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[Page 113]
4th January 1915.
Dear Mr. Pearce;
Although I am remaining on here in an administrative capacity, and very little work of a Military nature now remains for me to do, I would beg to you that I should not be altogether forgotten should an opportunity occur for the command of further troops for Military service in Europe.
I quite realize that my rank may, perhaps, be some what of a stumbling block, as it is possible that further troops to Europe will go in the form of drafts for restoring natural wastage, with which drafts Company officers, I can quite see, may be more suitable; but should it be determined to forward another command which would be suitable to my present rank, I hope that my being out of sight here will not spoil my chance for selection.
I am 52 years of age, and have over 40 years continuous Military Service, both at home and abroad. I think I was the first in New South Wales, even before the outbreak of War, to Volunteer for service during the present campaign, and, of course, I cannot complain because I was given the command of the first Expeditionary Force to leave Australian shores, of which I feel very proud.
The desire for further Military service is very strong in me, and I hope, in view of the service I have already rendered, that I shall not be overlooked.
Yours sincerely,
[William Holmes]
The Hon.Senator G.F.Pearce,
Minister of State for Defence,
MELBOURNE: