NOLAN, John

"Soldier Boy Writes Rhimes To His Mother"

Mrs. Helen Nolan, 224 S. Washington Street, has an only son, John, who enlisted some time ago and was sent to Jefferson Barracks, Missouri. This week she received from him the following letter:

It would sure be nice to think that I was coming home to you soon - but I'm afraid it is too late for:

Today I leave for Texas, and a pilot I will be, to sail, on field of battle and on the deep blue sea.

A soldier's life is a rough one, but you know I promised true, that I would be the same old lad, and rteurn the same to you.

And I am getting so far away, but each night I think of you; and wonder if you're waiting, long, too

I can't forget that day at noon, I left my dear old home. I kissed a dear old mother and left you all alone.

And as the evening sun is setting, soon there'll be a moonlight glow, to shine upon that lonesome spot, where we may tread no more.

For if this war's not over soon, to France I'll have to go, and help the friendly Frenchman to win against his foe.

I will sail my plane so high, they can't see me at all, and when o'er the German trenches get, the bombs I will let fall.

The bombs are so powerful, they will tear up the lines, below, and make a way for the Frenchmen to get through at his foe.

For duty, is my duty and I'll do it or I'll die, and there in dear old France forever I will lie.

But if I die a soldier; I have got first one more plea.

I hope there is another time set aside for you and me.

So I hope you will pray each night to God to save me from all harm.

I think after readin this poetry which I have compounded from my own thoughts, you will understand what my mind travels on while I am alone, and while among the many strangers of this great great world Don't write any more until you hear from me for I start tonight upon my long Journey to the West. I will have to spend about three days and nights on the train. So hoping this finds you and all the rest alright.

I am Lovingly your son, Jno.