December 27th, 1899.

I am lucky that my Battalion departed for England yesterday, it meant I could spend Christmas with my family. In Toronto, they held a fantastic parade for us. Hundreds of us boys marched on Queen Street to the sound of a thousand roaring onlookers. From Toronto, we rode the train to Halifax, where another nice ceremony was held for us. Tomorrow, we sail for England. The men of the Royal Canadian 18th Infantry Battalion will soon make history. We will return home from this great adventure with medals and honour. Peter told me he heard that we will be home before Easter. I believe it, since our German cousins are with us! They will smash the French in weeks - no, days! I have no doubt the Channel is already cleared for us.

Who do the French think they are? Days after our beloved Queen passes away, they decide to lay claim to that African town. I have heard mumblings from the officers that the initial word from the French was that they planned to give up the town to avoid war. They must think us weak! Africa is now a hotbed for war and adventure! I hope the French surrender quickly, we might get the chance to quell the South African rebels. I would love to see Africa.