Halsey 17 September 1914

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My Dearest Mother,

I really have got so many letters to answer and you are all so excellent about writing to me that I know this one will do to thank you all: Fyfie, Gavin, Cecily, Edith and in fact all my family nearly. It does make such a difference to me getting all your news and you all write such long and interesting letters.

One is on the job all day in harbour, and at sea of course practically never off the bridge. It is hard to do much in the way of writing, added to which our routine is precisely the same each day: just a constant and necessary vigil, never for one moment knowing what is going to happen the next. I got yours of [the] 11th yesterday and am glad to hear you are all well at home. I keep very fit thank goodness. It is getting a bit cold now, but nothing to what it will be in another 2 or 3 months. However, we are making all provision for warm clothing etc. for the men. The news lately has been excellent and I trust it will continue, though of course we must not expect to have no set backs. I do wonder how many months will elapse before we can have peace. Personally I can’t see the end of it at all and as far as the German navy is concerned I don’t believe they will come out and chance being wiped out completely.

Arthur sent me Bob Levy’s letter, which I return to you – or rather your copy of it. Coog writes capital letters and is splendid about it all and Joan thank goodness is very well. Plum and Arthur are excellent at writing to me and I had a most splendid long letter from Walter Barnett yesterday, which I will answer later.

Much love to you all and God bless and keep you.

Ever your very affectionate Son

Lionel Halsey

D/EHL F61/15