5.11.14

Dear Mr. Mansford,

I have made inquiries since I returned to camp and have found that in no case are the men sleeping more than twelve in a tent. Twelve to a tent is the Army Regulation. Hence, although we are not in need of extra tents, it would be all the same if we were, we would not get them, for there are none to spare in the whole division. However there is no cause to worry, for our huts are rapidly nearing completion, and we will move into them in two or three weeks time. Each man has 4 blankets, 2 suits, 2 pairs of boots and while I have been down here, I have seen each man served out, on two different occasions with shirts and socks. The slippers and shoes for each man, are already on order. Thus you see there is nothing more the men could wish for in this line. The only article that I can think would be very acceptable is the enamel mug. When the regiment first started, the men were provided, along other things with a china basin, by the war office. This was the only drinking vessel the men had. Now, what with carelessness of the tent orderlies in washing up after meals, and accidents in the tent, the number of basins has been terribly reduced. The men cannot complain, or probably think it best not to, lest they are ordered to replace the basins that they themselves have broken. If anything could be done in this particular line I should be extremely thankful and the men, I am sure would be very grateful. Fairly large mugs, holding about a pint are really needed, but of course and enamel mug however small would be very acceptable. I have just heard from my brother who is in Egypt with the Yeomanry. He sends home glorious accounts of his journeys to the pyramids, tours of native villages, and attacks made upon him and his friend by the would-be native guides with their donkeys. I have told him to have a hunt round and try and find our Cambridge Local results (or what is left of them) that you hid under one of the boulders out there. Unfortunately Egypt is rather a big place. On the other hand, such good results as those, he ought to see when miles off. How is the school extension with the workshop going along now? Although I can almost hear the continual buzz or the saws proceeding from the workshop, it is very difficult to imagine any of the present boys with their sleeves up, working at the benches. It is not the working part that is so difficult to imagine but the change from the pen and book side of the school. " Lights out " was blown almost an hour ago now, and as I must be up tomorrow morning before " light's in " I think I had better bring this letter to a close. Yours very sincerely, P.T. Smith.