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Informs them that he is writing to them on Italian paper which he found whilst foraging for medical supplies in Enfidaville. Describes the events of the previous seven weeks and tells them how he came to fight in the Eighth Army: Describes breaking up camp at Kirkup. Details his journey to the North African battlefields by cattle train and lorry. Mentions that he was Orderly Corporal to Headquarter Company during that time. Writes that he travelled via Baghdad; the Transjordan pass; Palestine, where he saw Jewish settlements; the Sinai Desert; Egypt; the Suez Canal; Ismailia, where the band equipment and spare kit was sent to Cairo and the band dispersed across Companies; and Cairo. Mentions that the band had a group photograph taken before they were split up. Complains about the 'unreal nonsense' practiced by the British Army, including saluting and arms-drill. Reports passing through battlefields at Mera Matruh, El Alamein, Sollum, Bardia and Tobruk. Writes that they travelled past Derna, Benhazi, Misurata, Homs, Tripoli, Sousse, Gabes, Medenine, and the Moreth line, before reaching Enfidaville. Reports that at Enfidaville they were sent straight into action. Sends news that his friend Ben M. was killed.

The papers include notebooks and papers on classical subjects, travelogues and diaries, card indexes, correspondence, miscellaneous papers, and photographs.

Mentions that his funeral is planned to take place at St. Giles, cemetary chapel, Cambridge.

Including, Army form W3045, notification of change of address ; Reinstatement of civil employment act, 1945 ; Army form X 205, instructions to discharged of released personnel ; Army form X204, release to the reserve on the grounds of national importance - class "B" releases ; and Army form W.3044, release of soldier…

Bears the legend 'temps perdu' in John Crook's hand.

Tenders his resignation due to the probability of his being called for National Service and the school's wish to appoint permanent staff.

Sends news that he is playing with the band and will soon join the orchestra, although the instruments are in poor condition. Asks his parents to send messages to Mrs Rose and Mrs Rudland.

Reports that he has been busy playing the clarinet, reading Greek, washing, collecting wood and cooking. Lists some of the food he has cooked.

Expresses his happiness on receiving his first letter from his parents since becoming a prisoner. Reassures them that they have Red Cross Christmas parcels and plenty of fuel. Mentions the snow and ice.