2 Southend 29.10 40

GNR S.P.NOEL 1088686
12 SQUAD Y BATTER
11TH CORPS
1ST DEFENCE TRAINING REGT.
R.A.HOME FORCES

Dear Marjorie
  The new training camp where we have been moved to is rather a nice place. We are billeted in a large house the beds are made of straw and very comfortable but the cold is terrible. I am at the top of the house sharing a room with three other chaps. They are very nice companions, we all curse and blind about the army. Our journey to Southend took about six hours, my goodness what a time we had, full kit on all the way, my god was it heavy, but I managed to survive. Looking at the programme for training, I should think we are in for a stiff time. There is drill, marching, etc. small guns, large guns practice. The training will take six weeks, so one cannot dream of any leave until that time has expired. Well Marjorie darling I must close now as time will not permit me to write any more. Let me know how you and your family are keeping, by the way remember me to Ma and Pop and  little Nell,
Cherrio,
Fondest love,
Syd.