Ontario I Ward
Duchess Of Connaught Canadian Red Cross Hospital
Cliveden,
Taplow, Bucks.
703472
102nd Canad.
2 April 1917

My dear Mother

I hope you and Dorothy continue in good health and spirits, and have arranged for your Easter Holidays, to go somewhere.

I am quite well and am still engaged in doing what 90% of the time in the army is occupied with - waiting. I do not yet know when I go back to Canada. There is a big number here, of those who have been "boarded" for Canada, waiting here. However, when I got back from leave my pay-book was marked account closed, so I can draw no more money this side of the Atlantic.

I had an unpleasant experience at Kingstown. I went past that station and had to walk from Mettles to the boat, on my sore feet but I was in good time. I arrived at Taplow at 9 o'clock am. and took off my boots - well, I have not had a pair of boots on since.

I am getting treatment for my eyes now from an Eye Specialist. The cause of the "chronic conjunctivitis of the lower eyelids" is due to the general contraction of the skin which tends to draw them (lower eyelids) out. The eyes will soon be quite well, I believe.

I only wish I could manage to get another leave, but everything is for the best. Dorothy need not worry overmuch about the Cavalry being in action, as it is only skirmish and patrol work, which does not entail many casualties.

With best of wishes
I remain your
Loving Willie