If I do get next leave I shall be at Carleton for Christmas which would be delightful if only for the chance of going to Church with friends. Yesterday I had a splendid ride of about 25 miles to the largest town hereabout.

I am immensely refreshed by this holiday for I was getting horribly stale for want of air and exercise - It was very pleasant to see some good buildings & good shops & have a civilized bath & a well served meal. The town is shelled every week with a few shells but is little damaged.

It turned out to be a fine day though the day before had given us snow and sleet. I am afraid we shall lose our O.C. soon; it will be a great loss to the Bn & a great personal loss to myself. In fact it will make a great difference to me for I know what he had in view.

Thank Fowkes for a fine love letter written in his happiest vein.

Your affect brother

Arthur D Crease