S C Humphrey, Royal Navy HMS Foxhound

This is to the inhabitants of Buckden, thanking them one and all for their kindness shown to me since this terrible war has been going on, and I am sure I appreciate the present sent to me by Mr GW Grant, Mr A Wallace, also Mrs Craft, very much indeed, and I only hope but I may be spared to come home and thank then in person. May I also thank those kind friends who have written so many times, asking how I am getting on, and what I am doing, for I can assure you to hear from anyone at home letting me know just what is going on, seems to fill my heart with joy, for I love to hear all the news of the village. But there’s one thing lacking I am sorry to say, and that is, what is the matter with some of my schoolmates, why aren’t they joining the army? Come along, boys, only 48 of us in Buckden? Surely I had more schoolmates than that! Don’t forget there are at present 3 Germans to every 1 Englishman, and everyone who joins now helps to bring this war to a speedy and victorious end. Just look how nice it will be afterwards for us all to meet and chat of where we have been and what we have done. Don’t let me come home and say Hello Harry ! Hello George! What, haven’t had a shot at a German?” You won’t half feel ashamed of yourself. I can truly say there is no one more happy than I am to know I am fighting for our King and Country, trying hard to keep the old flag, the Union Jack, still flying over our heads. Think of our women and children who are doing their best at home for us. Now come on boys don’t be downhearted, there’s a recruiting office at St Neots, join today, and here’s to all those who do join now, jolly good luck and safe return – Now I must close my letter trusting to see better news in my paper the St Neots Advertiser the next copy I get from home. Once again thanking all my friends for their kindness.