My dear Mother,
Many thanks for the parcel which I received a few days ago, and your letter. It was awfully nice to hear from home, I'm glad to hear Andrew and Philip are doing well. I've not had time to write since, as it's been raining non-stop for days, so am dashing a few lines off now before it starts again! I wrote to Kate yesterday, and so I except she'll get her letter before you do yours. She is well, her sisters have been teasing her about her 'Beau in the Trenches', which made me smile. I hope I shall get leave soon so I can see you all.I mentioned I was going before the medical board, and did last Tuesday. The medical officer examined my toes, which I complained of since they got soaked a few weeks ago. I thought I might get classed as Permanent Base, but no such luck. Please send me some more handkerchiefs and tooth powder as soon as you can, and I shall have to hope that they get to me alright. Have you had blackberries at home this year? I have written to Philip as he wrote me yesterday. How is father? I hope he is keeping well. Must close now with love to all, especially to yourself. I remain your affectionate son,
Nicholas Francis Duval.