(On Oxford stationery) “A” Company,
No.4 Officer Cadet Battallion,
New College. Oxford
Dear Amy,
I came to England this morning to this college to commence a 4 month course of training. If I make good, I will be an officer when it’s over. I’ve been a Sergeant since January 24th and my Colonel said he has every confidence in me and would give me the commission if I could make good at a military school so I’m a lucky boy to be here especially if it means I will miss the rest of the beastly cold winter in the trenches. This is one of the finest colleges in the world. It’s a magnificent pile of buildings and many of England’s greatest men have been taught here, so it is a great privilege to be here. I have been enjoying the building all day but haven’t seen much of the inside yet. There are about 150 cadets here – 30 Australians. I am the 18th Bttn. representative and will be called Cadet Hull, I think. Anyhow, letters addressed with my name and this address will find me here. I will write to the rest of my brothers and sisters more regularly now that I am in pleasant surroundings. I have a nice room with electric light and the life here promises to be very fine. it takes living up to from a monetary point of view so it’s just as well I get a sergeant’s pay.
It’s as cold here as in France and although there is a fireplace in my room fuel is not supplied and being my first day I haven’t made any arrangements. There are two other men in the room and by tomorrow night we intend getting a fire. We had a fine dinner tonight and compared to the life I have had, this is grand. Lights out must be at 10:30.
It’s nearly it and the routine is strict.
So good night.
Love to all, Stid
