21 Oct 1917
Dearest mother:
I have been reading the papers you sent all
day there being no work. There is a crispness in the air especially in the
early morn sure sign winter is not far off.
We have a canteen now which affords more
comfort than the tent to read in at night.
Altho somewhat noisy you are not disturbed by having to put the lights
out when in an interesting story.
I hope that father does not have to report.
The construction of so many ships will require experienced men to operate them.
Expect Uncle Frank will be called to take charge of one of new ones also.
I received the ten O.K. Mail service is better
now. It is best to put everything in a tin box and securely wrap then there
will be little chance of it being broken up and lost.
I heard from Alex again and he seems to be
in good spirits. I have a good idea where he is located but unless I can get a
leave later will be impossible to see him.
I am in good health and well contented the
way things are turning out.
With love to you and father, I am Lovingly, Errol
[Errol's father, Hammond and Uncle Frank,
were both mariners with considerable experience. Hammond worked at various
capacities, the last being chief engineer of the steamboat Lurline on
the Columbia River. Frank was captain of the Mount Desert, a stern
wheeler out of Bar Harbor, Maine.]
Sunday
28 Oct 1917
Dearest mother:
Glad to learn the coins arrived. I was not
certain they would get thru so did not mention them. I found them on an old
battle field. Some more magazines and papers received last week. Have not heard
from Lelia yet but expect it will not be long.
Yes it looks like another winter alright
and a cold one, too. Real frost this morning.
Do not have to work nights very often
unless something gets out of order.
Therefore have a chance to dry clothing over night. Have two changes
anyway. Do not suffer the hardships of the infantry.
Where was the grain elevator decided to be
built? The news here is mostly second handed and even if it was permissible to
relate would not differ from the newspaper accounts in general.
With love, I am, Your Errol
4 Nov 1917
Dearest mother:
Just returned back from a nearby village
where I enjoyed a fair meal and a pleasant afternoon so will drop a few lines
to let you know I am feeling good as ever.
Received your letter and also one from
Lelia, the first for some time.
Nothing of interest to write about. Same
thing from day to day. In the future when you send money it can be in U.S. currency
in registered letter. Possible to get it cashed without too much trouble.
I am going to try and send a helmet thru in
the near future. Save it. Might make a good flower basket in the arbor.
With love to you and father. Till next time.
Lovingly, Errol
[On November 5th they moved to Mount
Kemmel, where they were when the Germans started their spring offensive in
1918.]
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