1916/12/11

Maggie Williams writes to her nephew, Melville. She tells him how badly she feels about hearing that Gordon (Melville's younger brother) was killed in action. She urges Melville to try and return home on Commission, saying that he should be thinking about his mother. She asks him about what size and make of socks he prefers, so that she can knit some and send them to him.

1765 Rockland Avenue
Victoria Dec. 11th 1916

My Dear Melville,
I am very sorry to hear you have been ill & hope you will soon be quite all right. We feel very very badly about Gordon. He must have gone through a lot much more than any of us will ever know & earned his final reward but it is sad for those who are left. Why

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don't you take out a Commission before going overseas? Didn't Gordon advise it & he would only do so being the best for you. You are young & there will be a lots of time for you to get to France as this war will not be over for some time unless something unforeseen happens. Don't you think your mother would rather you did & remember Melville she consented to you enlisting under age & don't you think you owe it to her.
I wish you would let me know

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about socks the size & if you like them long or short & fine or coarse knitted for you may as well have the best. Have you a sleeveless sweater to wear under your tunic?
It is very wet to-day so I have done nothing but knit I am pretty tired. Instead of snow we get rain which is much better. I hope you will be able to get home for Christmas & I think the best thing you could give your Mother would be to tell her you wanted to take

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out a Commission provided you can get permission from your C.O.
With love & hoping you are quite better

Your Loving Aunt
Maggie Williams

2017.22.100