March 18, 1917

Dear Jay,

We were disappointed at not hearing from you last week but will get a letter this week surely. I do hope it is warmer there now for you have enough hardship without the cold though I suppose the mud is not much better. Have you had any signs of spring in France yet? (outside of the mud). Here the marbles and skipping ropes are in full swing, the stores are full spring hats, coats, etc. and the hurdy gurdys are out with an entirely new sets of songs. Also the days are much longer and mother is talking garden so we know that spring is on its way and it can't get here too soon to suit me. Easter is next month and its time for me to begin figuring on how to get 1 spring coat or suit, one ditto hat, & one pair boots, (shoes I should say) out of what will buy just one of the articles wanted. My hair will likely be grey by the time I figure that out. Your hair won't change colour from your worrying about spring clothes will it? What do you think I bought with my last month's surplus? You'll never guess so I'll tell you when I return from S. School.

Grace.

I am proud??? possessor of glasses! I had thought for sometime that I needed them so went to an oculist & he said I did so I have them. They make me look wise like an owl. I haven't worn them to the office but must begin soon. Mother had a letter from Aunt E. yesterday. She has arrived safely in Vancouver and is already settled. We hope she will be successful in her business. In the last box mother sent she put a pair of kid gloves. Hope they reach you. I wonder if you will ever meet C. Rittenhouse. I guess he won't be in England very long. From the accounts in the papers these last few days the "big" drive must be on. Is your battalion in taking part? If the Germans will only give on going until they reach Berlin! The Turks seem possessed with the "wanderlust" too from the rate they are retiring. It is glorious to know that you are advancing but the casualty lists are so long. We hope and pray that you may come through it all safely and do be careful to do nothing rash.

Love to you from your sister Grace.