From your loving Son,
ALEC.

March 7th (Tuesday).

A/101 TRENCH MORTAR BATTERY,
101ST BRIGADE, B.E.F.

My darling Mother,--

I have just received your letter and a parcel with a topping
waistcoat; I don't think I could ever be cold with it on. Thank you
very much indeed for it. I received the slacks, &c., in the trenches.
I have got enough clothes now to keep me warm at the North-Pole. I
would be very glad indeed of socks for my men--I have 23 men if you
can send for all. I got the papers last week; they are not due yet
this week. I have two Tommy's cookers. I have got rid of my camera;
they are very strict about not having them out here, so I got rid of
mine directly I came out, and, of course, had no opportunity to take
any photos. We all got rid of them the first day out here. Please tell
Ellen that I will never forgive her if she is not at home to welcome
me back when I come. I don't know where the Pals are. Winnie ought to
know exactly where I am. If not mention a few places S. of 5 if you
can remember. We got into rest a few miles behind the firing line. We
are also S. of 1 S of 2 and 3.

I am going into the trenches to-night for two or three nights and then
for about a week's rest. I have just had a week's rest. I cannot tell
you the exact number of days, as I should have to censor it myself if
I did.

I must stop now.

Much love to all, From your loving Son,
ALEC.

A/101 TRENCH MORTAR BATTERY,
101ST BRIGADE, B.E.F.

My darling Mother,--

It is Sunday afternoon, 2-30, and I am just finishing dressing. We
came out of the trenches yesterday; we were only in three or four
days, as the brigade has to hold these trenches for longer than was
first intended--my second in command is in now. I shall have about 11
days rest now. We arrived at our billet at about 11 o'clock last night
tired and hungry, and found everyone in bed; however, one of the girls
got up and made me an omelette, consisting of five eggs, and some
coffee, and the men had beer and coffee. Then I read some letters from
Father, Amy and Roly Wait, and then to bed. I have got an awfully
comfortable bed. I