Dec. 24th 1916
Somewhere in France

Dear Aunt Becca:-

I received you parcel about a week ago. I enjoyed the cake very much and the socks are fine. Earl wasn't far from where we were then and I took him some cake. I don't know what happens to the parcels that mamma sends. We haven't received any since we've been in France. I think somebody else must get them.

We got wet through on the march the day before yesterday and we didn't have any chance to get dry. It made my arm ache all day yesterday and it didn't do my cough any good either.

It doesn't seem much like Christmas to us here and I suppose you must be lonesome too.

I am sending you a handkerchief as a souvenir from France. I will have to close for this time. Hoping you are well.

From Your Loving Nephew,
Sammy

Pte. S.W. Ball 436971
38th Battn. Can. Inf.
D. Coy. 16 Platoon
B.E.F. France