Camp Hughes
Oct 9/16
6-30 P.M.

My Dear Betty:-

Thanksgiving Day & working hard all day on the ranges marking for the 226 Battn', have just received yours written on Sunday also Shirley's nice 222 letter, I tried to get leave for Thanksgiving but it is impossible, no leave until the last & even that is in doubt, but rest assured I'll come anyway if there's any possible chance at all. The 184th have not gone - have not received word even, the 209th went to day - We have received no further word yet, this submarine business this side of the Atlantic may make some delay now. I think I told you to continue the clergyman's Insurance for time being, I'm glad the slabs came & that Mr. Burchill is splitting them for you, It doesn't pay to live with one's relations does it? I think you best advertise for a boarder or enquire at Normal School & as a last resource you would invite an Underhill girl for a while at least. Did you get the postal notes for $3.00? I had just cashed them & thought I would slip them in you'll find some use for them. It might be of benefit to you to get acquainted with our people who are organizing that S.S. as they might be able to help you in matter of getting company for you. Oh I have a piece of news for you that might interest you though you may not like to hear of it, "I have taken to --- no not to drink - but to smoking - it is a real comfort to one here, not cigarettes cigars or a pipe - & I shall not smoke at home or when I get out of the army again.

Now I think that's enough for one letter, shall be out again all day to morrow (Tuesday) on the ranges, we are having cold - cold nights, When is Sonny's birthday? Kiss & hug the dear kiddies for Daddy & tell them to "keep the home fires burning" best love & kisses good-night sweetheart. Daddy

P.S. Mr. Aylward has just come into my tent with telegram saying George was wounded on Sept 25, Poor Mrs Aylward they are certainly doing their share