Dear Mr. McQuesten,

I am sorry I was unable to see you before leaving Buckingham. Packing up kept me busy till the very last moment and I was unable to carry out the programme I had mapped out. I intend staying here a few days with Mrs. Rivard's parents before setting out for Waterloo. I am looking forward to more satisfactory conditions in my new field of labour and I presume it is the case with you. My experience in B. was that those whose criticisms were offered most freely were those whose armour was the most defective. I cannot tell you how strong my sympathies are for those doing religious work in small communities where one is apt to meet with the petty narrow-minded spirit of the ignorant and half-educated. I hope that you will find the remainder of your time in B. not so unpleasant, and I am sure that in comparison with your present work, trench life will act as a tonic and help you forget the ingratitude connected with work such as yours. Let me wish you success in the new work and a pleasant sojourn in the lands across the seas.¹ With best wishes for your happiness.

Sincerely yours,

A. E. Rivard

¹ Calvin had applied for a position as chaplain in the armed forces during the war, but he did not receive the appointment.