France: “I am not near at myself, for I am longing to see Mother again”

04.02.18

My Dear Annie

Just a few lines hoping this will find you still in good health as this leaves myself in the same at present. I wrote to mother for to ask the Doctor for to make out a certificate to the effect that she was ill and that she should like to see me. But she wrote back to say she was alright again when I know quite well she was not. Because she is afraid of something happening to me in crossing over and as she would not do it I want you to do it for me. And if you do not I shall give up hope. I cannot sleep at night and to tell you the truth I am not near at myself, for I am longing to see Mother again. And you could do it all in the inside of an hour. I am sure Dr [??] should not refuse you. I cannot explain this much better.

There is an officer in our Batt and he told me today he should do all in his power to help me. But he told me he could do nothing for me in the way of getting a special leave except I could get a telegram or a doctor’s certificate. But he told me as soon as I got either that he should do his best to get me home to see mother. He said he was very sorry for me and told me to write to you to get either you or the Dr to send a certificate and that he should do the rest for me. I hope you understand me. All you have to do is go to the Doctor and say mother is very ill and wishes to see me. And I am sure he shall not refuse you (knowing that she is ill). Put it in a Reg letter and send it to me. And if all go well as this officer says it will I shall be home before the end of the month.

Well I think this is all now. Hoping to hear from you soon again. No more at present.

Goodbye
I remain
Your loving bro
Johnnie