Letters From the Front

Dated: June 2, 1918

The following letter is from Adrian O'Reilly to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James O'Reilly, St. Agnes

Bramshott, England, June 2, 1918

I started from here for London about 11:30 a.m. I arrived at 12:30, a distance of about 42 miles. I stayed till half past 11, that night, leaving for Glasgow where my pass was made out for. The first night I remained at the YMCA, recommended as a real soldiers home. It was all right until I learned about another league, known as the Overseas club, and it was like a real home. For instance every day, while staying there, they would arrange with parties take you to their homes, where there were all kinds of luxuries. Every night you'd be handed a free ticket for any of the best theaters in the city. That certainly appealed to me. Most of my time was spent going to plays and museums. One theater in particular, called the Pavilion, had a wonderful play. One of the best violinists in the world was there. The singing also was grand. They sang “My Mother's Rosary”, “Someone More Lonesome Than You”, “There's a wee home among the heather”, and many others that we used to sing at home. I was in Edinburgh one day. It is a fine city. I also stopped in Dundee. Its name reminded me of home, but it differs very much in appearance. It is noted for many historical events. I saw monuments in at Edinburgh and Perth dating back as far as 800 years. I forgot to tell you, while in London, I saw St. Paul's Cathedral, Buckingham Palace and many other places of interest. Just before leaving I visited Westminster Abby, but did not have much time, as the train was about to leave which brought me back to the old camp again.

Right now I would like to know how everything is at home and if you are all well. I am fine only when I came back to camp. I thought surely there would be a letter from home, but no, and I couldn't really understand it, for I have never missed a week writing you since I have been here, which is over two months, and I received only one from you. Goodbye, love to everybody not forgetting dear Prinny. Your son,

Adrian O'Reilly