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Duff & Morrison Collection

"Katie says Tom is leaving for the front in two weeks..." Rosa Duff, Toronto 10 Feb. 1916

211 Fern Ave.
Toronto
Feb 10/16

Dear Lily,

Just a line to give you all the news we have about Lou, this is the latest cable.

Feb.7th

Further reply your enquiry 24th Jan cable received today from England states, 73017 Sergt. L.R. Duff 28th Batt, Duchess of Connaught Canadian Red Cross Hospital, Taplow. Wounded behind ear; wound and ear discharging profusely, in all probability will be in hospital for two months. This soldier granted a commission as Temporary Lieutenant Jan 9th.

Adjutant General

Quite a lengthy cable, we had been hoping his wound would not be quite as severe, however I am sure I have much to be thankful for and we will keep on praying his wound will heal successfully. He will certainly have all the care possible and his ankle will get a chance to heal at the same time. We are all proud of the promotion, and my first letter after the news was addressed to the Lieut. I am sending them on to the hospital with only 28th Batt, 2nd Canadian Division, and his number.

According to others who have had sons wounded I have been fortunate in the number of letters received. Received one from Capt. MacIntyre from the trenches, he said every one was sorry this had happened to Lou, as he was a great favourite with all ranks, and they were hoping he would be back with them again. While these were not my wishes I was glad to hear him say so for it laid to rest one of my worries. I was so afraid Lou would be blind, of course he could not go back to the trench if he was. I had a letter from the Chaplain, he said Lou's constitution and bright spirits would go a long way to help him out. I had one from the nurse at No. 2 Clearing Station, where he spent two days; and one from the nurse at Boulogne hospital saying he had a very bad wound in head but was being sent on to England where she hoped he would soon get better; then a letter from a lady visitor at Boulogne hospital, she said Lou was doing very nicely and would like to write, but had to keep absolutely still on his back, but would write as soon as he was able. Now I am looking for news from England. Everyone has been so kind, our phone the first week was in constant use, Jessie staying home to attend to that.

Katie says Tom is leaving for the front in two weeks. Do you know anything about their plans? Katie is so worried about Birdie; they have had no direct word from Tom. Jean heard of from Don who is taking a Lieut. course somewhere down east, no doubt he will be needed if this terrible drive they are talking about takes place. Alex has not enlisted, he is just taking the course at the University.

Must stop and go and get my breakfast.

Much love.
Rosa

These letters were genereously submitted by Lilian Ione Heselton and they are copyright to Lil. They may not be used without written permission of the submitter.

These letters span the years 1914 to 1918, and were written to Lily (Richey) and John Morrison at Yellow Grass, Sask., and their little 4 - 8 year old daughter, Jean (in later years called by Reché). Their hired girl was Lena.

Duff & Morrison Collection

"Katie says Tom is leaving for the front in two weeks..." Rosa Duff, Toronto 10 Feb. 1916

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