Bandsman W. Metcalfe 46534, 19 Platoon, E Coy 100 T.R.B., Talavera Bks, Wellington Lines, Aldershot

Dear Emmie

I received your most welcome letter yesterday morning; I seem to know when they are coming and look forward to them as if I had not heard from you for a month. I was very disappointed at not being able to come home but I hope to see you next week. That is all I seem to live on now “hope”. This morning I went to Church Parade and just as we were finished we had a storm. It lasted for about three hours but has cleared off now. I went to the pictures last night; how did you enjoy yourself at Caterham? Did they cater for you as good as last time I went? Is Maud home for good now or only for a few days. What has she been doing as regard work? I hope you do not think I am asking too much about her only she is really to be pitied. If only the ceiling fell down and only a few windows broken at the shop, things must be dear, for Dad told me there was about forty pounds worth of damage done. I am interested enough to ask you, “What damage has been done on the G.N.R. by bombs from hostile aircraft? Were there any casualties? I do not think our new barracks are more than ten minutes quick walking from Talavera. I am not getting thin and I didn’t know I was fat and I don’t think I have grown much; in fact I think I am very much about the same. I would not spring up too much in case it took too much energy. I am not taking it as easy as I can here. If I get the hump I generally think of you. I mean it makes me feel brighter. I have also a lot to say (and do) when I see you. I have not forgotten what you look like as I often have a look at your photograph (which I have in my (“left hand”) pocket you know.) I always think of you when I am lying in bed of a night time and I close my eyes and fancy I can see you.

I will now close with Fondest Love Your Will xxx