NZIBD
France
19/7/17
Dear Uncle Julius
It was good of you to write again so soon, and the letters from home from Mother, Maidie and Dolly were a surprise packet for me. I did not expect another batch of New Zealand letters so soon. The overdue letters have not come to hand yet, nor the cable message, but it is getting nearly time now for them to find me out. I am glad I sent Mother the cable message before leaving hospital. I think I told you that Miss General had put the message through the censor's office for me at Abbeville. In your letter you mention another communication which you readdressed to me, but this has not come with the enclosed. I shall most likely get it in tonight's mail.
There has been another change in the weather here with heavy rain and wind. Rain now and again makes conditions much more pleasant. The ground is of a very light sandy nature which in dry weather quickly forms a powdery dust that finds its way into the tents and buildings.
The appearance of our part of the Depot has been much improved since I was here last. Neat vegetable gardens now occupy places that were formerly open, waste areas and there are even flower gardens containing bright flowering annuals. The [?] have been straightened up and real fences erected and, by a fresh arrangement of the tents, a good deal of space has been made available and fresh tents have been erected. Our CO is very thorough in everything he undertakes, whether it is in connection with improvements about the camps or meting out punishment to the delinquent soldier. There are two of my platoon mates here from "up the lines". Neither have been wounded but both are to come before a medical board through physical defects which have shown themselves in the strenuous work of the front.
It was all good news I had from home and I expect Maidie has told you all there is of interest from NZ. Many thanks for the letters.
Your affectionate nephew
B Sladden
NZIBD
France
