Pte W.J. Stares.

40th Northumberland. Reg.

Cobourg

Oct 29th 1914

To Rev. Mr. Irwin.

Dear Sir, I am writing these few lines as promised. We arrived at Cobourg safe and was escorted to the Armories before the Commanding Officer. At Hastings the Band turned out and gave us a send off by playing a few selections before the train started.

Our daily drill at present has been of a light nature. Parade at 8:30 AM till 11.30. and from. 2 pm till 4.30. To-day being wet we had interesting lectures from the Commanding Officers and have been greatly benefited. 8 of the 10 boys are staying at a private Boarding House. and the Hostess is a very pleasant lady.

On Tuesday morning next Nov 3 we leave for Kingston. So it would not be wise to answer any letters till next week so as to be sure of getting them.

I wish to Thanks (and I speak on behalf of the boys) the people of Norwood for the Kindness they manifested to us on our departure, and we shall all-ways have pleasant memories of Norwood. Please remember me to the people of Norwood, The Congregation of the Methodist Church, especially the members of the Choir, and I wish to have their prayers.

I met an old Norwood boy to day Herb. Stevenson and was pleased to meet him and talk of happy days spent in Norwood.

The thought has just come to my mind that you will be going away to hunting grounds, so I must not be too anxious for an answer. We are having great fun with one of the boys (Wm Pond) who was told off to sleep with a permanent boarder and we have found out that he is an Austrian – He says he has already been in contact with the enemy – Well Mr. Irwin I must now close hoping to give you better news in my next letter.

I Remain

Yours Truly

W.J. Stares.

My new address will be.

Pte. W.J. Stares

40th Northumberland Regt

Kingston

(2nd Contingent)