NZIBD
France
16/9/17
Dear Uncle Julius
The letters you have referred to have come to hand, viz one readdressed and three in a packet and in addition I have received another that you had readdressed. Many thanks for them all and for your enclosed letter. Thanks also for your enquiry as to my welfare. I am feeling pretty well as long as I don't have to exert myself too (underline) much but it is when I am moving about that I feel the trouble least. At nights sometimes I feel rather rotten. From what the doctors say, my condition is similar to that of a man who has been a heavy drinker or smokes. At present I am engaged in the ration store here, at work that I am well able to do and I am satisfied to remain, doing what I am in the hope that the comparative rest may fit me again for the real business.
There is very little to write about for one day here is much the same as another. It looks rather as if Prussia cannot be counted on for further assistance as one of the Entente powers and the war will drag on longer in consequence. The question is how much longer can it drag on, without a definite result being gained. We must count on America to give the extra weight required to really turn the balance in our favour and avoid the catastrophe of an unduly prolonged war and the consequent cost in men and money.
There will probably be further results on this ground before winter approaches and with the improvements in the line already effected, conditions should be a good deal more easy than they were last winter when Fritz had so many commanding positions.
I hope you will excuse this poor apology for a letter. I must try and find more to tell you in my next letter.
I am
Your affectionate nephew
Bernard Sladden
