Translations:CP 02915/34/en
In the next few days I will be going before the military exemption board and there is every chance in the world that I could be “taken” when there are so many healthy people walking around[1]. I don’t want it to happen because I know how useless I would be and also that what remains of my health would founder before I am able to complete my book. I have never ceased to be terribly ill since I last saw you and that is almost a consolation; one feels less ashamed of oneself than if one were happy and well when so many people are suffering and dying. But I would still prefer to be well and useful. My brother is at least; for the last eight months he has never ceased to be so for a second and often in tragic circumstances which has led to his name being mentioned in despatches[2]. Reynaldo is in the Argonne, probably not far away from Robert[3]. I would be very pleased to hear your thoughts on all this as far as you can. But as for the Doubowaïa it is on the contrary explicit advice that I ask of you, if you can give it, precise and sincere. Let me know how Madame Billy, your daughters, your parents, have got through these terrible months