EAG-21

18^th December, 1918

Private J.F. Eagleson
No.6 Native Labour Hospital
A.P.O., S 100
Italian Ex. Force.

Dear Eagleson,

I was pleased to hear from you and to learn that you are still well and strong, although surprised at your address.

What sort of natives are these that you have in your hospital? Are they negroes or Arabs, and to what have they been attached?

How long have you been in the South of Italy? I am sure you will find it a great change from France, but still long to get home again, as do most of your friends from the Library. Our two prisoners of war, Warren and O'Rourke, both arrived home last week, and do not seem to have suffered too badly at all. Of course, they are not discharged from the Army yet, and are only on sick leave for two months each, when they have to report again to their headquarters. The rest of the men seem to have come through fairly safe except McCausland, who was badly gassed a month or two ago and was blind for three weeks.

I am glad that you intend studying on your return, because, as far as I can see, the examinations and certificates will be the only basis upon which we can select people for promotion in the Libraries.

Mr Moore⁷⁴ is still at Donegall Road branch, and Willie Lauder⁷⁵ is in the Reference Library. The rest of the staff are much as you left them.

I hope you will have a pleasant Xmas and a Happy New Year, and will continue to enjoy the best of health.

I remain,
Yours sincerely,
JBG