France
Nov 4th 1916

To. Maj Evans

Sir

I trust you will pardon the liberty I am taking in writing a personal letter to you. I am presumptive enough to think a few lines will be welcome from one who was in your command for so long. Please accept my congratulations on your promotion , of which I was very pleased to learn.

I find this experience most interesting and so far have no cause for complaint. I have met many of the old battalion, and scarcely a party passes, but what someone shouts to me. I have met all the first division battalions at various places, and renewed old acquaintances. You may have heard that Thompson who was formerly a corporal in No 4 platoon has received his commission. I hunted him up in billets one day.

I have met Griffiths, Epton, Bisset, Hoyt & Franklin. Griffith & Hoyt I saw this morning as they were being relieved in the trenches. All are keeping very fit & well. I wonder Sir if you could give me any explanation as to why my two applications for commission never materialized? After the promises made by the Colonel & Adjutant I was rather surprised at not hearing anything further.

I intend in a little while applying from this side. Would you please favour me by forwarding a recommendation as to my capabilities during my service with the 32nd? It would be helpful Sir in an application, as none of the H.Q. staff know anything about my previous service.

I trust I have not trespassed by writing to you & requesting this favour. At present I am with Major Morriss who is acting as Camp Commandant, with whom I believe you are acquainted.
With compliments

I remain

Yours obediently

L. Howard Sgt Maj
Headquarters
4th Canadian Div.