Shorncliffe, Kent
July 22, 1916

Dear Violet.

I received your letter just ten minutes ago. So you see I am answering prompt. But the box hasn't come yet and believe me when it comes it will be welcomed with open arms as I have exactly sixpence left from my last pay and most of my pay goes for something decent to eat. Speaking of cherries and ice cream I don't think they grow ice cream in this climate. This morning at 6.00 the whole Batt paraded down to the E. Channel and went in for a swim. The water was so cold it took your breath away when ever you would duck you would get a mouth full of salt. C coy is still going to the school of musketry and we expect to have another week or so there then we go on the ranges and also have ten days bombing. Art Moyer hasn't been around yet but one of the 81st boys was in to-day and he says that most of the machine gun have gone to France and he thinks Art went in a draft. But I wouldn't be too sure I am going to find out. Our battalion isn't broken up yet and we are holding rehearsals for a big inspection soon. This morning we had a kit inspection and as I was quite a few things short I don't expect much pay at the end of the month as you have to be issued with missing things it is stopped from your pay So don't be afraid to send me something (please.) Haven't had any leave yet. The big guns in France have started again I can hear them now. As to what to put in a box send me anything but beans and cheese and also stew. If you have any pictures taken around home send them over. Love to mother and the rest.

Jay.

Notice the envelope and [?] but it doesn't belong to me.