2110-3-1-10

76, PORTLAND PLACE, W.

April: 10: 17

My dearest wee Mother

Winter has come back. Yesterday we had heavy snowstorms & to-day the snow is lying. I spent 3 hours at the F.O. yesterday & then went down to the country & dined with Lord Beaverbrook to talk business. I got back about 5, & we dined with Jim & Bice Cecil. [ST: cousin of Susan Buchan's]

The great battle has begun & so far has gone very well. We must all be anxious till we hear if old Alastair was in it. The main brunt is borne by the Canadian Corps, but I may get further information to-day of the troops used. It is an anxious time.

We are all very well & I am as busy as man can be. I had a letter to-day from Bertie Stronach,

whom I have not heard of for years. I simply cannot begin to see the number of people who want to see me. However I am getting on pretty well & getting a lot of work done.

I am not allowed to see Johnnie Jameson yet, as he is still suffering from the effects of anaesthetics. His operation seems to have been as successful as could be hoped. I expect

Sandy Gillon back any day.

Your [affectionate son?]

John