Bandsman W Metcalfe 46534, Band Room No 5, 256 Infantry Battn., Goojerat Barracks, Colchester, Essex

Dear Emmie

First of all I must say that I am sorry that I was unable to get this week end off. I did not now until 12 o’clock yesterday whether I had my pass or not, or else I would have let you know. I will have to try later on and I might succeed in getting a couple of days.

Could you tell me whether Will Mayne at Aldershot is getting his extra money or not. I heard that they got theirs a fortnight ago. The food here is a little better now; it has been taken over by another officer and we get more now. I went to a Baptist church this evening and sang in the choir; the service was very good. No doubt you will wonder what is the matter with me going to all these different places, but I am just having a look round. For some reason or other I cannot think of much to write; I don’t feel quite up to the mark lately; I feel a bit home sick. We have to do all our cleaning up of a night now as it is such a rush in the morning to get on parade. Reveille goes at 6 o’clock and we have to be on parade by 7. I want to say something nice but I can’t think what to write.

Please write soon as I want to hear from you.

I now close

With my very Best Love

Yours Ever Will