Jan 10/17
Dear Doris,
Just a line to thank you for the chocs. – I certainly didn't have any trouble disposing of them. – I was certainly well looked after this Xmas. – I think old Mr. Santa Claus issued my share for two or three years in advance.
– One of my presents came as a big surprise and that one was a letter to say that my name was on the King's list of New Year's Honours as having been awarded the M.C. (Military Cross) – I didn't even know I'd been recommended for a decoration so you can imagine the surprise it gave me. – I don't know what the mischief I ever did to deserve it. – It's a very pretty decoration and was founded by King George in 1914 – It can only be worn on active service. – The ribbon is purple and white – I'll send you a bit some time when I get some. – The cross itself I hope to receive from His Majesty the next time I get to England. – Three of our chaps have already been decorated by him.
Well that's about enough talk about me, tho'. I had to get it off my chest. – Uncle Jim's Murray who was with the Royal Field Artillery had better luck than me. – He got sick – went to hospital, was sent to England – and got a couple of months sick leave just in time to get home for Xmas. – I should have liked a little of that myself – It's two years since I left my happy home “at call of King & Country” and all that silly rot. The only reason I came was that I was afraid someone would say I had cold feet if I didn't. – And they would have been right too believe you me. – Cold feet is my middle name. – Not at all times of course. – The temperature of my pedal extremities varies with the distance between me and the front line. – The closer I go, the colder they get.
You will be jolly well sick of reading this twaddle, so I'll quit and go to bed.
Bon soir, and give my love to Uncle and Aunty
Your aff. cousin,
Murray