November 17th 1917

Dearest Doods,

I suspect you think that I forgot all about your birthday but I didn't, honestly, though I was able to send nothing more than the field p.c. I wished you ever so many happy returns of the day in my thoughts which I now repeat on paper - rather late in the day - but none the less warm for that accompanied by a kiss, (if I dare!) a big one, for special occasions only! We at present are in support, in a mined and deserted village just behind the trenches, after doing a very long tour in the line, if I told you how long the [?} would I supposed object. but it didn't start this month! Its almost the longest continuous spell in trenches that I have ever done.

[continues with end of letter written sideways]

German picked troops, it will be different when we get over there, there's great rumours about this division but I think there's nothing in it, after all its only a division from the front that really matters. Anyway Horatio B. says teh war will be over by Xmas so Cheerioh! What a hope! Tons of love. F.

BC Archives, MS-1901 / Box 1 / File 11 RUSSELL, Alma M., 1873-1964. Victoria; librarian. Selected miscellaneous letters and ephemera, 1914-1917.