This is Frank's last letter of 1939. He mentions the first leave party departing that morning and this is also recorded in the Unit Diary. Frank expresses his hope of going on leave soon but although he didn't get home for Christmas he has clearly not been forgotten by family and friends judging from the number of parcels and presents he has received.

20/12/39 8.

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
British Expeditionary Force.

Dear Dad,

Another very hurried line just before the post goes.

I've written so many letters these last few days that I don't know which of yours I've replied to or if I've forgotten to thank you for anything. I've to write a lot because I've had so much post. Quite a good deal of it was parcels.

I've had Auntie Nellie's (Finchley) balaclava hat and Auntie Nellie's (U.S.A.) parcel in which was a cake and 200 'Camels' (cigarettes). Louise sent me a Beautiful scarf (not hand knitted), Uncle Frank and Auntie Bertha sent me a very natty line in cigarette cases. Granny Saunders, Lily and Betty sent 50 cigarettes, the Mullins family 5/-, Kidderminster sent a pair of socks and Mr. Fletcher enclosed a pair with them. Did I mention Mrs. Foskett sent me biscuits?

Everybody is talking about leave now that a few men have started the ball rolling. Eight of them went off this-morning and I believe a similar number will be going each week now. The number per week may increase later. However, I have good hopes of being among the early ones. That being so will you let me know immediately what duties you are on as I shall not be able to let you know when I'm coming home until I reach England. I must wire you then. Don't build up your hopes too much just in case things come unstuck.

Must close

In haste

Love to all and xxxxxxx to Anne

Frank