Category Archives: World War I

THIRD ARMY INFANTRY SCHOOL OF INSTRUCTION.

SYLLABUS.

  1. LEADERSHIP.         (a) Its meaning.

(b) How to acquire the gift of.

  • DISCIPLINE.             (a) General behaviour and conduct of the Officers.

(b) Personal appearance – Physical Fitness – Punctuality – Saluting.

  • MORAL.                     Its meaning and importance – Responsibility of Officers

and N.C.O.s regarding it – Patriotism – Esprit de Corps – Esprit de Brigade – Esprit de Division – Esprit d’Armee – Psychology of the War.

  • DISCIPLINE & COMMAND. Necessity of System of Command so as to

ensure continuity – bearing of Officers and N.C.O.s towards their men.

  • ORGANISATION.     Battalion – Brigade – Division – Chain of Responsibility.
  • CARE OF ARMS.    Rifles, Bayonets, Ammunition – Equipment – Smoke

Helmets – Clothing – Iron Rations.

  • SANITATION.           (a). In trenches, Billets, Bivouacs, Line of March.

(b). Care of feet: Standing Orders on the Subject.

(c). First aid, use of Field Dressings.

(d). Evacuation of the wounded, general principles of.

  • Billet Life.                   How to care for and get the best out of the men in billets

– N.B. This is a special subject with a very special importance, which was not realised at the commencement of the last winter campaign.

  • DUTIES OF               In camp, bivouac and billets.

PLATOON &             (a) System of billeting.

SECTION COMDRS (b) On the line of march (discipline).

                                    (c) In the trenches.

                                    (d) In the Attack.

  1. PROTECTION.         Advance guard, Rear, Flank, and Outposts.
  1. PRINCIPLES OF      (a) Organisation previous to.

ATTACK NORMAL. (b) Distribution of troops for.

                                    (c) Formation with regard to ground.

                                    (d) Formation with regard to fire.

12. FIRE DISCIPLINE.  (a) Combination of Fire with Movement.

                                          (b) Fire Control.

                                          (c) Description of Targets.

(d) Use of Range finders.

  1. DEFENCE NORMAL.   (a) Principal lines of defence.

(b) Taking up a defensive line.

(c) Siting of trenches by day and by night .

(d) Telling off and distribution of working parties.

  1. TRENCH WARFARE. (a) Organisation for an attack from the trenches.  (attack)               Supply of Ammunition, grenades, rations, water.
  1. DECENCE.         (a) Construction of Trenches.

(b) Construction of Parapets.

(c) Construction of Traverses.

(d) Revetting, sandbags, fascine, wire, hurdle and other

expedients.

(e) Construction of Splinter Proof.

(f) Loopholes, sighting and construction of.

(g) Sniping Posts.

(h) Listening Posts.

(i) Sapping, principles of.

(j) Entrenching tools, use of.

(k) Entanglements.

(l) Use of telescopes and periscopes.

(m) Sniping, use and methods to be employed in.

  1. Trench Orders.    (a) Absolute necessity for.

(b) Organisation of work.

(c) Allotment of hours for watch, work, meals etc.

  1. MACHINE GUNS. (a) How to fire the Lewis Maxim Gun.

   (b) Principles of employment in attack and defence.

  1. GRENADES.      (a) Description of.

(b) Handling of.

(c) Use in attack and defence.

(d) Use in attack and defence.

(e) Training of Grenadiers.

(f) Organisation of Grenadiers in the attack.

    Organisation of Grenadiers in defence.

(g) Carrying of.

(h) Supply of.

  1. PATROL WORK. (a) Importance of.

  (b) How to organise.

  • MAP READING. (a) Simple scales and meaning of.

(b) How to read a map.  (Explain how it should be looked

      upon as a book and not as a puzzle.

(c) Compass, variation of, taking angles.  Conversion of

      Magnetic into true bearings

(d) Setting a map by compass and by other methods.

  • Co-operation       Importance of, and method of.

of other Arms      Co-operation between Staff and Regimental Officers.

  • MASSAGES &    (a) Official letters, writing of.

REPORTS.          (b) Memoranda.

                              (c) Minutes.

                              (d) Field Messages, method of writing.

(e) Verbal messages, limitations of.

(f) Reports, how to be written.

(g) Reconnaissance, simple form of.

(h) Trench reports.

  • ARREST.             (a) Rules for.

(b) Telling off and disposal of prisoners.

(c) Crimes and punishments on Active Service.

(d) Field General Courts Martial.

(e) Army (suspension of sentences) Act 1915.

  • INTELLIGENCE.            (a) Service of security.

(b) Information.

(c) Prisoners of War.

(d) Their treatment and disposal.

  • G.R.O.                  Extracts from, Secrecy, Dress, Discipline,

                              Correspondence etc.

  • GAS.                     Use of protectors, methods of dealing with, organisation

                              of attack.

  • SYSTEM of         (a) Ammunition.

SUPPLY.             (b) Supplies.

  • DRILL.                  (a) Importance of as a means to an end.

(b) Squad with arms.

(c) Platoon.

(d) Company.

  • Physical Training. (a) Bayonet Fighting.

(b) Football.

  • REVOLVER.       (a) Method of using.

(b) Short course in the use of.

—————————————————-

COPY.

INDIRECT LAYING SYSTEM IN USE BY BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE IN FRANCE.

            The site for the Battery and general directions in which fire will be required having been ordered, the line of guns are placed approximately at right angles to this line.

            If covered emplacements are built, it is very important that each dial sight should be able to see the aiming point.

            The gun on one flank is usually chosen as directing gun.  The corrections for the other guns will be simpler if the aiming point is at right angles to the line of fire, but it is very difficult to make a covered emplacement which allows of this.  In the battery I saw, the aiming point was 45o right of rear.

            The exact position of the directing gun is then marked very accurately on the map, and a line drawn through it for a normal axis of fire.  This is called the zero line.  Also a line on the aiming point – the angle between these two is then measured by the dial sight.

            If the zero line can be laid on a seen object marked on the map, there will be a chance to check accuracy.  The distance between the guns is then carefully measured, and the angle between the aiming point and the zero lines calculated.  This should bring all the zero lines parallel, and pickets on which lamps can be hung are placed to mark them.

            A line is drawn on the map behind the enemy’s position at right angles to the normal axis of fire; and degrees right and left set off along it, as calculated from the directing gun.

            A paper straight edge is pivoted at the directing gun, and when this is brought over the target, the angle right or left of the normal axis of fire can be read off on the scale of degrees.

            A scale of ranges, allowing for the shooting qualities of the cordite in use, is marked on the edge of the paper straight edge, and immediately gives the range of the target from direction gun.  When this is known, the correction in line to concentrate the other guns on target is easily got from a table.

            To get the exact line – only a cross wind need now be allowed for.

            To get the elevation – a headwind, barometer and thermometer corrections must be made.  Also for difference of level of gun and target, if any.

            After the first shot, the forward observing officer signals corrections.

            Aeroplanes directing guns first signify the target by the usual map nomenclature by wireless.

            After the first shot, they signal the angle from north and the distance of the spot where they wish the next shot to fall.

            The Battery Commander has a scale and circular protractor device by which he can readily calculate the necessary corrections in angle and in elevation for his guns.

(Sgd.) P.F. Molony Major.

R.E.

24/2/16.

COPY.

INDIRECT LAYING SYSTEM IN USE BY BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE IN FRANCE.

            The site for the Battery and general directions in which fire will be required having been ordered, the line of guns are placed approximately at right angles to this line.

            If covered emplacements are built, it is very important that each dial sight should be able to see the aiming point.

            The gun on one flank is usually chosen as directing gun.  The corrections for the other guns will be simpler if the aiming point is at right angles to the line of fire, but it is very difficult to make a covered emplacement which allows of this.  In the battery I saw, the aiming point was 45o right of rear.

            The exact position of the directing gun is then marked very accurately on the map, and a line drawn through it for a normal axis of fire.  This is called the zero line.  Also a line on the aiming point – the angle between these two is then measured by the dial sight.

            If the zero line can be laid on a seen object marked on the map, there will be a chance to check accuracy.  The distance between the guns is then carefully measured, and the angle between the aiming point and the zero lines calculated.  This should bring all the zero lines parallel, and pickets on which lamps can be hung are placed to mark them.

            A line is drawn on the map behind the enemy’s position at right angles to the normal axis of fire; and degrees right and left set off along it, as calculated from the directing gun.

            A paper straight edge is pivoted at the directing gun, and when this is brought over the target, the angle right or left of the normal axis of fire can be read off on the scale of degrees.

            A scale of ranges, allowing for the shooting qualities of the cordite in use, is marked on the edge of the paper straight edge, and immediately gives the range of the target from direction gun.  When this is known, the correction in line to concentrate the other guns on target is easily got from a table.

            To get the exact line – only a cross wind need now be allowed for.

            To get the elevation – a headwind, barometer and thermometer corrections must be made.  Also for difference of level of gun and target, if any.

            After the first shot, the forward observing officer signals corrections.

            Aeroplanes directing guns first signify the target by the usual map nomenclature by wireless.

            After the first shot, they signal the angle from north and the distance of the spot where they wish the next shot to fall.

            The Battery Commander has a scale and circular protractor device by which he can readily calculate the necessary corrections in angle and in elevation for his guns.

(Sgd.) P.F. Molony Major.

R.E.

24/2/16.

COPY.

INDIRECT LAYING SYSTEM IN USE BY BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE IN FRANCE.

            The site for the Battery and general directions in which fire will be required having been ordered, the line of guns are placed approximately at right angles to this line.

            If covered emplacements are built, it is very important that each dial sight should be able to see the aiming point.

            The gun on one flank is usually chosen as directing gun.  The corrections for the other guns will be simpler if the aiming point is at right angles to the line of fire, but it is very difficult to make a covered emplacement which allows of this.  In the battery I saw, the aiming point was 45o right of rear.

            The exact position of the directing gun is then marked very accurately on the map, and a line drawn through it for a normal axis of fire.  This is called the zero line.  Also a line on the aiming point – the angle between these two is then measured by the dial sight.

            If the zero line can be laid on a seen object marked on the map, there will be a chance to check accuracy.  The distance between the guns is then carefully measured, and the angle between the aiming point and the zero lines calculated.  This should bring all the zero lines parallel, and pickets on which lamps can be hung are placed to mark them.

            A line is drawn on the map behind the enemy’s position at right angles to the normal axis of fire; and degrees right and left set off along it, as calculated from the directing gun.

            A paper straight edge is pivoted at the directing gun, and when this is brought over the target, the angle right or left of the normal axis of fire can be read off on the scale of degrees.

            A scale of ranges, allowing for the shooting qualities of the cordite in use, is marked on the edge of the paper straight edge, and immediately gives the range of the target from direction gun.  When this is known, the correction in line to concentrate the other guns on target is easily got from a table.

            To get the exact line – only a cross wind need now be allowed for.

            To get the elevation – a headwind, barometer and thermometer corrections must be made.  Also for difference of level of gun and target, if any.

            After the first shot, the forward observing officer signals corrections.

            Aeroplanes directing guns first signify the target by the usual map nomenclature by wireless.

            After the first shot, they signal the angle from north and the distance of the spot where they wish the next shot to fall.

            The Battery Commander has a scale and circular protractor device by which he can readily calculate the necessary corrections in angle and in elevation for his guns.

(Sgd.) P.F. Molony Major.

R.E.

24/2/16.

INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING LAYERS AND LAYING TESTS

FOR

HORSE, FIELD, HEAVY AND MOUNTAIN ARTILLERY.

  1. In every battery of horse, field, heavy, and mountain artillery, there should be at least three qualified layers per sub-section, exclusive of sergeants and corporals.  A list of these layers will be kept by the Battery Commander.  All qualified layers, and also all sergeants and corporals, should be tested periodically.
  2. All section commanders and Nos. 1 must be thoroughly conversant with: –
  3. The tests for sighting gear and sights;
  4. The method of obtaining a line of fire parallel to that of a named gun;
  5. The care of the telescope and dial sight.
  6. Layers will be tested by means of two tests, “A” and “B”.  Test “A” will consist of four lays “direct”; Test “B” of three lays “indirect”.  An example of the two tests is given in Appendix I.
  7. A maximum of 10 marks will be given for each lay.  In order to qualify, a layer must obtain a total of 56 marks for seven lays.
  8. Each layer should be tested with his own No 1.  If for any reason the No 1 is not available, his place will be taken by the non-commissioned officer of the same sub-section who would normally replace the casualty.
  9. The order in which the tests are laid down below is not to be adhered to rigidly, but should be changed when each new layer takes his place at the gun.  The layer to be tested should be given no indication as to what sight or method of laying is to be used until he takes his place at the gun and receives the actual order.
  10. The examiner should be assisted by an officer or senior non-commissioned officer with a stop watch and record book, and by a penciller who will take down all orders given, for reference when checking the lay.
  11.  Before beginning the tests at least five targets will be selected in the foreground at varying ranges and angles of sight, and covering a front of about 25 degrees.  Except in the case of gun targets these should as far as possible be natural features of the ground.  If it be necessary to utilise dummies, they should be placed in positions such as the troops which they represent would naturally occupy on service.  A reference point, approximately in the centre of the target zone, will be pointed out to the No. 1 and to the layer.  Throughout the tests targets will be pointed out with reference to this point by means of the clock code.
  12. When laying direct on any target (other than a gun target) which extends over a fairly wide frontage, great exactitude in direction will not be required as regards the point originally selected to lay upon, which may be anywhere in that portion of the target opposite to the gun being laid.  Any subsequent lays on the same target must, however, be on the same point as the first.
  13. When the layer has taken his place at the gun, the caution “Represent No…. gun in action” will be given, followed when necessary by the caution “Open sight,” “Telescope sight,” or “Direct laying, Dial sight.”  The orders for the lay must then be given out by the examiner clearly and distinctly, a short pause being made after each separate order, thus: – “Aiming point, Church spire, 20o right” – pause – “Concentrate 20’ on No. 1,” – pause – “Angle of sight 1o 20’ elevation,” – pause – “4,200.”   All orders will be acknowledged by the No. 1 as laid down in Field Artillery Training.  Should the layer at any time be in doubt as to a particular order he will refer to the No. 1 who may repeat to him any part of the orders received.
  14. After checking a lay the examiner will elevate the gun about 15 minutes in order to represent the movement of the gun after firing.
  15. In the case of a switch the brake must be taken off and put on again using the quick release lever (if provided).
  16. In equipments which require two men to manipulate the gears, layers will be examined in pairs and for any incorrect part of a lay marks will be deducted only from the individual making the error.
  17. The times allowed for each lay with the various equipments are given in Appendix II.  The layer will call out “Ready” as soon as he has finished laying the gun.  The time will be taken from the commencement of the orders for the lay until the word “Ready” from the layer.
  18. One mark will be deducted:-
  19. For every five seconds or fraction of five seconds beyond the time laid down in Appendix II for the particular lay;
  20. If the traversing gear is not within thirty minutes of zero (in cases where this applies);
  21. For each mistake in the manipulation of the sighting gear or in the drill of the layer as laid down in the “Section Gun Drill.”
  22. No marks will be given for the lay:-
  23. If the sight is incorrectly set;
  24. If the gun is not correctly laid for elevation and within five minutes for direction;
  25. If the clinometer bubble * is not in the centre of its run;!
  26. If, by pressing on the breech of the gun, it is found that the last motion of the elevating gear has not been one of depression;
  27. If the bubble of the cross level is not wholly visible in its run (except when laying with sights which are nor reciprocating). #

*  The bubble of the longitudinal level in the case of 15-pr. Q.F. and 15-pr. B.L.C.

!  The bubble of the sight clinometer (or longitudinal level in the case of the 15-pr. Q.F. or 15-pr. B.L.C. gun) will be levelled as soon as the gun is laid:-

  • When laying direct in the case of:-

15-pr. Q.F. gun,

15-pr. B.L.C. gun,

13-pr. Q.F.gun,

18-pr. Q.F. gun,

2.75-inch B.L. gun.

  • When laying direct with the dial sight, but not with the open sight, in the case of:-

4.5-inch Q.F. howitzer.

  • When laying direct with the dial sight or by the telescope, but not with the open sight, in the case of:-

60-pr. B.L. gun

            It is never to be done in the case of:-

            4.7-inch Q.F. gun,

2.95-inch B.L. gun,

10-pr. B.L. gun,

5-inch B.L. howitzer.

Reciprocating sights correct automatically for difference in level of wheels.

APPENDIX I

EXAMPLE OF TESTS

TEST A. DIRECT

Examples of Cautions and Orders                                                Lays.

                        Cautions.

“Represent No. … gun in action”              1 The sights are set as ordered, and the target is picked up by the layer, assisted by

“Open sight”                                                  the No. 1 at the traversing lever.  The pointer of the traversing gear should not be more than 30’ from zero when the lay is completed.

                     Orders

“Infantry lining hedgerows”                        The bubble of the clinometer or longitudinal

“4 o’clock, 3o to 5o”                                      level must be levelled after the gun is laid and before reporting “Ready.”  With heavy

(Elevation) “……”                                         guns No. 1 directs the gun to be traversed by handspikes or by dragropes.

As soon as the lay has been checked by the examiner, he should set the deflection

scale to some graduation and note the reading.  In the next lay the layer must set

sight “more right” or “more left” from this graduation.

                   Orders.

“1o 15” more left.”                                         2. The sight is re-set as ordered and the gun relaid on the same part of the target as

(Elevation) “…..”                                           in 1, the clinometer bubble being again levelled if necessary.  The traversing gear is to be used if provided.

            Cautions

“Telescope Sight,”                                       3. The target is to be picked up, laid on, &c.

           or                                                        as in 1, but the opposite gun must be laid

“Direct laying, Dial Sight.”                           on.  The bubble of the clinometer must be levelled as in 1.

Orders

“6-gun battery”

“8 o’clock 4o”

(Elevation)  “………”                                   

4. The laying is tp be carried out on the

 “2o 20” more left”                                         same principle as in 2.

(Elevation)  “……….”

TEST B.  INDIRECT.

An aiming point is pointed out to the No. 1 and an aiming post number is to stand

ready at the gun with the aiming posts.

Examples of Cautions and Orders                                                Lays.

             Orders

  1. The line of fire is laid out as laid down in

 “Aiming point …..”                                       “Section Gun Drill.”  The gun is laid for elevation.

“Lines of fire 20o right.”                                The pointer of the traversing gear (if provided) is not to be more than 30’ from

“Angle of sight 1o 30’ elevation.2              zero when lay is completed.

(Elevation) “…..”                                           The signal for the aiming post number to come in should be given by No. 1 on the layer reporting that the posts are correctly planted.

              Orders

“All guns 10o more right”                             2. The sight is re-set as ordered and the

“Raise angle of sight 20’”                            gun re-laid on the aiming posts by moving

(Elevation)  “……”                                        the trail.  The pointer of the traversing gear should not be more than 30’ from zero.

              Cautions.

“Represent No. …. Gun in action2           3. The dial; sight is set as ordered and the gun laid as in “Section Gun Drill.”  The layer

              Orders.                                           will then pick up a suitable auxiliary aiming

“Aiming point …….”                                     point to lay on for subsequent rounds.

“50o right”

“Concentrate (or distribute) 20’ on

(or from) ……..

“Angle of sight 1o elevation.”

(Elevation) “……. “

APPENDIX II

TIMES.

Nature of gun.Test “A” LayTest “B” Lay
1.2.3.4.1.2.3.
13-pr. Q.F. 18-pr. Q.F. 4.5-inch Q.F. How. 15-pr. Q.F. 15-pr. B.L.C. 5-inch B.L. How. 60-pr. B.L. 4.7-inch Q.F. 10-pr. B.L. 2.75-inch B.L. 2.95- inch Q.F.35” 35” 35” 35” 35” 35” 45” 50” 25” 30” 25”25” 25” 30” 30” 30” 30” 25” 35” 20” 25” 20”35” 35” 35” 35” 35” 35” 45” 50” 35” 30” 25”25” 25” 30” 30” 30” 30” 25” 35” 20” 25” 20”1’ 20” 1’ 20” 1’ 30” 1’ 30” 1’ 30” 1’ 30” 1’ 20” 1’ 40” 1’ 30” 1’ 20” 1’ 30”35” 35” 45” 45” 45” 45” 1’ 10” 1’ 40” 45” 35” 45”35” 35” 45” 45” 45” 45” 1’ 10” 1’ 40” 45” 35” 45”

Letter to Rev Walters from H Briers 22 Feb 16

Sapper H Briers

No 146050 R.E.

272 Party, B Company

Brompton Barracks

Chatham

Kent

Dear Sir,

            Just a few lines to let you no how I am enjoying soldiering life and I think it is time every young able men ought to join the colours at once and not to wait till they are fetched and if it had not been for my business I should of been here before now I think it is grand and I am enjoying it down to the ground, but I expect you no it is not all honey but never mind we have to put up with things sometime when we don’t want to and that is with it in my case I have been moved from the first place I went to, and the second place I have been send to Brompton Barracks not far from the first station and Fred Hall has gone nine mile away from me so you see I have lost my pal and the pals I’ve got is a Irishman and a Scotsman and it takes me all my time to tell what they are talking about its awful for people to understand what they are saying.  I expect Miss Needham has told you we are going to get married and I should like to have been married before I joined the colours so as to get things in her line and you see I shall have not much time to tell her about things I want to do and if she had been married when I wanted to be their would have been a chance of getting out of it but I am glad I am in the colours and Whitwick people can’t say you don’t do anything in this war that will be the first thing they will bring out so I can I have tried to do my share and that’s what a good many can’t say.  Do you while I was drill on the square I saw another Whitwick chap and it was Gideon McCarthy I was surprised to see him at Chatham so you see I am not the only young man their, there are some fine young men come to St Mary’s Barracks last week and I don’t know what it will be when they are called up in March you will have a job to see a young man in Whitwick and at Church to we all parade to go to place of worship with (R.E. Band) so you see we go to Church asual they tell me there are a lot getting married at Whitwick I don’t know whether it is the war that is making the young chaps getting married or not I suppose it is, I am a little doubtful whether I can get off to be married but I expect you will help me on this occasion you no it is awful to get away from Brompton Barracks at anytime you no they want as much training out of you are they can so I close my letter with the best of luck (just one thing I won’t you to do is to remember me to all) (Also Remember me to Mrs Walters and family)

I remain Dear Sir

Yours Affectionate

Friend

In envelope addressed to Rev Walters, Whitwick Vicarage, Leicester Road, Whitwick, Nr Leicestershire.  R.E. crest on back of envelope.

Letter postmarked CHATHAM 22 FE 16.

Cachet of 1st Infantry Brigade South African E.F. No. 01/3/2

1st Infantry Brigade Headquarters,

S.A.O.E.F.

Mex Camp. ALEXANDRIA

February 2, 1916

Lieut-Colonel Purcell, D.S.O.

Depot Battalion, South African Contingent,

Bordon, HANTS,

ENGLAND.

            With further reference to my letter of the 23rd ultimo, No. O1/3/1, and to your recent telegram regarding Officers asked for by the War Office to accompany reinforcements for the Brigade, the G.O.C. directs me to inform you that he is doing everything in his power to clear up the situation generally with regard to Officers.  He further fully realises the conditions with which you are faced and as you know you may rely upon him doing everything possible to assist you.  At the same time, to agree to a number of promotions to commissioned rank being made in the Depot Battalion of N.C.O.’s and men now in that Battalion, would mean that men who are now with the Brigade, who have proved themselves well worthy for of commissioned rank, would undoubtedly have a grievance.

The G.O.C. knows that you are as anxious as he is that vacancies in commissioned rank in the Contingent should be filled by those who have best earned promotion to that rank.

J. **** Baker

Major,

Brigade Major.

In On His Majesty’s Service envelope addressed to Lt Col Purcell D.S.O.

Depot Battalion S.A. Infantry, Bordon, Hants England.  Postmarked BASE ARMY POST OFFICE Z Dated 2 FE 16.  With 1st Infantry Brigade South African E.F. No. stamp and in pencil Official Free signature unreadable.

Letter to Rev Walters from J.W. Brotherhood

No 4564 Pte J.W. Brotherhood

Signalling Sec

3/5 Leicesters

Coventry Rd

Bulwell

Notts

Feb 8th 016

Dear Rev Walters,

            The summons of life is – that everyone should do their duty.  What a contrast today with two years ago.  Then we had lethargy, carelessness, discontent, ruthlessness; yea, as a nation we were marching on to a Physical & Moral death.

            We were laughing & being laughed at.  We were scorning others, and our scorn came back to us in base mockery.

            The world thought we were decaying; and many could see the end of the British Empire.

            The world has been deceived; we ourselves have miscalculated our worth.  A Britisher sometimes forgets that he possesses hidden qualities.  The Spirit of an Englishman passes on, to each succeeding generation gives it a new impulse & a deeper meaning.  That spirit is revealed today and who knows how much greater it will be tomorrow.  Every new recruit, every ounce of fresh energy, every sovereign given to England, is a real test of faith in what we are able to accomplish.

            Every day carries us on to greater things, more stupendous problems, and above all, Eternal responsibilities.

            Our responsibility as a nation will not cease with victory, it will rather become greater.

            There will be privileges that will need to be lived up to; national problems that will have to be solved and International Relationships that will have to be strengthened.  Nor will victory lessen our obligations to those who will be defeated.  Every day brings its burdens and to my mind I think that victory will increase those burdens, yet, after all – what is the worth or value of victory unless it costs an effort?  I say – of what use is victory to us if our national life has not been tested; or it most salient features have been allowed to degenerate?

 The test of victory is in the effort that has been made.  I know there are certain redeeming features in defeat, but features redeemed are only seen in victory; and it seems to me that the redemption of our national life is now taking place; and there is an ever increasing moral evidenced; and we are just beginning to realise, that life without a battle leads to moral degeneration.

“But there’s a limit fixed to decent pride”

The nation’s watch is close; they seek a test

To prove us, whether, when our hearts are tried,

 We take this war in earnest or in jest.”

Sir.  We obey the summons, we answer the call.  Our lethargy we fling away, and with Shakespear we say:-

“Once more into the breach, dear friends, once more; or close the wall with English dead!  In peace, there’s nothing so becomes a man as modest stillness, and humility, but where the blast of war blows in our ears, then imitate the actions of a tiger.  Stiffen the sinews, summon up the blood,” and off to war.

Those words are an elegant testimony to Englishmen of today.

Does not the spirit of the 16th century still live?

A great feature of our national life today is – the unbounded enthusiasm of the sons of the Empire.

There is always an inspiration in young-man-hood.  I know they dream dreams; but sir, in the hour of danger they cease to dream, & they have visions, not of their own littleness, but of their Empires’ greatness.

Mark you, I do not mean to say that our older men have not done their duty, nor that they are not inspired.  They have, and are doing their duty; but this is a war of this generation, that the past generation are assisting in.

 We go the whole length & breadth of our Empire & we witness the same scenes everywhere.

Africa has sent her young men to fight for us, and as they have come they have re-echoed those endearing sentiments of loyalty as they have said – “Whosoever touches England, touches us, because we are part & parcel of her greatness.

Enthusiasm!  What a marvellous word.  Canada’s sons have learned its deep meaning as they have offered their life blood for the cause of freedom; and as we also come to realise of the imperishable glory that has been gained by the “Anzacs” of Australia & New Zealand, we are bound to say that a great feature of our national life is – the enthusiasm of our Empires manhood.

India needs no further testimony than that her loyalty is written in blood on the Battlefields of Flanders

            Do soldiers lack enthusiasm?  Nay.  They may sometimes be sad; courage may fail them in their hours of loneliness; they sometimes become home-sick, but they never lose heart; their enthusiasm is never dwarfed.  England’s soldiers always sing when it rains; and grumble most when the sun shines.

            I think too, that the very vitality of our nation is hidden in its young manhood; but it is developed & revealed in those who have known & experienced the trials of life.

            Young men dream dreams, old men see visions.

            Youth is eternal.  It may know its limitations, but it knows not danger; and already it has a glorious testimony to give to the future generations; & I firmly believe that the Eternal God has great cause to rejoice over the unselfish sacrifices that have been made by His creation.

            And that is not all.  We have another remarkable characteristic of our national life, & that is – the entire absence of the fear of calamity.  Defeat to England spells Hell.  Bitter, deep. Eternal Hell.  Even a soul that is crushed is filled with remorse; and a nation that is remorseful has the ever present fear of a calamity.

            Calamity!  What does it mean?  Peace, Joy, Happiness, Security? NAY.  There are no virtues in calamity.  Home-life loses its sacredness when there is an ever-present fear; and a nation loses its moral force when it expects the worst.

            But we have lost fear & gained hope, we have discarded sentiment & embraced faith; and we stand before the world as the leader of nations.  To us, the future is bright.  There are only shadows now, & over the Eternal Hills we see the rising dawn.  Nor have we any terror.  The weak selfishness of our former life has been given up. & we, as sons of England, endure hardness that freedom may be exalted.  Thus England’s son’s fight, while her daughters work, love, & weep, & everywhere we see a glorious Faith evidenced.  We are inspired; yea, we are proud & thank Heaven for our calling.  We are called to redeem the nation & redemption spells hope.

            Honor, too, has always had a recognised value (except in certain cases).  That is ever a grand feature of Englishmen that they recognise Honor.  They value its meaning.  The Old Book says – That wisdom is beyond the price of rubies”, & I think it can be as truly said – That honor is beyond the price of gold.

            Gold may help a nation, but it never makes a nation; yet honor is always an important factor in a successful nation’s life.  Blood may be rich, but honour is richer; and it is idle to suppose that sacrifice is useless, & death loss.

            I am well aware that contentment is great again; and we as a nation might have been contented, we could have said – Oh, never mind about other nations, we are alright.

            But I ask the question – Is any nation safe when it will not take up arms against the wrong, & when it refuses to fight for those Eternal Principles of Freedom, Toleration, & Justice?  Never, never safe.  Far better to die fighting, than to fight dying.

            We value honor, it is sacred, yea, it is Eternal in its application of principle.  Where should we have been today had we not rolled up our sleeves?  God alone knows!  But this we do know – enthusiasm would have been known by another

name, & faith & hope would almost have been akin to calamity.

            I think one of the greatest privileges of today is – for a person to be able to say – I am an Englishman.

            We are the covenanters of the 20th century.  The Defenders of Faith.  Every soldier is an hero.  They are large-hearted, sympathetic, and above all, honorable.  We have learned those principles at our mother’s knee & have been told them from the “Book of Life”.

            Such principles have become dear to us, yea, so dear, that we fight for them, not that we want to fight, but because we feel bound by the sacred Law of Heaven to defend the weak from invasion & oppression.  How gallant then are England’s sons.

            I know there are scenes of sadness, & almost everywhere we see the weeping eye.  Here are faces flushed & sad, hearts heavy & footsteps slow.  But Sir, I would rather my mother weep over my dead bones today; I’d rather her heart be heavy, & her dear face flushed & sad, than that life should be a misery to her in future days.

            Life has been outraged enough.  Death has had too many terrors.  Such outrages must be atoned for, such terror must cease.

            Therefore to accomplish our object everyone is needed.  Every man in his place, & doing his best when he is there.

            This is not the age for slackers.  We need Moral Stability, and thank God such a power is increasing; & we are now recognising that life is dearer than death, & that it has an Eternal purpose ever among the nations.

            Thus we go forward, & as we forward go we hear ringing in our ears – “We shall miss you, but we think you ought to go”.

            Our loved ones are urging us on, not that they may weep, but they may enjoy life free from Hellish care.

            Yes, they bid us go & in sweet words they say – “There are flowers beneath the snow lad, and behind the clouds the sun.  there are fringes to bestow, lad, when the tiring race is run.

Then be true & hoping ever, firm of purpose, strong of soul.  There’s a promise in the future thy reward shall come at last.

Though the hours be void of song, lad, though the stars be overcast.  There’s no night, however long, lad, but shall wear to morn at last.  Then take heart, continue striving looking onward evermore, there shall be a blest reunion over on the other shore.

So with Heaven’s Benediction resting upon us, we pursue our way.  We sacrifice because we love.  The grave is not our goal.

We desire Earth to be a fairer place, & Heaven to be a blessing to all.  Therefore you who must stay at Home, we crave your sympathy & love, & in God’s name, I ask you never to forget us.

Remember us here in England.  There are dangers here to face; and the soldier is a great factor in His Nation’s life no matter where he is.

So I pray you to ask God with us, that we may be kept safe & pure.  The soldiers don’t forget you, & you will never forget them.  We are out for Honor & Freedom, & for all that makes life worth living, & when we come back, and the war is over, then we’ll rest in peace & breathe the purer air of a happier & brighter country.

            May God be with you & yours is the sincere prayer of one who prays for you in your ministry.

            Sincerely yours.

                        J.W. Brotherhood.

 There is no envelope with this letter.

South African Infantry.

Cachet of 1st Infantry Brigade South African E.F. No. 01/3/2

1st Infantry Brigade Headquarters,

S.A.O.E.F.

Mex Camp. ALEXANDRIA

February 2, 1916

Lieut-Colonel Purcell, D.S.O.

Depot Battalion, South African Contingent,

Bordon, HANTS,

ENGLAND.

            With further reference to my letter of the 23rd ultimo, No. O1/3/1, and to your recent telegram regarding Officers asked for by the War Office to accompany reinforcements for the Brigade, the G.O.C. directs me to inform you that he is doing everything in his power to clear up the situation generally with regard to Officers.  He further fully realises the conditions with which you are faced and as you know you may rely upon him doing everything possible to assist you.  At the same time, to agree to a number of promotions to commissioned rank being made in the Depot Battalion of N.C.O.’s and men now in that Battalion, would mean that men who are now with the Brigade, who have proved themselves well worthy for of commissioned rank, would undoubtedly have a grievance.

The G.O.C. knows that you are as anxious as he is that vacancies in commissioned rank in the Contingent should be filled by those who have best earned promotion to that rank.

J. **** Baker

Major,

Brigade Major.

In On His Majesty’s Service envelope addressed to Lt Col Purcell D.S.O.

Depot Battalion S.A. Infantry, Bordon, Hants England.  Postmarked BASE ARMY POST OFFICE Z Dated 2 FE 16.  With 1st Infantry Brigade South African E.F. No. stamp and in pencil Official Free signature unreadable.

Wednesday

Feb 2

Dear Alan,

Just to let you know I am still very much alive, and, in the circs, everything all correct.  We are still operating in the same region, but we are anticipating much excitement in the near future.  Things are beginning to liven up considerably, rumours are as plentiful as French fleas at present, and the atmosphere is quite electrical so to speak, but anyway, everything points to the fact that the long period of waiting is nearing the end.  Mrs Leighton tells me that Dick has been home, and that you were able to be there also, which was “tres bon”, as the blighters out here would remark.  How is he, and what part of the map does he occupy at present, also what is the nature of his work?  I am still on the same old job, and getting busier every day now.  Things are alright at home, and my last letter (Jan 17) from Perce, tells me he is quite well, and is still at Hulluch.  I guess you are still having a busy time, and no doubt you have not been called up yet, on account of the nature of your work.  Is that so?  Well Goodbye old chap pro tem, hope you are keeping fit.  Kindest regards from, Yours to a cinder, Jim.

In envelope addressed to Mr A. Beesley, 28 Tower Rd, West Hill, Dartford, Kent, England.  Postmarked FIELD POST OFFICE D.37 dated 3 FE 16.  Hexagonal stamp  PASSED FIELD CENSOR 82, signed  V.A.L. Mallet.

On back of letter “Signed James R. Turner.”