SOLDIERS’ LETTERS.

Hokitika Guardian, 28 September 1917, Page 1

SOLDIERS’ LETTERS.

FROAI I.IKV'T. ANDREWS. Writing to the Veil. Archdeacon York from Avon Tyroll Hospital on 2(Hh .July. Lieut. All’ Andrews states his brother Corpl. Jim Andrews, was wounded tbe same day at AJessines. Four days later Jim died. The letter adds: "As far as I cnii learn lie. was very badly knocked about by a shell and lay out all night, being brought in by tile ’stretcher bearers. which would roh him of his chance of pulling through. I have just learned that In* was buried by a chaplain in a British military cemetery and his grave marked, which will he comforting news to those at home. Fortunately. vo three brothers met the evening preceding Messincs, for the first and last, time. Jim was as be always used to be bright, cheerful and full of courage, and T know In; died without fear, and full of faith. Air own wound was comparatively slight and is now thoroughly healed.' In another week T shall probably be sent on a fortnight's leave and then rejoin my regiment in Fra nee. I was hit by a shrapnel bullet whilst digging in. The stunt had all the usual elements of battle, carnage, shell-torn columns of men. and so on, but it is 'magnificent in many ways, and I would not have missed the experience—thousands >of men inarching calmly forward in the face of, at times murderous (ire. Yes, a thrilling experience. . . I saw a few Trinity boys occasionally. Lieut. Talbot is safe in Franco: Howard Phillips has a beliind-the-lines job through failing sight; I met Knock Klintoff in tile N.Z. Hospital at Rrockenlmrst.

The English country-side is looking its best now and very charming T find it. England, of course, is on rations, but there is little hardship.