(21) Letter: Jack Bentley to Cornelia Bentley, January 3, 1919

Jan. 3 1918 Dearest Mother, I really never knew what real happyness was until today after waiting so long (2 months) for mail I recieved 21 letters last night and five tonight, and each one a prize to be sure, Mildreds Xmas box came and in it believe me were the nicest of presents. I expect thine any day but nothing could have been nicer than the letters. it almost made me break down. Mr. Percy Willsons letter and thine too, it took me all evening until bed time, 8 oclock, to read them, then I had a letter from Corp Handy's mother & it is a hard one to answer. I have had several of this kind. I enclose her pitiful letter. All together I must have had 8 letters from thee and believe me I enjoyed every word. I never felt s near to you all as I did at this time. Mildred wrote a wonderful letter and Helen Anna, Rosaline, Mary, Mr Snowden, Mr. Willson and many more. I can't tell thee how much these letters meant to me - as I hadn't heard for two months. Much time is devoted to drilling and our company does look fine. I don't think we will get home as soon as

Well Mother dear I was overjoyed to learn of the returns from the apples it was great and so unexpected. I thought not spraying or trimming the orchard that their would be little or no results but $396 is a big help & I am sure tickled. Please tell me how the check book looks what I owe, what is coming in etc. Tonight I am having three friends in to sing. We will enjoy that very much. Am so glad the steers are O.K. for they are high and every pound is 14c. This is a poor letter in ans. to so many fine ones from thee but I will try to write tomorrow. With loads of love I remain Thine Jack Two pictures of thee from Mildred and I am mighty glad to have them.