France
10 . 5 . 18

My darling girl

Eventually I have received a letter from my wife, no date, but the one with Clara Bateman's letter enclosed, well, I was mighty glad to get it & to know that you are now comfortably settled, & from your description it seems to be a very convenient little house, that is for a country cottage.

Am glad that Frank has started school again & that he likes it, his cycle is coming in very useful now. I think you were wise about Gwladys as even if her foot was alright, it's a very long walk for a youngster her age , at the same time if you could get her a cycle it might be alright for her to cycle with Frank however you know best.

But my girlie you never mentioned Eric I want to hear about him in every letter, I dont think I have any favourites among the children but heavens I do love that boy. It certainly is great being so near Will & Eunice & to know that the children are looked after while you are away, & especially to have their company at night. Good for Johnny Price . I always knew he was a good sort, remember [me] to him & his family.

Well darling we are still in the same place, & having a very good time, have parades each day for about 5 hours, the people we are billeted with are very kind to us, & although we dont talk French we manage to make ourselves understood, we get lots of fresh milk, also fresh butter but the price is 8 Francs a pound 6/8 some price eh.

I cant send my regards any more to these folks , risk is too great, it would mean Court Marshall if caught. Fondest love to you & bairns, love to Will, Eunice & Iris.

Your loving,

Jim

P.S. Met a young chap tonight who used to work with Bob Peel , he is in the 8th Battn.