Pte W. Metcalfe 46534, (Band) 19 Platoon, E Coy 100 T.R.B., Talavesa Bks, Wellington Lines, Aldershot

Dear Emmie

I received your letter after tea this evening; we only have one distribution a day now so if it reaches here in the morning perhaps we do not get it till the afternoon that makes it rather late in replying. Over half of the company put in for passes last week so it will be hard to get one as only a few are allowed at once. It had been very hot here today but I have not had much to do although I was at band practice until ten minutes to nine p.m. I was sorry to hear about that air raid today, what was the nearest they came to Islington? Did you hear the bombs dropping? I am glad to hear Mr Clark has another young lady, how did he “pick her up”, do you know? (I don’t suppose he could really pick her up for she would be rather heavy.) You must not tease him too much or he might “cut rusty” again. I rather like your piece of poetry. That little parcel of Will’s to me was chocolate almonds; I do not know if I told you before or not. They were like the old kind and were morish. I do hope your photograph comes out all right. Yesterday everybody was supposed to go to the swimming baths but by missing my tea and having it out I dodged the seargent. I write two letters last night: one to Mum and one to Will Sharp. Please tell W.L. I will write to him when I get time. It is getting late 9.30 and dark. I am writing this on the side-board while I am sitting on a coal box; so please excuse writing. I think our company is going out on “night operations” tomorrow night, but I think being in the Band I miss that. The brass band is getting on A.I. and I think we are going to play at a concert next Wednesday but I do not know any particulars. I will now close as we are all supposed to be in doors at 9.30 & it is 9.40 now and I am going to post this tonight.

I remain

Your ever loving

Will