Oct 10th 1916
Pte. H.F. Ball No. 436610
38th Base Detail, Provisional Battn.
Canadian Base Depot, France
Army P.O. London, Eng.

Dear Aunt Becca,

We arrived in France a few days ago and we are now at a Canadian Base Camp, not very far from where we landed, so we are a long way from the front yet. I think we will be here for a few days to get a little more training and instructions before going up to the front. We have been issued with gas helmets and are being instructed how to use them, and other things of protection. It is very interesting and they have all kinds of things for protection. What I have seen of this country, it looks very much like England, of course the people here are all French and it is hard to understand them.

We are not allowed to tell where we are or what is going on, but will try and send a few lines when I get a chance. I am feeling quite well and I hope you are the same. Well I guess I will have to close for this time. I have not been getting all the papers you send, and it is nice to get the news from Edmonton. Well good bye for this time and best love.

Your loving Nephew,
Bert