Bandsman W Metcalfe 46534, Band Room No 5, 256 Infantry Batt., Googerat Barracks, Colchester

Dearest Emmie

I am in rather a bad mood this evening so please excuse the tone of this letter. I have had to do an hours extra drill this evening for no just purpose so I am going to see into it. I am sorry I did not think of Harvest Festival being this week but I don’t suppose I could have got off had I had a letter down. Only today we were told to get our hair cut short as there was no chance of any leave. I would like to know what you innimate when you suppose I have “other reasons” to prevent me from coming home. Do you think if there was a possible chance to get out of this den I would miss it? I am very sorry to hear about Harry Moore, I did not think he was out in France. I am sorry to hear that you are having such wretched times lately: I suppose you will be glad when this moon goes. Never mind! “Watch and Pray” and all will be well. You did not say whether you had started at Mr Rolfe’s or not; if you have how are you getting on with the piano is there any difference yet. Although I said nothing about the Christadelphians I have been thinking all the more. The Christadelphians or any other religion can prove their side without any opposition but the Church of England does not run other churches down; they take a wide view of things. Colchester is a fairly pretty place. We went for a route march yesterday and saw some of the country; it is decidedly prettier than Aldershot and district. There are some old churches and ruins etc here, there is also a part of an old Roman wall but I have not been to see them yet. We had a lecture by the Colonel today and by what he says I should think we will be going abroad (to where, I don’t know) any time after Christmas. Well Emmie dear, you know I don’t like expressing my feelings on paper, but you may be sure they are great. I now conclude

With Best Love from Will. xxx