In camp after my 17th trench trip.
Jan 13th 1917

My dearest Mother

Thanks very much for parcel and letter received three nights ago in the trenches. I received Pa's letter at same time. The pancakes I much enjoyed only I couldn't heat them but that didn't matter. I wish you had enclosed Percy's address as I'm waiting for it to write him, but I shall have to wait I suppose (received Sunday and written him).

I came out of the line last night and tonight I have been listening to a lecture on Robert Burns which was most very instructive and which I much enjoyed especially as I knew the places he spoke of Ayr etc. Oh! It's a great thing to travel I feel it more every day I live.

I'm looking forward to having a full Sunday tomorrow. I mean to be able to be at parade service in morning followed by communion and the YM voluntary service at night. Last time we were out we had the morning service but went up the line at night and before that we hadn't had a Sunday out of the line for two months.

Pa's was a very nice letter as usual. Regarding my letter on Xmas doings don't forget to send Paisley and Norwich a copy also Pritchard.

I must stop now and get home (I mean to billets) so bye-bye.
Ever your loving boy

Jack

Min will have to wait abit for the brooch-they've sold out or as they say-C'est fini! Had a bath today Hurrah!!

Received Pa's letter today Sunday, enclosing Percy's very fine description of his first impressions which I thoroughly enjoyed reading.

I have just written to him a good long epistle. The YM evening service is just starting so I'm going to close this. Our weather is not so bad considering its January. Misty and muggy but not wet.

The reception of the War loan as a backing up to our Peace Terms will make the enemy sit up and take notice Eh!

Now bye-bye
Best love
Jack