The writer of the following letter is an officer with the Expeditionary Force. The hints given in it may be useful to men who are about to go to the front : —
“Mother tells men that you have joined the Territorials. This is just a line to congratulate you on joining, and to wish you the best of luck. I don't know whether you will get abroad later on, but I thought that I would give you a few useful hints in case you do.
“If you smoke, a pipe or two are absolutely essential, as you cannot by cigarettes for love or money.
“Try and get accustomed at home not to drink very much. The quantity one drinks at home is only a habit, and is not necessary. The whole time I have been out here I have never drunk a drop of water except tea. It is always best to be on the safe side.
“Always carry on you as much food as you can.
“Pay attention to your feet whilst you are home, also your boots. See that the latter are plenty big enough, and that they are really soft, especially at the back of the heel. I always wear ammunition boots, and find castor oil the best thing for softening them. If you have to march with sore feet you will find it absolute hell.
“Just before you go abroad have your hair cropped quite close all over. You will find it easier to keep clean and more comfortable.
“Matches out here are very scarce, like cigarettes. Bring some wax matches out with you and use them only when absolutely necessary. An automatic lighter is a blessing.
“If you don't know already, learn how to stew and fry meat properly. Each man generally has to cook for himself. Also learn how to lay a fire and dig a fire place in the open.
“Take care of your equipment. See that your water bottle is always clean, and only use the water in it to make tea after the march. Try and not drink on the march, because the more you drink the more you want. Also see that your haversack is always clean, as you have to keep your food in it.
“Get a belt with a pocket in it for any money you take out. As a matter of fact, however, money is practically no good, as there is nothing to buy after the Germans have been through a place.
“Don't be content with being a private. If you have a chance become a N.C.O.
“Mind you learn how to use your first field dressing. I have seen hundreds of lives saved by them.”
