H.M.S.Nubian, June 24th 1916 Dear Mother    Just a few lines in answer to your welcome letter. Excuse the delay in answering we have been standing off for three days.  I was so eager to get ashore, that I never gave my mind to writing.    Well I am pleased to hear that you are all well at home. I have not received any letters from Jarv yet, so send me his address.    You did well at the garden party to get the amount of money you mention. Ben will swank now he has got promoted.    We are getting quite industrious on our mess deck lately.. What does J Neave think of the Navy, does he like it alright.    I had an invitation to spend a day at Milmirly when I heard from there last. Well I am safe, and sound, bar having a lot of trouble with my throat lately.  So if you get me something, please send it along.     So will close now,          With best love to all            Your Loving Son,                   Joe                       XXXXXX (Please excuse scribble)