I have herd how the Election came off and it was a pleasant surprise to me when the old town got the [?] back Think of all the money I'll save [on leave?] now not to say anything about dad & Merry [?] As for the Greenstone you had fixed up I think you had better keep it and wear it yourself because it might go astray if you send it. I am in Italy at present but I suppose you will know that by now we are about two miles from the line at presa- -nt (in reserve) we are in the 8th army

you will know that two write and tell me what sort of a xmas you have mine is going to be lively I think but don't worry the bullet with my name on it will never be made (I hope) We can see the R.A.F. bombing a village just on the next ridge they have been bombing for quite a few days non-around here and boy it makes me glad I am on our side. A word for [?]. Tell him not to let them give him those injection s they will ruin his