France,
March 23, 1918

Dear Mother:

Just a line today to let you know that I am going on leave and am busy packing up. Expect to go this afternoon. Am planning on going as far north as Aberdeen, then working south stopping for a few days at Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stirling, then down to London and Horsham for a couple of days. As I mentioned in my last letter I will probably cable for some money. Had I expected to go so soon I would have written. I was greatly surprised to find I was going this month. Things are dear in Blighty now and when one hasn't been over for twenty-two months one wants to have the best time possible - that is go to a good hotel where one can have all the comforts going, that being a good bath every morning and the best meals going - also to see as much of the country and as many good plays as one can. All of which costs of money nowadays though it is an opportunity to see the place which may never come again. I consider it money well spent and think I am wise in drawing on my assigned pay. Of course by spending ten days in one place I could get along on probably half the money but that is not my idea of a good leave. I know it is expensive cabling money but I think it is well worth while, the added expense being negligible, compared with the results.

Saw Mr. Taylor last night. Happened across him quite by accident and he came up to our billets with me and saw all the boys. Was certainly glad to see him here and we had a long talk over old times again.

Now I must ring off as I am busy. Will write when I get across. All well. Excuse scrawl.

Love to all, Harold