France
Oct.14th, 1917

Dear Father:

Read your letter some time ago; have written Jessie as you know several times since. This is Sunday just after mess, am writing this on my lap. We had church parade this morning and had the pleasure of listening to Capt. H. B. Clark; just a short service; he gave us a quite a nice address, short but good, the rest of the day we have to ourselves; a good chance to write a few letters. Have not been in the Battalion line since returned from the school. in fact the Batt'n has not either; you will probably know as well as I do the reason why; if you don't now you will soon, it is not permissible for me to tell you.

You spoke about the colt in your letter; or about selling the mare and keeping the colt. I would like to see him if I ever have an opportunity, but if the mare suits you better why suit your self about keeping the colt; a fellow often says things, but does not realize how serious the effect may be; so don't go by anything I have said; hope he did well at pasture this summer, will likely make a handsome horse. Doug B. said his father had sold their colt to Rubb[?] Ellis. Doug didn't like it a bit. Doug hasn't much love for Rubb[?]. Send me another snap of the colt and mare if you have one. I think I made a mistake above when I said I had written Jessie several times since I got your last letter I read a letter from you in Jessie's last letter. (excuse mistakes). You spoke of sending some socks and gloves. Yes; they would be very welcome; although we are getting along quite well as regards socks, but a big pr or two of heavy one's would be fine and as for gloves a pair of good [?] ones would be fine; this sort of warfare we use the shovel about as much if not more than the rifle; a box of chocolates in the parcel will not be refused.

Harry Clark has been to Paris on pass, just got back a few days ago, he said he had a fine time. I guess it's a great place to have a good time, so all the boys say who have been there, but I think I prefer [?] for mine which I don't think will be long coming.

We have been having quite a bit of rain lately, but this is a nice day; in spite of the rain, we had a fine time in the town we were last in. Have you heard any word from the Farrell[?] Boys lately; would like to hear how they are are getting along.

I think I have said enough for this time. I am as ever your loving son
Spence
Love to Jessie and Gow[?].