France
November 6, 1916

Dear Mother,

Just received the box with the pomps in and laughed till I couldnt laugh any more. I'm sorry but they wouldnt be any use here mother. The mud is nearer your knees than the top of those boots. Theyd be fine in England but not in this country. I will try to send them home and make the best of what Ive got. Keep them for me when I get back. Send a pair of shoe packs and be sure they come to the knee and you cant get them too strong. (size seven) Dont worry about me being dissapointed. I was laughing at the idea you have of the front. After I had opened the box I got the letter about Sid and beleive me I'm as blue now as you were. I was very surprised in a way in another Im not. A man killed is nothing here but it means a lot to some one else. I was looking forward to working with him at home again but there doesnt seem to be any use looking forward to anything till the dam war is over. I feel darn bad about it and am sorry for his wife and child. He was certainly one fine boy. We're not running the world so whats the use. I will write his mother you bet and help her as much as possible. There are very few of my old (real chums) left. Ted Morgan was killed too. I'm glad I came with Cecil He's there everytime. I tell you he's showed up a few at home who used to kid him. I couldnt have come with a better kid. I suppose Flo will stay with you mother & probably his mother will [?] [?] to her. Although I havent seen him Ive been in the same place for a month or more.

Well I suppose everyone will have to make the best of what they have, eh.

When the war is over what do you say if we all go to the country. I'm going

Love to all
Bert