Been a while ... Letter #34 Early January 1916

Early January 1916

Medical Depot

Sandgate, Kent, England

Dear Mother

          You must forgive me for not writing previously for I have been so terribly busy we got here all okay and have returned to duty.  The trip was fine the only thing that was wrong was the last couple of days we were not allowed to take off our clothes as there were submarines around and when the alarm came half the fellows near went mad, but I took my time and came out alright - some got their legs crushed in the rush.

          Well Mother how are the horses now and did you have that dance you were talking about having .  I am all choked up with the grippe just now.  But I guess I will be alright in a day or so.  I met a bunch of the old boys from France and we were sure glad to see each other.  I wrote to Major Staples in Winnipeg and I might get off all right when he comes over here.

          I guess I could get a commission under him but it is in the Infantry and you know how much I like the Infantry.  However time will tell.  

Is V-V still going to the school in Holland.

I met Ruby and Ernie in Montreal and when I left them at the depot poor Ruby nearly cried, well Mother do you ever hear from the new Mrs Ireland and how they are getting on.

Well Mother I am going to lunch now.  So remembrance to V-V and Dad and write soon

Lovingly

Chas