1/3/18
My dear Father
Your letter for good wishes for my birthday came some time ago. I've been exceptionally busy lately and often find it difficult to get any letters written. Many thanks for the book by Mansfield. There are some very fine pieces of writing in it, and to those especially who know that bit of the line it will be very interesting.
I wonder what will materialise out of the present situation all over the Russian Empire that was. I suppose the more orderly elements of the population actually welcome the German invasion, preferring that to the excesses of the Red guard and such people. But the wages the German policeman claims will be a high price to pay. I wonder if the Allies have already decided with Japan upon a line of action.
How is your livestock doing now? It's a great advantage to live in the country in these days. I don't think the present low ration will be quite enough for people to retain their best health and working powers. However if the food isn't to hand the matter cannot be arranged otherwise, but I wish the food production in Britain could have come up to first plans. Do you know if the bigger farms are using much German labour now?
I had dinner last evening with some French people for whom I have been doing a little doctoring. They had two cases of diphtheria in the family. I am told that the food situation in France is more satisfactory than in England, but in Italy I believe it's bad enough. What a lot depends on this year's harvest.
I hope your news of the two aunts is satisfactory. Perhaps by now you have gone down to Folkestone.
With love to you all.
Your affectionate son
Arthur
