May 27, 1902
Klerksdorp
Dear Mother,
Just a few lines to let you know we are all well & hearty. We are in standing camp here for a while awaiting results of the peace negotiations, which seem likely to come to a favorable termination this time. What they will do with us if peace is proclaimed is hard to say.
We have done quite a lot of trekking lately, the last being a drive across the country to Vryburg on the Mafeking line. Charlie will likely get his third stripe within a day or two; he will then be in charge of the troop, in fact he is now, as the sergeant is down country with fever. I have not been with the troop for about 2 months, being attached to headquarters staff of the column as acting q.m.s. I have quite a bit of work but am more independent than I would be in the troop & besides, I get 20 cents a day extra.
I am glad to hear you are thinking of moving down nearer to the city & that Jack is going to settle down there. It will bring you handy to the other boys & will also be much handier for us when we come home to come to see you. I will close now with love from us all. Remember me to all old friends.
Your affec. son,
Bert