August 12, 1914 (enlistment)

Dear Eve, 

A thousand apologies, but i could only get this letter sent by today, but i know that you've been worried for a whole week. I've decided to enlist myself in the army and head off to Europe to right the war. I know, i know, it must be a terrible fright for you, but you know i have to do it. Ever since the news of the tinderbox that Europe now is, I had to do my part in the war. Nearly everyone i know is enlisting, and the news has even spread all the way to Vancouver! Regardless, we're still a proud member of the British Empire and it is our duty to join them in battle when it comes up. I left to the enlistment center in Toronto, and after a seemingly endless line of able men, it was my turn. You would be surprised  at how quickly this process goes, Eve.They first started with the medical tests, but unsurprisingly, nothing was wrong. Sadly, that was more than i could say for the other candidates, who were denied from serving because of condition like heart problems, poor eyesight. It was a shame knowing they couldn't serve their people out to the fullest. Once that was over with I swore an oath to King George and the British Empire and i was done. Simple stuff, and once i was done they got me my equipment and placed me in the colonial division. The equipment kit seemed a bit light to me, it only had eating  utensils, a shaver, clothes, and some food, but the rest of it all was ammunition. I was talking to some of the officers and they said that each man was given around 150.00 dollars of gear, which surprised me at how much they spent on their troops. That's more money that I make in a year Eve! Anyways, now that I've enlisted in the corp, my division is on its way to France to hold the Western front. It will be quite a sight going to France, being able to see their rolling green hills and the beautiful sights that have just been daydreams and thoughts. Please take care and make sure to send letters back, I will relish any moment i can with the news back home at Toronto, and of the kids as well. Tell Sadie and David that i`ll be back home soon, mabye even by Christmas! Also, I have sent a copy of my enlistment records in case if anything goes wrong along with the letter, so keep it safe!

With Dearest Love, Daniel Wadsworth

sources: Canadians at War :1914-1918   Donald M. Santor