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?