Dear Mom - Jan. 4, 1942

I received your letter of Nov. 13, the first one so far, a couple of days ago. It really cheered me up, as I have been looking forward to it so long. I've received one letter each from Brenda, Jim & Bob so far, and have replied to them all. How did you get along at Xmas? We had a good time here - all the boys getting together and making things a bit more cheerful. But it still wasn't Xmas as it was at home. You certainly have started the parcels rolling - thanks a million, Mom, it's really swell of you. During the first few days I was down I tried to tell you by mental telepathy that I was alright and I guess it worked. I really miss the old piano but I guess it can't be helped. Incidentally, Brenda mentioned that my father has been making a fool of himself. Please ignore him, as I certainly won't have anything to do with him in the future. I'm always thinking of you all at home and often wish I hadn't been better natured while there. Solong and all the love in the world to all of you. Syd.