1918 Letter 9
Oct. 24, [1918]
Dear Papa –
I have had another letter to-day from Hooper Baldwin, who came to see me a while ago. He says the same things as Sgt. McAlister so I do not think there is any hope at all.
I am so glad he saw Don for he got back to the troop on the 6th and the next day they went into action. It seems as if they had to fall back soon after Don was killed, for the Sgt. speaks of coming back next day ad Mr. Baldwin speaks of the Germans having taken his personal effects.
An officer who used to be with the Fort Garry told me that they got into a perfect nest of machine guns and that the losses were very heavy. But the ground where he is buried is away back of the line now.
Eric was here yesterday for a few hours, travelling all of two nights to get back in time. He is still at Seaford, 1st Can. Reserve Batt. and expects to be there for the present.
I am wondering if you have received my cable and how you and Mother are. It is much harder for you than for us, for we are among strangers and busy, while you are at home where every memory of Don will bring fresh grief. I thought at first that I couldn’t stand it, but we are very busy and I have been on duty and it has really helped me through. Eric says that he thinks the Graves Registration Committee sends a picture to every next of kin. I have written to Mrs. Torrance to find out and if so will apply in your name. She is at the Red Cross H. 2. and was very good to Don when he was here. Her own boy Don was killed last year.
I put a notice in the Times and Canada – am sending you the Times to-day.
I thought I was down as his next of kin too, but apparently not, as I was not notified when he was wounded.
Mrs. Watson, a friend of ours here has a son in hospital, a Donald too, suffering from sun stroke and shell shock. He has been like this for months now and she said last night that for his own sake she wished he had gone as our Don did.
It is poor comfort, perhaps, but it makes me thankful for I have seen so much pain and suffering.
It may be months or even years before you get his kit. If the Germans did take his things they will forward them through the Prisoners of War Committee. I think of Mother and you all the time. It will so terrible for you – at first I thought I wouldn’t cable till I had made inquiries but everyone said it looked absolutely certain and I was afraid you might get the war office telegram and be longing for further details.
I am glad that he went as he did in a charge and that he did not live to suffer for a while, and that he did not live and be blind, or disfigured or maimed or without his reason. There are so many worse things than death in this war. So do not worry if nothing comes. He had your photographs in his letter case always.
I can’t write any more just now. Dearest love to you both.
Lovingly,
Helen.