On notepaper headed with crossed Union Jacks 17 April 1916 Dear Mother, I received your letter this afternoon safely. It is alright being on the sea in this weather. It was a funny sensation down below the first time, running at full speed. I can just about manage a stokehold now. We do not stop long in a place, and never know when we are going out. I have never seen that young man from Osgodby yet. I am getting quite an expert with a needle now. Well I thank you for the postal order, and will send one in return as soon as possible. Hoping you are all well as it leaves me at present. With best love to all, I remain Your Loving Son, Joe XXX XXX