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Temple, Texas, Sunday Morning, August 11, 1918 - Letters From Our Boys in the Camps and on the Firing Line - Rogers COX, son of Rev. E. V. COX, formerly pastor of the Seventh Street Methodist Church here, and now stationed at the Polytechnic, Fort Worth, in connection with the Texas Woman's college, was in the battle when the marine stormed and captured Bouresches, near Chateau Thierry, last June. Young COX enlisted in the marines May 24, 1917, when he was not quite 19 years of age. The New York Herald, telling of the work done by COX and his companions, led by Lieut. LEONARD, said: "LEONARD went into that fight with a platoon of forty-three men. He came out with four men and himself. He went in to do a specific thing and did it." COX was wounded in the battle mentioned above, as he says in a letter written to his parents. His mother received a letter from him last week, in which he said he had been sent to Boston for an operation, and would have a thirty day furlough in which to visit home. An extract from the letter follows: "Am in hospital with wound from boche machine gun in right arm. We made a great attack and got our position O. K. We faced row after row of machine guns from huns, best troops, but we went on through. We are all proud of our success but the marines always win. "As I have no use of my right hand at all I don't know how well you can read this, but I'll do my best. We went after the boche in the open and got him on the run, and although they have counter attacked time after time since, they have been unable to gain an inch on our lines. The old marine corps gave the Kaiser's bet troops an awful beating, and they realize it and are trying to come back at us. Our men were as cool as if they were lining up for a hypo. Of course, some were scared a little, but some people are scared of a hypo. We went into battle trust into Almighty God to guide us through. The number of wounded was rather heavy, but for every man wounded there were two Germans dead and two wounded. Lieutenant LEONARD was my lieutenant and I was one of the last four with him, but had to fall before the work was done. I am transferring to another hospital tomorrow for further treatment. I have muscular paralysis and have no use of my right hand at all. It looks pretty serious to me, but guess an operation will bring it round all right. I hope I can soon rejoin my company. The Red Cross is certainly doing fine work over here. Too much praise cannot be laid to them."

From Russell HARRIS-A. T. HARRIS, who has recently located in this city is in receipt of a letter from his son, Russell, now serving with the American forces in France. The letter, dated July 2, 1918, says, in part: "I wonder how you will spend the Fourth? Suppose you have left for the south by this time. I am hitting the ball every day. My foreman was sick for three days and I held down his job. I would like to tell you how many trucks I shipped, but of course I can't. Anyhow, it was a plenty. I was in charge of three storage parks, and for these three days everything went smooth, not a bobble, and the trucks and touring cars rolled along to whip the boche all day long. Lots of the men, and especially the officers, felt rather shaky about me, but I showed them at least one man they though indispensable could get sick without stopping the war. Remember that phrase and I will explain it about a year from now. I must hit the hay. That' no lie; it is hay, too, and not any too fine at that. I have a place near here where I go to get a few eggs fried and a bowl of milk at a private family's. You should see the eggs being prepared at the fireplace. It's worth the trip over just to see that. "I convoyed a train of trucks, with Frenchmen driving them, out of town Sunday. I had a big touring car and sure needed to keep that wild bunch going."

A Letter From Maloy HUFF-Grover HUFF has just received a letter from his brother, Maloy, who has been in service in France for several months. He is a member of the Fifty-eighth United States infantry. Much of the letter is of a purely personal nature, but through it he gives some interesting sidelights on France. He says: "This is, to my notion, a very pretty country, though it is very far behind the times in some ways. Although it has been in war for four years, it does not look as though it has been in war very long. In fact I have seen but a very little of the country that shows much signs of the war, and the crops are as good here as I almost ever saw." Then, after telling about receiving a letter from another brother who is in the aviation section, and expressing his regrets that he was not also a flyer, he adds: "Say but I wish you would send me a few pounds of chewing tobacco, as we are strictly up against it for tobacco here. We can get but a very little bit, and what we do get is not good and costs like sixty." Mr. HUFF is an old Bell County boy, a brother of Arnold HUFF, and is one of three brothers now in the service. He is from the Belfalls section.

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August 18, 1918-Letters From Our Boys in the Camps and on the Firing Line-The following letter has just been received by the Daily Telegram from a bunch of Bell County boys, now in France, but "somewhere on the Atlantic" when the letter was written: On the Atlantic, July 21, 1918, Editor Telegram, Temple, Texas - Dear Mr. Editor:-Just a word from a few Bell County boys. We are enclosing a copy of our paper, printed on board ship, which is all we have to take the place of the welcome old Temple Telegram which we use to get at home, and also while in camp at Camp Bowie. We are all getting along fine so far, but we are anxious to see some land. Hope we will see some in a few days. Will write a letter for the Telegram later: Signed. Thurman MORGAN, Pendleton; Jesse H. SAFLEY, Pendleton; Corp. Ralph EUBANKS, Holland; Corp. Jesse WHALEY, Temple. Members 141st Ambulance Co. Enclosed with this letter was a copy of the "Hatchet," the little newspaper printed on board. It contains brief wireless bulletins from the war front, the following, dated July 22, being a sample:

Victory Comes to Allies-Germans flee across Marne. Crushed by fierce attack. French troops rushing forward on Ainse front capture twenty thousand prisoners. Crown prince burning towns and moving supplies back from Chateau Thierry area. Enemy being torn by artillery. Battle grows in violence, allied forces attacking everywhere. British going with French on Marne. No Germans remain south of the Marne except prisoners.- And then, on July 26, when the ship was evidently approaching the submarine danger zone, the following order was printed in the little shipboard newspaper: Order-Beginning Saturday morning, July 27, all persons on board must remain fully dressed and must have life belts and filled canteens with them at all times. Visiting between army and navy officers is prohibited. The latter are to be either at or near their stations or in their rooms. All persons are to remain on deck as much as practicable, and each one is to consider himself a lookout and report anything and everything in sight through the nearest lookout station at once. No precaution is too small to be omitted and no report is trivial. Safety first, Last and all the time depends on the keenness of the lookouts.-Captain, U. S. Navy, Commanding-

Was Soloist With Noted Evangelist-While good singers are not rare in Camp Travis organizations, the 47th Company, 12th Battalion, 165th Depot Brigade, has a "find" in Private Charles B. CLARK, who recently came into the company. For eight years Private CLARK traveled throughout the country with some of the leading evangelists of the day. For four years, he was with J. C. Green of Chicago as soloist and choir leader, and later he was with G. A. KLEIN, another evangelist of some note. The daily song period, sometime under the direction of Sergt. Herbert WALL, has put a lot of life into the bunch, and plans are bring discussed for an entertainment to be given in the near future, when the company talent can be displayed.(Mr. CLARK, mentioned above, will be remembered as having sung during a meeting in Temple, and he has many admirers here)

Arrives Overseas-Mrs. J. Tom MORGAN of Route 1, Temple, has received a card from her son, Thurman M. MORGAN, stating that he is now in France, having arrived safely overseas. He is member of Ambulance Company No. 141. A letter from the boys in this company, written enroute across the Atlantic, appears elsewhere in this issue.

Sergt. SMITH Overseas-First Sergt. Lewis F. SMITH of Temple has informed his relatives here that he has arrive safely overseas Sergeant SMITH joined the army last September.

To Medical College-Belton, Sept. 27.-Virgil STOVALL left today for Galveston after a short visit with his mother, where he will enter the medical college there. Virgil has tried hard to do active service for Uncle Sam, he joined the navy last year, and being turned down for over sea duty, he was stationed at Washington for work, but has recently been honorably discharged because of physical disability. He will enter the medical college at Galveston where he was studying before joining the navy.

Leaving For Houston-Belton, Oct. 5-L. T. NEELEY and his family are leaving tonight for Houston, where they will make their future home. Mr. NEELEY has been in Houston some time, as has also the oldest son, Milton and they are now moving their household goods, and expect to live there in the future.

Six Sons in the Service Shortly-R.C. DAMERON, living near Belton, has three over there-e more ready-Belton, Aug. 17-R.C. DAMERON, Belton, R. 3 received a card from his son, John H. DAMERON stating that "The ship on which I sailed has arrived safely over seas." Mr. DAMERON has two more sons in the service, Joe R. DAMERON in the navy in California, Robert Lee DAMERON, field artillery, San Antonio, and three other sons who are just waiting their call, six sons, all of whom will be in the service presently. Mr. DAMERON has only one daughter whose husband is already in the services. This is a sufficient showing for one family, and it is not necessary to say that Mr. and Mrs. DAMERON are buying Liberty Bonds and War Savings Stamps with every penny they can possibly spare.

Temple Boys on Soldier Train-Manly BAKER, son of Mrs. and Mrs. W. H. BAKER, and Eldred WILLIS son of Mrs. and Mr. W. E. WILLIS are known to have been two Temple boys on the soldier train which passed through Temple Monday night. Arthur BAKER brother of Manley, was killed in action in France not long ago; Manley is going over to get the Hun who killed him, or his next door neighbor. Young WILLIS is with a telegraph battalion. Harry BLAIR, a Belton boy, was also on the train.

King DOZIER received, the following letters from his son, Walter, who is in France:  "Dear Mother and Dad-Have not heard from you in a long time now. I am just aching for a letter from home. I want you to send Bill COX and me papers from home at every chance. Hoping that this will catch you all well, I will write again in a few days."

Dear Mother and Dad-I wrote you a letter two or three days ago, but true to my promise, I am writing at every chance I get. I received a very interesting letter from a little girl I met during our short stay in New York. Believe me a letter from anyone sure looks good now. Bill had one from his sister and it sure made me feel bad because I did not get one, but I know that I can trust you to write as often as possible. "I see some of my old friends over here very often. Some of those whom I have seen have been over here for eleven or twelve months. Another thing of interest that I have not mentioned before is German prisoners. I have seen some of them at work. Instead of daily newspapers in the villages here they have a man called the town crier. He has a trumpet and ensembles the people and tells them about the market and the war news. Tell all my old friends "Hello". I hope to be back and go to some more parties and dances in the near future.

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Hunting Submarines-E.Q. L. HARTMANN received the following letter: Aug 28, 1918, My Dear Uncle Emil:  The last time I wrote was just before I finished the U. S. N. electrical class. I got through there with flying colors and took up another course in higher electricity and also a course on submarine detecting devices at New London, Conn., and I flatter myself that on the final "exams" I made highest honors. From there I was sent to Philadelphia and then across the "Pond" to England, where I went aboard one of the famous "trawlers" and where I am at present, doing patrol and submarine hunting around the British Isles. The very first night I was in England I traveled from Liverpool into the midst of a heavy air raid on London. I only saw one or two of the elusive hun others but heard their boom; also the anti-aircraft guns. It seems that every time I go to London the huns take a particular delight in giving me a warm reception. I have never been there but once when they did not raid the town at 11:20 p.m. sharp and that was the last time I was there. Perhaps when I go again they shall make up for lost time. I spent a short leave in Aberdeen, Scotland, not long ago and enjoyed it very much. I like the Scotch people, they are not so cold and inhospitable as the English. It may be that I had the good fortune to meet just the right ones but at any rate I can certainly recommend the little city of Aberdeen as one of the best places to see, and also the surrounding country of any in the British Isles. I also spent some time in Dundee, Edinborough, Perth and Therso and have yet to see the wonderful city of Glosgow, which I think I shall visit very soon. And while I'm naming places I have seen I don't think it would be right to leave out the Orkney and Shetland Islands, where I have spent a great deal of my time. The next time you hear from me I might be somewhere in the Mediterranean sea. My experience convinces me that they were right when the said: "Join the navy and see the world through a porthole." "I can't say any thing of my duties except that I'm helping to lessen the list of torpedoed ships. I have written more now than I intended to. Hope this is not too much of a bore to you and beg of you to answer and have "Miss Bea" to write to me and tell me all about Louise. With love to all and best of wishes I am, Fred D. WHITING, U. S. N. England.

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Germans Well Cared For-Mrs. J. P. TAYLOR of Moffat has sent the following from her son: Somewhere in France, Aug. 25, 1918. -Mr. Dearest Home Folks:   You will pardon me for not writing when I tell you I haven't had time. I have been on the move most of the time since I wrote to you last. I have been in the best of health, but I got oh, so tired riding on the terribly slow trains. You can imagine what riding in a box car half the size of the cars in the states would be like when I tell you there were forty men with heavy packs and rifles riding in the one car. The French don't handle trains near so rapidly as we do at home. I spent five days and nights in one car, but of course, we were not moving all the time. I spent my first day on hike yesterday. I made it all right, although it was a twenty-eight or thirty kilometer hike with old men. Of course you are anxious to know if I am getting plenty to eat. Yes, I am getting plenty good, substantial food. I think I am still holding my own in weight, although I haven't weighed since I left the states. I weighed 145 pounds the day before I left the states. So you can see there is no use to worry about me; if you are all getting along as well as I am we are all right. It has been more than a month since I've had a letter from any one and I don't expect to get one for another month longer. But I should worry; we are licking the Kaiser and that is what we are here for. We are all hoping to be home before this time next year, and I am confident we will. I have seen many, many German prisoners since I've been here and they all seem to be happy; they are prisoners in the good care of the Americans and French. They are well cared for and don't work any harder than we boys do. I would love to hear from home and know that you are all well. I guess you are beginning to get busy with the cotton picking. I hope there is a good crop. How is Thelma getting along? I'm writing to her so she won't think I've forgotten her. With much love and best wishes to you all, I close. Lovingly, Walter L. TAYLOR.

"If I Get Back"-France, Sept. 5, 1918- Mrs. A. G. JOHNSON -Dear Sister and Family-I will drop you a few lines, hoping to find everybody O. K. as this leaves me the same. I received your letter a few days ago, dated July 7, and was glad to hear from you. I don't want you to worry over me if you don't hear from me very often, for I am in no more danger than I was before I left home and you know it takes mail some time to get to you from me. I have had $10 a month made to you. It may be some time before you start receiving it, but when it does start it will come O. K. Put it away for me, so I won't be flat broke when I get back to God's country. Answer soon and tell me all the news. With love, Private John K. VANCE.

Climate Like California.-Sunshine Division- Dear Mother:  Arrived here all O. K. and was sure glad to get here as it was a tiresome trip across. We had fine weather all the way. I was sick one day and that was the third day out. We stopped at Niagara Falls, at 4 o'clock in the morning and walked down to see the falls and they sure were pretty. We stayed in New York three days and that was enough, as it was 120 in the shade and no shade. After we got out to sea it got cool and we had it rather nice. This sure is a pretty country here and the climate is something like California. I sure have seen some funny sights. Give everybody's my love. Answer soon-Corp. Everette R. FOREMAN(Note by submitter: Everrett R.FOREMAN was Nannie's son)

Couldn't Get Censor-In France, Sept. 2, 1918 - Dear Mother: I guess you think I have forgotten you for neglecting writing but our stay in one place has been so short it was impossible to get a letter censor. So don't every worry when you fall to hear from me every week. Everything is fine, have not been sick one day since I have been over here, and am really enjoying myself, seeing many interesting sights, especially the air battles. We watch them all day. Joe A. and I just got back from where some of the enemy shells hit, but they did no damage; only left a hole in the ground. Have not seen Johnnie LIPPS in some time, but am going to the first chance I get. Mother , now in a few days I will have been in the army one year. Time certainly flies by, but if things keep moving like the last month I will be home when September comes again. Mother, I have written about as much as I am permitted to write, so I had better close Tell everybody "Hello" for me. Will write to all as soon as I can. How are brother and Olive? Tell him to write me a long letter and write all the news in good old Texas. Love to all- Henry CROCKER

Mrs. M. L. BERRY received the following letter from her brother J. F. BARSHER, of the U. S. S. Michigan:  Dear Sister-I enjoy your letters very much and also those letters the "Telegram." There are so many of the old Bell County boys in the service that I used to know, that they are all interesting. I often wonder where my old friend Frank GRIMES is located. You know he used to be with the Telegram. The last I heard of him was in 1914 when he was with the Brenham Daily Banner Press. The letter from Friend B. F. SAUNDERS was doubly interesting to me. He puts in such beautiful and forceful language, what we all feel, though so few of us are able to express in words. Yes, this in an interesting life, though hard. We have a saying "It's a great life if you don't weaken." It gets very monotonous at times with the constant watching and looking. There are times when the boys pray for anything, to break the tension, times when we enjoy the boys in the trenches using their chance to express their love for the huns, with bayonets. We have no mud to contend with, but if after one storm at sea, you wouldn't''' choose old mother earth wet or dry, I am terribly mistaken. We are having the first cold storm of the season. Cold driving wind and rain. But rain or shine, its just the same sailor. We are here to do the job, without grumbling, and when it is through, we all hope to go back to home and friends, and enjoy all the peace and prosperity we have earned. "I suppose all American boys are afflicted, more or less with the wanderlust. It is my opinion that this war will teach millions of us to appreciate home life, as we never did before. "Do you know, Sis, I like the east and the eastern cities much better than I did at first. They are great but old Texas will always have the first place in my heart, and Bell County, the place of my birth, will always be dear to me.

Gas Masks-Mrs. C. W. PEYTON received the following letter from her nephew, Peyton A. ELLISON: - Dear Aunt May: We were fortunate in not suffering any casualties from gas accidents or otherwise, while we were on the front line a while back. We are now some distance back from the lines. Some of the men from our company are housed in rough houses and the rest of us are outside in shelter tents, which I prefer to the crowded inside. It has been raining quite a deal lately; but the tent leaked only a trickle and not enough to matter. The only thing is the mud, a red, sticky mud. But we are out in it only a little. I am writing this in my gas mask outfit and this is none too smooth as it is being knocked about quite a lot. We carry them constantly swinging from our shoulders. We certainly drill with them a lot. And they certainly are unpleasant to wear, exceedingly so. I only had mine on for about an hour or close to it. Allied and German planes are constantly in battle and I hear one overhead now. I must close as the censor prefers only four pages.

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Has a Great Big Time-B.F. WILSON of Little River received the following letter from his son, Willie F. WILSON - Dear Father: At last we are about ready to get busy; have turned in all extra clothing and only have what we can carry with us all the time. There is no doubt but what we will be on the go most of the time. We hope to be in the big drive not more than two weeks from now and hope to be among the first to capture a German town, which cannot be long off. Dad, you ask me a lot of questions that I cannot answer until I see you but the duty o the ammunition train is to supply the artillery with all kinds of ammunition. The training is divided into two sections; the motor section and the horse section. So it is the duty of men at the motor headquarters to be able to fill in anywhere in the train, as they should be able to ride a bicycle. Motorcycle, drive a touring car or any kind of truck. I believe I can do anything they have to do. The infantry is in the front line, the trench mortars are next, then the artillery composed of "75's then of "155," then the ammunition supply train., etc. We have been in the same barracks for two days now, the longest that I have ever been in one place yet, but we will be doing our hit before you receive this. Everything looks good for the allies and especially for the Americans and we are anxious to take part in the big American drive which you will soon be reading about. The allies are now about two miles from the Rhine in the lower part of the Alsace-Lorraine sector. So if necessary they can cross down the Swiss border and come up the other side, but watch us go straight across to one of the important German bases before many moons. We surely are prepared to do so as soon as we get the word, and will have orders to advance soon. Everybody is surely enthusiastic over the outlook. I can tell you lots about France in my next letter, but all I can say now is that it certainly is cold at night, but we will keep warm and dry with plenty of clothes. We work at night and have a cool place to sleep in the daytime. Sure am feeling fine and eating lot; had hot cakes and maple syrup and two eggs for breakfast. I won't tell you what we had for dinner yesterday for fear that it might make you want to come over here too. In fact we just have a great time all the time like a bunch of fellows out on a hunting trip with Uncle Sam for boche game."

Mrs. S. D. COX has received the following letter from her son, Ben COX, who is in the U.S. naval aviation somewhere in France. - Dearest Mother, Daddy, and All: Mother you can't imagine what the Red Cross is doing for us. Talk about the Y. M. C. A. doing worlds for the boys over here; the Red Cross ought to get 100 percent more credit than they do. Yes, they get lots of credit and believe me, it is enough for the men over here. But when the Red Cross nurses come over to help bear the troubles and on top of that, they have a regular home for us any and everywhere. I say people can not do half enough for the Red Cross organization. It ought to head the list one hundred times more than the others. You may tell the Red Cross workers there that we think that there is no other organization in the world that can compare with it; and even if it only gets half the praise it should now, we all praise it over here. The Red Cross will certainly have the praise when we all come home. I could compare it with any other organization in the world and the others would not be in the race at all. I am glad that your Red Cross workers are dong so much, for I can see what it means. When we look at the Red Cross it reminds us of life and of what the people at home are doing for us, and we all love it."

Johnny Evers, one of the greatest players in the history of baseball and beloved by fandom the country over, is prepared to do his bit to help wipe the Hun off the face of the earth. Having passed beyond the big league spotlight after years of brilliant service, Trojan Johnny is soon to leave for France as a representative of the Knights of Columbus assigned to the important task of furnishing baseball entertainment for the men in arms. The boys behind the lines in Flanders and Picardy are going to have plenty of baseball to take their minds off the grim subject of war if the arrangements of Johnny EVERS are consummated. He has worked for a number of weeks arranging a scheme by which he hopes to have leagues composed of soldier players in all of the American army camps "Over there."

Captain John P. HURLEY, of the old Sixty-ninth infantry, now the 165th infantry, is reported as among the first to cross the River Oureq in the fierce fighting in France. Captain HURLEY had been a member of the old New York Sixty-ninth for seven years and won his commission as captain two years ago. He served on the Mexican border and went to France with the Rainbow Division. In an action last March he was gassed and slightly injured.

Safe Overseas-Belton, Oct. 3.-Mr. and Mrs. R.E. TULLOCH have received a cablegram stating that their son, Robert E. TULLOCH, has arrived safely in England.

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Letters From Our Boys in the Camps and on the Firing Line-Enjoys Forbidden Fruit.- Sept. 5, 1918 Dear Ones at Home: It is now Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. and soon will be time for chow, but will at least get this started ere then and may be will be able to finish it later. Wish I could write you every day but as that is impossible, must be satisfied to write less often. Can understand your anxiety when you fail to hear from me for several weeks, but at present it cannot be helped. One sometimes writes a letter and then wears it our carrying it around in his pocket. Came in at 3 a.m. today after having been absent from the company for day and two nights, both of which were sleepless, to find the mail man had not entirely lost rack of us. I'm sure he has to keep almost constantly on the job in order not to do so. Among them were two from you dated July 22 and Aug10; two from Jack, one from Ira and one from Bob. When a soldier-in France is handed such a bundle of letters it makes the sun shine for him even though outside 'tis dark and dreary and the rain pattering incessantly on the roof o'er head as is the case now. Am pretty sleepy, so if I wander off you must not be surprised. When I get home, think I'll want to sleep about four days and nights. Then you may shoot me full of questions if you like. We see quite a bit of excitement here. Some of the incidents will probably interest you, if I can manage to remember them. It is pretty cool here at night, though the days are pleasant enough. Imagine me the other night waiting at a certain cross road, to guide some trucks to a wooded camp, rolled in a blanket, once in a while a star twinkling through an opening in the hazy clouds, above, and occasional hoot of owl or a dull boom from the distance. There I lay and shivered into the wee hours of the night, finally hearing the hum of a motor coming up the road and knowing my vigil would soon be ended, but not my work for the night for I was guiding through woods so dense one strains his eyes trying to see all in vain. Might as well have em shut-one has to feel his way. But this isn't so bad after you get used to it. We're in a very pretty country now, lots of tall trees and heavy undergrowth. Can go out to the opening and see for miles, other hills, valleys winding about among them, little sleeping villages nestling, as it were, under their sheltering wings. Perhaps they're deserted. You ask if we have any fruit. Two weeks ago we were stationed at a certain place where blackberries grow wild. Woods were full of them just getting ripe, great big luscious berries. Some one would manage for a can of milk and sugar occasionally. Then a feast there would be. Off in a valley was an orchard of all kinds of fruits out of zone and forbidden. Some of them had ripened an gone, some still green. Among those remaining and ripe was a little yellow plum, sweet, a fine flavor and no one to gather them. Took out foraging patrols several times. Filled our helmets, all tin cans and buckets that were available. Strange how forbidden fruit is always sweetest, be the penalty ever so great , but we were fortunate to have no bad luck and came out OK and now I suppose other troops are eating in our Eden. Seems to be a fruit country here. See a valley stretching away for miles nothing but orchards and grape vineyards. Grapes are green but hanging in great clusters. We're anxiously looking forward to the time when they'll be ripening. Though withdrawn from their midst at present, hope to be back again soon. The woods are full of hazel nuts, but seems they'll never get ripe. Guess its best, not to have everything all at once anyhow, and we'll have them to eat on this winter. Had my first chance to take a bath and do my washing other day, in three weeks. Went down to a little creek about a mile away, did washing on a flat rock lying in edge of water. Ice would have had no effect on the water, unless perhaps would have made it warmer, so you may imagine bathing in same. Nothing less than a divisional order could induce me to take another, unless, "liked to have forgotten," cooties might before next summer. Was certainly sorry to hear you had no rain. I took cold week or so ago but getting better now. A mess kit makes a very poor writing desk and my pencil is short. Give every one my regards. Will write often as I can. Love to all. Sergt. Barney B. BRADLEY.

Admires "Temple Brigade-Dear Dad: I guess everything is all off in regard to my furlough as we took overseas examination a week ago. We are fixing up our place to turn over to "Home Guards;" putting lumber on the tent frames and covering that with tar paper. I think they are going to have pretty warm berths this winter. Perhaps if we do not go across I can come home about Christmas. Hope so anyhow. Looks like the war is going to end sometime in the near future. Seems like you and I will never get to participate in any real warfare, doesn't it? When I get out I'm never going to tell anyone that I was in the army for fear they'll ask me what part of France. You know I think that page in the Temple Telegram for letters from soldiers is a good thing. The "Temple Brigade" in France sure do write some interesting letters. I am going to buy a $100 Liberty Bond if they'll let me on the installment plan, so I can buy me a new civilian outfit. Do you think this war will last another year? Well so long for this time.-Affectionately yours.

Back From the Front-The following letter has been received by Miss Opal MCGUIRE from her brother, Wesley F. MCGUIRE - Dear Sis: Well we are back in the rest camp, but I don't know how long I will stay here. It is raining nearly all the time, and is pretty cold this morning. "Say, I never did hear from Mr. ELLIOTT. I heard that either Chris or Mike was wounded. When you write me, be sure to tell me which one it was. We only had one man to get hit while we were on the line and he never stopped work. So you see we got out pretty lucky, but I dropped a piece of timber on my left foot and sprained my ankle. It is still stiff and sore and it is the foot that I split open with the axe a few years ago and I guess it hurt the place again. Well we are pushing "Jerry" on every side and corner now, and I don't see how he can stick much longer but then he may hold all winter. There is one thing we can tell and that is that he is getting the worst of it everywhere. I guess Jim feels lost way down in Florida, but it is better than being over here in this mud and war. The two together make a mess. "O Gee! There are apple trees all around us, and with apples on them. But they are green and I ate some which I do not think were very sweet. I think this would be a pretty country over here if there was no war, but that spoils all. But there is one good thing about the war and that is that it is worse for the "Jerries" than it is for us. He gets twelve to fifteen shells back for every one that he sends over our lines."

French Are Starving-Norfolk, Va. Oct. 14, 1918, Koneta Villa, Temple Texas - Dear Friends: I though you might like to know what I am doing. I am doing transport duty on a United States ship, taking soldiers to France. I have been over twice and guess will sail again soon. We hardly ever see a submarine but we sank one some time back. Believe me we have some expert gunners on our ship. They are the prize gunners of the navy. France is surely a ruined place. The people haven't anything to eat or wear. Every one you see is begging for a little money or something to eat. We bring back a few wounded and shell shocked soldiers every trip. They are all cheerful enough and not moaning about the future. I am firing, and believe me, it is some tough job. We are about twenty feet below the water line when we are at work. We don't get much credit as we are not in the trenches or in the gun crew, but just the same we are dong our bit. Give my regards to my friends and tell them to write. Thos. L. DYE. U. S. S. Aeolus, Care Postmaster, New York

Book 1 page 233

Morning, October 17, 1918-Dick SHANKLIN is Influenza Victim-Prominent Man of Belton Dies in Army Camp After Short Illness-Belton, Oct. 16-a telegram received late this evening announced the death of Dick SHANKLIN which occurred in Camp Joseph E. JOHNSTON today. Nal SHANKLIN, father of Dick, received a message yesterday stating that Dick was seriously sick and the family has been in the greatest anxiety since receiving this message. Dick SHANKLIN was for many years a clerk in the Belton National Bank, where his cheerful nature, and efficient ability made him a general favorite. He volunteered several months ago for the quartermaster corps and along with several other boys was sent to Camp Joseph E. JOHNSTON, where he has been stationed ever since, and it was a great disappointment to him his friends state, when he was not sent to France when some of his comrades were sent over. The body will be sent to Belton for burial, but arrangements cannot be made yet because of the uncertainty of the date of its arrival.

Infant Dies-Belton, Oct. 15-Friends will be grieved to learn that little William Lee SCHNELLE came to Mr. and Mrs. Will SCHENELLE in Dallas this morning and remained only a few hours. Mrs. SCHNELLE, who will be remembered as Miss Mary MILLER, is in a very serious condition suffering with pneumonia. The body of the deceased infant will be brought to Temple tomorrow accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. MELAIN, and will arrive on the Texas special, where they will be met by Belton friends, who will accompany the party to Belton. Interment will be in the North Belton cemetery as soon as the party arrives from Temple.

John Rogers MILLER Dead-Belton, Oct. 1-Relatives here have been notified of the death of John Rogers MILLER which occurred last Wednesday in one of the northern training camps, death caused from Spanish influenza. John Rogers is the second to the oldest child of Mr. and Mrs. Will MILLER and is remembered most kindly by many Belton people. He is a nephew of Bess MILLER of Belton, and has many other relatives here.

WILLIAMS-THOMPSON-Belton, Oct. 16-Columbus THOMPSON of Troy and Katherine WILLIAMS of Eddy, were married today by Judge D. S. SAFELY in the county clerk's office.

Pneumonia Cases-Belton, Oct. 16-Mrs. Geo. W. COLE, Mrs. W. J. KENNEDY and Mrs. Roy MORGAN (Katherine RAMSEY) are all in the sanitarium suffering with pneumonia. All these patients had had influenza and recovered from it but later developed pneumonia. All are in serious condition.

Situation Not Improved-Belton, Oct. 16-Dr. M. P. MCELHANNON, county health officer, reported this evening that the influenza situation here remains about the same, no better, but no worse seemingly. He has had no report from over the county today but is of the opinion that all conditions are no worse, and no starling number of new cases developed.

Belton Celebrates Her Loan Victory-Went over the Top Yesterday, with some to Spare Harry COCHRAN is Happy-Belton, Oct16.-The fire whistles carried the glad tidings tonight at 7:15 that Belton had gone over the top in the Fourth Liberty Loan. The drive was one of the most successful one day drives ever held in Belton and there was great rejoicing in the local camp when the totals had been completed and it was found that the town had come across. It was a determined set of men and women who gathered this morning on the court house square and listened to an address by Dr W. M. W. SPLAWN of Baylor College. Dr. SPLAWN compared the gathering to the old volunteer bucket brigade that had stopped fire destruction of many buildings, he said that the important position of the man in the well might; aptly be compared with the bond buyers here at home, and he said just as the man who dipped the water then ceased work caused the whole brigade to stop, so with us now, if money is not put up to equip properly the young men who have gone the whole army mechanism will be of no avail. The ladies who had been placed on committees under the direction of Mrs. A. C. BAUER took various districts in town, and it is due largely to their efforts that Belton reached her goal tonight. The men went into the country around Belton, and worked that territory, and many of them brought in a most encouraging report. At Salado the committee there met with one zealous patriotic woman who had $100 and she said she would buy a hundred dollar bond. The committee informed her that she by lending her credit could well afford to buy a five hundred dollar bond. The lady agreed to that, and said if Belton lacked any more having her quota when the totals were run, she would then take an additional five hundred dollar bond. The committees have worked faithfully and those who have been carrying the burden so heavily imposed for the past weeks are rejoicing tonight the Belton went "Over the top."

Book 1 page 234

Letters From Our Boys in the Camps and on the Firing Line-September 30, 1918-Mrs. Leslie ELIOT received the following letters from her son, Chris, who has been on the firing line in France for many months.

Dear Mother: I have written you whenever it is possible and more often than you have received them it seems. Mike should be out of school by now, but I have not his new address. We have been through many things since I wrote to you last, and more than I can tell about. I am sending home a five mark bill that I took myself. I have an Iron Cross in my pocket too. I have other curios such as knives, pistols, beits, buttons etc., but can't send them. I have put in for a seven days leave now and if I get it, I may have my picture taken for you. What did you think of the drive? If they keep that up, will be home soon. Will write a better letter soon."

Dear Mother:  I never had a much better time than I am having now; we are down in a valley in the mountains on a seven day pass. There is a lake a sulphur spring. And more pretty females than I ever saw in one spot in all my short life. It seems as if all of the best looking girls in France are here to entertain us. Also there are good old American girls here; in fact, there is every nationality. I danced with one last night and I never had a better dance nor more enjoyable conversation. Afterwards, I was told that she was Italian. Some Place. There are men here from all over the United States and France, too. What is sister's address? Do you want a hun helmet or anything in the line of souvenirs.? Place your orders in early for the rush. I already have an Iron Cross that I took on a very famous battle field. I think that Mike will be assigned to the front soon. Will write and tell you more about it soon."

Mrs. ELIOT also received this letter from her other son in France, Mike - Dear Mother: Do you realize that it will soon be one year since I sailed from New York and that Chris has been in France for more than on year? Time do fly and things do change. I am about the same old "boyman" as I was a year ago, but Chris is much more man than boy than he was a year ago. Mother you ought to be proud of him, I know what he has been through and that he has made good more than I have. I am second lieutenant and he is corporal, but he has proved himself, to be all man. Our outfit had some hard times just after I left it being subject to three __res for destruction (as the citation says) and they acted nobly __time they were ordered to leave their guns and did and then volunteers were asked for to go back and man the guns under fire. Chris went back, and they stayed there three days under fire. I think Chris and the others were recommended for the Distinguished Service Cross on account of this (the man telling me was not sure and did not know whether they got them or not, but they were cited anyway. I think because they took the boys name and took a record of the fact and some other things which they did; such as repairing two or three telephone lines under fire. (Chris is a telephone man and has nothing to do with the guns) That old son of yours is not afraid of anything. I heard that they were off the line for a rest. The took part in the advance Soissons, and Rheims and were in some of the heaviest fighting near Soissons. One day they advanced more than fifteen kilometers. At times they used open sights and point blank and battery "A" got credit for capturing a battery of 77's the infantry did not have time. The German dead were so numerous that they had to move bodies when they advance to take up new positions in order to have place for their guns. Chris has several Iron Crosses which the Kaiser did not intend for him, but which he deserves. Almost all the men in the battery have two pistols, one American and one German. And the battery had two or three German machine guns which they had captured and used against the German airships. Of course I feel that I have made good in getting a commission, but I feel like a blooming two year old kid when I think of what Chris had been through. I am with a good outfit and I think that you will hear from us when we get to the front, if my old outfit and Chris does not end the war before we get there. All this news came from a man who was with Chris up until July 27."

Doesn't Like France-Sept 22, 1918-Somewhere in France-  Mrs. Lee WERST care Telegram - Dear Weenie: Have been over for awhile now and just thinking of you would write you a few lines. Haven't run across Mike yet but guess he is here somewhere. Don't like this place they call France. Would rather be in Bowie in the dust that we went through. The women you hear so much about are nix. All they know is "Oui, Oui." The paint up and then they can't look like our women and all this you hear about the good looking women is a joke. It is raining like h___, so it makes a fellow feel blue. If I could get some real old "Rippy" today, well, we used to get it, didn't we? They have beer here, but they serve it flat and not cold. Also, wine, cider and champagne water and we can buy all we want provided our francs last long enough. First Class Private Frank Rex BYRD is sprouting a mustache and also "Doc" KEMMONS. He is in our band. This is some bunch to be around and they always are wishing to be around a big porterhouse steak and some hot biscuits and butter. So what is the use to worry? When we get old Bill we will bring home the bacon. Hope to snag a barrel or two some of these days. Well, how is Midget, Clarke and Little Mabel? Tell Old Sam I will take a few for him today. Regards to all the Telegram bunch and you. I bet to remain a friend, Set. Gus A NELSON, P. S.-Had some trip to New York, the Bowery, Fifth avenue, Broadway, etc. Did not get seasick on our trip across the pond. Tell all the boys to write me and I'll answer all. G. A. N.

Mrs. Rose MALINA has received the following letters from her son, John MALINA, who is with the Canadians in France. Dear Mother: I received your letter a few days ago, but being busy with the big push, I did not have time to write. We were going day and night for over a week, over shell torn roads and believe me it is no fun going over roads that, have been bloused up by Fritz, when you might fall in a hole any minute, truck and all. I think I will close as I have to get ready for tonight. We are going over some more good roads (n.t) with no lights and the night will be as dark as pitch."

Dear Mother: I am OK at the present time, but we are having a hot time of it as it is now like it was four months ago in the big push. We are going day and night over roads that have been captured and are full of mines and shell holes, and every once in a while a shell comes -wiz down the road. The road is full of traffic and you have to take it until it becomes too hot, and then for the dugout. I wish I could explain everything. I guess you are reading about the big push and can figure out where I am. I am going to get a furlough soon and I don't know where I will go yet, but I would like to got to Paris, England or Rome. I have been around Paris but if I go to Rome, I will pass through Paris. It takes three days to go to Rome and only two to go to England or Paris. I will let you know where I am going.

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Letters From Our Boys in the Camps and on the Firing Line-September 24, 1918. -Enough of "Light Wines"-J. Lee WERST has received a letter from his brother Corporal Frank R. WERST, who is with the American Expeditionary forces. The reader will note that the censor has made a pretty complete smear of a certain part of the letter which did not materially detract from the contents.

France, Aug 29, 1918 - Dear Brother: Just a few lines to let you know that I am all right and still in good health. We have been in this village nearly a month and see very few outsiders and no one I know at all. (censored) but I have never heard any of it. Once in a while we see a Paris edition of the New York Herald with a little war news in it, otherwise we never hear a word about what's going on, but I believe the Americans are on the offensive and pushing forward. Rhodes RUNKLES went to another company, along with some others who transferred recently. Frank JENKINS is on detached service at a snipers' school and many of the old H company boys are no longer with us. I think I will be leaving the next time a call comes for more men to fill gaps at the front. You can do me a big favor by sending me a fountain pen the next time you write. I cannot buy one here and need one bad. Aeroplanes pass over here every day. I think the mail is carried across the war zone via air. I've had all the "light wine" I ever care to drink. It tastes more like medicine than a refreshment but the natives live on it and brown bread. They also wear wooden shoes like the Hollanders. Will tell you more next time. Be sure abut that pen. Good wishes, Frank.

"Lanky" Was Wounded- France, Aug. 25 - Dear Mother: I will drop you a few lines to let you know that I am all right and feeling fine. I got a slight wound in the left hand and had to go to the hospital for two weeks but am all right now. How is everybody at home; all right I hope. I saw a boy over here from Temple and he is in Ralph's division. He said that Ralph was over here and was al right. Well, mother ____ld not get to go to officer's _____ag camp on account of getting wounded but I have a good job and like it fine. Will close for this time. Sergt. W. A. TAYLOR

Letters Are Like Gold-Somewhere in France, Aug 30, 1918 - My Dear Mother: Thought that I would drop you all a few lines to let you know how I am getting along. I am fine and dandy. We are now on the front and things are pretty warm. Lots of air battles and roar of big guns and we have both barrels turned on the "Dutch." So don't you all worry we are going to do our bit and I hope you all are enjoying life. Please let me know all the news. Write me a long letter and tell me all. Answer soon as you can for letters are like gold. Tell all "Hello" for me and hope all the children are well. Kiss them for me. So good bye. I hope to see you all real soon.-Sergt. Joe M. ALTWINE-This letter was accompanied by a handkerchief handworked in colored silk thread embroidered pansies, with the embroidered message: from Joe to Dear Mother"-Mrs. Ella ALTWINE, 509 South Main Street, Temple, declares she would not take anything in the world for that little souvenir.

A French Shave-Mrs. W. A. BAILEY of Briggs, Texas has received the following letter from her son, Sergt. Robert M. BAILEY -My Dearest Mother: Well, I am still in France, but about 200 miles from where I was when I wrote you last, and BENSON is in still another place about 300 miles from me. I did my first traveling on a French railroad train the other night and I can't say much for them. The cars are short, divided into partitions for eight people and have steps running alongside the car. We pulled into a little city early one morning and most often left the rain (hiking) immediately for a little island village a few miles away. I stayed, however, and at 7 o'clock, some cooks got together a good breakfast consisting of bacon, bread, coffee and another fellow and I split a can of jam. I was hungry as a bear and never enjoyed a meal more in my life than that breakfast on the railroad platform. A few of us explored the place and then had a little wine and some barber work. A shave and shampoo cost 15 cents, but the next time I get a shave over here, they will have to pay me. The chairs in the barber shop are straight backed and very different from the comfortable American kind. The barber doesn't wash his customers face. When through scraping off the whiskers ( and skin too) he leads you over to the basin and lets you wash your own face. There is no running water in the building either-at least not in the towns where I have been. Hydrants are scattered at intervals in the street and people come to them and get their water. Soon after getting my shave, I caught a truck for our camp at the smaller village. Our headquarters bunch is bivouacked( or billeted) in a school yard and our office was in the school house. The rest of the train is about half a mile away. We are getting along fine; have our own mess now and there are only thirty-eight men in our bunch now. We like it much better than eating with one of the larger companies. The scenery seen coming down on the train, was the most beautiful I have ever seen, I am sure. You see the French don't allow one inch of soil to remain idle, and it makes it mighty pretty to see everything green and in perfect order. There are no fences, either,-there are hedges mostly instead-even along the public roads and in most places the hedges are just ridges of dirt, on which have been planted black berry bushes. They are very thick and occasionally one finds good berries. We do our bathing and laundering in a canal near here. The water is pretty good. I was over there yesterday...(Note by submitter: This letter ends here.)

Book 1 page 236

Letters From Our Boys in the Camps and on the Firing Line-Honor of Being (censored)- Somewhere in France, Aug 27, 1918 -Mrs. B. F. STRANGE, Temple, Texas -Dear Mother: Mail came today and I received two letters from you and one from Irene; I also had one from Nannie and one from grandma. It has been a long time since I have had my mail, so you can imagine how glad I was to get those five letters. I notice in the papers that they are going to improve the mail service so that we will be able to get mail from over there to the trenches in seventeen days. That will be fine, for a soldier sure does appreciate a letter from home. We are all glad to hear mail call sounded. I am well and feeling fine I haven't even been on sick report since I came over. I have been on the job every minute. You say my letters don't sound so cheerful since I came over here. Well, I know my letters are different to what they were over there because the censor wouldn't let me write all the news I know, but as far as being discouraged and blue, I am far from it. I am much better satisfied over here than I was in the training camps over there for now I realize what all of that training was for and the real need of it, for I am in the real game now. We are well taken care of over here and are doing good work. The division is being complimented and has the honor of being the (censored) There is no chance to get lonesome as there is something doing all the time. So don't think of me as being discouraged, lonesome or blue over here any more. We don't talk much about "after the war" over here but "after the hun." Say, mama, one of your Red Cross packages came to Co.-the other day and a boy who got a pair of socks you had knitted happened to know me and sent me the tag which had Mrs. B. F. STRANGE, Temple, Texas size 11" on it. The weather is nice, we have warm days and cool nights. Sorry to hear of it being so dry there. The grain and fruit here is very good, the apples are not ripe yet; there will be lots of them. We can pick them from our trucks all along the roads. France has good roads and most of them have trees planted on each side, so we are pretty well hidden when our train is going over them. I haven't seen any of the boys form home lately as we have been on the move pretty much. If Sheb and Bryan don't hurry and get in they will be too late to get to come over. I hope Bryan gets to come for it would be worth a lot to him. We are going to make a big change over here within the next six months. Those Germans will realize more than ever that America is not bluffing. Your loving son-Corporal C. C. STRANGE

Likes France's Horses-On active service with the American Expeditionary Forces, Aug. 11, 1918 - Mr. and Mrs. C. LEWELLEN and all. -Dear Father, Mother and All: I will drop you all a few lines today as I am lonesome and have only had today for the first chance to write to you all. This leaves me well. I am now in France and have been here for several days and I like the country very well but not as well as I do the old U. S. A. This is not like I thought it would be level and smooth, but is hilly and rough. Everything is carried on in the old timey way, such as two wheeled wagons and the thrashers are run by a horse walking on a platform running it by his feet, like they have in Kentucky. They sure have some fine horses and cattle here. I wish I had a pair of these mares over there. I sure like their stock. How is everything there? All OK I hope. I wish I could see you all today but don't worry; I will be home some day bye and bye. You had as well fatten up the turkey for Christmas, for I am going to eat dinner with you, or I hope I will at least. I bet it is cold here in the winter for it gets cool here before day and it rains most every day. We have to take our raincoats with us most all the time to keep dry. I wish I could only tell you what I want to but I can't but I will some day. I will have something to tell you, dad, when this war is over. You used to tell me about your war days, but I will have one to tell you when I come home. I have not heard from home since I left. I want you all to write every few days. I am as ever, you loving son-Albert K. LEWELLEN.

Greatly Delayed-Somewhere in France, Aug 10, 1918 - Dear Ones at Home: I received three letters from you yesterday and I sure was glad to hear form you again. I am safe and well and getting along beautifully. Papa, you ask me if I would like to work with you, there in Beaumont. I hardly know what to say, on account of everything being so uncertain just now. I had thought that I would go back to telegraphing when I get out of the army and may do so, but this one thing is certain, when I get back home I am there to stay regardless of what I am doing. After having been away from home so long I have decided that home is good enough for me and we will all stay together forever. There is a big hospital here and a certain infantry band gives a concert there twice a week. I went over yesterday afternoon to listen to the music and was somewhat surprised to see four pretty honest-to-goodness American girls over there. They are Red Cross nurses. I had been so used to these little French maidens that I hardly knew how to act in their presence. Suffice to say I was mighty glad to see an American woman once more. I am going to tell you something now that I have never mentioned before on account of certain censorship regulations. You will recall a card that you received from me about eight or ten days after you heard that I had sailed from the United States and which read something like this: "Safe and well, greatly delayed." You no doubt have often wondered about this so I will explain it. We started from a certain Atlantic port one night in April. Along with us were five or six other transports and a big battleship. Everything went fine the first two days out from land, but the third night out about 9:30 and about 800 miles from land our troubles began. We were all in our bunks away down under the water line of the ship, and nearly everyone sound asleep, when all of a sudden something crashed into our ship, and of course we all thought we had been torpedoed. The alarms sounded and everybody grabbed what clothes they could and a life preserver and rushed up the stairs and out on deck. The first day on shipboard we had all been assigned to a life raft. So when we got on deck there was a mad scramble for everyone to get to his right place along the rail. As soon as we got straightened out and began looking around we saw that we had not been torpedoed, but had been rammed by one of our own ships. She had read the signal rockets wrong and had changed her course and as fate would have it her course happened to be the same one our ship was taking. Consequently, the night being dark and every ship running without lights she just naturally rammed her nose into the side of our ship and knocked a hole in it that you could have driven an automobile through. Thanks to the arrangements of the watertight compartments in our ship, we did not sink, but the ship was in such a bad fix and took water so fast, that we were ordered to return to port. It took us several days to go back on account of having to run so slow. We had to go back, get another transport, write the "delayed" cards to our folks, and then start again. The last time, as you already know, we got across without any mishaps. All our boys conducted themselves with admirable courage in the moment of danger and the officers of the ship commended us for it. You probably saw an account of the accident in the paper, but of course you did not know that I was on that particular boat. The new ruling that you speak of about the boys now being able to give their address is all newspaper talk, at least we have never heard anything about it over here. This much though is true. We can give our army post office number Mine is A. P. O. 745. Have a good time and write me often. Lots of love. Stone-(Private A. S. JONES, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.H. JONES)

Has Been in Real Battle-Miss Olga DOOLEY of Belton submits the following: Somewhere in France, Aug. 16, 1918. I received several of your letters since in France which I was very glad to get. I have been on the move almost every moment and have not taken time to answer until this date. You may know that we are not permitted to write anything in regard to our work and this is about all I have to write about. I am well and trust this letter will find you the same. I have moved to a number of small villages since I have been here in France and in all these moves I have failed to see anything which I would care to live for. I was up in the front lines for five days and all the time it rained. Maybe I wasn't some pretty looking soldier. Had about twenty-five minutes of the most exciting act that ever came in my life. We were attacked by the Germans, but we soon put them back in their place. We had two men killed and two or three wounded. Can't say how many Germans for I do not know. I am several miles back of the front lines in reserve lines for a rest. Don't know how soon we will go up again. Hope it is not soon for I am almost dead for a rest now. I don't believe I had ten hours sleep all the time I was in the front lines. Wish you would write mother and ask her what has happened to them as I haven't heard from them since I have been here. I was glad to know that you have been visiting your relatives in Fort Worth. Guess by this time you have fallen in love with the soldier you met in Fort Worth. I am sure if you were in my place at this moment you would be somewhat frightened as I can't hear anything but shells bursting near here. From the way they sound they must be shooting at airships; anyway whatever it may be I can't be bothered, for if I did I would never rest. The first week or two I was a little frightened when I could se shells bursting in the air, but this is an everyday occurrence and besides we are in war. You people back in the states do not realize what the boys are up against here. It is a hard problem but we are beating them at their own game now and let's hope it will continue this way and we will soon have them on German soil. I think some times that I have no chance of ever returning, but never give up hope. I will close and will ask you to write whenever you find time to do so. Best wishes to all my friends in Belton. Tell Bessie I would like to be at her home, not having a dance. Ha. Ha! Gus H. LINDEMANN

One From the Marines-Santiago, Dom. Rep., Aug 14, 1918- Dear Mother-Arrived OK in Santiago several days ago. I enjoyed the trip across the blues waters fine, but never care to take it again until I am bound for the states. I am stationed at a very nice place and get the best of treatment and eating. The work is easy on account of the heat. Today is the first time that I cooked my own dinner, and it went pretty good at a very nice place and get the best every night, but I go only once or twice a week, as there is not much to see there; only one picture show, two ice cream parlors and a park. This is very old and quaint town. The people are Negroes with a few Spanish thrown in. Their language is Spanish, so it is hard to make them understand, but I "get by" by making signs, I have caught on to some of the language already. The poorer class of people are only half civilized and wear little or no clothing and no shoes. They live in huts. I am in the best of health and weigh more than I ever did and feel as stout as a western horse. Except for the mosquitoes, everything is as comfortable as you would want it. Love to the family and regards to all my friends. Your loving son, Pvt. NIM HAM, U. S. Marines, Santiago, Care of Postmaster, New York City.

The following is an extract that has been made of the letters from Captain HUDSON, formerly of Killeen, somewhere in France: -July 21, 1918 - There has been no exaggeration of the beauties of France. The flowers are something gorgeous. The customs are queer, but the people mean well toward the Americans however. The language is not so hard to learn, as it is easily talked with the assistance of the hands in making motions and the nodding of the head. There are nearly all nationalities here in uniform and they mix pretty well.

Tuesday, September 15, 1998 I have just arrived after about forty eight hours on the railroad. Struck up with my old regiment, the 315 Engineers, had dinner with them. Don't you know it was good for sore eyes to see the old familiar faces again, as you well know there are so many Bell County boys in that company. This country is certainly pretty and every foot of it is producing something. This is a village in the hills of about six or seven hundred people. There are water spouts everywhere; it comes out of the hills and is ice cold. Everything looks good so far as I can tell. It is no fun to travel on these railroads, as they are even worse than the English railroads. O, the customs are so queer, but then we may appear queer to them.

July 24, 1918. Am billeted with an old lady who does everything for us in her power. They are all glad in this country to see the Americans and know that they mean business. This town is about 700 years old and has many interesting things, to see, among them is an old church. The weather is cool and the water is fine and the country around here is lovely but hilly. The back yards are gardens, vineyards and flower beds. The roses are the finest that I have ever seen. I would like to drive over the entire French republic and have plenty of time to see it, as it is a beautifully country.

July 29th, 1918 I am now billeted in an old store house. The floors, walls and roof are all stone. My, it is so queer and I guess it is five hundred years old. I have the entire upstairs. My bedroom is 29 feet square, a large fine room, but just one window and two clothes closets. My bed is so old it has a canopy and I have to get into it off of a chair. The covers are of fine silk or satin. I do not know which, but they are beautiful. My office adjoins I understand there is an old wi___living here, but I have not seen a ___in all the time I have been here. I really am afraid this old house will fall in on me, as it is cracked in several places. The nights are cool and the days are pleasant. The harvest is now on and they are cutting oats wheat and barley. The American soldiers help the French farmers gather their crop, feed the stock, help to milk, etc. but the other troops will not help. I could write a lot about my experiences, but the responsibility is too great to risk it, so will tell you all later. A peculiar thing in France is the public wash houses, they are numerous in all villages, running water and a series of big stone tubs or troughs where the family wash is carried, usually in a basket or a wheel barrow, and they use soap(when obtainable) and a wooden paddle, but they certainly get the clothes clean. You can have a week's washing done for from 20 to 40 cents washed starched, ironed and delivered. The Americans are turning loose millions in France and the French people will become prosperous, as they save most of their money. Every community ahs its own mayor and the majority of the French people are Catholics.

A war Pigeon-Killeen, Texas, Sept. 15, 1918-Temple Telegram, Temple, Texas -Dear Sirs-On last Wednesday afternoon a homer or carrier pigeon lit on our gin in Killeen. Please give us information in regard to whom to send it.. It had a band on the right leg bearing a number but no message. Respectfully yours, BURKS & SON

In Memoriam of The First Three-France to Erect Monument to First Three Americans to Fall-Paris, Oct. 4-correspondence of the Associated Press)-In memoriam to the first three soldier of the American army who fell in action on Nov. 1917, a monument of a tall granite column designed by Louis MAJORELLE, will be erected at Bathelement, located in the sector where the heroes fell. One side of the shaft will be engraved with the following inscription: "Sons of their great and glorious country, they fought for right, for liberty and civilization against German imperialism, the scourge of the human race. They died on the field of honor." On another side will be inscribed the names of the heroes as follows: Corporal J. B. GRESHAM, Evansville. Private Thomas P. ENRIGHT, Pittsburgh. Private Merle HAY, Glidden.- The cross of Lorraine is sculptured on another side. It is encircled in a symbolical wreath. The cross bears the inscription, "France-United States 1917; from Lorraine to the United States. Bathelemont was in the direct line of fire in the operation in which the three Americans participated. It has not been thought appropriate to erect the column on the exact spot where the heroes fell. The work of providing the recognition was supervised by M. MIRAM, prefect of the department Meurthe-et-Moselle, where Bethelemont is located. A reproduction of the monument will be place in Nancy and a facsimile sent to William G. SHARP, the United States ambassador to France.

Book 1 page 238

Saturday Morning, September 21, 1918-Letters From Our Boys in the Camps and on the Firing Line-France, Aug 24, 1918-Dear Mother, Dad and Kids: Don't suppose you realize this is an unfortunate date in my unconquered career, but a year ago today I enlisted. I spent last night in a tent, sleeping on pine boards; last year this time I was snoozing away on a Sealy mattress at the Tents, at San Antonio. A year ago yesterday I left home. Little did I realize then I wouldn't get to see you before going across and that I would be in France a year from then. That is some of the "Fortunes of War" you know. I am sorry at times I didn't get a commission at Leon Springs. Again, I'm glad I didn't. An officer has it pretty soft, but I would have been in the infantry and that is not so easy. Besides, I think the war will be over in another year and if its nor worse than the previous one I won't regret having been a "high private in the rear ranks." I can't say what I'm doing, but suffice it to mention it is hard work and long hours, but it won't be for long, I'm thinking. I think in a short while I'll be doing the kind of work my training calls for. I received both your letters of 2nd and 3rd ints., transferred from Philadelphia. I wish I could be there to hide some of the fried chicken and watermelons. The "chow" is good here, though-the best I've had since entering the navy. I've been to another camp since I wrote you last; was there for two days and then came back here. I'm seeing part of France if nothing else. See American soldiers and marines in every town of any size, but haven't found any Texas organizations yet. The Camp Travis bunch are over here, I presume, but haven't met any yet. I guess you read in the paper about the U. S. cruiser catching on fire at sea. I was on that boat, went down a rope to a destroyer and then up the ladder to another transport. It was quite exciting and I would like to tell you more, but this is about all I'm able to tell. You can send me "Fatimas and Omars" any time. Good cigarettes are hard to get here. It is raining here today, the first in a couple of weeks. This is a beautiful district-elm trees everywhere, wheat fields, green hedges and purple clover. I don't see why these people here should want for bread. The country seems to be overflowing with bountiful crops. I think they make booze out of the grains and then starve for bread. They must make booze out of lightning some of it tastes like fire Their beer would make a rabbit hug a hound. Write me soon. My address H. Bruce VEAZEY, M. M. 1-C-U. S. N. Air forces, care of Postmaster N. Y. North Bombing Group, Field No. A France.

That the boys in the camps are well pleased with their work is shown in the many letters that are sent to the editor of the Telegram. Thomas M. LASSETER, who lived near Little River before going to Camp Travis, writes as follows:  Camp Lee, Va., Sept. 11, 1918 - Editor Temple Telegram-Dear Sir-I want you and the many friends that I have in Little River to know that I am getting along the very finest kind and like the army life ever so much better than I thought that I ever would. To begin the day at 5:50 you get up as fast as you can for reveille, and then get ready for breakfast and after eating a good square meal we have to police all around the barracks. Then we drill til 11:45 when we got ready for dinner. The afternoon is for a short talk for the duties of the overseas soldier, supper at 5 and retreat at 6 and then we are through for the day. We hit the hay at 9. If we can get the sick and lazy ones to do their part the army life is fine. With my best wishes I remain a true Sammie. Thomas H. LASETER, Sixteenth Veterinary Hospital. Unit V. T. S., Camp Lee, Va.

Camp Travis, Texas., Sept. 13, 1918 -Temple Telegram, Temple, Texas.-I received the first two copies of your paper yesterday and the day before. I appreciate the paper very much, for I can keep up with the people that I know. If you publish the names of the boys that come to Camp Travis we can go and talk to them and make long days seem shorter for them. A special soldier edition for the Telegram would look good to the boys in the service. Yours for a bigger, better Telegram. Luther GEE, Battery C. Fifty-third Field Artillery.

From Corp. Hines to His Mother.-Mrs. Bettie HINES, Temple, Texas. My Precious Mother- I am surely glad to hear that you all were so well in the precious letter that I got yesterday. Everything is different from what it is in the states. The country is so very much prettier here, some of the most beautiful scenery in England and here in France where it is even much more beautiful than in England. They have lots of fine stock, pretty cattle and fine gardens. The cities are not as pretty as those in the states. They look like they grew where they are. The engines are small and the cars have doors in the sides and are divided into compartments for eight people. The most unpleasant thing is that we cannot talk to these people. Tell all of my friends "hello" for me and don't worry about me, for some sweet day when we get the Germans whipped I'll be coming home again. Your loving boy, Corp. J. P. HINES, No. 2,253.778, Baker Co. No. 336-E. Mc. P. A. Am. Exp. Forces.

Three Returned to America-The following letter was received by S. G. GILES of Taylor's Valley from his son, Dr. Roy GILES, now in active service in France, serving as lieutenant in the medical corps: Dearest Father and Mother-Haven't written to you in several days, have been down in southern France and central France for the past few weeks. Passed through Paris, but it was night, or rather about 2 o'clock in the morning and consequently saw very little of the place. The main crop here is wheat, and it is real good, also have a good many oats, but they are not so good. Besides wheat and oats, different kinds of feed stuff, as alfalfa, clover, hay and garden stuff. They have a very crude and old fashioned way of harvesting their grain; mowers, rigged up with a platform to knock it off, in a bundle; most of it is tied by hand; occasionally you see a McCORMICK reaper, but they are very narrow, 4 x 5 feet. In some sections every little peasant farmer has a small threshing machine, or else they beat the grain with a stick. The thresher is run by one horse; he is put in a little pen and small slats with cleats on , and when he steps that pushes the boards from under him, and thereby runs the machine. These are the only kinds I have seen, but I am sure they have some larger, for I saw some real large fields of wheat, and quite a bit was stacked in quite large stacks. So far I am having the easiest time I ever had. Every time you want anything just tell your servant to do it for you. I have my bedding roll and cot to sleep on. But when you only have a rubber sheet to lay on the ground and sometimes a blanket and sometimes not that, never pulling off your shoes for days and weeks except to change socks, with little sleep, and a few shells bursting around you, it is not such a good easy time, but then you can sleep most anywhere at such time as that. Three of the fellows have already returned to the states who came over with me. One with nervousness, one with shell shock, and one with tuberculosis. All of them were nice fellows, too.

Death of R. D. JACKSON-R. D. JACKSON, age 36 an employee of the Santa Fe Ry. Co. of this city died at the family residence in South Belton Saturday afternoon of influenza. The remains were taken to Killeen Sunday for burial.

Book 1 page 239

Killed in France-News of the death of Gus OLIVER who was killed in battle in France Sept. 12th, has been received by relatives here. This splendid young man, 23 years old, volunteered in the Marine corps, June 19, 1917.

Book 1 page 241

Belton Soldier Dies-Belton, Oct. 22.-Word has been received of the death of Frank O'KEEFE which occurred Sunday night in Camp MacArthur, Waco, caused from influenza. Frank is a former Belton, boy, having worked here for several months at Freeman and Jackson's drug store. He was inducted into service by the Belton local board several months ago. Burial will be at Clifton. There is left to mourn his death his wife, mother and one sister.

Gambrell LEAVELL Dies-Belton Oct. 22-Mrs. J. R. NUTT has received a message telling of the death of her brother, Gambrell LEAVELL, which occurred Friday night at Camp Cody, N. M. Mr. LEAVELL went into training in the early spring of this year, and was about 28 years old. Death was caused from the effects of an operation.

Belton Man Dies in Orange, Texas-Had Been away from Belton Since Saturday. Influenza the Cause-Belton, Oct. 9-News reached here today of the death of Earl MULHOLLAN, who was a victim of influenza at Orange, Texas. MULHOLLAN had gone to Orange last Saturday week, and sometime during the past week he became ill with influenza, no alarm was felt over his condition however, until a message this morning announced that he had developed pneumonia. Within a few hours another message came announcing his death. Mrs. MULHOLLAN the wife of deceased and her two months old baby accompanied by Mrs. Carl MULHOLLAN and Mrs. Ernest HAIR will leave tonight for Orange, and it is though that burial will be there because of the fact that the family anticipated settling there. Mr. MULHOLLAN was a young man and had lived in Belton many years, and was well and favorably known here.

Talk on Influenza-Belton, Oct. 9.-Dr. M. P. MCELHANNON, county health officer talked to the women who have taken different courses in the past few months in regard to nursing and home care of sick, this morning, after they had been called to meet by Mrs. C. B. WADE., Chairman of the Red Cross. Quite a number of the women were present and all were greatly interested in the care of patients suffering with Spanish influenza, as well as the care of the nurse of each patient. Ten or twelve ladies volunteered their services to the doctors in case there was a need for them in the fight against this epidemic.

Training For Officer-Belton, Oct. 22.-T. L. MEANS has received a letter from his son, Victor, in which he states that he is entering the officers training Corp on the following day. Victor is with the 80th division now in France, and has been in training less than six months, during which time he has received two promotions, and this new opportunity which he is given in which he may win a commission speaks well for his military ability and progress.

Buried at Salado-The remains of Eugene GRAHAM who died on Tuesday of last week at Camp Jackson, Fla., reached Belton Monday morning, and were taken to Salado for burial. This splendid young man and soldier has paid the price and will ever be remembered by a grateful people for whom he gave his young life.

Sadly Stricken Family-W. J. KENNEDY'S Death Follows Closely That of Wife. Children Sick.-Belton, Oct 22.-The death of W. J. KENNEDY occurred here yesterday morning about 8:30 o'clock being caused from an attack of pneumonia following influenza. The funereal was held this morning at 10 o'clock conducted by Rev. J. R. NUTT, services at the grave in the North Belton cemetery. The Masonic lodge of this place having charge of the services. This is the second death in this family within the past few days, Mrs. KENNEDY having died on Friday night, with the same trouble which caused Mr. KENNDEY'S death. Three of their children are sick with influenza, but are not considered in serious condition. W. J. KENNEDY has served Bell County well and faithfully for the past several years, first as manager of the county home for the poor, and later as deputy sheriff under Hugh SMITH, he has proven himself an excellent citizen, as well as a successful peace officer. For the past, few years in connection with his other duties, he has been jailer of the county, and in this capacity has shown himself one of the kindest and most considerate of men. There are left to mourn his death four sons and four daughters. Mrs. Nick BAILES, Holland, N. P. KENNEDY, Burlington, Earl KENNEDY, San Antonio, Mrs. Perry COPPINS, Mrs. Fred MULLINS, and W. J. KENNEDY, Jr., Rosa LEE and Seth KENNEDY all of Belton.

Little Boy's Death-Belton, Oct 22-Spanish influenza is claiming its toll among the little folks of the community, Saturday night it took from the home of Mr. and Mrs. S. N. DANIELS of Little River their little three year old son, Howard Daniels. Influenza was complicated with pneumonia. The funeral was held Sunday at 4 o'clock with interment in the Little River cemetery.

Death of Mrs. HOLLAND-Belton, Oct. 22-Mrs. S. F. HOLLAND, a resident of Belton in the Belton Yarn mill district, died early Sunday morning after a long illness from cancer of the stomach. She was 73 years old. Burial was held Sunday afternoon with interment in the North Belton cemetery.

Death of Dick SHANKLIN-M. H. SHANKLIN received a telegram late Wednesday afternoon containing the sad news of the death, at Camp Johnston, Fla., of his son, Dick who was in the service of his country. This splendidly patriotic young man has paid the price. His memory will ever be revered by his hosts of friends who rejoice that he so patriotically and willingly entered the service of his country. The body will be brought to Belton for burial.

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