Dilgate Camp Shorncliffe Kent Jan 6th/17 Dear Old King:- Frightfully bucked and all that sort of thing to hear from you Old Dear. So far I have been writing as often as I could to the family at large. Bulletins showing lack of progress and patent is a rapidly declining in financial condish. But, the crisis appears now to be passed and the patient is on the mend. The women have not shown that they are capable of self government and the care of money has led the majority to live frivolously and a great many riotously and shamelessly. The moral standard seems to have slid down hill to or in the direction of a new low level. Many - a very large number of wives of soldiers have proved irresponsible and there will be a veritable hell here when the war is over and the men come back. I have in mind a case I have investigated personally. A private in the 61st B'n was sent to the 8th B'n in France was wounded and sent to Eng, recommended for a commission and sent for duty as an officer to the 18th Res. here. He met a young girl of 18 here became engaged to her then went to france. While away she took ill. he sent her to Hospital & paid all bills. He became ill in F. with V.D.9 and after treatment to cure? came to Eng. He immediately tho he only had 3 [pounds] went to London & brot this girl down here "intending to be married immediately" could not get the license under 15 days found her lodging where they lived together. Issued several bogus cheques & was put under arrest. I arranged a settlement - on his statement that he was marred on 1st June, by applying for Seperation allowance amounting to $210. He could not produce a certificate & had to admit no marriage. Result sent up for G.L.M. on charges of fraud on the cheques & procuring etc. In the meantime I called on the lady? found her very good & innocent looking. Took me in entirely. Well such is life in England. I shall write you again soon Old Dear but remember the [?] Sink a boat with letters for us. Affectionately Gordon