In France
26 Dec 1915
My dear Mother
The Post Office did their work very well this Christmas with one calamitous exception. A whole batch of letters reached me yesterday from home, from Jack, and from the Office. But there was nothing from Rosie: although I know there is at least one on the way. I wonder whether you have yet received her photograph? She was sending you one for Xmas at my request, though she hates it herself. Thank you very much for the postcard of you and Dolly Molly; I think it is altogether delightful. Baby, in particular, is delicious – quite her best little self. Tark must be very pleased with it. My copy occupies the place of honour in my pocket book, next to a certain other prized photo!
While I am sending thanks I will add those for the book Father sent, which I have already begun and hope to finish soon for I find it interesting above most war-books.
I turned my thoughts back to you yesterday several times, particularly about 1.30 pm when I wished very much that I could have been in the dear old dining-room instead of a dusty loft which is now our billet in place of the dug-out (flooded by heavy rain two or three nights ago). We were glad that reveille happened to be at 3 am that morning; it saved us from a thorough wetting, for it got us up just before the water ran over the groundsheets and soaked our beds.
I’m glad you had Mela down for a day recently. She wrote me a very nice letter from Badsey. One of the many things that I have discovered recently is that there exists a very definite sort of Freemasonry between lovers.
So you received your birthday book at last. I can’t say anything in recommendation or the reverse for I have not read it, but I feel sure it will please you.
I am convinced that the Dysons are “sweaters” by nature. What a pity that Beryl allowed herself to be kept there. I commend Mary’s wrath!
Much love from
Your affectionate son
George
