France
29/5/17
Dear Juliet
I got your letter just before leaving base last Thursday. Our craft has been within a few miles of the firing line but just now we are some distance away from where our commission is stationed. We are doing some manoeuvres and I am one of a party detailed for a particular job and just now we are sitting down by a roadside and I am writing this on the butt of my rifle. I have sent the photos and Cyril’s letter home. I was very pleased with the result of the photos and I am sure they will be glad to have them at home. What an interesting letter Cyril wrote. It was good of your to make a copy of it for us to read. I am in 16 Platoon of 16 Waikatu Bay, 2nd AIB and if you will address me accordingly the letters would reach me. I have been fortunate in getting into the same company with some of my mates who came up here some weeks ago and just now I am in the same billet with them. The country in this part is very beautiful. The billets and comforts alike and the inhabitants friendly and considerate to the soldiers.
Best wishes to you all.
Your affectionate cousin
Bernard Sladden
