Twelve and a half million letters were sent to the Western Front every week...Even soldiers in the front line trenches received daily letters. Soldiers were also encouraged to write letters to friends and family in Britain. Most men decided it would be better keep the horrors of the trench warfare to themselves . As a result of the Defence of the Realm Act that was passed in 1914, all letters that the men wrote should have been read and censored by junior officers Defense of The Realm: officers.http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/defence_of_the_realm_act_of_1914.htm
Private Stanley Terry of 15 North End, East Grinstead, wrote a letter to his family in November, 1915. The letter was not censored. We have just come out of the trenches after being in for six days and up to our waists in water. While we were in the trenches one of the Germans came over to our trench for a cigarette and then back again, and he was not fired at. We and the Germans started walking about in the open between the two trenches, repairing them, and there was no firing at all. I think they are all getting fed up with it. Lance Corporal Swannell My foot is progressing very slowly but lately I have been very bad in health for the conditions I have had to go through out here is gradually telling upon my constitution for I reckon I have stood it well up till now but I feel as I am getting beaten. "How I wish that this terrible anxiety and suspense was over for I do long to be with you and our dear little ones who are continually in my mind. "I have done over my bit as you know but it seems no matter how long or what you have been through out here they are never done with you. "Let us...hope for a peaceable time for us both and all for if I am lucky enough to get through it alright I hope to have a happy and loving life with you and our dear little ones for you know I love you and I always will and I know you do me. "I am your ever loving husband Fred Swannell. "Kisses for you love and my little ones."