By the time you have received this letter, I would be on my way to the battlefield. I apologize the grief that I have caused you and I deeply regret leaving you on bad terms. I realized that I never properly explained to you my reason for enlisting. Despite what you believe, I did not enlist to for adventure or glory but becuase I must fight for my country. I must protect you and the children from the bloodthirsty Huns. I cannot bear to live at home after the war, knowing that I could have done something for my country.
I enlisted on November 4th, 1915 and have taken the oath in Ottawa. I will be serving overseas as part of the 77th Battalion Overseas in the Canadian Expeditionary Forces when we arrive in Europe for the duration of the war and perhaps another six months after, if required. During this time, I will be paid $1.00 per day and 10 cents field allowance. As I have a background in steam fitting and engrineering, I will be a military engineer or, a "sapper." From what the officers have told us, I gathered that my duty will be to dig tunnels under enemy trenches and planting explosives in them.
Please take care of yourself and our children while I am gone. You will receive an allowance of $20.00 a month to provide for our family. In the circumstance of my death, the government will provide a pension of $22.00 a month plus $5.00 for each of our children. Worry not, Melenar for the war will be over in a matter of monthes and I will soon return to you.
Yours truly,
George Wright
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