A few extracts from letters to his Mother will reveal in a more intimate way what he experienced on the night of the 15th, and during the strenuous days which followed it. The first of them illustrates his readiness for the post of greatest danger, and the chivalry of his devotion to his friends:—
TUESDAY MORNING, JUNE 15, 1915.
When I was up in the trenches last night, I asked the Colonel if he would let me take John's place in 'A' Company, as the Quartermaster had said he would be quite willing to do his own work and the work of the Transport Section if required.... But the Colonel would not let me do it, and the Adjutant was of the same opinion, so I had to come back again.
THURSDAY EVENING, JUNE 17, 1915.
My news is not so good to-night. The Battalion attacked the enemy on Tuesday night and did splendidly, but our losses have been very heavy indeed.... A party is going up to-night to try to get some of our wounded back. I am very well, but these days have been trying ones. God has helped me wonderfully at every turn of the way, and will still lead on.
FRIDAY AFTERNOON, JUNE 18, 1915.
I am quite well though tired. I was out all night with a party at the trenches, but we all got back safely.
What is left of the Battalion is being re-organized. Captain Graham is in command meantime, and I come next, and so shall act as Adjutant.
SATURDAY, JUNE 19, 1915.
Will you please excuse only short hurried notes just now? There is a tremendous lot of work to be done in connection with the recent fight. Reports of all sorts are being called for and are all wanted at once. I am acting Adjutant and must do all I can. I don't know when I shall be able to give you any description of what took place on Tuesday night, but I shall do so as soon as I can.