Dear Folks,

      Well as I have not heard from you folks for quite a while tho't I would write a few lines today.

      Well I just signed the pay roll and will stand muster about Tuesday and will get the old thirty next week some time.

      Well how is everybody back home? Some of the boys got list of the lucky ones being drafted & I see that Joe & Ernie were among them but I don't think either one will pass. As Joe's being married & I don't think Ernie is physically fit to pass.

      I was to the big dance & entertainment the 27 & it was great. The young ladies from the Universities gave a Military Drill & it was the finest exipetion I ever saw. Believe me they sure had the drill down about right. I never saw any of the soldiers drill any better than they did.

      I intend to go down & take in a show this afternoon & go to church tonite.

      Well how is the crops back there? I suppose harvest is all over & fall plowing is about ready. I don't think there is much chance of me getting back for quite a while as all the Coast Art. On this coast are going to be transferred to the siege guns & the New California Militia are going to take the forts but just the same the Seige guns are about the best and safest art in the fighting line. I did not intend to transfer but all the Co. are being transferred so we all have to go. But it will be quite a while before we cross if we have to go at all. A fellow can hear so damn much stuff you can't hardly believe anything.

      When you answered before & gave me all the names of the fellows being drafted & those exempted, Jersey Grant doesn't have to go. Anyway that is the way I understand. But he wouldn't do Uncle any good anyway.

      Oh yes I received a nice picture from Miss Doris Meyers & believe me it sure is a dandy one too. I intend to send all my pictures home later. I have ˝ doz of myself I will send too,

      How is the car? I suppose you all enjoy great rides. When I get back I'll be a regular Chaufer (or something that sounds like that Ha, Ha).

      Has Willey's got home yet? I suppose they will have lots of junk to tell about their son. But they are not too well acquainted with him.