Britannia
Jany 1^st 1917

Hon J. R. Bennett
Col. Secty
St. John’s

Dear Sir

Several young men between the ages of 18 & 20 have requested me to give them passes to St. John’s for the purpose of enlisting. But having been forbidden by their parents I have not given them. Will you kindly inform me as to wether young men under the age of 21 could legally be recalled after going to St. John’s, as it would be a waste of public monies to send them unless they could be retained after enlisting. An early reply will oblige.

Your obedient servant
John Leawood J.P.

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January, 12, 1917

Sir,

I beg to return herewith letter under date 1^st instant, from Mr. Leawood, J.P., of Britannia, and to advise that young men under the age of twenty-one years coming to St. John’s with the purpose of enlisting, cannot be recalled.

I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant

Deputy Minister of Justice

Hon John. R. Bennett
Colonial Secretary

Source: The Rooms, Provincial Archives, St. John's, NL