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[Page 72]
& Lt, Campling were killed & Lt. Barlow wounded is to put it mildly indeed. I had to withdraw the company from the front trenches at once & spell the men for some days. Hardened soldiers, though they are, they felt their commander's death as though they had lost a father.
He had called his officers into his dugout to confer with the, & issue his orders when a shell smashed through. Fortunately, your son was killed instantly, but Lt. Campling lingered for some hours. Both officers were buried next day with Military honours (June 15th) & crosses erected by the men.
Lieut McCallum, & Harper despatched the valises, etc to you.
I can write no more, but believe me the officers & men of this battalion grieves with you in your great loss & extend their deepest sympathy to you & yours. And none so sincerely or so deeply as
Yours sorrowfully
R.F. FitzGerald