8 December 1937

Dear Mother:

Wednesday today so this afternoon was free and I drove with a couple of the boys up in the Yorkshire hills and saw the snow which is on the high ground. It never drops below 30o above at any time here and snow doesn't last down on our level.

Money is pretty close this month so I can only spare 10 bob for Jean and Ronny.

I am sorry I couldn't have a new picture of our latest fighter on our Christmas card but the spirit is there just the same.

If everything goes all right I shall be in Calgary the morning of January 12. As you probably know, all steamship fares have gone up and I have to pay 34.5 return which comes to $175.00 so I sure have to watch the coin.

This morning was very foggy so we didn't fly as nothing very useful could be accomplished.

The airmen's children had a Christmas party today to which I went to and enjoyed it nearly if not more than the kids did. Punch and Judy shows; sleight of hand tricks etc. - even Santa Claus himself.

We are holding a very posh ball here on Friday - miss kit medals, AOC's etc. These balls are glittering affairs I can assure you. We are spending $600 for one night. Champagne is free - P.S. But I don't drink -much! -

We are the envy of all Army Officers who visit us. Our mess is one of if not the finest in England - the Air Ministry sure do themselves proud.

I haven't heard from Mrs. Culbertson lately but probably will very soon.

I should like to see Uncle Ross if he could be in Toronto when I'm going through. Perhaps I could knock a day off on my trip back to see him.

Tell Dad I can still remember Ripley and think it one swell place - also Kincardine - one place I really admire.

Of course I saw it in the best time of the year (early August) - the dancing by the Lake was superb.

Calgary will be really cold when I arrive - unless we have one of those good chinoooks.

P.S. Don't expect me to say "I say Old Chappie! - Aw-fully glad to see you - rawthaw!!

Love
W. H. Martyn P/O
I mean Bill
ROYAL AIR FORCE,
CATTERICK,
YORKS.