CEHBates_JanFeb1919_035j

rise to the ceiling — in other words
"walking on air" — We need [underlined] something
like this don't we dear — after all
we have gone through!!! I know
you [underlined] do [underlined] & so do I — at least this
certainly makes me feel better!
Sargents too are highly [underlined] delighted &
so will everyone be who knows
you dearie — Its charge through
as you say. You were never the Military
Man of the family! & yet you get
the Greatest Military honor!!

Fondest love and our most loving
congratulations to you dearest!

Lovingly Mother.