THE MORTUARY IN THE HÔTEL CLARIDGE
THE MATRON OF THE MILITARY HOSPITAL, ENDELL STREET.
MISS G. R. HALE, R.R.C.
(Photo, Reginald Haines)
CHAPTER VII
LES DÉFENSEURS DE NOTRE PATRIE
The rate of mortality was lamentably high, for the men coming into the hospital were not only badly wounded, but also in bad condition; and tetanus and gas gangrene, shock and sepsis claimed their victims. The recovery of the French soldiers was hindered by the painful impression made on them by the invasion of their country. In delirium or under the anæsthetic they raved of their patrie, of her beauty and of their love for her; and horror and fear of the German dominated their minds. The men who owned and loved the soil spoke on their deathbeds always and only of France. They were tormented with anxiety for her safety and welfare; and the mental agony which they endured lessened their vitality and power of resistance.
The mortuary was arranged in the hall which had been designed for a grill-room. It had a separate entrance from the street, and was lit by a beautiful ‘plafond lumière.’ Departed heroes, surrounded by flowers, lay before the temporary altar: the laurel wreath was not wanting; nor was reverent care from their countrywomen lacking.