Canadian Mil. Hospital.
Eastbourne
7/5/17.
Dear Father,
I am writing to-day instead of to-morrow as I am flat on my back with little to occupy my time.
The epidemic of dysentery spread so far and fast, that they put in close quarantine, sixteen of the staff, to prevent it spreading to more of the patients. I kicked, as I was feeling fine, but since I have been in bed (24 hours) and on only boiled milk & toast, I have not improved, nor do I feel particularly well, but not very sick. Most of the boys are better but still shut up, and I expect to be out Wednesday or Thursday.
I wrote Gladys yesterday afternoon, and before eleven o’clock this morning she was up with a fine box of chocolates, which we surely enjoyed. Of course she could not see me.
I have not been able to develop any of my films yet but have at least five rolls from which I expect to get some good results, & will have some to send home, am going to try to make some snaps of the bunch here, if I can. I am surely glad Grandad is able to be out. I tell you the weather here is great for convalescents now. I think that is why there are so many hospitals on the South Coast.
I have heard of the high prices of clothing in Hamilton from Mae. A pair of shoes that just look decent cost 10.00 and nothing much under $15.00. Even coats and dresses appear to be twice their ordinary prices.
Too bad about Wilkinson & Warner. Hope you get settled with them. You should be able to take Herb’s bill out in repairs during the season, but would not let him get in for any more either. Mc Guire is getting sporty, but I don’t suppose his salary is at all affected by the war. He was wise in his choice.
I can lie here in bed and watch the plains above and the boats on the channel. One thing they did, was give us about the best room they have, right on the water front.
What happened Frank Wilson? They could not have been very well pleased when the other people came to you. Rather surprised that Frank went out of town, for as a rule he is pretty good that way.
I remember the Beemer watch well. He was sure long enough coming for same. How are Com. Standards going? Are you getting deliveries on them?
Surprised that the foundry Co is taking in Beth Jackson and Carrie Bernard in. That will cut their profits away down, while Hill & Davis could have done it just as well. I hardly think they will make a particularly good thing out of it for very long.
I should think that the major would sign up in the infantry. Knowing the work as well as he does, he would certainly rise quickly or should be able to get a com. as Lieut in the infantry & go overseas. Of course I don’t blame him as the artillery is much nicer and if they take us out of the A.M.C. & give us a choice, I will take artillery myself. But I will go to the front line with the stretchers before I take either if possible. Of course at present we still hope to go over as a unit.
I will write Wednesday again, unless on duty, when I will write Friday.
Your affectionate son,
Worth.