My Dearest:

Another gamble at getting word to you. This is the second air mail effort. Speed some kindly plane! We are all set now & the suppressed excitement is intense, & spirits are steadily soaring. It’s all tremendous. You’ll know all about it by the time this arrives, maybe more than I do.

Last night, under a young moon, three hundred soldiers sat on deck singing quietly & very seriously, each a set of private thoughts. Lewd songs just didn’t appear. We had “Maple leaf”, “Swannie River”, “Apple Tree”, “You are my Sunshine”, “Annie Laurie”, Last war songs & “There’ll always be an England” & “Land of Hope & Glory”. I’ll never be superior about those songs again. The richest experience I’ve ever had.

It’s hot of course. I’ll stop saying that soon. Everyone’s gay and helpful & . . . . . I’ll tell you all later. I think a War Book is indicated. As a “family” expert this is indeed a family affair.

My love to your so very nice Mother, & Marjorie & the Hansons & “Uncle Jack” Hancox & Candy & . . . & DICKIE – ANNE. Oh dear. That child. Has it arrived. Is it dreadful for little you. I pray, & are Candy & it mutually friendly? And have you bought the shoes?

On Sunday mornings I picture Uncle Jack calling & your so busy Mother resolutely carrying on & Candy & you & he enjoying that gaiety & good sense which belongs automatically to his company.

If that book of plays comes one is for Bertha. My love to her & to Muriel Grant & to Eileen. See her? And Mrs Erskine. And Mrs Anderton, a good woman if ever there was one. Also Chip & Bertie Wright & Co.

Before very long I shall be at the end of a cable I hope, & see cable as soon as I can, the first moment.

It’s the same trouble, so much to say, & nothing I can say. Except to reassure you unnecessarily that I have you always in my heart & spirit. I am well, very fit, very busy very happy & very proud of you. Also, I do love you to the limit.