Dear Anonymous soldier

You are probably wondering why some random you don't know is writing to you. Frankly I'm wondering myself. But I have the kind of mind which if left idle, will fall apart on itself. My mind is like a runaway engine and requires constant fuelling through stimulation and activity. Usually I occupy myself with solving crimes that the police force cannot but unfortunately the criminal classes have been unusually well behaved as of late. My landlady has forbidden me to smoke and I have temporarily run out of nicotine patches. Therefore when I saw this appeal for letters to soldiers, I took the opportunity. Surely interesting things happen in a warzone. Do reply as soon as possible and don't, for goodness sake, don't be boring.

Sherlock Holmes. (Consulting detective)

Dear Mr. Holmes.

I was indeed surprised to receive this unrequested letter. My wonderment only increased however as I read your letter. Rather than introducing yourself, as I would expect a first time letter writer would, you proceed to tell me all about the inner workings of your brain. An unorthodox method of letter writing to say the least. But, it would be hypocritical for me to continue because I have not introduced myself to you. I am John Watson, second lieutenant of the fifth Northumberland fusiliers. I am aware this will probably not be the stimulation you are looking for but I for one am still bound by social convention. I would like very much to hear more about this job of yours, consulting detective. You are the first one I have ever come across. Are there many people in your line of work? What kind of cases do you take?

As for me and my situation I am afraid it is not very interesting at present. I have been here for a month and so far no action. Not that I'm over eager to go out and shoot 'em up but I'm going out of my mind here. On this front I empathize with you Mr. Holmes. Please do reply soon. I hope I didn't bore you too much but remember at least you have access to day time television.