Jan. 17/43.

Dear Mother and Dad,

Well here it is another New Year and I am going to try and write at least once a month.

How did you enjoy the holiday season? I hope you had a nice Christmas and that the New Year sees things a lot better.

Mother you will have to excuse the paper and the pencil as I am writing this note somewhere at sea and I am not so hot at writing any place.

I had a letter from Beu a week ago and she said the kiddies were all feeling better which must be a great relief. [Arlien?] was down to see me on New Years day and we had a great chat. He was put out because his leave didn’t come up for the holidays but I guess we can’t have the things we want.

Mother tell Lloyd and Harry to drop me a line and let me know how they like the wine, and I’ll try to answer, but you know me, I would rather walk home and have a good old chat than write.

The next time I have my leave that is what we are going to do the whole time.

Well I better cut this short as I have to go below and stand a watch.

I still think you are about the best mother in-law a fellow ever had. I think more of you because you gave me such a sweet wife and when you see Beu, give her a big hug and kiss for me.

Love
Joe.