27. Mr Gillanders says good things about ANS's work in London

Elsinore

27 Spring Street

Jan 19th 1918

My dearest Norman,

Another letter though I have received non from you for nearly 3 weeks. Some of the Back? girls were saying last night there would be no mail for 7 weeks and others said there would be one next week. I don't see any advertised to leave here on Monday but I write my letter all the same and post it. I know it will catch the first mail.

Well, my dear son, how are you getting on. I must tell you a little incident. I was in town and called in to Mr Gillanders. I wanted to know if he knew anything of the Anchises. He said she was in Melbourne a couple a weeks ago and thought she was there still. I told him tou were sending a parcel by one of the officers on her and he said they would surely post it if they were not coming on. I don't know if he mistook me for someone else but he said I love your son. He is a splendid man. He said he is one of the best Secretaries we have had over there and that they had started a new branch of something over there and you were put at the head of it. So many men under you and that you were a conscientious Christian and a lot more. He said if I had any parcels to send, I ought to send them by their Secretaries. The last two he said, one from Adelaide and one from Melbourne, but there might be one going from here soon. I was very pleased to hear him say all that Norm. if it is true, but you never say anything about that to me when you wrote last, but said you would tell me more next letter. He called me Mrs Barwick when leaving so it must be you he meant.

I saw the Backs and a lot of the girls at a wedding at the church last night. Gin? Woodward was married. She told Mr manning she wanted it very quiet, that he was a very shy man and only wanted their own there but there was a good many of the girls and others in the church. I guess she was surprised when she came in.

I believe Mr Gooud won the sailing race today. I think it was the Championship race. I suppose he will tell you all about when he writes and no doubt feels very proud. Archie Beard is still here. The boat he was on is sold. I asked him would he take a parcel for you. He said he would but he didn't know when that would be. He had heard nothing definite yet he is a funny fellow. That is the same boat Jack Waite was on so I don't know if he is out of a billet. It won't do and then just getting married, will it. I think it was the Victoria. She is sold to the Japanese but they are not to take her out of Australian waters or put a Chinese crew on her.

I sent you another parcel on Wednesday dear Norman. Did you get the one I sent before? I don't think I will send anymore till I hear from you what you want. Don't you get any sugar and butter? and have you none? I did not send any of my pudding for the little mites got into it, but I sent you a cake, butter, sugar and lollies. Tell me what you want most of and I can send it. It is no use sending eggs. They would be bad or broken but I think I will chance a few, if I send a parcel by Charlie Beard.

Well Norm, tomorrow week will be our Harvest festival. It is early this year on account of Easter being early. April Fool's day will be Easter Monday. Pa is going up with George on Wednesday. Mr Manning wants him to go and get some corn and stuff, but they have nothing ripe up there. I don't know what he can get. I believe the school Picnic is to be in April, that is late isn't it, but I suppose they have to wait till after Lent.

I hope you get the papers I send. I sent 4 last week, and a Melbourne Argus. George Goodsir sent. I don't suppose you see many Melbourne papers. Mr Hughes is still Premier, but he may be going to England soon. I am sending you the photos this time, dear Norm. I hope you get them safe. I don't think much of them. Pa's is very good but Illma and I are not so good. Illma had Claud's taken to send to you I think, they are splendid. He is growing a fine boy.

Well now dear Norm, I must say goodnight. Best love from Pa and same from your ever loving Mother.

PS I don't think I told you Mr Gooud gave me a little teapot, milk jug and sugar basin for Xmas. Kind of him wasn't it. He won the Championships yesterday.

unknown friend... page missing...I still think our boy is alive Norm.

Lincoln Street

Campsie

27 Jan 1918

Dear Norm,

How are you old boy? I should have answered your letter before this but circumstances have prevented me and I would like you to understand that it does not mean that you have not been in my thoughts. I often think of you and wish you were back again like the good old times and everything was as it used to be, but nevertheless Norm it is a great thing our Nation is doing - this upholding of Honour and Righteousness for the world. - how terrible and yet how beautiful - what noble souls and brave, it has brought out - we also have lost them and yet still greater - we have found them now love them ever still fonder - long for them and can ever see them before our aching eyes, may we never for one moment forget their divine sacrifice - so many of our St John's boys dear Norm, dear souls! - their bodies will never come back and you know there is always a one - a mother or somebody else who loved them, more than anybody.

I must stop going on like this and give you a bit of news, but before I do let me thanks you for the kind and thoughtful letter you wrote to my Mother and Dad, Doug and I (Dorrie) . It was a lovely letter Norm and the beautiful thoughts in it and it was good of you to find out the particulars you did about our missing lad. He was reported killed I suppose you know, but nothing has been traced of him. There has been a number of prisoners exchanged from Germany who were captured on the 20th July 1916. I was wandering if there were any unknown ones amongst them. It was a cable that came through in one of the evening papers last week. I still think our boy is alive Norm.

I have seen your mother a fair number of times since you left and she is looking well and your Dad too. I often have a little chip to him when I am having a practice on the organ. (Tring?)

It is good to know that you like your new...........

26. Mum hears about "that sort of woman" in London and warns her son

Elsinore

27 Spring street

January 12 1918

23 letter (Maria is a little out with her counting)

            Dear Norm, you never said if you had seen Mr Fisher and what did he say to you - did he receive 

 you friendly?

My dear darling Norman,

Another letter to you. I was in hopes I would have another letter from you before I wrote again, but such is not the case. I don't know when there will be another mail in. I believe the Anchises came to Melbourne last week, but I have not seen anything of the Officer of the parcel yet. The troops from here came overland by train. I don't know if she came on to Sydney or not, but I suppose it will turn up one of these days.

Well my dear boy how are you getting on and what are your duties and how do you like it?is it up to your expectations? Tell me all when you write.

You are away 5 months now. I can hardly believe it. Time flies doesn't it? What sort of weather are you having. Is it very cold. it is more like winter weather here. It has been raining all day yesterday and today and tonight. I see by the paper that Windsor expects a flood. The river is rising. There is one thing George has all he potatoes sold. He had them in early, so had them dug early. He got a fair price for them, but they are very cheap now. Of course George has corn in and lucerne in. I don't know if a flood will injure them or not, but the rain is easing off a bit. There may not be a flood and the rain will do good.

You know they are making our side street. We will have a step down from our back gate, but it will be nice when finished. The only thing it will bring more traffic up and down and not so private as it was and we will get more dust. I saw Jonny Anderson, the returned soldier in Church last Sunday. He looks splendid. So fit and well and joining Colin Candsell. He looks fit and well too. You know he used to take fits I think that is what he was sent home for. The Dr says if he went into hospital and under an operation he may be cured of them. So I think he is going to.

I had Eileen here last night. She looks very well now. She has gone home tonight.

Claud is to be moved to Richmond soon. That will be better for Illma, she won't have to be up so early in the morning. George looks well. He is fat, if only a little of his fat she would do.

Young Cansdall does talk a lot about the London girls. He says they are terrible - come up and say anything to you. Some of the boys say some of the girls asked them while they were over there. I trust and hope my dear boy that you keep clear of that sort. I wanted your father to give you a talking too, before you left, about that sort of woman, but I don't think he did and it was only his place to do so. For I don't think you knew too much about that sort of thing. I think you were pretty innocent, but my dear boy mind yourself and live a clean life. No doubt you will meet nice responsible girls and you will know how to treat them and they will respect you and think more of you.

I will enclose September papers in this letter, I thought the last too heavy. I expect I will have the photos to send next letter. You will see what frights. I never make a good photo, but Illma's and mine are not too good. If you had been in the group I would have had an enlargement taken of it. When you come back we must have them all taken together. You will be able to tell us all about the King and Queen when you come back. I guess you took a good quizz of them.

Out trees are growing so big in the year now, we have no view of the water. We must have them cut down again. Poor Uncle Arthur won't be here to cut them up this time. Now my dearest boy, I must close. Pa sends best love to you and I hope you have his letter before this. I sent tyhe duplicate of that raft last letter. I hope you got one or the other. I will send another parcel with my Pudding and cake. When they are sending again and then won't end any till I hear from you. 

Goodnight dear Norman, with best love and 15 kisses, from your loving Mother.

ps Sunday afternoon. Archie Beard just came in, says to tell you he may be over soon. he will find you out. I think he will be going next week so he told Mrs Gooud, but doesn't want it to be known.

Doug writes with news of men who have returned to Balmain

Lincoln St

Campsie

27. 1. 1918

Dear old Norm,
I suppose you will say 'its up to you' and so it is. Dode seems to get in early and sends all the news. Glad to hear you are going alright, Norm and that you are OK. We are always thinking and talking about you as up fore. Jack Beard was in on Friday and we were mutually talking about our old cobber and wandering where you were. Jack has been to New Zealand again and on return to Sydney his boat "the Victoria" was sold to a Chinese firm. The firm sent it back to Newcastle a couple of times to fit new wireless plant on steamers there. He's just the same old , quiet stick.
CG (Charles Gooud) is elated at winning the Championship in the "Unique" on Saturday last. I believe he's presenting the medal to Mrs Cox.
Terribly sad about poor old Charl wasn't it? My word St John's have suffered terribly these last 6 months - the latest dear old Stan King being called away, coming as a shock to everybody. He was such a boy and away no time.
It was very good of you Norm, to make those enquiries about Tas, and to write such a considerate and thoughtful letter to Dode and Mr and Mrs Vale.
We had a leter from that poor young chap Arthur Evans, in reply to the one we wrote him, before he went back to France the second tim. He did not actually say that Tas died alongside him- he had to leave him but he did not say he died. We had word from the Military People when Mr Vale was ill - not long after you left, but they cannot give any definite details. There does not seem much hope, but the impossible has happened in other cases and who knows but that it will happen in theirs. There's no one actually seen him dead.
We called on Mrs Evans and Mary? tried a couple of days after Arthur was killed, about last .......... He was sent back to the front with a withered hand. Mrs Evans' is a widow and Arthur was one of the best. Her daughter-in-law and son are a great comfort to her , particularly the former. She is a real trick.
Your Mother and Father are both looking well Norm. Whenever I am over, I have a chat with them - Dode? took the services the Sunday after hearing the news about Stan and your father was the same as ever. Dodie got a sneaking regard for him and I think its reciprocated. I'll have to watch her. I suppose your Mother told you all the nice things the YMCA had to say about you here. My Mother was with her and they were beaming you up a truck. Eh, what?
The Birchgrove Regatta resulted in a profit of 35 Pound, handed to the Balmain Hospital.
Our lawns and gardens are a picture at present. You remember the lawn we put in- well it came up all weeds, so whose Jonah? I had to dig it all up again and go through the same performance and they say gardening is a beautiful hobby. I don't think. Our asters are just coming out and we have about 200 plants, so there will be 'some' show.
We went over to the Sunday School Bazaar - I suppose it is stale news to you now - Harry Allen was there as ......   .......    and so were Mr Gooud and yours truly, but I missed the smiling countenance of "my old treasurer" It seemed strange to me. New faces soon crop up don't they, Norm - the little time we have been actually away from active work and when you go to one of the socials, you seem lost.
You remember young Russell? of the Young Men's Club? He has been killed in action - Reg Hancock is home again (I have not seen him yet) Colin Causdell and Percy Anderson are also home. Will Lynch, Dad's Uncle, had returned. Do you ever hear of Ted Shepherd, Norm? I have lost trace of him. I hear you have met George Noble. I am glad you seen him - remember us to him when you see him again. I believe he has developed into a fine man.
Mr Vale is not right yet - he is lowly improving, but he gets terribly excited when he argues. They are up with us now for a while, then they are to ..... "......." and Balmain has been let furnished.
Well dear old Norm, there is nothing further I can think of - if there is anything I can do for you please command. I have you in our thoughts and prayers at all times, from your sincere pal,
Doug.

Dorrie drops a line - Miss McLaughlan has sent in her resignation.

299 Darling St

Balmain

January 6th 1918

21 FEB 1918

Dear Norm,

Your Christmas cards came safely to hand some little time ago. We were very pleased to hear from you. Glad you had such a good time in Leicester. I wish I could have been there too. We had a letter by the same mail from Aunty saying you had called; in her letter she said they all thought you a very nice young man and of course told us all you aid and done. Dad especially was so pleased you were able to go to Leicester, he thought such a lot of it. It is nice to be able to send someone you know so well. He said he's glad you gave such a good account of him.

I have just came home from church. We had a beautiful service tonight - special War Litany all day today for peace. Mrs Tring resumed duty today for the first time since Stan's death and did splendidly. No doubt you will have heard full particulars by this time so will not dwell on it except to say we all felt it very keenly. I think his going under was the hardest blow of any, it cast a terribly gloom over everything for quite a long time. However everything must go on no matter what happens.

We held our "Bazaar" and did splendidly, the takings amounted to fifty pound, everything went off without a hitch. Clarrie Orr was simply splendid the way he organised everything, then we had our prize giving night on 20th December of course. I will leave you to imagine that night. Had our usual teachers meeting this afternoon, nobody had anything to 'bring up', only Clarrie and that was that we have decided to have our picnic on the 17th April, so think of us all going down Cove St to catch the boat to Clifton Garden, on that date. What a day, can't you imagine what we will all be doing.

Miss McLaughlan has sent in her resignation. She left us about 3 weeks ago. The family have moved to Drummoyne. The teachers gave her a book as a parting gift on the night of the prizegiving. We can ill afford to lose teachers just now, the loses have been so great this last year, but I suppose somebody will turn up to take their places, lets hope so.

I am taking my class down to the gardens on Tuesday for a day's sport. I hope and trust that it will be fine. The weather is simply lovely just now, so perhaps it will favour us. I trust you are doing well in your new sphere of work.

Well Norm, I fear I must draw this inky chat to a close as it is getting late, of course we had to have our little chat out at the front gate and that made me late getting home. So now it is time for bed o'. Mother and Dad wish me to thank you for their card and to convey to you their best wishes for the New year, trusting this will find you in the best of health as I am thankful to say we all are just now.

heaps of good wishes

from yours sincerely,

Dorrie

25. The McLachlan family is mentioned

"23 letter"

Elsinore

27 Spring Street

Jan 5 1918

21 FEB 1918

My Dear Norman

Many, many thanks for your nice long letter this mail. I was indeed glad to get it, for I got some last mail and was disappointed. Have my two letters turned up yet? I could not remember what I had put in them dear Norman. Did yo get the one with Mr Wilton's photo in it? He sent a photo to your father, so I posted it along to you, but I forget know when it was, but they may turn up later on. I don't think any of the mails have been sunk lately, unless in the Halifax disaster. I have not been numbering them lately. I must do it again, then you know what have gone. I sent a parcel a couple of weeks ago. Illma's pudding and cake in it and I will send another with some of mine, butter and sugar. Then I won't send any till I hear from you how they get on and if they are worth sending. Do you know they only charge 3/ for the Soldier's parcels of 11 lb and 6/ for yours, the same weight. A good job they do send the soldiers' cheaper so they can get something. Don't you get any sugar or butter at all? I wish I could send you some eggs, but they wouldn't keep. I think I better send you some chooks and they will lay some for you. What you say.

Well dear Norman, Xmas and New Year are gone again for another 12 months. Pa and I went up to Illma's for New year's day. Pa came home that night and I stopped till the next night. Oh it was lovely weather. The Sunday and Monday before would roast you and New Year's day was lovely and cool and cloudy all day, so was the next day. In fact we have not had it hot since. We missed you and Claude from dinner. Claude had to work all the holidays. Never mind I hope next year will be different. We had a good New Year's Service. I don't think there were so many as there were last New Year. Of course so many of our boys are gone since Mrs Tring played at a wedding this week, the first time since Stan was killed. I don't know is she will play tomorrow or not. She may.

How do you like your work now?  Dear Norman you seem to have very long hours. You are not going all the time are you and what is your principal work? Tell me more about it when you write.

We had a good regatta here on New year's day in aid of the hospital. They had a flag ship under Mr Irwin and assistants and I believe there were only 5 or 6 on it. Mr Gooud and Miss Dally had tables at the Grove and done very well. I don't know yet how much they took but I hope they get a .......sum for the hospital.

I am glad you met so many of the boys over there, it was niece to have a yarn to your own boys. I enclosed Meg Husdale's letter to you. I suppose that was in 3 or 4 letters. Haven't seen him since you went over. I think he has enough to do. I see that your Xmas cable was sent on the 18th and I did not get it till the 27th. That was a long time wasn't it?

I will enclose for you a small piece of Winnies wedding cake. She sent me up a piece the other night. I suppose Jack will be in again next week. You know he is still on the boat. I believe the Anchises in Melbourne. I was speaking to a soldier that came back yesterday he says they were behind her for a good way, and then she slowed down and they passed her. He thinks there was an operation on board. He came on to Sydney bu boat and she went to Melbourne and her passengers came on by train, so she may not come here, but I sippose the Officer will post the parcel on to me. We, that is Pa, Illma and I had our photos taken last week and will send you one when we get them. Illma also had Claude's taken to send you one. He is growing a fine boy and so is Bert and young Norm is coming on. I will enclose you the duplicate of the draft I sent you, in case you didn't get it. Well dear Norman, I must come to an end. Mrs Ward told me to remember her to you and says she will write. Pa sends best love. Aunt Mary sent me Clarrie's address today. Goodbye my darling son, with heaps of love from your loving Mother.

I don't know if I told you the McLaughlans (sp) had left Balmain. They are gone out to Drummoyne to live. I don't know who they had got to play now. I think the girl Harper. They told me what was in the parcel. I suppose you have opened it before this.

Must you be out late at night dear Norm. I think that is a bad place you are living in. You say you went into a Church after 11 o'clock, too late for a young Sydney man to be out.

letter from a mate

65 College St

Balmain

4.1.1918

21 FEB 1918

Dear Norman,

Once again I write to you although I haven't heard from you yet. Still I live in hope that it will come along one day. Christmas is over and it was the quietest I ever remember, and to make matters worse it teamed all the afternoon. Went to early Communion on Christmas morning and there was a great crowd. The New year was just as quiet as Christmas. Our one wish as the New Year came in was that it would bring Peace with it. I think we have had quite enough of war don't you? I am enclosing a snap taken at our last weekend at Turrumurra, suppose you can pick me out, also one I took of Ettie's party. You recognise a few familiar faces there don't you. They are still the same noisy crowd as of old, and play up just the same. Hilda Back is the limit.

On Boxing day and New year's day myself and some of the girls went to Neilson Park and had a good time. We usually manage to have a bit of fun.

Reg Hancock and Colion Cansdell? both came home this week. I believe they both look OK. Lucky boys aren't they?

The Christmas Party we gave to the Soldier's children was a great success and the children enjoyed themselves immensely. Of course it was real hard work bay as long as the children had a good time we don't mind in the least.

All here are quite well. Eve and the son and heir were in lst week. They are both OK and Eve is fatter than ever. Em Woodward is going to be married next week I believe. There will be quite a number of changes here by the time you come home again. I still hear from Jack regularly and he is alright except for a boil behind his year. Hard luck isn't it?

We are having decent weather at last and after last week it is quite a treat. I suppose you wouldn't mind a little of our heat.

Haven't time to write anymore as I have quite a lot of letters to write so will have to close.

All here wish to be remembered to you and wish you heaps of luck,

Keep smiling from your old friend

Jack 

(guy or girl??? still trying to work out! ED)

24. I suppose some of our letters were lost in the mails at Halifax.

Elsinore

27 Spring Street

Dec 31 1917

Received 21 FEB 1918

My dearest Norman

I see there is a mail leaving on Wednesday and as this is the last day of the old year I must write you a line. I wish you a happy new year, though it will be late when you get it. Did you get the Birthday and Xmas cards we sent you? I suppose you have before this. You ought to have a lot of my letters by now. I have written 21 letters, this is the 22nd. let me know if you get them all and the papers so you get them? I see it says in the papers to put via America on them. I did on a few.

Many thanks for the Xmas cable dear Norm. did you send it on the 18th? I never got it till the 27th, a long time coming wasn't it? That is why I felt not getting a letter so much, if I had got the cable Xmas day it would have been alright.

Mr Gooud just came in and brought ma a nice little teapot, cream jug, sugar basin so I will be able to give you a nice cup of tea, when you come home and gave your Father a nice tie. Very kind of him wasn't it? May Gooud is engaged to a returned soldier, no doubt you know him. I forget his name. She used to know him before he went away and Amy is going with Johnny Donovan now. You know Dave Palmer left off writing to her. He has another girl up there I believe. He is down here for his holidays, looks just the same.

I hope you get the draft I sent alright. I will send the duplicate along next letter. I sent you a parcel a week ago. I hope you got it. Let me know how the things were in it. Did they keep alright? I will end another in a few weeks time. I want you to have a taste of my Xmas puddings. I guess you did not get butter over there.

Well Norm, I will miss you tonight at Watch Night Service, I suppose you will be at one on England somewhere. Well my dear son, I hope next year may bring us all peace and prosperity and that I may have you home again before the end of the year and that all the wars are over and Peach on Earth again.

Now my dear son I can't write much more. Pa and I are going up to Illma's tomorrow, so we will be up late tonight and early in the morning. It has been very hot all this week, but a nice cool change today and raining away, tonight. Oh it is lovely and cool. I would like to be in bed now. I know I could sleep. I suppose some of our letters were lost in the mails at Halifax. That was a terrible disaster wasn't it? Good night and God bless you my darling son, with best love from your loving Mother and Father.

23. Fifteen kisses from Mother

Elsinore 

27 Spring Street

Dec 27th 1917

Received 20 FEB 1918

My dear Norman,

Just a line tonight to say I sent a parcel to you today. There was a cake and pudding from Illma, a pound of butter from me and tin of preserved peaches. Some lollies and sugar from Illma and I. I thought I would send that lot this time and next will send my pudding and cake. You ought to get them surely.

What do you think Norm, they only charge 3/- for the Soldier's parcels and they charged 6/- for yours. The soldiers' go for half price, but it is a good thing that they do for the poor fellows want them. You can let me know if you want or is short of anything. I will send the other parcel perhaps the next mail.

How is it Norman you did not send me a line this mail. Oh I am disappointed Mr Mackay and Mrs Higgins and the bonny girl opposite all got letters and I never got a line? Then you would catch the mail. Now my dear boy do so, if it is only a line. May ? Gooud got one from you but I think it must have missed the last mail. I hope you got the draft all right. Let me know as soon as you get it.

There was a wedding in the Church this evening, one of Mr Whitton's daughters and Mrs Tring played for the first time since Stan's death.

Mr Manning was in to see me Xmas eve and had a glass of wine and cake and Mrs Manning came to see me Xmas day. She sent me a nice bottle of scent and a Xmas card, She had a piece of my pudding, thought  it very nice. 

I see there is a mail going Saturday morning so want to catch it. Tell me if the address is right on the letters I send. You ought to have a lot of my letters by this time. I will enclose the parish paper. Now my dear boy, I must finish and post this or I will miss the mail. Look out for your parcel. 

Dad sends love and heaps of love and kisses from your loving Mother XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

22. getting too much Englishfied

Elsinore

27 Spring Street

Dec 24.17

My dearest Norman,

 I can't say another Sunday and another letter for this is Monday ( Xmas Eve). I could not sit inside to write yesterday for it was an awful day. Coming so soon after the cool weather we have had made us feel it more. We have had some lovely weather lately. Nice sunny days and lovely cool nights. You can imagine what it is like for we have not slept out yet until last night. I slept out myself for your father wouldn't but I think he will tonight for it is nearly as bad, but there is a Southerly coming so it may be cooler.

Another thing is that there is no mail coming till Thursday so I have plenty of time. Well my boy I have had no letters from you this mail as yet. Some of them got their letters today, morning and evening, but not poor me and there is no delivery tomorrow so I will have to wait till Wednesday. I was just speaking to Mr Gooud. He says May and Amy had one from you today and he had a card and that you were well. so that is something. I had a card from the YMCA Melbourne today and a nice little brooch - silver with the YMCA on it. I will enclose the card. I also got another lot of letters from them - all typed. I see one from Meg Insdale ?. Suppose I will see one from you in the next lot I get. They are interesting.

I had Illma down for a few days and Claude from Friday night till Sunday. We went down to Manly for a ..... on Saturday. It was lovely. The sea was calm and we enjoyed it. Saw Aunt Maggie and Violet in the hospital there has been there two weeks now but is getting better. I had letters from Aunt Bates ? and Ethel. Ethel's husband is coming home. I guess she is glad. I don't know whether Acton? is in Egypt or France.

I like your photo dear Norm. I was showing them to Mrs Birmby? and she said you were too much Englishfied, she would sooner have you an Australian. I suppose having the walking stick she thought you were a bit uppish. She would sooner have the one you had taken here. The children got their prizes on Friday night and oh Norman there was such a difference when you were here. The place has not been full and they seemed to have such a few little books and bibles for the teacher were small. Mr Manning could not get any of them to sing. One little boy played a piece and that was all the entertainment we had. I was .......too for Illma and Claude were there. Oh one girl recited a piece.

Mr Gooud had dinner with us yesterday (our Xmas dinner) and no Norman here. Illma and Claude were here. I will just tell you what we had. Roast Rabbit and ham, green peas and potatoes, the Xmas pudding and sauce. It was very nice and went down alright. I am sending you a parcel, Illma and I between us. She has made a pudding and so have I so you will have the same as we had. I will make the two parcels, send one the first boat and the other on the next boat.

Well dear boy, where are you stationed? and what sort of quarters have you got and do you get plenty to eat?

Mrs Cox wants you to find out all you can about Charlie, if he was conscious at the last and if he said anything or not. Now dear boy I must close. Did you receive the draft in the last letter? Dad sends his love and same to my darling son from hi loving Mother.

Letter stamped 20 FEB 1918 (received)

21. Have you no sugar at all there?

Elsinore

27 Spring St

December 15 . 17

My dear darling Norman,
Another letter although it is not Sunday. I just received the last of your yesterday. I got the card from Halifax on Wednesday then your other two cards on Thursday morning and two letters Thursday morning and two letters Thursday evening. So you see how they come. Mrs MacKay? got her letters on Wednesday. I was two days behind.

Well old boy I was glad to hear from you and know you were well and having a good time. You should have more of my letters before you wrote last. I have written every Sunday since you left. I hope you get them all. There were two mails lost in the Halifax disaster, one coming and one going, so some may have gone in that way. That was a terrible disaster wasn't it? A good job your boat had left there or it might have been blown to pieces.

Well Norm, how do you like doing without sugar? Have you no sugar at all there? I guess the big fellows have it. I thought you were there to be treated as on Officer - do you have to pay for your meals or how do you do? Have you any butter? I think I will send you a parcel, some butter, sugar, cake and Xmas pudding. It doesn't matter if it is after Xmas, it will go down all the same. and perhaps a few sweets to sweeten you up.  I suppose you have seen nothing of Ruth Bucknell yet. They have never sent me her address yet.

Winnie McClean? is to be married tomorrow. Jack is to be in tomorrow evening and they will be married at night by the Wesleyan Minister at his manse. I told Winnie she should be ashamed of herself. She ought to have been married at her own church. They are going to Manly for a week and then going to stop with her mother. They have taken the front balcony room of course. Jack will be away most of the time and it is better for Marnie to be with her Mother, she could not live alone. I don't know when the other one will be married. I suppose some time.

Oh Norman we had such a lovely organist last Sunday, a Miss Wilkinson. She used to play in the Cathedral. She played the Death March something lovely, it was a very sad service but very nice all through. Mr and Mrs Tring and Daphne were there both at morning and evening services. Mrs Tring seems to feel Stan's death very much. Mrs Cox and Mrs Borthwick are going to unveil their boy's photos on Sunday next. That will be five in the Church.

Well Norman, I am sending you a draft for 10 pound on the Bank of NSW. I could not go over to town so I sent it from here. I paid 1shilling 2 pence for the stamp so you will have nothing to pay on it. Don't go short of anything my boy. Let me know what you want and I will send it to you. I have the duplicate. I will send in a few weeks time so both of them won't be lost surely. I think I will register it. I have to go up to the Post Office.

Mr Gooud came in last night for a while and read your letters to me. He seemed very down. The boys here are getting terrible at throwing stones the last 4 evenings. They have been throwing them here and have been brocken one of the windows on the verandah yesterday. They have been down at Mr Briklogg?( indistinct) the same. So Mr B, Mr Manning and your Pa are going to write to the Police Office about it. I believe Ethel Emerys' husband is coming home, you remember him. Jimmy, that was here that evening you and he went for a walk around. You may have seen him in London. He has been wounded I believe. Mrs Noble says you could always see the list over there of the wounded and where they are. I suppose they put up the list. I sent a Balmain paper last week, might send another this week.

Now my dear son I must draw to a close. Xmas is near and so is your birthday but it is no Xmas to me. I wish you many, many happy returns of the day and that you may be with me for your next birthday. Dad sends best love. Illma and her family are well as we both are with best love to my dear son,
from his loving Mother.

20. Did you hear of the destruction at Halifax?

Elsinore

Dec 8th 1917

My Dearest Norman,

A can't say another Sunday, for this is Saturday night. I letter write tonight for fear someone comes in tomorrow and than I can't do it and perhaps miss the mail. We are to have the memorial service tomorrow on Stanley Tring. Mrs Tring is not coming back to play till after Xmas. She says she couldn't play the mas music. Sadie Cowell played last Sunday but could not play tomorrow on account of her brother, so there is a Miss Williamson coming. I think she has been there before. I know the  name, do you? I suppose she will play every Sunday now till Mrs Tring comes back. I did not call to see Mr Tring but sent a card. Young Booth is killed too, do you know him? I don't think I know him. They live in Glossop Street.

I see by the paper they have been raiding London again. Did you see any of it? I hope you kept undercover. I suppose you will be voting over there. Some of the soldiers are at it now. Yes or No in France. I wander if it will be carried this time? There are great meetings here about it, everyone is speaking.

Mr Gooud won the sailing race last Saturday, it was Stan Tring's Medal. Mr Gooud is so glad. He will have it made in a brooch for Mrs Tring. 

Did you hear of the destruction at Halifax? What a blessing none of the troop ships were there. It is  a shame to see a town and nice buildings like that wrecked. I suppose you know most of the buildings there. You will see by the paper about it. I will send the Balmain Observer this week too, with an account of our Bazaar. We made over 50 pound, not too bad is it? You will see by it also about Stan Thing and the Bazaar and all. I will enclose it in this letter. That is the safest way. I believe the English mail will be on Monday week. Oh how I will watch for a letter from my dear boy and hope I won't be disappointed. Last mail Mr Gooud got his letter a day before me. He came in and read his letter for me and I had none, it is just as the bags come in and are sorted. I got your diary first. I suppose on account of it being registered and the other parcels days after and Mr Manning got his the day after that, so you see how they come.

Well my dear son, where are you now? I hope you don't go to France. I would rather you go to be with Meg? Tusdale? if you could. The Secretary from Melbourne sent me a lot of letters from some of the secretaries that wrote to them. In a printed form, I suppose they will be having one from you soon with an account of your doings. Mrs Gillanders? told me they would be sending me things like photos. Mr Gooud said he would read them one of these days. They would be interesting.

Eileen went home yesterday, she seemed much better. I will be going to business next Monday. Illma is coming down for a day or two before Xmas. It is near now dear Norman and your birthday. I don't forget it. I only sent you a birthday card. I would not like to risk anything valuable for fear the boat is sunk so I think is is better to wait till you come back.

Mrs Palmer was down the other night. She brought your letter for me to read so I read your diary for her and Mrs Chapman. They said it was very nice indeed and I was to remember them to you. She also had one from Charlie saying how he met you but had not had much time to spend with you but would see you again.
Now is the weather in London very cold? How do you do with washing and mending? I have not got Elsie Bucwell's address yet, but you might hear of her singing somewhere. I forget her married name now. She would be pleased to see you.

The place looks lovely here now Norm after all the rain we have had and the country is beautiful so I must come to an end. Your pa has just cut the lawn and it looks so nice. Pa sends best love to you and hopes you get his letter.
Goodnight my own darling son from your loving and affectionate
Mother.

19. What sort are the English girls?

Elsinore

Dec 2 1917

My dear darling Norman,

Another Sunday and another letter. This is the 17th letter I have written.  I hope you get them all. Well my dear son, how are you getting along? alright I hope. I wonder where you are now. Your diary is moist interesting Norman. I have read it over 4 times and a lot of others have read it and more want to. Are you keeping another diary or not? It would be nice if you did. I am sure it would be interesting, but perhaps you have not time now.

I guess you are glad to get our letters dear Norm. Mr Gooud was here the first day I wrote, so I got him to address my letter and the next I got Dad to address. Do you get the papers? I am sure you are having a great time in London. What sort are the English girls? Not like our Australians I guess and what sort were the nurses you had over with you. They were brave to go all that way were they not?

Well Norman we have had a little bit of excitement the last two day over this Bazaar. I think we done pretty well. I don;t know how much we took last night but the night before we took over 20 pounds. Mr and Mars Cakebread were out. Mrs C opened the Bazaar. Mr C was asking me all about you. I think he said he had a couple of letters from you. I can't remember things now my memory is getting so bad. We had two very pleasant nights. Such a lot there too. Not always the way everything is left to one or two. I am sure poor Charly Orr won't want another in a hurry for he and your poor dad had all to do. Putting up the flags that had strings of them from the school to the Church and they looked very nice. Mrs Irwin as usual too the leading part and had a lot to do and all the teachers took their part well. We had a gift sweets evening on Monday Ada Dadd got up for her stall (I take it that they got together to do some sweets cooking?) but as usual St John's weather - raining all the time but Norman it has been raining here for nearly 2 months. I never remember a November like this has been. So cold and wet. This is December and it is more like winter, raining away today. I think it will finish up with a big flood. They have had floods in Albury and Wagga and other places. It would be terrible if it came one now. Poor George would lose all his labours again. He has a nice crop of potatoes and different things now and they would all be spoiled if there came a flood but we must trust in God. He doeth all things well.

I think they are going to have their Picnic the end of February or the first of March. Dear Norman you know those lollies you had, well I had a look at them last week and they have gone all soft, so I told Mr Gooud about them and Ada Dadd. I told Ada she might as well sell them. She said she would have wanted the but she said she had such a lot of lollies given to her but if she wanted any more she would get them, but she did not come over for them. She had plenty to do, so they might last now to the Picnic. 

Clarry Orr makes a good Secretary, he done well for the Bazaar.

Well Norm, Eileen is here. She has been in bed for a couple of weeks and the Doctor said to send her up the mountains for a change and if not then send her to Sydney. So Illma sent her down here for a week or so. She is fine now. Illma is coming down herself for a day or two. 

Aidie? Cowell is playing for them today. Mr and Mrs Thring? couldn't or wouldn't be expected to come for you know they have lost poor Stan. He was killed some time this month. They got word last Wednesday. Oh Norm it is terrible so many of our boys are getting killed. There will be none of the left soon. I hear dear Bob Bidder and Meg? Hancock are coming home. They have been sick poor fellows. I feel for the lot of them. Mrs Sharp told me to tell you her boy has enlisted, don't know when he will be going. Mrs Porter told me to remember her to you when writing and Mrs Cox wants you to give word to give Charlie's things to some of the poor fellows over there but to send them back. She doesn't want that. She thought you might be the best to do it. That is the pencils you took you need not trouble about. Tas? Vale, you know they got word that he was killed.

Well my dear boy goodnight and excuse my bad writing. I have a sore finger. Pa wrote last week. I hope you get it. Sends bet love and Eileen and same for my darling boy from his loving mother.

Dot write of the doings of some people nearer home.

99 Louisa Rd

Long nose point

Balmain

1.12.17

Dear Norm

It was great to hear that you had arrived safe and sound in London for in these times of submarine warfare you never know what the ships next move will be. You seem to have had a lovely trip and it makes a great difference if every one is agreeable and willing to fall in with all arrangements. Just imagine you having all kinds of sports on board. It must be interesting  and certainly does help to while away the time.

I am glad you have some nice Sisters on board for now Norm (although I says it myself) they do throw a light on the subject Don't they?

You were very lucky to have gone via the Panama Canal but oh to arrive in London and find you can only have 1/3 worth? work?. but I think occasionally I should visit 2 places a night. Of course I don't intend putting ideas into your head but it was merely my first thought on reading your card. That is one thing that  feel sure that I would like to live in London for is that you can always see a Grand Opera for out here (as you know) it is only an occasional treat and then you can't always afford to go too much. I love them and "Aida" is a very pretty little thing but my favourites are "Lucia" and "La Traviata". But from what I hear climatic conditions would be somewhat get you down after Dear old Ausy as Charlie used to say but the latest is that we are not going to have any fine weather till after Xmas and from all appearances of the last fortnight and tonight's promises he will not be far wrong. 

On Thursday they had the St Andrews festival and the rendering was beautiful. I can say it for this time I was in the congregation and fully appreciated it. They had it on the Eve of the day this time as Friday was Red Cross Day. There were hardly any stalls but mostly buttons were sold and up till now have over 50,000 Pounds. It is simply marvelous the way the people roll up with the money but it seems to me they want the men and they are going to have a great tussle over this referendum. I am afraid as we seem to be infested with the I.W.W (Industrial Workers of the World) element out here, but I will ring off Politics and try and give you some of the doings of some people nearer home.

Last night the Bazaar was opened by Mrs Cakehouse accompanied by Mr C in full dress uniform and he looked great. He said he was acting as Mrs C's Aide-de-Camp. The stalls looked very pretty and very full and made the holders feel very proud. Young Clarie Orr has done wonderfully well and the donations he has had given him was remarkable these times, nearly every place he wrote to was forthcoming and liberally at that. Mrs Irwin had the refreshments, Ada the Sweets, Mrs Manning Fancy, Nina Produce and Miscellaneous. It all looked very nice and reflects great credit on all concerned. They took over 20 pound last night and I suppose will tell will tell you at the end of this letter today's takings. I went up last night and popped in this afternoon but stayed away bright to write letters as there is a mail out first thing Monday morning. What do you think. I won the candle lighting. I lit 34 with one match. I don't know myself how I did it but there it is. Harry Allen arranged the competitions and is back at the church since his wife died. Eva and Fred Woodward were over with their little son 6 weeks old and he is such a good little chap and never murmured. Reg Hancock is coming home and expects to arrive here about Xmas time as his lungs are weak and the Doctor does not think he will stand another winter in England. Bob Bydder is also on his way home.

The Rectory is looking well now and the roes have been very nice. Mr Manning deserves to have a nice place as he looks after it well. I was talking to your Mother quite a while last night and is very bright at the fact of getting your letters and it is good when mail day comes around. As Young Charlie would say 'mail day is Pay Day' these times. I was up at "Warriwee" on the North Shore line staying last week and it was lovely. I would have liked three months of it, I felt so well.

Well Norm I must close now. Hoping you are well and happy in your new work and trust that you will continue to be so until you return to Dear old Australia with very best wishes from all at 99 and Good luck,

from one of the crowd, Dot.

PS

They realised 50 pound Ada just told me. Don't you think itis very good for a Sunday school Bazaar.

Russell is to be married next month and has been given the parish of Berry. CG said he will not believe it till he is at the alter as it is about the 7th time but this seems to me OK.

18. this will be a miserable Xmas for us all.

Elsinore

Spring St

November 25 1917

My dear Norman,

Another Sunday and another letter.Well, my son I have received another nice letter from you and your diary. (This is in the family papers and will be typed up eventually. It describes the trip across the Pacific, through the Panama Canal and via North America to Liverpool) 

All safe. I think it is very interesting and very nice. Mr Manning and Mr & Mrs Best and Mr Gooud all read it. Mr Gooud came in and had dinner today and read it after. They all think it is grand. I must take it up and let Ilma read it. I don't like to post it, it might go astray. Then I got your other three packets on Thursday evening and the handkerchiefs are lovely, and the little cards and the book. The Panama must be a lovely place. When you come back you must show us all the places you have been.

It was nice to meet Charlie Palmer. I suppose he was surprised to see you. Have you found out about any of the other boys yet? Have you heard anything about Clarrie yet? Dear Norm, it is not use making enquiries about poor Les? Vale. You know they got word he was killed and poor Charley Cox of course you have heard before this of his death and Dave Borthwick. I believe Meg? Hancock is coming home again. He has been ill for month. There came a field card from Charlie Cox yesterday for you. No use ending that on.

Oh Norman, it was terrible when the strike was on. No tram, trains or anything. We had a few trams. They were out for 7 weeks. Of course they had the Volunteers to help the Government which did great good and kept things going for a long while. I don't think they will come out again in a hurry; for they gained nothing. The Government was firm and never gave in to anything for which I was very glad. Fuller is a strong man. I admire him for it. If Holman had been here , I believe he would have given in to them.

You must have had a lovely time on your trip dear Norm. Mr Gooud says he fancies he was with you and how he would have loved to have been. Mr Allen is back at the school today, he will be a great help to Mr Gooud. They are just coming out now. Mr A and his two children are here. They are having their Bazaar this week I believe. The Secretary is working hard for it. I hope it will be a success. Mr Manning is away today. There is another young minister here today. I don't know his name. He comes sometime from the Camden district, I think where you have been. I think he is a Curate.

Illma had Eileen laid up now. Every since you have gone away she has had sickness. She had her own turn then and has never quite got over that then she had Claude bad with the same, then she had Bert. He has been very bad with the same, now she has Eileen down with it. She has had the Doctor out 2 or 3 toimes to Eileen and once to Bert. It is influenza and Bronchitis. I hope Marnie?(Normie?) doesn't take it to George.

Well Norman, I think this will be a miserable Xmas for us all. You being away will make it so but I hope you will be home for the next Xmas at all events. Be sure to tell me if there is anything you want or anything I can send you. are you short of anything over there? have you plenty to eat and drink. let me know when you write.

Mrs McClean & I are going over to Mrs Waites on Wednesday. I have not been over for a long time. Mr Waite has been out of work for a good while but is working now on the YES No vote. Of course he is for NO  he tried to enlist to go over but Harry came home. He was too old. They have 2 or 3 meetings every night now. I have never been to one. Pa has been to 2 or 3.

I say Norm, did you forget Pa's birthday? the 5th of this month! You didn't forget Mr Gooud's, he was showing me the card you sent him. I suppose you had not received your yet, but of course will  before this letter reaches you. I wouldn't care about sending anything valuable ove rthe water for it might never reach you.

Now my darling son I must come to a close, will be looking out for letters every mail now. I write you every Sunday. have done since you left, so you can count up the Sundays and see if you get all my letters. I hope you do. Pa sends love Says he will write. he might when he comes in.

Oh if you could only come in and have a talk to me it would be nice. but God is watching over you dear boy and will bring you safely back to your loved ones, ever your loving Mother.

 attached on a slip of paper:

1602  Air Mechanic

         AAR Harvison

         69th Squadron

         AR?C  AIR   (Initials indistinct)

         Abroad                                          (? Cousin)    Maria writes: I suppose he is in England somewhere.

17. Pa finally writes a letter.......

Elsinore

Sunday night 20.11.17

Dear Norman,

You will wonder why I haven't written to you before this, but you know I allow Ma to do all the writing.

Well my boy we are glad to know you arrived safe and sound - both by Cable and then by letter.  I can tell you we've had an anxious time from the time you left till we rec'd the news of your arrival. Well, by diary and letter you seem to have had a good time going across the water seeing all the sights on different places on your way. I can assure you the Diary was very interesting reading and all that have read it say the same thing and there is no doubt it will be a lifelong remembrance to you.

Well Norman, we have had sad times. Since you left, poor Arthur Harvison was buried the very day we received your cable and then the sad news of young Charlie Cox, Davie Borthwick and young Whitehead being killed and since then we hear that another of the Whiteheads has been wounded - and I am afraid there will be many more before this dreadful war is over - and then we have had Mrs Yeo and that old lady opposite the church, Mrs Reynolds died lately. So there is nothing else but sadness since you left. I was nearly forgetting Mrs Allen, Harry Allen's wife. She died lately and he has come back to live in Balmain and is going to teach in the Sunday School. Again things are about the same in the Church, just going along hardly able to pay expenses. I don't think there is to be any Picnic this year. Poor Charles Gooud was very much cut up about poor Charlie. He seemed to feel it very much. He comes to dinner now and again, he was in today. They are setting up a Sale of Work to be held on the 30th and 1st December. I will enclose a couple of pages with this letter. Ilma [Pa spells their daughter's name with one L]  has had sickness in her home too. Burt has been very bad but I believe is alright now. Then Eileen is laid up, they had to get the Doctor to them. - So you see everyone seems to have their own troubles one way or another.

We have the trams running again to Birchgrove now. Its very handy just to walk down to the corner of Grove and Cameron St and then in I go to the Markets twice a week I don't go to Millars now, He sold them to some pig and poultry man.

We are having another Election on the 20th Dec, for conscription. I don't know how it will go but I hope it will be carried so as to send a lot of the lazy scoundrels away that are loafing about the streets here. [ unedited: so as to send a lot the lazzie Scoundrels away that is loaffing about the streets here]   Mr Preston  sent a paper to you to be presiding Officer, so I took it back the next day - so as to give him time to get someone else.

Mr Gooud's Picnic would have been on that day at St John's and that's where you would have been if you have been here.

Well Norman, I don't know what else I can say. Of course you know all about the strike and how it ended in favour of the Government - I am sure you will see some wonderful sights in London and suburbs that will open your eyes - I suppose before you get this note you will know where you are going to be sent ti or perhaps you will be travelling abroad..from wherever , we will know from the next letter we receive.

I think it was one of the best send offs that ever took place at St John's to you that night. over 100 Communicants and then the Social in the School Hall afterwards. I am sure it was a great compliment to you and I can assure you both your Ma and myself felt it very much and ever since members of the congregation have been asking me have we heard from you, hoping you would have a pleasant voyage and safe arrival in the Old World.

I suppose Ma told you about poor Miss Hodgkiss' death. They brought her to the Church for the service before going to the Balmain cemetery - and now I must close - I don't know of anything else I can say only hoping you are keeping in good health and mind and look after yourself well and don't be out too late at nights as you know there are always a lot of Roughs about at night.- so good night - Its just 10.30 and Ma has gone to bed.
Hoping this will find you in the best of Health and Happiness.
from your loving Dad - E.B.

16. ..face the world nobly and honourably

Elsinore

November 21, 17

My dear Son,

Another Sunday and another letter, but I pleased to say I have had 2 letters and a postcard this week from you - although they were short - but I know you have not much news at sea. Wait till I get your English letters. Men there will have lots of news. I also received your nice souvenir of the Panama Canal. I think there are some lovely views in it Norman, don't you. Mr Gooud is having a look at it now. He was here for dinner, also Eileen and Claude. They came yesterday afternoon. Well after a spell of 5 hours I must finish your letter and get it posted to catch the mail tomorrow. 

Just after I started your letter Mr Hall and his little girl came in. You know Jane Coffee from Melbourne, a little after that Emmie Palmer and the girl Wise came in. They wanted your address of course. They stopped for an hour or two, the tea time came around, so had to wait till they had all gone to finish your letter.

Yes Norman, I thanked all the people for what hey had done for you that night. The photos were grand. I had 4 doz and there are more that want them but I will get no more. I got your bond last week. I think I will leave it in the bank or up in the Savings Bank. I called to see Mr Gillanders that day too. He sent me to collect tickets for a tea in the town hall. Your Pa couldn't go being Thursday night. He said if I couldn't use the tickets or sell them, to send them back. So I couldn't do that, so kept them and called to pay him. Introduced myself and he was very glad to see me and if I wanted anything done in any way to let him know and he would gladly do it for me. Which I thought was very kind of him. He sent me word about the boat arriving home nearly 2 weeks after..

Yes Norman, I will never forget that Tuesday night. That was the best affair we have had here. It will show you what respect they all have for you and Pa and I too and I hope it may never be misplaced by any of us doing anything that would disgrace us. Always be honourable and right in all your doings dear son and face the world nobly and honourably. 

Well Norman, Mrs McLean, Winnie and Gladys just came in so had another stop. I think I had better finish up now. Pa sends best love and accept same from your loving and affectionate Mother

15. Pa hasn't written yet

Elsinore

Nov 18 17

My dear Norman,

Another Sunday and another letter. I thought I would have had one from England this week but I must have one the next mail surely. it will be seven weeks next Wednesday since your arrival in London. I think it is time I had  a letter and a good big one at that. Well old boy, how are you holding up? How do you fare in every day? Have you plenty to eat and drink? Be sure and tell me if you are short in any way and what you would like and I will send it if I can. We are having such funny weather here dear Norm for this time of the year - no sunlight hardly. Cloudy, raining and cold. Mr Gooud has his overcoat on today. He says it is just as cold as winter. He was teling me about a picture he saw in Sydney, called "Transgression". He says there is a woman in it the image of me. He took Mrs? over to see it one night and when this woman came on they both sung out "oh there is Mrs Barwick". He says it will be on here next week, so Mrs Cowell and I are going to see who the beautiful woman is for she must be beautiful if she is like me!

Archie Beach is home again, the first time since he left before you. I don't know if he is going to Japan or not. He is at Newcastle today. I guess he is sad? for he wanted to be here for Church and Sunday school today. Miss Hollinan is at school today. She made up her mind to come back to teach. Doesn't mind if it is the little children or not. They are short of teachers. Mr Gooud says young Bert? is a Grand Secretary he is working every thing up well?? [this writing is hard to read, but I think you get the drift!]

You know they are having a Bazaar next week and he is doing a lot towards it. Alick Grey has left the schools again. He and Mona are not speaking so he goes with another girl now. The way of the world isn't it Norman.

oh yes, oh no we got a letter from the Post Master at Rozelle to know if you would take a billet here, so your Pa went to see him and told him where you were. Your Pa is the same as before. I wonder if YES will be carried this time. Only the single ones will have to go first and they say there are enough single ones for 2 1/2 years. So they must expect the war to last for long enough yet. I sent Mr Gooud a tie for his birthday and I see he has it on today. Good boy isn't he. He came in for a buttonhole, our lovely little roses are out now. You know the ones he used to like. Our roses have been lovely this year.

Have you seen the Dog and Cat Cemetery? Clarry used to talk about. I don't think he is in England now, Aunt Mary said in her last letter. She thought he was at the Front now. 

The Painters have just finished the painting now and the place looks so nice dear Norm, only it wanted doing so badly now. I would have left it till you were coming home Norm and had it nice for you.

Illma, George and all the family are well, when I last heard from them. Says she writes of a Sunday. Pa hasn't written yet but sends his best love to you and hopes you are well and your loving Mother prays to God every night watch over you and bring you safely back to your loved ones. Goodbye with best love

from your ever loving Mother

PS Mrs Porter told me to remember her to you.

Ettie writes to Norman

65 College St

Balmain

18/11/17

Dear Norman

I received your most welcome card and very pleased to hear you had a pleasant trip. Your Mother told me you wrote in a letter that you were resting while the music was playing  too much style about you. Last Sunday was Children's Day. The service was very nice and the Church was decorated very nicely (thanks to your Mother). Mr Manning received a nice lot of gifts for the poor. I'm sure you would have loved to have been here to see them.

You remember Elsie Hodgekiss  the poor girl died and the 8th Nov, the anniversary of the SS Picnic. All the girls miss her very much, she was so well like by them. He Mother will mis her but I'm sure whe will not wish her back, only those who saw her since she took to her bed know how she suffered. Her body was brought to the Church where a beautiful service was held. All the girls from the Club came to see the last of their Dear friend. Mr Manning was very good to Els, he visited her so often and she was so pleased. ..so poor Els has gone where there will be no suffering, she lived such a good life.

How do you like England. It will be nice to see an English Christmas quite different to ours, but I think you will be thinking of dear old Balmain. The Bazaar is being held on the 30th of this month I hope it will be a success they seem to be working very hard to make it so.

We heard the other day that Fred Whitehead has been wounded, I hope only slightly. I hope you meet Frank Grose in England, he will be pleased to se you. We had letters from Jack; he met such a lot of the boys from Balmain but a few have been killed since. Well Norman there is no more news at present so I will conclude

with kind regards

from Ettie

another girl writes a letter to Arthur Norman Stanley...hmm

'Ellerslie'

32 Terry St.,Rozelle.

N.S.Wales

11.11.17

Dear Mr Barwick,

I was pleasantly surprised to receive your letter last Friday. Mother received your card the day previous.

By now you will have no doubt seen London and will be in France with new events happening each day. In St John's life goes on as before, with the occasional exception of new names being added to the Roll of Honour.    You were no doubt sorry to hear that the School has given another who has died for his King and Country, in the person of Charlie Cox. Mr Gooud felt the loss very keenly. For two Sundays after the news came through, he just seemed dazed. I am pleased to say that now he is himself again.

The Sunday School Sale of Work commences on Friday 30th November and is continued on Saturday afternoon and evening. Miss Murden and I have the miscellaneous stall and so far our prospects are fairly bright. Already we have supplies of soap, jam, toothpaste, jelly crystals, ham pate, rex cheeses etc and so forth promised. It is rather hard luck that the first night of my yearly exams at the "Tech" commences at 7pm on the opening night of the Sale of Work (from 7pm till 10) so I will not be able to be at the stall, but Katie has kindly promised to take my place for that evening.

I received an invitation one day last week to spend the afternoon of Saturday 10th (yesterday) with Mrs Drake. This was nothing unusual, but I was very much surprised on arriving, at finding all my S.S. [Sunday School] class and Mr Manning there too. After a guessing competition (which Mr Manning won) consisting of names of flowers with the letters out of order and to be spelt correctly, we adjoined to the dining room for tea. Before actually partaking of the tea, on behalf of my girls, Mrs Drake and Mrs Elliott, Mr Manning said that he had much pleasure in presenting me with a lovely brush and comb set. Talk about taking the wind out of one's sails, well after Mr Manning had finished speaking there was a dead calm. Of course I had to say a few words in reply. Then Katie stood up and put into words, what I felt and what I should have liked to say.

After tea we had running, skipping and jumping races in which Lily Green did well and at a quarter to six Mr Manning suddenly remembered he had a wedding for six o'clock and so he hurriedly said Goodbye and departed.

After he had left we spent some time out in the boat and then had a singing competion which Fred drake won and some other games; the party breaking up about 9.30pm. Much to Fred's disgust Mr Manning forgot to read the address inside the lid of the brush and comb and mirror case and which they had taken great pains to prepare. The secret of it was so well kept, as they had been preparing for and looking forward to yesterday for about four months.

Today has been the Children's Day at St John's. We had a very fine service with all the children present in the Church this afternoon. Mr Manning fairly drove it home this morning in Church about the lack of teachers, with the result that three new ones have come forward. He is going to repeat the dose at the Service tonight. (Dad and I are keeping house tonight, with Toski)

As you will receive this about Christmastide we all join in wishing you a merry and a happy Xmas; happy in that you are making others brighter, 

With kind regards,

yours sincerely, Grace McLachlan

I have just completed a fortnight's holiday at Jamberoo 96 miles outside of Kiama) The country down the south coast is very beautiful.

14. Pa sends his love and says he will write next time

Elsinore

Nov 11 1017

My Dearest Norman

Another Sunday and another letter, but I am pleased to say that I have had another letter from you. 

I had one last Monday from the Panama. I think where you were enjoying yourself at the YMCA. How long did you stop there? It must indeed be a change for you dear boy to see land after seeing water for so long. I can just imagine your feelings. I suppose you could hardly walk when you got on land. I don't think you could have been sick on the way for you seem to have enjoyed the trip. How was the last part? As nice as the first? I am sure the Panama Canal must be a grand place Dear Norm from the look of the views you sent. You never said anything in your letter about sending it to me. I have put your bond in the bank. Mr Manning said it would be the safest place.

You will see by the Parish paper that this is the Children's Day and we had to decorate the church, at least I did., for their was only Molly Manning and I there, not another soul turned up.yes, the two little Higgin's boys, I mustn't forget them. Mr M was called away somewhere, said he wouldn't be long but it was all done when he came back. Mr Somebody else came in later in the morning and then Mr Day came so I got him onto Mr Manning's work, you know      ... around the woodwork and between the two of them finished it. There was a wedding at 6 o'clock so all had to be cleared out by then. You know the feeling there, everything left to the willing ones.

Have you seen many of the boys there since you landed? I think Foster? Harvison is going to the front. He went to work out at the Aerial Machines. Have you found out anything about Charlie Cox or young Dave Borthwick? Have you seen Charlie Palmer yet? I hear young I forget his name now. you know the young fellow that used to go with Emmie Palmer, Charlie Frissell? just recalled  it.. is killed too. There was a young soldier at Church this morning with young Brooks who went up same as you did and Mr Manning had a prayer for him.I suppose he is going this week.

I suppose you forgot the 5th of November this time dear Norman [father's birthday]. I  don't forget the 20th of next month dear boy, but couldn't send you anything. Will keep it till you get home.I sent Mr Gooud a tie. I forgot when his birthday is, sometime this month, isn't it, and little Bert, he is fine again now..is coming down next month on his holidays. I wonder what sort of Xmas dinner you will be having this Xmas, a very grand one I expect in the Old Country.I hope you have next one at home. 

Pa and I went down to Manly last week to see Maggie, but when we went there she was up at Florries? at Rockdale. Just Ethel and George were there. They have taken two rooms off her for a month just for a change by the sea and it will help her a little. They have not sold Hazeldean yet. There is some dispute about the wall, it is an inch and a half on the neighbour's ground. So I don't know how it will be. A pity Arthur did not have the house sold before he died. 

Well, I think I have given you all the news I can think of now my dear son. I hope you are well and enjoying good health. Pa sends his love and says he will write next time. The girls all say they have had letters from you and have all written to you, so you will have enough letters. I don't hear anything of Archie B.... I don't think he is back yet. Illma and her family are well when last heard and Pa and I are well, only my legs seem young?, well good bye my darling Son and believe me ...your loving Mother.

13. Letter from Charlie for you , will send it on (Charlie has died)

Monday the 5th November

Your Father's birthday

Dear Norm,

Just received a letter from Charley Cox for you, am sending it on. Poor boy little   thought he would be killed so soon. His poor Father and Mother feel it very much. He was so like his Father in build and everything. I think he was he Father's favourite and poor Mr Gooud feels it. He says it seems to be getting worse on him now, but Mr Allen is coming back to Balmain and I suppose will cheer him up. I had a letter from you today, from the Panama. I got your Cable over 4 weeks ago. Poor Uncle Arthur's birthday and the day he was buried. I will post this in the morning as there is a mail on Wednesday. Goodnight my dear boy with best love from your lovng Mother.

such grand boys

Typed version follows:-

Lincoln Street

Campsie

Sydney 5th Nov 1917

Dear Norm,

This is only a short note to tell you that Doug and I received your very welcome letter last week (Friday). It is lovely to know that you had such a good trip and managing well with your comrades. We miss you very much over here Norm, so hurry up and get back again. We are glad you liked the book and sox.

Your Mother and Father are both well. I think you Mother is a real Briton? for I know how much she feels your absence from the home.

My dear Dad is getting better slowly.

I suppose you have landed in England when you get this letter.

Mr Gooud was up here for the night about three weeks ago. He feels the loss of his dear friend Charlie very much. It came as a great shock to everybody over here. It is a great sacrifice Norm and poor dave Borthwick too - such grand boys.

Well Norm I have visitors here now so cannot write more and I want to catch the mail today, so expect a long letter next time.

With very best wishes from Doug and your sincere friend Dode?

we shall miss them for many a long day to come

Typed version below:-

Dear Norman,

Your welcome card came safely to hand on Friday.

I was very pleased to hear from you, also to see by it that you are having a good time.

I have just come home from Sunday school. We had the usual teacher's meeting at which we mostly discussed the coming Bazaar. I am helping on the Miscellaneous Stall. I think, in fact I am sure it will be a great success. Mr Orr has been most successfull in writing to different firms, most of them have responded well. Ada Dodd is having a sweet evening on the twenty sixth of this month to help furnish her stall, so we are looking forward to a pleasant evening.

I suppose by this time you will have heard all the sad news regarding the loss of three more of the boys Dave, Charlie and Les, it was a terrible shock to us all, knowing them as we did, but still we must not grieve for them, knowing that they are in safe keeping and out of further suffering, but we shall miss them for many a long day to come.

The trouble is who can we get to fill their place as well as they fill it. but I suppose God will provide.

We are all very pleased to have Mr Allen back with us again but of course we are sorry it has to be under the sad circumstances but I am sure he will be a great help to the school as in previous years. I dare say by this time you will have been down to Leicester to see our relations. I trust you had a pleasant time and are continuing to do so.

Well Norm I think I have told you all the news there is to tell this time. Mother and Dad wish to be kindly remembered to you and trust you are well as we all are just now. I will close with best wishes,

from yours sincerely

Doris

PS Thank you very much for the Photo. I think it is a splendid one of you. DW

12. it will be a poor Xmas for us all

Elsinore

Spring St, Balmain

October 28 1917

My own dear son,

Another Sunday and another letter, and not a line from you yet. I see there will be an English and American Mail in tomorrow, so I may get one by that but I don't think there would be time ; that would not be 4 weeks since you landed. However we will hope for the best. I do ling for a letter from you my dear boy and know how you are and where you are but I expect you are jolly and well.

Mr Gooud says he never saw such a jolly happy boy as you were but that is the best way when you can be it. I got another couple of letters for you from the Alexander Hospital and took them over to Mr Manning. I took them over to Mr Manning before and he promised to take some more of those pictures like you got one ......... but I don't think he has done so. Mrs Manning and ........ went up the mountains yesterday for the weekend.

My visitors are gone to Chatswood for their weekend. I wish they were gone alltogether for I can't be bothered with anyone in the house now and Illma is waiting till they go to bring Bert down for a while. You know he has been ill and the change will do him good. Bert is a good little boy. 

Well Norman, I don't think we will have the painting done now for the weather is getting too hot. We will see next week. It is very hot today. I suppose it is cold over your way. Do your feel it very much? I am afraid they will have another winter at war yet. They have had a lot of rain in France lately. Are you having any your way?  Have you seen any of the boys over there yet? I suppose they were surprised to see you. Well Norman, Xmas is near now. It will be a poor Xmas for us all. The first Xmas you have ever been away and I hope , the last.

I think they will have compulsory service here. They are to have meetings about it next week. I don't think there are any exemptions, only Ministers and School teachers - no only sons this time. 

Our garden looks nice now Norman. Such a lot of roses out. Mr Gooud came and got a nice white one last Sunday. I don't know if I told you Mr Harvey Allen's wife was dead. Mr Gooud and .... went to the funeral. It was very sad for him, poor man. Mrs Cowell's daughter has moved from where she was and taken Mrs Yates? house at Cronulla for 6 months, but I don't think she likes it now. The place they were in was sold and the people wanted to get into it; so they had to leave. The worst of being in rented houses.

Well now dear Norman, I'll come to an end. Will enclose your Uncle Bob's letter. Pa is well, going up to Illmas's next week for a day or two. Good night my darling son with best love and kisses from your loving Mother.