Bates_B2278_F1_196

a few hours from Manila 10 degrees
cooler considered more healthy though it is less
interesting & has some drawbacks -- I
hope Helen can go out there soon.
I had a letter from the 89 year old lady
today, she writes asking we all about
each one every little while - wants
all the latest news of each one!

Dick is doing that special duty but
says it is not very much [underlined].

Times Star says Huge German retreat begins
God grant it. Thats what Dick says too. He
wrote --- of your being there & how he hates to
have you there when it ought to be he [illegible].

Jack is rather sick with an infection of the Cynus [sinus] --- from
that old nose operation -- Edith was threatened with the
same & was ordered to the [County?] Lodi --- She writes us she
is nearly well & will write to you [underlined] as soon as possible ---

Fond love as always dearest. Your loving
Mother