Somewhere in the universe;
Dec. 28th/18.

Dear Martha:

Well, Xmas am come and gone, law's a 'massa! an' ah am soba as eva. We certainly had an ideal Xmas day, Old Sol came out early in the morning and shone with all his might. Not a breath of wind disturbed the air, yet there was sufficient frost in the air to make one's blood tingle in the veins, when he walked rapidly. Only on the summits of the surrounding mountains could be seen traces of snow. The glad Xmas feeling was everywhere in evidences, and a strong spirit of comradeship and brotherhood prevailed, fulfilling the original Xmas message, "Glory to God in the Highest, peace on earth, good-will to men". Our barrack- room was gaily decorated with bunting and flags. A spruce tree, decorated, stood in a corner. But the best view of all was the two long tables with real white tablecloths, white dishes, clean cutlery, and dishes of fruit, nuts and candy on the table. The menu consisted of tomato soup, pheasant, instead of goose, pie and plum pudding. In the evening most of us went to the American Y.M.C.A. building where a concert was given by soldier and sailor talent, and a two-reel comedy film shown, which caused our sides to split with laughter. Eats, drinks, and smokes were freely bestowed on everyone. I forgot to mention that some patriotic league gave each man a bag containing a pair of socks, hankerchief, gum and a pair of trench mitts, a much needed article (I don't think). The British Red Cross Society have promised each man their presents for New Year's and as we have also been promised mail for that day, I see a real day of enjoyment and pleasure. Rumour has it that the "War Charger" carrying 5 week's mail has turned back owing to broken machinery. This is the second time the boat has turned back with mail. Another clause of the rumour has it that a Chinese steamer will be in in a day or two, with 5 day's mail. I sincerely hope that it contains the Xmas mail.

Well, Martha, I sure do have some time trying to speak the Russian lingo. Do you know, that every time I converse with a Russian, there is one Biblical event that is recalled to my mind very vividly- the Confession of Longues at the Tower of Babel. The Russians celebrate their Xmas from Jan.6th to 9th, and playing cards, dancing, smoking and drinking vodka fill the program.

It is claimed that it was announced in the British House of Commons that all Allied troops would be withdrawn from Siberia as soon as a new Russian army was mobilized, and that day is not far distant. Rumour has it we shall set sail for Canada in March or April, and that we shall be discharged soon after. I expect Emerson will be home when I get back. In that case he and I will go out and visit you. How would you like to have prof. McAdam, late of Siberia, to deliver a lecture on Siberia, its inhabitants and their customs, to your pupils. The only remuneration I shall ask is five bucks to be paid in advance. I never was so much "on the rocks" in my life as I am now, though I expect money from home in the near future. If not convenient to have it registered, never mind, as it will be alright.

It seems as if I have wandered somewhat, but one cannot think along a straight and definite line now "a-days", when unsettled feelings and outside influences do come which cause me to go off at another tangent. Au revoir to the nuts!

I suppose the whole world is awaiting the results of the peace Conference. We get new of world events by means of war bulletins, and two newspapers- the Japan Advertiser, printed in English in Tokyo, and the Shanghai Gazette, printed in Shanghai, also in English. It seems that the Allies are bound to have the Kaiser brought to justice in an Allied Courtroom. I hope he does appear there and that he gets all that is coming to him.

Well, Martha, I am now beginning to suffer from mental exhaustion, so shall hang up the receiver. Best of luck to you, and to the Roger family.

Your loving brother.
Pte. Douglas McAdam
Same address.