The war had ended 5 weeks earlier, and he was staying on in Europe as a translator for prisoners. With the fighting over, censors were allowing more details (like city names) to go out in soldiers' letters, but he still held back because he didn't want to worry his mother Sallie.
In this letter, he refers to a first trip to the hospital when he'd gotten influenza. He was rescued by his close friend Ollie when the medics thought he was dead.
Dec. 18, 1919 from Souilly, France.
Dear Folks:
Am again in Souilly — about eighteen kilo-meters from Verdun. No doubt my saying "again" will surprise you, but when I was here before, I was prohibited to use names of places. The first time I only stopped overnight, on the way to the Hospital; also may be here only one night this time, as we are expecting to hike to Verdun tomorrow. The last time I was in this part of the country we spent about two weeks just across the Neuse River in what was once the town of Consenvoys. As that was less than two miles from the front lines, we had a very, very interesting time. Have never been in Verdun, but if we go there, will write you something about the place. Most every little town in this sector has a history as well as a graveyard attached to it.
Our Company was relieved from service on the front Oct. 27th and moved back to Bethaucourt. On the same day, I was started diagonally across France to the Hospital at Bordeaux. Have not heard of them since, nor had any word from home. Also, my service record failed to follow me. So you see I’m in tough luck for getting sick. Still, am hoping it will come my turn to go home before long, especially as I have had about enough of adventure and sight-seeing.
Also, I hope my mail will show up so there will be something to answer when I write you. Sleep well and cheerful and maybe I can be with you before the Winter months are over.
With lots of love
From
Will Ed
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