Dear Mrs. Death

You’ll be surprised at hearing from me, but I really feel I know you very well through George, who tells me all about his home and particularly his mother.

I suppose by this time you will have heard of George’s engagement, and naturally, like all mothers across the sea, you will be very worried, which I can quite understand.

Before he went away today, George asked me if I would drop you a note. He brought Rene to see me and I was greatly attracted by her. I am quite sure the George has made a very sensible choice. She is attractive, neat, with a sense of humor and looks as if she could carry her weight. She also seems very fond and proud of George and George seems to be very happy. His chief anxiety is how you are going to take it. George seems to have met several nice girls, but I am quite sure he is satisfied that this is the real one and I’m sure you’ll be very proud and happy to have him back, safe and well, even though you have to take a daughter-in-law as well. And I really think it is a daughter-in-law that you are going to be very proud of.

We like George very much here. He has spent many leaves in Dormey House. And I was very glad when he got back safely after his adventures in Norway.

I am sure you must be very thankful, for I have heard from so many mothers whose boys will not return. It is that toll that war demands, but it is a pretty hard and sad one for mothers, and even peace in Europe has left many heavy hearts. I used to live in Toronto, so I have taken a particular interest in the Canadian boys, though I am a real Aberdonian myself. I think the young boys in particular have stood up to all their trials and hardships in a wonderful way, and have laughed their way through this war showing wonderful spirit.

I hope you understand why I am writing you as George missed his mother very much the night he got engaged. He was so proud, happy and excited and yet, every few minutes, he would say, “What is my mother going to say?”. I am quite sure he takes his father’s approval for granted.

My kindest regards to you and my congratulations on having such a fine boy.

Yours sincerely, M. Wood