Bramshott Camp Hants
May, 9th, 1917

My Dear Betty:-

Your letter no, 5, was waiting fro me when I returned from London; this brings them up to date, I think we have been very fortunate in our correspondance though it is a very unsatisfactory way of receiving it, however we must be thankful of small mercies and I guess we are.

I sent from LONDON three packets of picture post cards, a letter, also a catologue of pictures in The Royal or National Art Gallery, I hope you receive them safely as they are among the best that I have sent as yet.

Just as I was leaving the City a German Aerioplane began to drop bombs over the northern suburbs, we cold hear the explosions, just one man was killed & two or three injured, along with a little property, the Zeppelin raids seem to have become a thing of the past now & I don't think they will bother us much more, they are sure of too warm a reception.

It almost looks at though Russia were going to contract a separate peace with Germany, I hope sincerely this does not happen, but if it does, well, we shall have to make the best of it; certainly we'll have to go through with it now to the bitter end: we must make it absolutely impossible for Germany ever again to plunge the world into such another welter of blood & sorrow, no matter how long it may take & no matter the cost; we must make the world a safe place to live in & make the future as far as we can, peaceful & prosperous, in order that the generations to come may work out their destinies without let or hindrance from any-one.

They are still keeping me in England though I don't know how much longer it will last, I have thought somehow that I shall not be here verry much longer personally I shall be glad to go, though I know you are hoping otherwise, we have had quite a number of our 222'nd boys back already recovered from there wounds & ready for another crack at the HUNS, the fellows are really splendid& show a great spirit.

At the present time I am acting Sg't Major for the Company, this explains the effort of the present moment, I think that with a little practice I shall be able to do not too badly; the weather is all that could be desired & old ENGLAND at her best, don't I wish that you & the kiddies were here, wouldn't we all have a great time?

I will write again on Sunday all being well, with hugs & kisses for yourself & kiddies GOD bless you all dear one with fondest & best love

Daddy

Betty XXXXXXXX
Shirley XXXXXXX
Billy XXXXXXXX