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sad death of your brother Bob. It came as a big blow to us because
the little time he had been with us he had been much liked by all
and I am only expressing the feelings of No.6 Platoon in this letter.
He got killed by a shell exploding near him, and death must have
been instantaneous. Several of the company laid him to rest at the
back of the line. I am sure while we are in this place his grave will
be well looked after. Poor old Bob! I knew him before the war, and I
was surprised when he joined us, but I can safely say he always did
his duty, and was always very cheerful. Please accept my deepest
sympathy. I expect all his personal belongings will be sent home. I
remain, yours sincerely. H. Dobson.” Quartermaster-Sergt. W. Wade
wrote as follows to deceased’s brother:- “Dear Sir. – I am returning
your letter which is addressed to your brother Bob. I think you have
most probably heard the sad news about him. I knew him all his
life. He had not been with us many days, but he was a favourite
with everyone. He will be missed amongst us all. He was in a dug-
out and got it blown in with a shell, and he was buried. All the men
sympathise with you in your loss, and please accept my sympathy.
Yours sincerely. W. Wade.” In addition to the above, several local
Territorial’s in the same company were wounded by shells about
the same time. Pte. Frank Cooke of Melton, was wounded in the
calf of one of his legs, Pte. Brown of Melton, was badly wounded
in the shoulder and Pte. Leach of Melton, sustained a wound in the
body one of his ribs being broken. Lance-Corpl. A. Birch, of Melton,
had the drums of both ears burst, causing complete deafness, and
Pte. Armstrong, of Sewstern was wounded in four places – one
calf, both thighs, and a scratch at the back of the head.