H.M.S. Nubian No 6 Mess July 1916. Dear Mother,    Just a few lines in answer to your letter which I received on Sunday 23rd. We are having quite an easy time of it now.  One day we sunk a mine last week while on patrol.    Took General R - over to B - again.  There seems to have been plenty of sport just lately round-about you.  I wish I have been there to see some of the fun.    Our Navy is rapidly getting larger, we are building at least one ship a week, so I think we shall smash their Fleet up alright.    Am going to get a fancy table cloth to work in with silk, and shall make Edith a present of it.  We are getting quite affectionate now, she is always worrying about me and my work.  She thinks I shall ruin my health, and wants me to get a different job.  I must be quite a delicate and weak person now.    There is a buzz about leave in August. I hope we do not get leave yet, because I have not saved any more money yet.  It seems to go before I have time to think about it.    Last stand off I had the misfortune to lose a 10s note the first day ashore. Edith is quite busy now working among the hay, besides doing the posting.  So I think she is doing her bit in this war.  I am sorry to hear you are not very well and hope you will soon be alright again.    I hope Dad is keeping steady now, I wonder at him stopping with Robinson now, when so many good jobs are vacant.  Shall post this when I can get ashore.    Well I must close now hoping your all well as it leaves me at present. With best love to All,      I remain,         Your loving Son,             Joe XXXXXXX (PS) (Do you mind sending me two or three stamps)