From my archives to share. A letter from Mr. Amlett, who left Morpeth on August, 2nd, to join his regiment in France at the outbreak of the war says. Dear Sir, - You will excuse me writing these few lines with pencil, but I must do, having no other means. My intention is to describe to you roughly the battles that have been taking place these last few days. The Germans, so far, as you will see have tried only to enter places that are called “open places.” This was easily done, the troopers being away from them. Unfortunately they thought they were going to Paris like to a parade until they arrived somewhat to far. They met the French troops near Bethon, where battle was delivered. Very quickly they saw or felt their mistake, as they had a determined opposition, so strong, in fact that they had to fall back with loses towards eternity. Here at Esternay, the place is somewhat hilly, therefore more suitable for them. The troops were placed into position, and the artillery protecting the infantry, 75 guns, quickly showed it’s prominence over the German artillery. The battle lasted one day, the Germans falling back all along the lines, leaving over 600 dead and wounded. But, unhappily, they had robbed all the inhabitants, and destroyed everything they could lay hands on. Their rage was transferred now to such an extent that they burned places as they were falling back, and this they did quickly towards Chateau Berfere, where another battle, of short duration, took place. Always protected by the excellence of the French artillery, the infantry took it’s formation in the woods. The guns commenced their work, and so correct was their aim that the Germans were falling right and left, the infantry in the meantime doing it’s work to great perfection and daring to such an extent that they were only about 100 yards from the Germans, who fearing very much of the charge of the bayonet, took quickly to their heels, and withdrew towards Rheims. Here the Germans had already erected some forts, but to no avail, the pursuit being too great and the spirit of the soldiers too brave. So in to Rheims, the town of Champagne, we entered on Sunday. I could not go into details, but the dead and wounded on both sides were somewhat great. It is estimated that the dead and wounded, and prisoners would be, during the ten days, about 40,000, The spirit of the French troops is excellent, and here I am writing while the shells are flying. While saying this, I must also make mention of the English, who are doing splendid in Coulomiers. An English officer, when consoling the French women, who were flying in every direction, said, “We shall avenge you.” and they did, with terrible results to the Germans. As I am writing, a shell fell 15 yards from me killing many people.
Posted on: Tue, 05 Aug 2014 19:33:53 +0000
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