Dear Neil,
Received your note yesterday and sorry to hear about Ronnie. He done what he could and now it is all over. So we will have to be reconciled to the will of our Father in Heaven. It is hard on us all but it is worse for Lilly and the children. Go up and see them now and again to cheer them up and help her if you can. As for seeding, we can't get on the land. The land is covered with snow today all over. We have Minnie McArthur staying with us for the summer so I will manage the seeding alright. I would sooner have you come up haying or harvesting if possible. Should they try to force you into the army after you are 18 come home. Don't join up. It will be no disgrace for you. Your brothers have done your bit. It looks as if the war will not be over for a long time. No more, Neil. Thanking you for offering you to assist me and hoping this finds you all well. I will be down about the end of the month. If you see Ronnie's picture in any of the papers send it up to me.
Your father in sorrow, A. MacKinnon