
You ought to see me now clothes all torn where I caught them on the barbed wire & am feeling very hitchy-koo am looking forward to a bath & a clean change.
Please tell Mrs. Warman & Lilian I have not forgotten their letter I hope they are well.
I think you must excuse more news now as I have so many letters to answer.
Hoping you merry & bright & keeping in the best of health.
Au revoir
With much love
Your devoted
Son
P.S. Did Clara receive the two cards I sent the children about three weeks ago or longer.