Rev. W. Benton 227 



" It was hard lines to be moved when we had got the hon's 

 share of the work done ; however, the incoming troops will 

 benefit. The weather is very hot now and a little trying for 

 intensive training. 



" Yours to a cinder, 



" Dick Benton." 



The next letter I have before me was written to Mrs. Benton 

 by Major Magnay, 12tli Batt. Manchester Regiment. 



" B.E.F., France. 



" August 8, 1916. 



" Dear Mrs. Benton, 



" Just a short note to tell you that your husband 

 was wounded the other day. He asked me to write to you if 

 things went wrong. I am afraid he has gone through most of 

 the torments of Hell, but I consider him the most gallant 

 gentleman in the world. He knew absolutely no fear. On my 

 orders he went forward to try and reorganise after an attack 

 which had failed. Whilst on the front line he saw a wounded 

 man trying to crawl back from near the German trenches. He 

 at once went out to help him. He got him back some way 

 when both were hit by snipers, your husband in the right leg 

 below the knee. He got into a shell-hole. He was wounded 

 about 5 a.m. I sent four parties out to try and get him in, and 

 two other battalions sent out patrols at my request to bring him 

 in, but they could not find him, and when they shouted they 

 drew bombs and machine-gun fire and several men were hit. 

 Next morning your husband showed himself, and two officers 

 went out at about twelve, noon, and brought him in. I cannot 

 tell you what a relief it was to me to see him again. I have 

 known him only for three or four weeks, but in that time I 

 have come almost to worship him for what he is, and that is the 

 finest and manliest man I have ever known. 



" I am desperately sorry to have to tell you that he is 

 wounded, but I am sure that you will be relieved to have him 

 safe at home under any conditions. I am very sorry to lose his 

 services and only wish I had him with me when we go back into 

 the fight. 



" With kindest regards, 



" Yours sincerely, 



" P. W. Magnay (Major):' 



