Item 9 - Letter from George to Ruth Mallory, 31 January 1917

Letter to Ruth Mallory written from France on 'Jan 31 1917'

He was very idle and so not very pleased with life. They didn’t know if they could stay in their present quarters as the R.E. and R.A. of their Corps were having a battle about it. It was a desirable place – a long terrace with a series of splendid rooms built into the bank which he describes.

He had decided to go back to the battery whether Halifax, the late adjutant, returns or not. He felt uncomfortable and not part of the war. He was enjoying the snow because it would be disgusting when the thaw came. It was a calm part of the line at present and he wondered where the next big blows would strike. The French thought the war would end mid year but he thought there would be heavy fighting before then. Didn't think the Germans would attack Italy.

Glen was Acting Captain and when Lithgow goes would be in command of the battery. Thought he would be good and he would like to serve under him.

They had secured part of their present Headquarters. He had been playing Bridge. Would go to bed soon. Each room was warm as they each had a stove.