FIT-23

Att. 43 C.C.S.
B.E.F. 10/1/18

Dear Mr Goldsbrough,

Just a short note to let you know how I am getting along also to make a few inquiries. As you can see from the above address I have changed my address. Our old station has been broken up owing to a large number of our boys returning to civil life and the rest of the staff have been transferred here.

This camp is outside the town of Bapaume in a veritable wilderness as there is not a complete building standing. The camp is being used as a demobilisation base and the troops here are all awaiting their discharge. Now sir could you inform me if any action has been taken for the release of corporation employees serving with the Forces.

You will pardon my inquiry as troops before their discharge can be sanctioned must receive a letter endorsed by the local advisory committee, from their former employers, expressing their willingness to take the man back. ¹⁸² I am sure you are aware of this order.

At present we are doing little or nothing, and with the large staff here I don't think we shall have much to do until we are released. ¹⁸³ The years spent out here when the war was on were a necessary waste but now every day counts. As letters of recommendation come through from former employers so the man concerned is noted down for early release, so you will understand my anxiety. Well sir I sincerely hope you had a happy Christmas and may the New Year be a prosperous one for you. We had a real good time at Xmas and New Year, the toasts you can guess. I hear O'Rourke has been returned but have heard nothing from him.

Mr Gourley¹⁸⁴ sent me word that Warren had returned I hope he has regained his former good health.

Well sir I must conclude with best wishes to all the staff. Hoping to hear good news soon.

Yours very sincerely,

Joe Fitzsimons