Halifax, Nova Scotia,
April 19, 1943

Dear Mother,

You seem to be rather worried about me which is foolishness. I've passed the worst part of the sickness (I never was very sick) and am recuperating.

We have a very decent time here. There are quite a number of boys here. I spend most of my time in feuds with the fellow in the bed next to me. I loaded his cigarettes with match-heads yesterday and put shaving lotion in his water. You should have seen the look on his face when he tasted it. He got even though, by stealing all my magazines. We have a swell time.

I got your letter today and was surprised to hear from you so soon. It takes my mail quite awhile to go out.

I'm using both sides of the paper because I don't like the stuff they give us. I want to make my own last.

I have some pictures here I want to send but I haven't any envelopes big enough to hold them. I'll bring them home when I come.

I am entitled to 14 days sick leave when I leave here. I may not get it but I'll try as hard as I can.

Well, there isn't much news that I can think of. There is no snow here and there hasn't been for a long while. It melts as fast as it comes.

Well I must close. Give my regards to the rest of the family,

your able son
John.

P.S. Save some maple syrup.