<p>a4701797.html</p><p>6/ news as I could wish for, because I did so want to learn that Les Norman's watch had arr<sup>d</sup>. & that you handed it safely over to Mr Napier. As I said B4, I should have sent something worth while from England only that the financial position with me, as you know, would not stand it. . Mention of Les Norman reminds me that he is now safely ensconced in Ward C<sup>2</sup>., 10<sup>th</sup>. Canadian Gen<sup>l</sup>. Hosp., a week or so ago. I have 4warded his private mail out of his valise ("pack"), but his souvenir Hun gas-mask will have to wait till I go over the "Pond". You know of course, that Les. was gassed while we were in les tranchée here some weeks ago. (We are still close up) but he is doing pretty well amidst a bit of a heaven, - nice nurses, lovely bed , & ward & the like. You might let Mrs. Napier know, just in case his letters get a rough passage.. Pleased that the parcel rec<sup>d</sup>. such a "smooth passage" from officials & Customs. Will send my 4<sup>th</sup>. do.[?] from London when I go over - God willing - in a month or so, but will advise you later... good to know that none of my letters to you from England were ever opened B4 you got them, & hope that these that follow will go thro. just as smoothly. Not surprised to know that your Yuletide 1917 was so quiet, but let's hope 1918 will be one of World Wide happiness. You'll know long ere this that ours near the Front line was also a "quiet" one, tho. spent amidst real wintry scenes. Brrh! Easter has now come (yesterday was Good Friday) & the ½ year draws near. (no 'pun' meant). By that time big things will have happened on this Front, in the air & perhaps on the Sea, & let's hope, Peace will reign once more. Fancy! You've been over 12 months @ "Warrnambool"? - & I am approaching my 2½ years absence, gee! . . .Ha! ha!! Good old feasts? - & why not? Don't worry about us & our monotonous [?] for we'll make up for lost time, asprés. It's real good to know that you all have full & plenty & that "W'bool's" garden returns you such grand fruit & vege's. for your patience & labor. Never mind, we'll make "stoo", ["query"?] tea, "Anzac" hash, "Bully", & "Anzac Wafers" do till this lot is over. . . I can well imagine Thel's great delight @ capturing a 3<sup>d</sup> out of the Puddin'. oo-la-lah . . . Can't imagine what hot weather feels like now, let alone it being so hot that you can hardly venture out-o'-doors. No wonder the surf beaches are so popular. Oh gibbit!! . . . Pleased that you</p><p> </p><p>PTO to 7 [in bottom left hand margin]</p>