If that happens the offer that I heard a noble old buck make to a group of ladies the other night may be accepted.

This old codger is about seventy-five, ruddy and saucy yet.

"My dear ladies," said he, "if the war goes on and on we shall have no young men left.

A double duty will fall on the old fellows.
I shall be ready, when the need comes, to take four extra wives, and I daresay there are others of my generation who are as patriotic as I am." All of which is only my long-winded, round-about diplomatic way of wishing you every one and every one of yours and all the folk in the office, their assigns, superiors, dependents, companions in labour--all, everyone and sundry, the happiest of Christmases; and when you take stock of your manifold blessings, don't forget to be thankful for the Atlantic Ocean.

That's the best asset of safety that we have.
Affectionately yours, W.H.P.
_To Mrs.Charles G.Loring_ 6 Grosvenor Square, London, December 7, 1915.
DEAR KITTY: This is my Christmas letter to you and Chud--a poor thing, but the best I have to give you.