France: “I am like the man with the wheelbarrow. I always have it before me.”

06.03.18

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines in answer to your ever welcome letter which I received alright. And no one but God knows the relief my mind got when I read it, to know that you are up and going about again. I would rather have got that letter than any telegram, for I should not have much pleasure in going home. Well if God spares us both I may be home before the end of the month.

I expect I shall be going up to the [?] far before me. Willie [???] is asking for you every day. He is also in this camp. You see if they had not kept me here for a chief instructor I should have been home on leave long ago. But perhaps it is all for the best. I am like the man with the wheelbarrow. I always have it before me.

Well I think I shall close for this time. Hoping this will find you keeping well.

I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

I am leaving here tomorrow for to rejoin the Batt

16.03.18

My Dear Mother

Just a line hoping it will find you in good health, as well as all at home, as this leaves myself at present. I am leaving here tomorrow for to rejoin the Batt so any time you are writing do not forget to address them to the Batt. I am sorry I have not time for a long letter now but I shall write soon again to you. The weather is keeping quite nice. I hope it may continue as it is very pleasant.

Goodbye
Love to all at home
Your loving son
Johnnie