Halsey 30 July 1914

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My Dearest Mother

This is just a line to let you know I am still alive and well and that is about all I can tell you under the circumstances. I am afraid things look extremely bad and I am expecting to hear that war has been declared any day, or at least any moment. It sounds that it should be so over a little country like Serbia, but there it is and we must bow to the inevitable and just do our very best for our Country, and we on board here and in the navy do so with the general feeling of satisfaction that we are efficient and should be able to render a good account of ourselves. I know if the worst happens that you will look after Coogy and Joan.

I will write when I can but I doubt it being very often, and in any case I can give you no news of our doings.

Much love, dearest Mother, to you and Father and all the family. Write to H M S. N[ew] Z[ealand] c/o Admiralty.

Your very affectionate Son   Lionel

D/EHL F61/9