State Library of NSW
[Page 30]
2with the Mater was over the South Africa business. She blocked me at a time when to me it seemed the only thing in the world to do, to volunteer for Empire. I often wonder what would have been the outcome had I gone. But that is past and done. I cannot be as demonstrative as I would like but Mum knows I would not do anything to pain her. I'm always thinking of her and wondering when she will have an easier time. She has earned it if anybody has.... Guess I can only be demonstrative where I never mean anything.You must have had a busy time at Xmas. Hope things are easier for you now.
I was thinking of Uncle Bob the other day. I have not quite forgiven him for letting me go without a thought. A good luck telegram would have made all the difference. Scores of Squatters gave their men (almost strangers) horses and other gifts when they volunteered. Bob might have given me a revolver or a remembrance of some kind. I'm still getting little things that I need. My outfit has cost me almost 35 pounds so far. I've got all the money I want but I should have liked some little thing from Bob.
This page has its status set to Completed and is no longer transcribable.