1908, Age 12

Dear Mother,
I am going fishing with the boys. I will be back soon.
It’s just that perch are best caught before dawn. I’ll be back
Tomorrow, or the day after, or the day after that—
I’ll be back with loads and loads of fish. Don’t worry, Mother.
I will be back soon.

Love,
Walter



1910, Age 14

Dear Mother,
I am going riding with the boys. I will be back soon.
It’s just that the breeze is coolest at sunrise. I know I
Nearly drowned last time, but don’t worry—
I’ll be back with fresh cheeks and light feet. Don’t worry, Mother.
I will be back soon.

Love,
Walter



1912, Age 16

Dear Mother,
I am going hunting with the boys. I will be back soon.
It’s just that rabbits are best caught at dusk. I know I
Broke a leg last time, but don’t worry—
I’ll be back with a wolfskin for the hearth. Don’t worry, Mother.
I will be back soon.

Love,
Walter



1914, Age 18

Dear Mother,
I am going combat with the boys. I will be back soon.
It’s just that war is won faster with more soldiers. I know I
Got wolf-bitten last time, but don’t worry—
I’ll be back with a badge on my chest. Don’t worry, Mother.
I will be back s—