1-8-17
Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ontario, Canada
My Dear Wife,
Yours of July 3rd and 12th record today. Was surely pleased with them, as they were the best you have written yet. I am glad you are well, and enjoying yourself. I am keeping fine, very busy with my work and so very little pleasure. I also received a letter today from Gene and one from Geo Northwood. Had one from Alf yesterday. Well believe me they were all dandies. I feel pretty good today and so will try and give you the benefit of it. Gene’s letter spoke very little of his wife, more about things of interest to me. Said the crops were very good, also spoke about you coming out the next day. It was very nice after four months.
Alf said he now weighs 149 lbs the topmost he ever weighed. He feels fine and having a good time. Try and write him sometime. I understand his girl got married and he does not know it yet. He said in his letter he expected she was making a change, but he didn’t care a damn. Alf is much better stuff than I am, what do you think? Geo Northwood is well and was surely pleased to hear from me once more. He is coming to visit us when he gets back. You spoke about Hilda having a kid.What? have they a new time table in Canada or what’s the rip? Polly will need crackers now. Am so glad Leah has a young farmer of course it will not help in this war, but it may help feed the next lot who have to fight.
Madeline I have one objection to make and that is this. your gadding around with so many preachers. I hope they don’t get too funny. Well so long as they are married I don’t care. Poor Lida she has had some time of it, so sorry to hear of her quitting the store. Your spoke about parcels. How glad I will be to get one, because the other boys always share up and I am indebted to them. I could never look for any, but I know they think it funny why I don’t get any. I will send those to the boys who you did not have address.
Well Madeline in this house where I stay is 9 officers, 6 Canadians, 1 South Africa and 2 English. Since I started the letter have had one great debate with the English officers. They are both medical officers. They are awful growlers about the war, and think we are best. I just given them hell for being so weak. My motto is Britons know not defeat. I have been telling them about Haig and his big drive which is bound to come and right soon. In the heat of the argument they asked me when it would start and I told them by the 4th of August, they would be all smiles. About an hour after in they came with the news of the big Push. Well they are tickled already and by the way they stick around tonight are going to ask me when the end of the world will come. Well damn these men who are done when things go dead wrong. I only wish the army were all Canadians. The Huns would be all in Berlin by now.
Madeline I am going to tell you one day work just for fun. I often think it would interest you. Well after sleeping that bad and listening to the rain pour down all night daylight comes at last. I awoke about 5 A.M. and 7 A.M. the maid knocked on my door that it was time to move. I hopped out dressed and shaved. Breakfast 7:45. After breakfast dawned my trench coat and off to the school. Raining in torrents all the while. 8:30 we fall in with rifles and march three miles to the ranges. At the school I received the mail and had time to read one only before starting. Well we arrive at the ranges and pile arms for 10 minutes and we all sat down on a bank. I now get two more letters read and we go to fire. All the boys are dripping and so uncomfortable. I was lucky and got on the first party, firing with my coat on and coached by an instructor. I want to tell you these rifles kill at both ends. Well I made a bull’s eye first shot and my next shots were low. I then had to wait until another party fired. My next trip up I had better luck and made all hits. About 11 A.M. I was taken down to the targets to mark and on the sly read all the letters and marked the guy who was shooting. He sure went wild. Some English corporal I believe.
Well about 12 we were marching out and presented with two hrs break off. We went over to a club and ate our lunch which we brought with us. Two pieces of bread with scrambled eggs. We all went in this club or Hotel as we call it in Canada. About forty of us and had some time. One of the boys playing the piano which kicked up some noise. Nearly all the boys drank beer with their lunch. Well 2 P.M. we go to Revolver range and fire. I stayed under a shack for a while until my turn came. Out of forty I came second top in the score. About 4 P.M. we left for home and take about the rain, I just looked like a drowned rat. Arriving home about 5 P.M. after going to the school with our rifles. soon as I got home changed clothes and feel fine now. My feet was the only soaked. The Dexter kept all the body well dry.
Dinner at 6 P.M. and had a god meal after dinner chewed the rag and wrote you letter. The boys are all away tonight. I hardly ever go out, trying to win something. I might tell you the ranges were crowded with soldiers and it’s one awful noise. It’s still raining. Now this old pen wants a trip and excuse the mess. I am going to shut up and the next big push will be to bed. I am looking for those lovely pictures of you. I know they are dandy because you say there are awful. Well my Dear will send you some of my pictures to give away. Now take care of yourself and be good girl.
With best wishes and love
Your loving husband,
Billie X
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Aug. 4, 1917
Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ontario, Canada
My dear Wife,
This is the third anniversary of the war today. Well we have done fine so far, and the future is all ours. I am well and feeling pretty good, only a little blue. It as rained a week steady and still raining. I hate dull days and today would sooner be in France. Really today is gloomy and everybody seems half dead. I guess will get out and hit someone and have a little fun. This place is rather quiet for shows, only three and they are not the best. Always crowded. I have been out twice, but may go this evening. Stokes & Macmillan went up to London. Woodrow and I, we are married and stay home.
Well I must tell you Madeline it’s a good thing I am married, because I would be going to London too. Gee there’s no style here. Everybody works and this place is only for soldiers families. Lots of hardships in this place believe me.
Madeline have not seen anyone to take your place yet, guess will stay. All those big guns you read about are not so thick, have not seen any as yet. Well for a good wife give me a Canadian, they are the best in a thousand ways. I do hope Madeline you don’t think this is talk and not the truth. You spoke about me taking care of myself and thought I needed a little advice. My game you don’t take care of yourself, but imagine a girl in your condition crawling around cherry trees. I love to hear you are busy and it drives away worry. I should not be blue today if had something to do beside study. I will write your Mother someday soon as she requested. Did Mr Lucas write yet? Tell the folks not to be particular about a fancy letter anything goes good. Now my Dear will be expecting more word soon as another boat arrives. Be sure and tell me all the news. Hoping Lida is feeling better by now. Remember me to all the folks.
Best wishes,
Love and kisses,
Your loving husband, Billie x
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7 P.M.
Aldershot, England
Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ont Can
My Dear Wife,
Yours of July 20th record also parcel for Bob McKee. your letter was very cheerful, full of hopes. I am well, been on the ranges all day. Done only an easy day, rained in the afternoon and we got quite wet. My shooting was not so good as it might have been, been getting awful careless. Don’t care if I pass or not. I think it’s due to the long spell of studying.
Had a letter from Alf, he is well, and having a good time. He says no sleep will be lost over Anna, and the world is full of better ones. I wonder why I couldn’t see things in that light. Just as batty yet. I hope to see Alf before long, over three months since we seen each other. I expect to be sent to an officers BN at Seaford when I leave here on Friday. I don’t care where they send me. It will be sometime before I get to Grance. You need not worry. I will only go when ordered as we have to wait our turn.
You spoke about the big guns. I did love to hear them, but will be like everybody else will change my mind when close up. Regards the prospect. Your are not half as worried as I am and my whole life is built on this fall. you can’t possibly be as anxious as I am. No one can care for a baby so much as I would, one of our own especially. Yes I pray for you and our babe. I will send no names, nor name it, you can do as you wish. Lyda can if it’s your wish. The old Auntie can look after it too, but o betide anyone if it’s not kept clean and sweet. Don’t worry the future will be alright, if anything should happen can worry then. Must close with love to all. Best wishes love to yourself.
Your loving husband, Billie x
P.S. Will look for a cable about the middle of November. B.
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Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ontario, Canada
My Dear Wife,
This is Saturday evening and as I am alone will write you a few lines tonight. I am well, only rather nervous these days. Mighty glad the musketry course is over. I guess worked a little too hard there. We finished on the 10th yesterday noon. I came back here and reported for duty. Woodrow Stokes and Macmillan asked for two days leave and went up to London. I am tired of running about and would rather drill anytime. I did not like it in Aldershot as there were so many soldiers and no place to go. The girls in that place are the scum of the earth, so I didn’t try to pick up any.
I am orderly officer on Monday, today and tomorrow gives me some rest. I seen several of the boys they are all well. Watts is still in the hospital with a lame foot. Gordon B[rown] had word from Millie B. and she is fine, takes great interest in her work. Ethan has not been very well of late. Expects to go back to the line anytime. He is at Boulonge. He has received no mail for sometime and feels kind of blue.
Well I have three over there somewhere. Mr Russ is back in the line again. He was only up in the trenches a couple of days when he had to go over the top. He got lost out in the front and stayed some hours in a shell hole. His wound was slight only a graze on top of the head. The bullet when right through his steel lid.
Lt Fred Brown is going home I believe, he and the machine took a tumble and I understand his nose is pushed in. Showler is in France and doing god work. Col MacVicar, Majors Duffield and Moncrieff, Capts Wykesmith and Edward are all in France. Major Murrison, Capt Tranior and Cheyne are now Lts. No doubt Murrison [Merrison?] will go back rather than be a Lt. Trainor feels rather sore because he had to revert. Knowles is flying. Lott has no intentions of going to France, being in experimental work. As for the trenches this winter I never hear a word about Merrison. Trainor cries half the time over his wife, Cheyne doesn’t know he is married. Woodrow glad he is free. Stokes, Scott, Fyffe, Macmillan and Swift all dizzy over girls and Billie your old hubby takes life as she comes. I forgot but we are to be sent to Seaford to an officer battalion and soon as wanted are sent to France. Trainer, Scott and Swift are there now. We will go perhaps this week. Cheyenne and Fyffe are out to the ranges for ten days.
Alf is still in Bexhill will soon be back, in his letter he said would be in Seaford today at some big sports. Mr Omer has transferred to a Machine gun Company and is now away from us for evermore. Mr Wyatt is attending a course for N.C.O.s near here. He is a lance jack [Lance Corporal] now. He will be eight weeks in this place before joining the Bn.
I must tell you Lyons is still in hospital, I called on him while in Aldershot. He had diphtheria and it affected his heart. His limbs were paralyzed for three months. He is now able to get out bed and looks if he will pull through. They thought he was done for and traced up his mother thought he homes. She came to see him about one month ago. I am sending a snap of him. I had some taken of Pte. Rogers grave. Well this about all the news. So Jim Riggs is still int eharmy, on the police force. Where is Verne Huntley and Mr Weedmark.
Your letter of the 15th arrived yesterday, was glad to get it am so glad you had a good time out home. Also the parcel sent by the women’s institute. I sure was pleased with it and sent my best wishes to the Sie [?].
Well Madeline my sympathy goes to Mr Moule and Dr Brown, but really we see so much here almost pay no attention to deaths anymore. the weather must be dreadful at home, so wet. Now will try and write again tomorrow. When I leave here for Seaford will not likely see the boys very often again. I have a great welcome overtime I go near them. I would love to be with them, but the best friends must part.
Bye Bye,
Billie
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Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ont, Canada
My Dear Wife,
This is Wed. eve. 7 P.M. and will try and write you a nice long letter. I am well, only a slight cold and rather hoarse from shouting commands. the day has been rather cool and bright. We had a heavy rain last night and that is the cause of the cool spell. The boys are all well as far as I know. Had a letter today from Vincent Williams and he is well. He sees Norman Rivers often and he is well. Tommie Osmond is back on duty after his smash up. The Arkona boys are holding out good. I also had a letter from Mrs Jones people asking me to be sure and call on them anytime I get a chance. I heard today one of my letters is in Aldershot so must write and have it sent met at once. I dare say this accounts for some of my lost mails.
Well while this war is on we can’t expect all sunshine or letters either. Today General Currie of the Canadian Corp in France inspected this camp and gave us a nice talk. About 10,000 marched past and it was a great sight. I am busy drilling the boys here and sometimes get lost of our own Bn. boys. They all like me to drill them and lately have heard so many remarks about my way of handling men. I had a whole platoon yesterday wish they could go to France with me. Well the poor fellows like someone to encourage them and I am the only one in the Canadian army who does. I think it a shame the way so many of our officers show their authority. Captain Cheyne goes to France tomorrow in the construction battalion. Mr Cheyne I should say. He will have a safe job and will please his wife. Mr Mag Williams expects to go to a labour Bn. He too will be quite safe and etc. I expect to be here sometime yet and hope to get another course. I don’t want any bomb proof jobs whatever and go where the men have to go. Give me the front line for the fun.
Well Madeline I was up the front line the other evening. I got so lonesome went out for a walk all alone, came across a nice girl and she stopped and spoke to me and of course I stopped too. By the way, she was an officer’s wife only married last July a year past and up stump higher than a kite. I went for a walk with her as she was looking for her husband. Well she was very nice indeed and having a lonesome time of it too. Just when I got near her home the officer came along and by Jove I was scared. She became confused and couldn’t introduce us, so he looked like vengeance at her. She told me her hubby was awful jealous and that made me worse.
How are you getting along anyway? I hope these days are more comfortable for you and are able to run about. Be sure and tell me how uncomfortable you feel and if you dread next month. Remember and let me know all that happens by mail, also wire me the news. I only wish I were with you just to cheer you up, but remember always thinking of you and that is the best I can do. I don’t know what else to do. Just think how you are pleasing me and how proud I will be. I will try and win the V.C. for you. I pray for you every evening. These letters will be coming to you next month and hope they cheer you along. I will write you three letters a week now so you will have lots to read. You be sure and make Lida write when you are unable.
Love to all and lots for yourself. Kisses galore.
Goodnight.
Your loving husband.
Will x
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Bramshott, Eng. Aug 12. 17
Mrs W.A. Williams,
Arkona, Ontario, Canada
My Dear Wife,
Yours of July 22, 24, and 26 received at 10:30 A.M. Well believe me I was so pleased with them. They were such nice letters all of them. I am feeling fine was to church this morning with the boys of 153rd Bn. Ours were all one duty. After service I stayed around at the huts talking to the boys from Forest. When all at once Canadian mail arrived and everybody scattered. I came over and found these three letters. I am all alone, so will answer these right now.
Capt Scott of above Bn asked me to go for a walk with him this afternoon. There is no more news just now. The boys tell me all the news from home. Several boys from Forest and about who came over in former Bns have been killed of late. I understand Sergt Lamb from Watford is not dead as reported. Dunk McGibbon is hale and hearty. Did the folks feel bad?
You spoke in your letter about your Grandmother being dead. I ams sure there will be another one who will not be long after her. Those two who lived such a long time together.
The weather must be awful hot at home, all the letters spoke about the heat. I suppose you feel it very much. You are surprised at Bill Johnston nice wife. I am not. There was no one good enough in Arkona after I took the pick. It’s the same old story. All the girls are sore now. I thought this would be the case. Am so glad Mrs Wilson is so kind to you, much more have you with her than some single girls. You always have lots of visitor and you enjoy them too. Mr Fair did have a short stay. You say so many people ask about me. Well Madeline it’s you they think of and of course naturally ask if I am still alive. The letter you asked about my return from Scotland. Will no doubt receive before this.
Yes Madeline I will send you a nice dress and many of them. The little price enclosed would be nice made up. I am so glad you please me with what to buy. Be sure and get good clothes when you are buying, never put on heap stuff. Always keep plain and good. I am sure you are interested in those little dresses you must not worry everything will be alright.
Well I am surprised at your Mother and Lida being interested. Really I thought Lida would be shocked and wanted to clear out. Well the old maid sister is pretty good after all. Your Father I bet will not say much but thinks a lot. Don’t buy more than need for at a time, so not be disappointed. When a buggy is wanted buy the best, lots of time. I am so surprised at your remarks either a boy or girl alright either will do. I won’t be disappointed either way. The old maid wants to to be a boy, as she is running the show, it will have to be. Your Mother has no say these days. Yes October or November it’s a big guess. I know better than you do.
So the new comer makes himself know already, no doubt it’s quite a relief to know it shows strength. With these remarks I will close my trap. I am awfully interested and the distance makes no difference. I can see you anytime in my imagination and each day the love grows stronger. You wished me back this fall if I could come. I should love to go, but the coming away is too much for me. No, I will stay until the war is over, which is not far distant, may not get over whatever myself as so many are held in Reserve. Be sure and tell me all the news about yourself as this does interest me. Mr Lucas never writes is he a poor hand to write? I am looking forward to that picture and parcel. Tell your Mother I have lots of socks and not in need of anything. Will ask if I need anything. Remember to all. Love to yourself and kisses.
Your loving husband,
Will x
Please destroy these letters. I keep all yours in my trunk to read when I get lonesome. Billy
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9:30 P.M.
Bramshott, Aug 15th 1917
Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ont., Canada
My Dear Wife,
Just a few lines tonight. Have been sick two days with a bilious attack, feeling alright now. I do hope you are feeling the best. We are having very wet weather of late and am afraid will have difficulty in saving the crops. the potatoes are extra good, but what should we get too much rain. This evening I called on a neighbour Bn. and visited two boys of the 18 Bn. and visited two boys of the 18 Bn. Bill and Bob Burns from Brooke. They know your Father. I met Bob in London two years ago last January. Well he was glad I called on him and we had a couple of hours talk. I told him about your grandame’s death, and he had heard so much about this old couple. I met his father and Mother in Arkona about two years ago. Well I meet many boys that knows one another.
Dad Garden told me yesterday he met Roy Wilson in London, and he was going back to Canada right away. Having signed up for 1 year only with Imperial Army. He may come up to see the boys before he goes back. Well Madeline the boys are doing well, the Huns are getting it hard. Tomorrow’s paper will be full of the big drive. Had a letter from Alf he is well and doing fine. I may go over to Witley Sunday and see the boys before I should be sent away.
Now my Dear Wife I have no news to tell and this pencil is all I can find, so excuse all. I hope to get mail soon and do hope all is well. Don’t tell anyone I ever was sick once, because none knows here. That musketry course was too hard on this nerves, so much study. I will be jake now, Best love
Your loving husband,
Will X
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Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ont., Canada
My Dear Wife,
This is Sunday evening 9 P.M. and I have just come in from church. The evening is cool and so calm. We have had no rain for some few days back. I rec'd your letter of Aug 12th on Friday. It had been lost for some two weeks, had been sent to Witley and found its way here. It was a dandy letter and so cheerful. I had a letter from Col. Bradley in answer to mine. he was glad to hear from me and told me to send your address and Mrs B would write you. This I will do soon.
I heard the other day some parcel was up at Aldershot and also a letter. Have written for them to be forwarded. It is pretty hard to keep track of us guys. They move us so often to courses. I am still drilling in this battalion.
Mr Cheyne has gone to France. I am quite alone now only Macmillan and Fyffe around here. Mr Trainor, Scott and Swift are down at Seaford. Morrison has a job in London. I am feeling O.K. only getting thin and pretty well tired out sometimes. The other day was out on a hike and was sure well warmed up when returned. The grub is not heavy enough to be of much use for fattening. Well it’s alright anyway. Those Huns can’t beat us anyways. the Canucks have had a hard time of it lately. They will surely send us all over soon. They are sending a great number of officers home and today a number of signed to go back. I don’t want to go back until the war is over, unless I get wounded. Well I not have gone over yet and might never go over, and will be all home next summer.
Last night I went down to Hazelmere and bought you a nice waist and the goods to make a suit. They will be sent on at once. I hope you like it, remember this was the best i could get around here. the clerk who sold it to me was a lovely girl and didn’t push this on to me. It was my own choice. I know you will look pretty in it, with a nice baby in your arms. I bet you won’t like it, if you don’t give it Lida and I will get something better. Yes the baby again, a nice blue eyed girl and I hope not red hair. I know it will take after its mother. What will Lida call it I wonder. I will never speak to her if she gives it some horrid name. The two of you are pretty heavy believe me. I am really frightened now for fear I will have two to pay for. Try and beat the Dr down some in his price. Tell him I am hard up.
I was to church this evening and it was a treat. I won’t tell you anything about the churches and etc until I get home and will tell you all. This afternoon was down to Liphook and had tea. I wandered around by my lonesome. Madeline I get pretty blue sometimes, but het over it alright. If I was single would tree every girl within 60 sq miles. It’s terrible and not break the rules of warfare wrote the village blacksmith and the old tree is there yet. This place is very historical. I have had not mail from Canada for over two weeks, there will be a nice lot soon. Now I must close, excuse bad writing as the light is very dim.
Best wishes and lots of love.
Be sure and send cable when the accident happens.
Bye Bye, Your loving husband
Will x
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Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ontario, Canada
My Dear Wife,
Your pictures arrived tonight and were thankfully received. They are simply grand. Lyda and yourself are natural and not one bit flattering. I do love to see pictures where look natural. Madeline I am so pleased with them and really they just make me feel happy tonight. When I look at those two sisters and think one is mind it makes me feel pretty proud. The best girls in the world and my wife the best. I don’t know what to say to show you how pleased with them. Have just looked at them time after time. I think you are looking very well, also Lida.
Well Madeline when I can’t have you, the picture will have to do. I am feeling fine and busy with training. Have been taking gas training and Monday go through my first. I am not in No [?] Corp and yesterday was out for a route march with the boys and 153. Nearly all my Co. is the latter. About 50 of ours go to France on Monday, to a pioneer Bn Bill Brooks is the only Arkona boy to go. Lost of Forest. Several more will go soon. The rest of our boys will be through training net week. They wanted 4 officers and had we fired our musketry which is called our G.M.C. which takes a week would of been away Monday. Cheyenne and Fyffe will no doubt beat us out now as they are on the ranges now. We go net week. There was a bad accident on the ranges here last night. Eight boys of 153 being killed and a dozen wounded. We have a big funeral on Monday for them. The boys feel it very much and really are heart broken over their chums [more info on this tragedy here at http://sussexhistoryforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=5538.0]. This is war and so hard on the dear people at home in Wellington Co.
All our boys are well and in great spirits. The wet weather here is very disagreeable. The crops will be hard to harvest. I had a long letter from Ethan and he is well. Said he had often a notion to write you girls. I write him at once and told him to write. His mail was lost for a long. He feels fine and waiting to see me and have a chat once more. Mrs Bates must be worried over Ethan and Millie. They are so lucky to see each other over here.
Alf and I have not seen each other for four months and he has had no leave as yet. I often wonder if he gets lonesome away from all the boys, his best girl is no great help to him either, well this is life’s rough way. I should not wait it to be me or else there would be a blue boy. do you remember how you used to worry me. I could spank you good for it now. Well not just now but if it was a few months ago. I do hope I never worry you because I am away. Madeline girls are a thing of the past with me now. I don’t see any nice ones, and you know I might get in trouble if I monkey with the buzz saw. I look forward to our little chap or girlie with great interest. How I will stay over here beats me. I hope Lida stays with you until I return. I fairly worship my wife’s sister and all. Forget the past we all were worried and no home for us, nothing but strangers to live with and everybody dissatisfied. When I come back will have the old time trips and life will be worth living. your Billie has greatly suffered for his wrong doing. I have seen my faults.
Will you answer these questions for me?
Did you ever get my bed from London.
Did you get that paper fixed up with F. Nelson?
Did Gene pay you any money this spring?
Have you enough money to keep a going?
Will you pay my life insurance soon as due (don’t neglect)?
Will you always ask me if in want?
Madeline I have been going around so much and have been buying so much have been unable to send you any money. Money goes no where over here. I have only about 15 pounds on hand now but will forward you 20 pounds soon as possible. I hope you will have plenty to be comfortable. I will try my best to save for the little home for my wife and babe.
Now Madeline don’t worry over me, but take great care of yourself. Tell me all the news. Give my best wishes to all and love to yourself. A prayer for you yeah night and a kiss when I think of you. My love for you is so strong I could go through any amount of torture to prove it. Thanks for those pictures. Will take it with me to France.
Good Bye
Your Loving husband,
Will X
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19/8/17
Miss Lida Lucas
Arkona, Ontario, Canada
Dear Sister,
Just a few lines today. I have been to church this morning and this afternoon sitting around my hut. I wrote my brother this afternoon and just when I was finished, Pat Brown, Ed Crawford and Gordon Brown came in and we had a great visit. Really it seemed nice to see Pat again. He looks fine and the same smile. I forgot to tell Madeline that I sent Mrs Batter a card and also Mr Shore, Warwick.
Well old maid a great many of the boys have seen your picture and they all want to be my brother-in-law. Some are quite nice fellows. Capt Towns of Huron Co. is single and will be a pretty nice fellow. Well Lida wait till the war is over and see who is the best then. I suppose you have the same list of admirers. By the time I get back you will be living on the farm not where you are now.
Those pictures are grand and both of you look natural. I think Madeline looks well and her picture is just so natural as yours. You know Madeline is hard to please. I often wonder how she made one awful mistake. Now Lida I have no news. Beware of the boys until the war is over. Some one will prove themselves more than others. Now my Dear Sister, I am pretty well pleased over my pictures and hope my card will find a place in the waste basket. you be good to my wife and when I come home will pay you with a kiss for it. Wont have any money. I would love have you girls over here to see the nights. when the war is over you come over as nurse with Madeline.
GoodBye, write soon
Your loving brother. Billie x
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Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ontario, Canada
My Dear Wife,
Your of August 1st also a parcel received and was so pleased with them. I also had a letter from Harry, Lola and Donna. The parcel was in good condition and the contents I devoured with pleasure, keeping one piece withheld for Alf.
Well Madeline I am feeling well, only my blood is sort of fired up. I have been troubled with hives and by Jove they slake one’s energy. I am taking medicine to cool down a fever. We are pretty busy and at present am attached to No 1 Corp Orderly Officer on for 24 hrs and just relieved. By the way am getting a few hrs rest and spoiling time writing letters. Yesterday Ernie Showlen came down to see me and he and I took a taxi to Longmoor ranges to see Cheyne and Fyffe. He looks fine and is in best of spirits. His work is observing and not a pilot. One more month and he will be back in England for to take his piloting. He wishes to be remembered to you all. I would like his experiences.
You spoke about sending another parcel soon. Don’t sen me any more socks as I have enough for the duration of the war and six months after. Will let you know when I want anything. I don want a wife (housewife) [he writes “both” above the line]. You speak of the very warm weather at home. You must be very uncomfortable. Well we all wear caps over here and Tunics, and are all bleached, looks like Indians more than white men. Everybody is fit and feeling good. Only complaints are scarcity of food but we can stand it if it will win the war. About forty of our boys go to France. Bill Brooks is the only one of Arkona boys. The rest are ready and will soon be away. I hardly see how I can stay much longer now but never worry as it may be months yet. I am getting pretty uneasy to be away with the boys. I must shoot my G.M.C yet will be at ranges one week. Last week had an accident on the ranges and some of our men were killed, not of the 149th boys. We have a brigade funeral for them this afternoon. I wrote you about the accident in Sunday’s letter or else I am twisted. The boys are from Wellington County, about thirty were wounded in the mix.
I don’t think I have much news now. So many times I have books full and then forget them. I must tell you Capt Knowles cannot fly, nor Lt Lott. Lt Brown has gone home also Mr Laughton who was with us he could not make the grade. Remember young Beattie who was with us in Borden. He is flying down at Salonika. Maybe this kid surprised some of the wise guys. Alf is still in Bexhill and may soon be home about 8 of Sept. the time goes on and the Huns not licked yet. They come sailing up yesterday and keep our pilots busy.
Madeline I cannot tell much that goes on for fear of getting in wrong. Sunday one chap had to land down here and last night one fell about 7 miles away. Over here they kill people wholesale. No Bargains.
I must close my trap, was through gas and that makes one rather silly. Believe me any letters won’t be all blue and these few lines I do hope finds you in the best of health and happiness. Be sure and don’t worry. We are all in luck and safe from all danger.
So many more days and I will be in for a present. Don’t disappoint me. Ernie Showler gave me a jolt so by this time most of the people are in sympathy up with you. My ears burn day and night. I suppose the people talk which is the freedom of the British Empire. I hope Lida picks a good name. This where we part if she gets some damn old fashioned name. I do hope all will be well and sometimes I fear disappointment. Those pictures I just think the world of and look at them about three times a day. Ernie thought they were good. Your Father is going to write. The crops I believe are good in Canada. The weather is very wet here just now. Donna wrote a very newsy letter and Lola was terribly business like. Harry’s was all about the farm and yours was short and sweet. I must close.
Good Day. Remember me to all.
Your loving husband. Will X
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Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ontario, Canada
My Dear Wife,
This is Sunday 11:15 A.M. and I am sitting in my tent all alone. The day is cool and a strong wind blowing from the east, threatening us with more rain. the sky is quite cloud and a dreary day it is. I came down to this place yesterday and will be here 10 days. I am shooting my General Musketry course which all officers must do from now on. I am the first to start this new rule. I will love it because shooting is fun to me and ten days practice will surely do some good. Mr Woodrow and Stokes are here too. They are in a tent next to me. Where we are camped is in a mix grove of pines and puts me in mind of Grand Bend where the picnics were held. Where that little ant tried its awful trick. do you remember how frightened we were. Well it was no wonder as our honeymoon had only commenced, and didn’t want to part so soon. Least that was how I felt.
These trees are all such tall ones and they are so much like home. In this country they have small forests here and there mostly pine and oak, some beech also. There are about 1400 men here this next ten days. We brought down about seventy. The men are all in bell tents across the road and not in the shade. the food is fairly good, and I can live on it
I might say am feeling fine only shoulders ache from the long hike here yesterday with our packs. Some of the boys are used up with sore feet. I never have much trouble with my feet. One Bn is out on the ranges now, and believe me it’s not much like Sunday. When I left Bramshott orders were everybody must work Sunday and after hours too. Everybody must be through training and fully equipped by next Saturday. This means everybody ready for France at the call. Fritz is getting little rest these days, an will soon get less. We are losing lots of men, but they are nothing to the enemy losses. The line will soon be broken and then. Just a few weeks more and the Germans will be beaten. I expect to go over sometime before winter and it will be mobile warfare by then. The Huns will not be where they are now. I love to be on the big advance which is bound to come soon. I only hope you trust me that I am not forcing my way over, but believe if was not for you how would like to over at once. I just leave it to God and he is guiding me every day. May the same be your case. Don’t worry over me the spirit I have is not reached by many and hope to do great things.
It is raining very hard just now and will be in camp all day. The Witley boys will soon be moved out now. Alf and Mr Wyatt will likely keep in England for sometime as instructors if they make good. They need so many and no one will stay and help train the boys. Most of these old instructors are being sent back to train Canada’s Conscripts. Only those who have been to the front should go back to Canada.
Now I must not tell you any more news because it will not interest you. When I left yesterday the Canada mail just came in some as late as August 10th. I went to the Office to have my mail forwarded on here. They had a small package sorted and the top letter was for me, dated August 5th. I expect more tomorrow. However, you only wrote one during the week and it might be the only one. It sure was a good one. You speak about dresses for No. 3. Well it makes me pretty blue sometimes to think you are so discouraged and unable to write cheerful letters. I know it must be trying to you, and to wait the coming events is not comforting. But just think of the future how happy we will be Madeline I never think of our wedding anymore, but look forward with great interest to the near future. I hope you will take great care of yourself every day and everything will be alright. You don’t expect to go to church much more, you have done well to continue so long. Don’t stay at home because of your appearance. It’s not shame.
Those dresses are not very expensive because they are so small. Don’t scare me because will have another one to keep. Of course, if you out grow your clothes will have to get another supply. That’s what counts isn’t it? Will your old miser doesn’t care what you do. I will do my best for you. You spoke of Frances working out, it seems to me she didn’t preach that when in the store. But you know we all change our minds. One thing I don’t want is you so soon getting out. Perhaps some day it might be the case but not until I have failed. Likely they are right in for coining the dollars. I must try and save because the time will soon come when we’ll be through this job and must have something to start with.
Have just had lunch and feel satisfied. The rain has stopped and looks brighter now. This letter is long and not much to it. Will write my old girl this afternoon and expect to get in trouble over it. Miss [Innenbreich?] would be the gal. I expect a letter from any of the other folks some day. I wonder what will be in them. Does your mother ever curse me for all your trouble? I don’t suppose they mind it now. Does Lida still work in the store? I hope she stays because my old maid sister will have a job at home this fall, as she has tendered for the contract, and her offer was taken. By Jove she will be some nurse. Madeline tell me how you are getting along in every letter and how many dresses are being made. Surely you don’t expect more than one. Be careful all the time. I had a letter from Alf the other day and he is fine going on leave soon. He visited Fred Adam’s parents while in Bexhill. I never knew he came from there until looking over my books, so wrote Alf and he at once called on them. They were so pleased and if I go back want me to call and see them. I must close and write this other most important letter.
GoodBye
Love to all and lots to yourself,
Your loving husband, Will x
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Love to all and lots to yourself,
Your loving husband, Will x
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Mrs W.A. Williams
Arkona, Ontario, Canada
My Dear Wife,
Will write you a few lines today. I am well and hope this find you alright. I only received the one letter in that mail so will have to wait until the next. I had a letter from Alf and also Mrs Jones people in London. Alf is fine and will be through this week at Bexhill. He told me to finish up the cake as they had sent him some too. Those people in London want me to come down anytime and see them. They are going for a trip just now and are afraid Alf will miss seeing them while on leave.
Madeline I must tell you about the weather over here. It has been raining nearly ever since I came here. Sunday night the wind blew about 100 miles an hour and take about rain. My old tent how she stayed down beats me. Most all the big tents were blown down. These trees just roared all night with the wind and rain. I have not a dry pair of socks left and my boots soaked. I cannot get my trench coats dried anymore. Well it’s the worst we have had yet, and I stand it alright so far, but it’s not very comfortable by any means.
I have been on the ranges between showers and in showers and so always get soaked. Have good success on the ranges and practice. I wrote eight letters on Sunday, one to Lola and Donna, Miss Menhinick [?] and Mrs Rogers, Forest with shape of husband’s grave. I am sending one of each for you to keep for me. They are interesting but not much for you. I also write one to yourself and also Alf. My eight was Williams in France, also wrote to Torrington which makes nine and Mrs Smith, London, Canada.That’s going some isn’t it? The only way to get letters is to write them.
My Dear Madeline, I will excuse you for not writing me often, but tell someone else to write if they feel like it. If you don’t send letters we get so damn tired sitting around, will go mad yet. Cigarettes are very good, but I can’t smoke anymore or even get drunk. I hope you enjoy my letters, will always do my best to write more in the future. Don’t worry and be sure and take the best care of yourself.
With love and kisses galore,
Good Bye
Your loving husband, Will X
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France Aug. 29th 1917
Dear Will,
I received your letter of Aug 17th last Saturday and believe me, I was glad to hear from you again. I was beginning to wonder if you had forgotten all about me, but I guess you have been pretty busy by the way you speak in your letter. That last sentence sounds kind of Irish, but we will let her go this time. I was sorry to hear that some of your letters, to me, had gone astray, as I don’t like to lose any of them, because they always seem to cheer me up. My darned old pencil isn’t working very good as it is scratching, so I guess I will have to stop and sharpen it.
Now we will see how it acts. You asked me where my sister is. Well she is at No. 1 Can. General Hospital and I am sure she would be glad to see you if you get a chance while at the base [See http://1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?/topic/58487-no1-canadian-general-hospital-etaples/ for info about the bombing of the hospital the following year]. I was down to see her a couple of times while I was at the base, but I couldn’t go out for a walk with her as they are not allowed to be out with a private. It is going some, when a person can’t go out with his own sister, but such is the army. Who wouldn’t be a soldier? Never again for this fellow after I get out of this. I would sooner talk about soldiering on the 2nd concession of Bosanquet [former township in Lambton Country, Ontario, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bosanquet,_Ontario]. Talk about bomb proof jobs. There is nothing like that coming my way I guess, unless?
I just wish you could see us now, sitting in our smoky old dug-out. We are darned lucky to be here though as it is raining a fit, and there are other fellows, not far away, who would gladly change places with us. I hope that hey keep you over where you are, taking a few more courses, for a while yet, anyway. I know how you feel. We all felt the same at one time but just give us another chance. You will have lots of time to see all you want of it yet I imagine. but if you don’t so much the better. I wouldn’t tell a fellow not to come out as that is entirely his own business. It certainly is a good experience and shows a person a little of the other side of life but! give me Canada and peace. I am not sorry that I came out because it is the only way you can get to realize what war is. You cannot imagine what it is like. That is enough on that subject.
I am glad to hear that Madeline is quite well and that you have been doing your duty. I am surprised at you though, but there is nothing like it. It is too bad you couldn’t be at home, but here is hoping you are. I certainly intended writing to Madeline but you know how easy it is to put off letter writing. You can tell her that I intend to write to her some day and that I would be glad to hear from any of them at any time. You have certainly got something to be proud of Will. You want me to write to Lida but I have so much writing to do now. Maybe she wouldn’t have anything to do with me if she could see me sitting here on the floor smoking my pipe. I am afraid she would see quite a change in me to what I used to be. No Will I am not going to bother with girls until after the war and maybe not then. It is hard to say. Of course, I wouldn’t mind writing to Lida and probably I will drop her a few lines someday. None of the old girls write to me now except Elva Fuller the good old stand by. What happened Maggie Fuller and Orville Stoner? I hear they went together for a while. I never hear any news from around the Ark any more. What is Verne Huntley doing? He and Clarence Jackson must be having some time in their cars. If you see Gordon Brown any time you might tell him that I am still feeling fine and am looking for a letter from him.
I have a new job now. Handling the pick and shovel. I don’t know for how long but I guess it will be for a while anyway. Well Will, old kid, this is a very poor letter to what you wrote, but it is the best I can do this time as I don’t seem to be in the mood for letter writing so I will close hoping to hear from you again soon if not sooner. Give my love to Madeline and keep some for yourself. From your old Chum,
E. Bates
P.S. Remember me to the rest of the boys if you see them. I would go quite a distance to have another good old talk with you. I wish you were here now. The guns are a little noisy but that would be alright. E.B.
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