London

Mar 2 1919

My Dear Mother:

I suppose each letter you look for the news that "I am going to sail tomorrow". Nobody will be happier than I to write it but so far the prospects are not actually in view.

I am on leave from Witley here getting my uniform. So far I have the [?], slacks, cap and belt. The last big item is the French coat which I am getting tomorrow and then I'll be complete. The French coat will be useful in civies so it is not money wasted.

Last night I went for a walk and wore the outfit for the first time. It seems such a foolish thing getting Army clothes now but it means first class or third on the trip back and one who has experience third doesn't want it again.

I have done nothing in London this time to speak of except visit another gallery of war photographs. These were even better than the paintings I last went to see. I did not send on the programme after all but have the two now and will keep them.

The last mail I had from you was Feb 8 but am expecting some when I get back to camp.

The winter here is pretty well over. Yesterday and today was bright and warm but unless I have somebody to walk with or somewhere definite to go I don't care to walk the streets aimlessley so today I stayed in and sewed buttons and played a couple of games of billiards.

Down at Witley I saw a few of the fellows. I used to know some from the 19th Batt. and the 13th Battery, all anxious on getting home too.

Fred Sampson doesn't expect to get home until May I think he wants the cold weather finished at home first. It will be about time for Spring overcoats when I get there to.

This will just reach you about Mar 14 so will take this chance of wishing Eudora many happy returns on her 23rd birthday. She must be getting a big girl now eh?

With love to all

John