On Y.M.C.A. Notepaper All Fools Day 1916 Dear Sister and Mother, Just a few lines hoping you are all well as it leaves me at present. We are having some fine weather here now. I was aboard the Queens YachT ("Alexandrea") coaling her on Monday. I was out in the rough weather on Tuesday evening in a steam boat, wet through, and the boat very nearly swamped. It was a little bit too real to be pleasant. I was very pleased to receive the socks and the cakes which rather surprised me. Had to pass the doctor this afternoon for draft, on Monday morning. I expect going on the (H.M.S. Nubian) for foreign service, but am not sure yet. Been working most of the week on the torpedo destroyer Falcan. I shall not be able to send Dad any tobacco now, but hope to bring some when I come home on leave again if lucky. Am sending Dolly a brooch, and hope she will like it. Shall send her a photo when I write again. Well I cannot think of any thing else to write so will draw to a close. (Tell baby Joe's going on a ship) With best love. To all, I remain, Your Loving Brother and Son. Joe. XXXXXXX XXXXXXX