1.6.15

Saturday morning 12.55 a.m. It is really ages since I last heard from you all, there is no doubt you world say that it is ages since you have heard from me. I really forgot whose letter was left unanswered, it is so long ago, but I don't think I should be surprised if it is entirely my fault, for I know I have written very few or practically no letters lately -- even my people form home wrote a letter addressed merely "8th Royal West Kents", asking me were I was and what was the matter with me. Like most chaps I hate writing letters, but letters addressed to me are most acceptable, especially when they come to me from such an old friend as D.G.S. No doubt you have already noticed the un-earthly hour at which I write this letter. Believe me, it is not my fault -- but rather my misfortune. The fact is that to-day, or rather yesterday, I was orderly officer and one of my duties was to turn out the guard once by day and once by night. I have completed all my other duties save turning out the guard by night, and I have got to do that at two o'clock this morning. It is now 20 mins. to one. Ugh! I am writing by candle light which gives me just enough light to be able to write at all. Out of two of the four corners of the room most hideous noises are proceeding. I should you mist have heard some of it when you opened the envelope, if so do not be alarmed it is but the snores of two of my friends, who are snugly rolled up in blankets, on their beds. " How happy some or'er other some can be. " Really it is an awful job to refrain from the temptation of washing their faces with a sponge and cold water. I was very suprised when I heard that Mr Mansford was about to leave for France. One never knows what is in store for one. Do you remember one lovely day last Summer, the Head was going to take me for a sin in his car, and then, when we had all got ready, and the car arrived, it was found that the brakes were out of order and our trip was postponed? Well I never went after all. I was the only one of the 'Specials' not to go. I wonder if it is to be my luck to have my ride in France. I have had my fortune told by an amateur and I understand that I am going to be wounded, so please tell the Head to look out for me. Now I must get myself wrapped up in my great coat and see what that guard has got to say for himself. 'Goodnight.' Kind regards to all. 'PeTer.' P.S. Please excuse writing for I had the cramp in my wrist long before I started writing this letter and the beastly candle persists in jumping up and down.