Witley Camp,
Dec 23rd, 1916

My Dearest Jessie:

Read your letter and Matthew and wife's xmas card; was glad to get them both; very kind of them to remember us. I wrote Elizabeth a letter a short time ago. She asked me last winter to send her my address when I got across and she would send me a pr. of socks; so I think that's to good an offer to turn down; don't you? Those socks of yours were very welcome; you can send some more when you feel like it. (just received Sade's box, it looks very nice, no doubt it tastes like wise).

We are not doing much drill these days; decorating up for xmas; we are having [?] a swell dinner that day. We are having Smoker for the 185th xmas eve; they are having quite an entertainment; band concert also, only 10% of men get xmas leave, but I think I will go to London some time soon. I think I told Father in my last letter that Colonel [Phinney?] was giving a lecture in [?] room Sunday night (16th). He's reason for the meeting was to tell us that the Batt'n was going as unit; what was left of it; if they could not withdraw the first draft; which they will try to do. There are too Batt'n of Bugade going as units, 193rd I think. If we 85th go as much as we expect to do, and 219th doesn't; I am going to try and get Don and other boys transferred which I think will be much better. Perhaps Don. will never go to trenches on acct. of his hands. I doubt if the Drs pass him, although they might.

Had a letter from H.B. yesterday; he told me his Father and J.B. Archibald were agents for Ford car. Some class to Bentley's next summer, ah!

The longer I live in this country, the more I appreciate my little home town of Musq. and what's more, that I never let that cursed liquor pass my lips; over here the women walk into public bars with the men and taken their drink simply disgraceful; of course it is mostly the low class of women, but it is no credit to a country to encourage any thing of the kind. We certain have reasons to be proud of little [P.S.?].

Harold B. must have it bad on Eva [?] I suppose he will be running her around in a car next summer; that's the idea, go it while your young.

Am glad to hear you are going to celebrate xmas eve in usual way; and that you will be organist. Hope Santa Claus will remember you with many presents this year. Hope you have a success of your anniversary.

I think this is all I have to write this time.

Much love to father, [?, and Yourself.

As Ever Loving bro.
Spence.

(xxxxx ooooo) just between you and me. Ha! Ha!

P.S. (I only weigh 188 lbs.)

Don't forget to send me any snaps you have to spare. Did you get any of wedding. if so, send some.