Monday, august 20th.

Got in late last night. Just have time to post this for the 9 A.M. mail. Am going for a flip then. Will do about five hours up and down the line before crossing it.

Later.

It is past 11, but I must send a few lines before I turn in. I am quite tired but do not have to be up early, at least I don't think I will be called. I got up at 8 this morning and had a decent breakfast and was on the Aerodrome all morning, but didn't fly. After lunch I took a machine up and flew up and down the line on our side and enjoyed looking down on the Battery positions my Battery occupied last year. How I used to envy the flying men!! It was a real treat today to look over the ground I know so well.

I only went 5000 ft. and buzzed around taking it all in.

Another chap arrived from London Colney today, so we are going up tomorrow to have a sham fight. Quite good practice for both.

I am in a tent with a chap by the name of Fielder who was at Reading, Dover and London Colney with me, so its quite nice. I'm quite happy in the air and would not change places with anyone.

Cigarettes are scarce here so I would appreciate having you mail me 100 Players or Gold Flake. I have some but they won't last long as the rest of the boys are short for the time being of smokes. My friend Quilter joined us today - I must close now, dear Dad, as its 12 midnight and I may be called early. Quilter and I are having a sham fight in the A.M. Not with the gloves!!

My fountain pen is dry, hence the pencil. The machines here are splendid. Feel I have never been away from the war and am looking forward to leave; being the "Leave King" I'll have to live up to my reputation. Best love.