I have it. It is great here. Some of the town is as old as the invasion of France by Caesar, some is medieval, a little modern. Already I have talked with several natives who seem pleased to find an American who speaks French.
One was an old retired fisherman, whose pension is insufficient in these war times, and wants his wife to take in washing. He had me letter out the words: AMERICAN LAUNDRY for him, and he called out all the neighborhood to see me.
Another is a Parisian who is in this city to visit his son in the military hospital. He takes photographs, so we had common ground at once. Also he believes America is going to join the war. She goes about it right, he says, and her soldiers seem to have more spirit and capability than he thought. He was very encouraging after I made sure he wasn’t just salving me. He has a pretty and brainless daughter. He invited me to come to see him in Paris if I ever get there.
Tomorrow we leave here for our real destination.
Rec’d Aug. 6
Next post July 11
Letters from Sidney Friend During The Great War 