| Book 6 page 13 THE TRAGIC RECORD OF A PATRIOTIC FAMILY
Lt. V. E. BRADY, 142nd Co. H. Infantry, Second Division. Now in hospital in France, suffering from wounds received in action October 10. Lieutenant BRADY is a brother of B. C. BRADY of the boilermakers department of the Santa Fe, and a half brother of W. A. BRADY of the hardware firm of BRADY & BLACK of this city. he served in the regular army for four years, and had returned to civil life before America entered the world war, but immediately upon our declaration of war against Germany he volunteered his services, and was made recruiting officer for the now famous 36th division, but later upon his urgent request, was permitted to go over seas with the combat section of his division. the whole world now knows the heroic record of the 36th. From the hospital he sends greetings for a merry Christmas to the folks at home, and states that, after all his division went through, he is thankful to be in a hospital rather than sleeping the last sleep on the battle fields of France where thousands of his comrades fell, fighting for home and the liberty of the world. Of the BRADY families a large number still reside in England and W. A. BARDY states that, to the best of his knowledge, every man of the family, subject to military duty, both in England and America, volunteered for service early in the war, and that with one exception, all have fallen on the battlefields, this remaining one having died while in training for naval service at the Great Lakes training school. This is the heroic sacrifice and tragic record of two divisions of one family, in England and America. Referring to the tragic phase of the record, W. A. BARDY said: "While our families are bowed deep in sorrow over the great losses of the young manhood of our homes, we are grateful that they were privileged to take an active part in driving back the huns and in making the world a safe and better place in which to live. And we wait with keen interest the home coming of the one surviving though maimed soldier of our family, which will bring much happiness to an anxious, loving and sacrificing mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. A. E. BRADY, of Cameron, Texas. Advertising Texas By Huts in France-Texas is entitled to name two war work huts in France, according to the statements issued by John R. MOTT, director general of the United War Work campaign, and L. A. COULTER, director for Texas. The message from the director general is a s follows: "Glad to announce officially that Texas is entitled to name one Victory Hut, as it is one of the group of states to exceed its quota first. Your state stood third highest in per cent of over subscription and is therefore entered to name second Victory Hut. Most heartily congratulations. In submitting the foregoing statement to the people of Texas, Mr. COULTER appends the following in review: National quota, $170,500,000; amount raised in the nation, $203,199,000. Texas quota, $3,239,500; amount raised in Texas $3,770,000. at the national meeting, Texas was assigned quota of $1,689.000, but in departmental conference accepted a quota based on the Liberty Loan, as other states were doing, of $3,239,500. During the campaign national headquarters wired the state office that the first ten states subscribing quota would have the privilege of naming a hut in France and later wired that the first ten states with largest over subscription would have the privilege of naming another hut. You will note by the above telegram that Texas has the privilege of naming two huts. Book 6 page 14 Letters From Our Boys in the Camps and on the Firing Line-Promoted to Sergeant-Somewhere in France, Sept. 24, 1918-Miss Lillian FLIPPO-Oenaville Texas- Dear Lillian-I am going to school and work part of the night, so you know I am busy as a bee. I was promoted to the rank of sergeant July 1. I haven't seen a wagon or horse and buggy since I left the good old U. S. A. There are no vehicles running, not even street cars. Believe me it is cold and lonesome here. I sleep under three blankets. I got paid off the other day in French money and, believe me, this coin is surely funny looking. I went to town to spend it, but had a hard time trying to get those French to understand me. I just had to make signs to them. I am sending you a birthday present and I hope you will receive it in time. With love, Sergt. Ben L. LUNNING. Civilians All Fighting-somewhere in France, Oct. 14, 1918-Mrs. R. W. NOBLE-Temple, Texas-My Dear Mother: Today has been a dreary, rainy day so that we have been unable to drill. We haven't been allowed to go to town as yet, so the consequence is that I haven't sent that cable yet. I don't imagine that you would ever get it if I sent it, because the wires are so congested. I suppose everyone in the States is feeling good over the war news. It looks good, I'll admit. However, I don't think that they will lend an ear to any peace parley of Germany, as they don't trust her in anything she says. The French idea is to force her, then they can dictate their own terms, and after a study of the question, you will see where their ideas are right. I spent the afternoon talking to a French officer. He speaks English very good and I assure you that it was a pleasure indeed. They are a wonderful people; they are a great fig tree with everlasting courage. I pity the Germans, if France ever gets on German soil. Woe be unto them. This is an education itself, just to be over here to see them work, and do things. You hardly ever see a civilian working, most of them are fighting. Most of the houses are of stone, with an evergreen roof. This is a quiet an old town we are in. The Americans have a good many prisoners here. They work them about the camp. They sure are getting good treatment and if our prisoners in Germany are getting the same treatment, we have nothing to worry about. I met several Temple boys here; Johnny PARKER, who used to be on the police force; Henry RIDDLE, and a fellow by the name of SMITH; he used to live across the street from us in Temple. I also ran into a couple of Negroes from Temple. One of them used to work for BARDY & BLACK, and the other was a porter at the Stegall Hotel. One of them saw me and said "Lord God, if there ain't Mr. NOBLE!" I was glad to see them and shook hands with them just as if they were friends of mine. We have a good officers' club here, where we spend our evenings reading and talking over the war news. They have shower baths with hot and cold water. Believe me, they are surely fine; I needed one when I got here, as bathing in salty water is no joke. We get American papers printed in Paris every evenings about 6 o'clock. I am over here at the club waiting for one now. With love to all, PERRY. Everything Looks Funny-Mrs. D. C. BELK of Temple received a letter from her son, Colman, somewhere in France. His letter stated: "This leaves me well. I see something new every day. Everything sure looks funny over here compared with the States. I got one letter since I landed over here and it was from Ruby H. I would like to hear from you all but haven't since I have been here." Learns Some French-Melissa BELK of Temple received a letter from her brother, Littleton S. BELK, dated France, Sept. 19, 1918. He said: "I received your most kind and welcome letter yesterday and was sure glad to hear form you all, as those letters were the first ones that I have received from you all: Gee, you ought to hear me try to talk French. I can talk it enough to buy anything I want, such as eats, etc., but the hardest was to count the money." Flying in France-Campaign 1914-1918, Ecole d Aviation Militaire, Chateauroux: Le 11 Oct., 1918-Mr. B. N. JARRELL, Temple-Dear "Cousin" Newt-Can't imagine what the trouble can be: haven't heard form you in ages. Wrote both you and Aunt Cora a few days after I received that much appreciated box. It is evident that you must not have gotten it. Am just hoping that you get this one. The chances are better now that you will, for I am well back in the rear, whereas for the last six months I have been up on the front. A fellow is lucky if he always gets three hots a day up there, to say nothing of getting his mail there. One of the wonders of the day is how that box got through. How is everything getting along there? Am always anxious to hear the news. The last I heard from Temple was written Aug. 7. You can imagine how impatient we get. Can hardly realize that only a year ago I was living a peaceful life and if anyone had told me that today I would be doing the things I am, just imagine what I would have thought of him. Am now in a big French flying school and am just beginning to fly alone. Wish you could have been here day before yesterday when I made the first trip alone. No doubt you would have enjoyed it more than Ringing Bros's circus. To start with, the man in charge of the class couldn't speak a word of English and naturally the instruction we got from him was rather limited. Second, the plane was different from what we had trained on and the motor was not controlled the same. My name was first on the list and, Man when I tell you I was scared to death I mean it. All the boys wanted to help me out all they could, so they stood around the plane singing. "Nearer, My God to Thee,: and the chauffeur cranked up the ambulance, a very suggestive little thing standing beside the hanger. Anyway, it was up to me to fly, so I got in and pulled all the throttles I saw handy and just believe me I was "Alabama bound." Didn't know where I was going, but was on my way. Was only supposed to go up a few hundred feet, but that motor was a bird, and before I could say "Scat!" was up to nine hundred. Began throttling her down and she still kept climbing, went past a thousand feet. Got her slowed down and took a look over the side. Man! you don't know how small a house can look! I then took a look at the seat where the instructor always sat. Maybe you think that wasn't the emptiest looking place in the world! Came nearer to being the "absolute vacuum you read about than anything on record. By that time I was almost in a position to begin a glide for the field and I am not exaggerating when I tell you that field didn't look as big as a dime. Put all the levers back where I found them when I got into the plane and down she started. She kept gliding, gliding and all the time things kept growing until finally the ground was coming up at a terrible rate. Leveled her off and got ready to land, when the ground looked about right I pulled back on the stick and made a perfect landing-yes, just about three feet up in the air. The machine began settling toward the earth and finally hit with a plunk and after rolling awhile came to a stop. What a grand an glorious feeling. Have made a number of trips since then but none of them were as exciting or interesting as the first and if I live a hundred years will never forget the feeling when I looked over the side at the earth and then realized it was up to me to get back on it. It is a great game though and gets better all the time. We have a pretty good time, considering everything, all we have to do is to fly, go to the lectures, eat, sleep and try to behave ourselves. Am enjoying the sleep because for the last six months it has been quite the usual thing to have to get up in the middle of the night and hunt a dugout or cellar so the squareheads couldn't locate us. Remember last year you read me a piece out of the paper about the army bakers putting a thick crust on the loaves of bread so it could be hauled around in wagons. We thought that was a good joke but it has gotten so it isn't so funny, especially about meal time. Must be closing, of it is almost time to be going back to the field to take a little trip. Write soon and tell me how everybody is getting along and give my regards to everyone. There is no doubt in my mind but that before long we will all be starting in that direction. Have a hunch that I am going to ride on a steamboat soon. With best wishes, Sincerely, Paul SHERRILL The French Switchmen's Method-Somewhere in France, Oct. 8, 1918-C. D. WOLFE, Secretary Temple Railroad Y. M. C. A.-Dear Sir: I want to write you and tell you how much a soldier "over here" rally appreciates a Y. M. C. A. When we were in the good old U. S. A. the "Y" was always helping us out in every way, over here they are doing a great work. When you are in the trenches they are right there amid the shot giving us boys cigarettes and candy; and when you are worn out they have good hot coffee to serve that makes me feel like I was at home. Reading rooms and writing rooms to use any time. At home anyone can go to a picture show any time but here it is different there isn't a picture show, so the "Y" gives us free picture shows and believe me, they are all fine. There are three "Y's" here where I am and at night I go there to read or write letters home. People don't realize at home what a great work you people are doing for us boys, but we sure do "over here." This country is sure different from our country in every way. I can't talk very much French and can't understand it very well for these people talk so fast but if we stay here long I will be able to talk real good. How is everyone in Temple? Guess things are pretty dull now, as most of the boys are over here or at some training camp in the states. I have sure seen some great sights since I have been here but of course I can't tell everything I want to in a letter so I will save that for the boys when I get home. How many boys are there still on the road? Give them my best regards and tell them that they ought to be over here helping these boys switch cars. It is sure funny to watch these French people switch cars; they all have a bugle and if they want the engineer to go ahead or backup they blow their bugle so many times. We have a great many Americans working on the road here. My trip over there was a pleasant one. We had a nice ship and lots of excitement to go with it. The people here think a Texas soldier is something great. They say we are so big and tall and those square headed Germans will think that hell has broken out in general when we hit their lines; our state of Texas has a record for big fighting men and we are going to make that record bigger than ever. Here's hoping you a prosperous year for your Y. M. C. A. work. Sincerely yours, Sergt. D. Riley COX. Book 6 page 15 Edwin MUEHLHAUSE, second son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred MUEHLHAUSE is home on a furlough. He has been in the U. S. navy about one year and the greater part of that time was spent in England. Sunday evening he surprised his parents by walking in while the family was seated at supper, it not having been known he was near until "how do folks, I'm hungry," greeted them. Lieut. E. D. EMBREE, son of Mr. and Mrs. Elisha EMBREE, is home from the Scott Field, Bellville, Illinois, where he has been as a aviator, having been given an honorable discharge. Barton LAW of this city was among the American soldiers who had the honor of dinning with President WILSON and General PERSHING on Christmas day in France. Book 6 page 16 Interesting Letters from France-October 15, 1918-Dear Moehr and Father-Well, I am still alive and with my company and Allan KIRKLAND. He is well and going to write a letter home soon. Well we are looking for our wagon soon now and when I get mine I will send some of it home but sending it from here a fellow has to take his own chances, but one chance is as another. If I send it you may get it sometimes and I keep it and go over the top and get bumped off you may get it. So you see it is a chance either way you go. If I knew going to be over here for any length of time I would make an allotment, but from the looks of things I will be home soon. How do you like the war news lately. I guess all of the papers are putting out extras about us Southern boys having ___and in the big drive. The sight of Americans is enough for the Huns. I will enclose a slip with this letter for Christmas package. This slip must be on the package or it won't arrive overseas. I know you want to send something so I am sending it. This is the only way you can send a box. I really thought I would be home by Christmas, but in case I don't __there don't think I was joking. I still believe I will be home __the near future. I have not seen Willie lately, but I know he close by. I saw one of the boys from his company and he told me that "Corporal Bill" is a s wild and well as ever. Tell everybody that I am well and as happy as I can be in France. I will write again as soon as I can. Hoping this finds you all well and happy, I close. Your son, Private Tom C. NAISMITH-Company B. 360th Infantry. October 19, 1918-Dear Mother and Father: Well here goes again to write. No news but just to let you know that I am well and a soldier. Allan K. is still with me although we are not in the same squad any longer. He is a platoon runner and I am company runner. He stays with the platoon commander, and I am with the company commander, that we still go over the top just as usual. We carry messages wherever there is one to go regardless of shell fire or anything. We both like it much better. I absolutely don't believe it will ever get to carry any messages in action because this little thing is on the last page of the big book. We are going to close the lid soon now and come home to see all you. I got your letter of Sept. 19, and was glad to get it. I was almost scared that I was shy a letter from home but the last two were mine. Today is as it used to be at home in the winter time. Cold Wednesday and miserable but there is some one who always says a few cheery words. I do my best to say all I can at the right time. There are five of us boys in a small house with a little fire in the corner. Allan, Henderson and myself from Belton. We can look out of the cracks in the tin walls an see smoke boiling from all of the buildings and at night lights through the closed windows. All we need now is snow and then we could witness real winter in an army camp. I am clipping from an Austin paper about my division. (Can't say the number.) We have won a good reputation so far, but I guess we will have a better one before long or be home. Dee ROBINSON is transferred to a truck train. He was sent there after his wound healed up. I wish I was there to repair his truck when he breaks it, then I would be in hog heaven. If I get hurt I am going to try to get in a repair shop. Well I must close before this letter gets too heavy for the mail. Best wishes to grandpa and remember me all my friends in Belton. Your son, Private Tom C. NAISMITH. October 27, 1918.-Dear Mother and all: Well I have been away from home for six months now. All day long I have been saying to Kirk; Well we were or there doing this or that six months ago. I am afraid I have made him a bit homesick. He is or has been feeling bum and don't like the idea of eating, but I help him along as much as I can and hope to have him feeling real happy by tomorrow night. We are together just now, or rather he is asleep and I am sitting by the candle in my tent writing. He says phone his mother and say that he is well and still alive, but too tired to write. Now that job of runner that I have does not change my address there is no difference in it compared to just a private I am always with the captain and when he wants a message sent anywhere I among the others take my turn regardless of where or when. I come home very regular now, but only of a short period of time. I am so used to carrying my gun and pack with me, I even have It when I am home, but only in my dreams. Believe me I won't have it long after I really get there. Every time I get to some place that I want to stay someone has to call me or wake me up. We boys here are so used to explosions and noise that it will take some real noise to keep us awake when we get to sleep in a nice dry warm room and bed. A large shell that tears a large hole 20 feet wide and 10 feet deep explodes near by we might turn over or wake up but the steady shell fire does not bother the American boys. Watch the papers for our division and what it does. We have a reputation over here and we are the boys who keep all we get. No pay day yet. Nearly three months pay coming. I will take a chance and send you some of it. Must get to bed and get warm. This is a great country for camping out in. Ha! Ha! Best wishes to you all-TOM. Man in Jail is an Influenza Victim-E. W. DEE, charged, with attempt to murder Jitney Driver, Dies in Jail-Belton, Oct. 23-The death of Edward W. DEE, who was being held in the Bell County jail awaiting the action of the grand jury in connection with the attempted murder and robbery of a jitney driver near Bartlett several months ago, occurred in the sanitarium here last night. DEE was about 22 years old. He had recovered from influenza, and had been dismissed by the physician, with the caution that he take only liquid diet, but is said to have disobeyed the instructions of the doctor in his diet, and in a short time had developed pneumonia. He was carried to the sanitarium here, and given careful attention, but his case was too severe for recovery. Mrs. DEE, wife of deceased, with her mother have been here today from Waco making some arrangements for the final disposition of the body. DEE'S home was in Pittsburgh, Pa. Where his mother resides. Two Children Die-Belton, Oct 23,-Two little children, the twenty months old child of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. LOTT and the twenty months old son of Mrs. and Mrs. J. W. SUMRALL, died this morning, both deaths caused from pneumonia. These families are residents of the Cotton Mill district. Second child in Same Family-Belton, Oct 22.-Death claimed today the little brother of Little Howard DANIEL who died on Saturday night. These little boys are the sons of Mr. and Mrs. S. N. Daniel of Little River, and both deaths were the results of pneumonia following influenza. Silas BALLARD'S Death-commanding Officer Wrote Letter to His Mother Explaining Nature of His Demise-Many were interested in the news concerning the death of Silas BALLARD in France. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. M. V. GRIBBLE of Temple, and was living in Redlands, Cal. When he enlisted in the U. S. Navy. He was attached to the U. S. S. Chatham, when he met his tragic death. Official reports tell of his death indicating that it was accidental. The following letter from the commanding officer of the Chatham will be interrupting to many in Temple and Bell County. U. S. S. Chatham, Nov. 12, 1918-My Dear Mrs. BALLARD: I wish to extend to you, in your present distress, both my sincere personal sympathy and that of my officers and men. It is needless for me to tell you who have inculcated the ideals of Americanism in your son, that his actions and a daily life were ever exemplary. As your son, you were proud of him, but as a man among men in the service of his county your pride was more than ever justified. When aboard the ship he was always a quiet respectful, fearless clean living man. You have probably been unable to obtain from the navy department any of the details surrounding you son's death, so will try to outline them for you. He was ashore on liberty in Rochefort, France, with one of his friends. They were eating dinner in a small restaurant in the town when a commotion was heard in the street and both boys went outside to see what was happening. Shortly after they reached the scene a Frenchman who was armed with a knife made a lunge with it to get away and it regrettably found its mark below your sons heart before he realized what was occurring. He received medical attention almost immediately, but he was beyond help and succumbed to the wound in a short time. His body was laid to rest at Rochefort, France, with simple but impressive military honors, and the grave was well marked and registered. We realize what sorrow you are bearing, Mrs. BALLARD. Today you are an unhappy mother, but you will soon get the true perspective and then you will be as proud as you are unhappy in knowing that you are one of the country's fine women who have given their all for the greatest cause for which human life could be sacrificed. The respect and sympathy of the entire ship is with you. Sincerely, Thomas J. SAMMON, Commanding Officer. Belton Girl Safe Overseas-Belton, Dec. 11-Mrs. H. R. KELSO has received a telegram from New York, which informs her of the safe arrival in France of her daughter, Miss Ila, who volunteered some time ago as a Red Cross nurse. Miss KELSO is the only Belton girl who has gone overseas for the Red Cross. Book 6 page 19 Warren Has a Party-Somewhere in France, Nov. 20-Ethel WARREN, Belton, Texas-Dear Sis-A letter from you several days back and have been unable to answer it as I was writing Robert, Ruby and Mother, and had just finished when I was called out. I suppose everyone is glad to see the war wind up and especially to see that it came out in favor of the allies. Well I was glad, but I would have been willing to stay a few more months and see the boys go to Berlin. They had just got good headway. Well, I was in a very large city the day the news came in that the war was over, and will say that I never saw so much fun in all of by life. The girls were all dressed up and out kissing the yanks. All you had to do was to walk down the street and they would grab you. I was at a party (I would call it a party) or banquet given by a bunch of French people. There were about twenty couples of French and six of us truck drivers. Well, I never had so much fun in all of my life. We ate, drank, and had a fine time. It cost the French about $200 or about 1000 francs and old son wasn't out anything. The party lasted until 3 in the morning. They have a custom of clapping some pieces of music and the one who claps last has to sing a song. I stayed out until I saw what it was and then I clapped and got caught and they all hollowed "soute" or sing. So I sang them "Only An Irishman's Dream." Well, they didn't care, just so you sang something and they didn't know the difference. Well, they clapped and hollowed when I got through and made me think that I was Caruso. We had another drink after each one sang and I though that it wasn't such a cruel fight or war after all. Once during the party, a Frenchman got excited and knocked over a swell statue and said, "Ce ne falt nien." in other words, "It doesn't make any difference, Le guerre finnis," as the war is over." Well, I had a fine bed the rest of the night and up until 10 the next morning and one never knows what a bed is until he sleeps in one of the upper class of the French people, as they are surely fine. I got to tell you about the girl that was at the party with me, as each of boys had one. Her name was Emile, rather blonde and the size of Gladys. I can't remember whether I carried her home or we both helped each other. Well, that is the first time I have had since I have come over to have a good time. Ethel, the French girls are very nice to our boys and they all love the yanks. I am sending you some clippings from some of the papers here, which shows the discussions between some of our boys over here, over the girls. I will have to admit that the French girls are fine and I enjoy helping to make them happy, and they are very thoughtful in helping us out. I have stopped at many a French house here of late and had some fine hot chocolate and toast, etc., but I am anxious to come home now and see everyone, as I have been away a year on December 10. Tell everybody hello and tell dad and mother not to worry over me, and Bess to please excuse me for not writing any more than I have, for I have been working and also having a good time. Write me, as I don't know when I will be in but I hope it will be soon. Does mother get her fifteen right along? Well, Ethel, I don't know anything but I think this is the longest letter I ever wrote not to contain something worth while. Don't think from those clippings that I am going to take a French girl for a wife, for I am longing for some for someone who doesn't care much for me, but I may decide to come back to this country some day and see all I have been over. Love and kisses to all. Your loving brother, Alfred E. WARREN. Soldier's Letter Typical of Many Disappointments-Longing For Overseas Service While Obeying Orders in Home Land and Training 2 Regiments of Fighters- The Chronicle has received a copy of a letter from a boy who remained in this country, that is typical of the feelings of thousands of youngsters who were eager to go into the service overseas. The story of this young man is the story of many others who have similar feeling and have had similar experiences. He volunteered in the outset, and was made second lieutenant as a result of training in the first Camp FUNSTON at San Antonio. He had had three years military training at A. and M. College prior thereto. After he was commissioned he was sent at once to San Bruno, Cal. Where he trained the with the field artillery, known as the "Grizzlies." He was later sent to Camp Kearney, Cal. After several months there he he was sent to Camp Bowie, at Fort Worth, and temporarily attached to the Depot Brigade. He was then ordered to Camp Grant, Ill., where he spent the winter, having chosen a machine gun brigade in preference to an appointment as instructor at A. and M. College, which had been tendered him. In the spring he was assigned to the 302nd Cavalry, stationed at Camp Douglas, Arizona. He had been commissioned as a cavalry officer, and this appointment pleased him very much. From thence he was sent to Camp Perry, Ohio, to attend for 30 days, the school of small arms. From there he was again sent to Camp Kearney, Cal., and assigned again to the field artillery. Very recently he was given charge of an ammunition train and promoted to first lieutenant. In the meantime the war was fought and won. Following is the letter: Camp Kearney, Cal., Nov. 11, 1918-16th Ammunition Train,-Dear Dad: You remember you told me some time ago that things were happening pretty fast in Europe, and that perhaps I should congratulate myself because I might not have to go over at all, and you remember I replied that it would be just my luck that if I started to h---l with a load of ice it would freeze over before I got there. Well, she froze over and at my present station on the Pacific Coast I could not be further from France and remain in the United States. I am thoroughly disgusted and really feel ashamed of myself. If we are turned loose now I know darn well I am going to be ashamed to come home. When my children yet to be ask me to tell them about the war, I will have to substitute the story of the gray horse and the blue mule that you used tell me when I was very little boy. Won't that be lovely? We have been quarantined for one month and one day, but last Sunday we were permitted to go to town from reveille to taps. In the Grant Hotel I saw a lieutenant who had the Croix de Guerre twice, one wound mark, two six months service marks, first contingent badge and the cord on his left shoulder with the gold tassel, showing that his regiment was mentioned in orders for good fighting. Until I saw him I felt sorter "don't care," but since then I have been good and mad. The sight of him started me to comparing his work and mine. He more than likely, went over from training camp, while I have worked and froze and sweated and cussed and strained my will power trying to keep my patience. Or maybe better still he trained his company and took them into action, while I have remained here and made soldiers out of enough civilians to fill two regiments and as fast as they learned to say "sir and to salute they were taken away from me. Another reason why I am mad is I have just been made mess officer on top of being canteen officer and relieved from duty with my troop and so I am now boarding house keeper and grocery store runner. Well, the influenza is much better here. The whole camp went to town Sunday, and if no new cases result from it, maybe we will be soldiers again. This is a sorry letter, but it is form a sorry lieutenant in a sorry war. Answer soon and stay well, I guess I will come home now and crowd some woman out of her job. All my love. Hugh Nation-Wide Celebration On Anniversary of Birth of Franklin: War Saving Campaign Opens Jan. 17-(Associated Press Dispatch)Washington, Dec. 29-The War Savings campaign will be opened actively by a nation wide celebration on Ja.17, the anniversary of the birth of Benjamin FRANKLIN. District War Savings directors in conference here today were so informed by Harold BRADDOCK, the new national director of the War Savings movement. The day will be devoted, Mr. BRADDOCK said, to the organization of thousands of War Saving societies in offices, businesses, Industries churches and communities to systematize the preaching of thrift and promote the sale of two billion dollars worth of stamps during the year. President Will Christmas with Doughboys-(By United Press)-Paris, Dec. 16:-President WILSON is making plans to address the doughboys at Christmas. It has been announced that he will go to the headquarters of General PERSHING on December 23rd, and return to Paris on December 29th. Book 6 page 20 Corporal Ferguson of Runnels County in With First to Fight-(Ballinger Ledger)-S. L. FERGUSON was in from Hatchel Wednesday morning, and kindly submitted to the Ledger for publication, a letter from his son D. D. FERGUSON, together with a printed order commending the officers and men of the Forty-second division of which the son is a member for the valiant fighting done by them. We publish part of the letter and reproduce in full the printed order issued by the major general commending the Forty-second division, as it shows what our boys have been doing in France. The letter was written to Miss Jewel FERGUSON, sister of the American soldier and in part as follows: Dear Sister:-I will try to answer your letter which I received yesterday. It was the first time I had heard from you all in over a month, and I was sure glad to get it. Sorry to note that you have dry weather. This leaves me well and still going through this awful fight. We have been fighting for eight months without any rest and you can guess that it is getting old with us. I don't get excited at al now at anything that happens and believe me, I certainly have seen some exciting moments and days. I sure do hope that it will come to a close real soon, and I am going to go right on through with it and just wait patiently, I'll be back. Well, Henry is having his best days now. I guess he will be over here in abut four months. But it is a picnic to the boys who come over now to what it was to us. Every thing prepared now and when we came over there was nothing. We had to prepare it, but we will get credit for what we have done and I am glad that I came when I did, but last winter I wished I had never seen France. I am sending you a little write up about us, and you can see by that what we have done. Well, it is getting late, and I will close with best wishes to all. Your brother-Corp. D. D. FERGUSON. Special Recognition-Following is the order printed in letter from and enclosed in the above letter. Headquarters, 42nd Division, American Expeditionary Forces, France-Aug 13, 1918-To the officers and men of the 42nd Division: A year has elapsed since the formation of your organization. It is therefore, fitting to consider what you have accomplished as a combat division and what you would prepare to accomplish in the future. Your first elements entered the trenches in Lorraine, on Feb. 21. You served on the front 110 days. You were the first American division to hold a divisional sector and when you left the sector June 21, you had served continuously as a division in the trenches for a longer time than any other American division. Although you entered the sector without experience in actual warfare, you so conducted yourselves as to win the respects and affection of the French veterans with whom you fought. Under gas and bombardments, in raids, in patrols, in the heat of hand to hand combat and in the long dull hours of trench routine so trying to a soldier's spirit, you bore yourselves in a manner worthy of the traditions of our country. You were withdrawn from Lorraine and moved immediately to the Champagne front where during the critical days from July 14 to July 18 you had the honor of being the only American division to fight the General Gouraud's army which so gloriously obeyed his order. "We will stand or die," and by its iron defense crushed the German assault and made possible the offensive of July 18 to the west of Rheims. From Champaigne you were called to take part in exploiting the success of the Marne. Fresh from the battle before Chalons, you were thrown against the picked troops of Germany. For eight consecutive days you attacked skillfully prepared positions. You captured great stores of arms and munitions. You forced the crossings of the Ourcq. You took Hill 212, Sergy, Mercy, Freme and Seringes by assault. You drove the ne3nmy including an imperial guard division, before you for a depth of fifteen kilometers. When your infantry was relieved, it was in full pursuit of the retreating Germans, and your artillery continued to progress and support another American division in the advance to the Vesle. For your services in Lorraine, your division was formally commended in general orders by the French army corps under which you served. For your services in Champaigne your assembled officers received the personal thanks and commendation of General Gouraud himself. For you services on the Oureq, your division was officially complimented in a letter from the commanding general, First army corps, of July 28, 1918. To your success, all ranks and all services have contributed and I desire to express to every man in the command my appreciation of his devoted and courageous effort. However, our position places a burden of responsibility upon us which we must strive to bear steadily forward without faltering. To our comrades who have fallen, we owe the sacred obligation of maintaining the reputation which they have died to establish. The influence of our performance on our allies and our enemies cannot be over estimated for we were one of the first divisions sent from our country to France to show the world that Americans can fight. Hard battles and long campaigns lie before us. Only by ceaseless vigilance and tireless preparation can we fit ourselves for them. I urge you, therefore, to approach the future with confidence but above all with firm determination that so far as it is in your power you will spare no effort whether in training or in combat to maintain the record of our division and the honor of our country. Charles T. MENOHER, Major General, U. S. Army. E. Rex JENNINGS-E. Rex Jennings, formerly of Temple, died at Del Rio, Texas yesterday morning at 1:15, and the body was brought to Temple this morning at 2:40, accompanied by his wife and children. He is the son-in-law of Mr. and Mrs. L. D. ROGERS, of this city and the brother of Mrs. James HEARNE of Waco, who is in the city to attend the funeral. The funeral will be held some time today, but further arrangements have not been announced. Serving in Siberia-Churchill WARREN-Dear Nephew-I received your welcome letter and it was enjoyed very much. We are always glad to hear from our loved ones back in the States. You wanted to know how I felt when I first put foot on foreign soil. I felt like a real soldier at last. You don't know how proud I felt to know that at last I was really going to help Uncle Sammie. It is the duty of every American to do his bit and I would never have felt like I was doing mine in the States. Your letter was a good one and I am proud of my little nephew. If you were only a few years older, you would make Uncle Sam a dandy little soldier, I am sure. Still, you folks at home are doing your bit same as we. It isn't a bit hard for us boys over here to do our duty when we are representing a glorious country like the good old U. S. A. and the home folks pulling with us like they are. It is the height of my ambition to come out of this war without a blemish on my service record and I am sure that the dear old Lone Star State will make as good a showing as any of them will when it comes to turning out men who will stand for right and duty. I am well pleased with the country and the people so far. Although I had much rather be in France, I am here. So far I am contenting myself with the knowledge that this is the place for me or else I wouldn't have been sent here. Well, I don't know any news, so I will say good bye for this time, with love and best wishes to you.-Your uncle, Private Burke C. PRINCE. Supply Co. 31 Inf. A. E. F., Siberia Preacher to Leatherneck-S.F. de Macoris, 31st Co., U. S. M. C.-Miss Mary F. PERRY, Belton, Texas-Dear Little Sister-Since I wrote you last, I have experienced another earthquake. The Dominicans are celebrating their day of Independence and they are having quite a time. Our company paraded in the Grand Plaza. Well, the war is over and I do not expect to be mustered out until next summer. However, I am very eager to get back and finish my education now that the war is over. You know that it would never do to come back up there now, because it is always hot here. Say, Sis, I have just received two of your letters that have been nearly around the world before coming to me, so you be careful about addressing them to me, because you don't know how glad I am to hear from you and I am always anxiously waiting to hear from you and the home folks. Tell W. W. (Wa Wa) that I will be there when the flowers begin to grow again and to smile. Please tell Cora and Cal hello for me, also that I got her card of August 2 with your letters. Well, the only change the service has done for me is twenty-five pounds in weight gained, strong built, muscles developed a burning patriotism developed, and several common sense lessons learned. From a preacher to a Leatherneck and a head of gray hairs and a hope that I will see all at home next summer. Hoping you, W. W. and Mama, a very merry Christmas, and a very, very happy New Year, I am, Your brother. Pvt. R. H. PERRY. The Honor Roll of Texas-A splendid work for the community councils. The Texas state council of defense will publish, as soon a practicable, the honor toll of Texas, by counties, and is calling upon the various county councils for the information. The honor roll is intended to contain the name of every Texas boy who gave his life, or was wounded in the great war with Germany. Some of our boys enlisted with the Canadian British or French troops before American entered the war, but most of them went under the stars and stripes of the United States. We want to honor all who entered the war from Bell County, to fight for liberty and democracy We have been asked to furnish this information for all Bell county and we hereby call upon each community council of defense to furnish this information for its district. We request the officers of each community council of defense to get busy at once and make up a full and complete list of all the names and post office addresses of all the boys from that district who were either killed or wounded or who died from disease or other cause, while in the service. Enroll those killed in battle in one list, those wounded in another and those who died from disease or other cause in still another, and send all lists, plainly written, to me at Belton. Use diligence to get them all and omit none. Don't delay or you may be too late. The three colored councils need list only colored soldiers, dead or wounded. Later on we will probably ask the councils for full lists of all boys who entered the service from their districts and they should be getting them ready for the call. But don't delay this list for the honor roll. Send that at once. Respectfully, Geo. W. TYLER, Chairman Bell County Council of Defense. Book 6 page 21 Letter from France-Mrs. C. A. HALEY has received, __e intelligence that her grandson, Lieut. R. r. HALEY, Jr., formerly of Roscoe, but now of San Antonio, has been wounded in battle and is now in a hospital ___that vague "Somewhere in France," Lieut. HALEY is the only son of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R. R. HALEY, and is a nephew of our own townsmen, Dr. J. F. and Messrs. John and D. H. HALEY. Regardless of his extreme youth, the young man entered the first officers training camp at San Antonio and very soon, by his mental equipment and prowess won his commission. He is now an officer in the machine gun corps of the famous 36th division which has been doing such valiant fighting of late, and it was in one of these recent battles that the dauntless young officer received his wound. His escape was nothing short of miraculous and we rejoice with the fond parents and other relatives that he is being restored and pray too, that during the tragic vicissitudes of these war-ridden days he, with our other boys will be given back to home and country. The appended very interesting letter not only gives a wonderfully graphic description of the battle and horrors of war, but also shows what a dear lovable boy he is, as well as the intrepid soldier and officer: Midland Reporter. Somewhere in France, Oct. 11, 1918.-Dearest little Mother: Just look where I am, will you? Yes, it's true I'm wounded, but I'm lucky to be alive for I am the only officer who lived thru the attack, all the others being killed outright. Now, little mother, you mustn't cry for I will be all right-just a slash across the face, a slight attack of shell shock and one finger missing; I hope to be out of here before long and get back to my company, or rather what is left of it. I will try to tell you about the fight, We went over at day break, and oh, God, what a hell! Two hundred yards straight across an open field, then the wire, machine guns, artillery, bombs and what not. You see your men going down all around you, but still you go on, and there is smoke and dust everywhere, and you trip and fall only to rise and plunge forward again. And then the wire. God, you thought you would never get thru the wire, but finally you make it with only a handful of men; then the boche first line-here you use the bayonet; on ahead is his second line, and on you go; here you have a real fight, thanks to the Browning automatic; then the machine gun emplacements-they fire point blank at you until you are about 50 yards off and they come at you with hands up yelling "kamerad." It's just like you read about mother, only worse. It was when we hit the first machine gun that I lost my finger. By this time there were only about a dozen of us left out of 57 but we carried on. I was the only officer left, but we went on two hundred yards further under a stiff fire until we had to stop. Here I was blown out of a shell hole three times and the third time did me up. When I regained consciousness the sun was well up, for I had lain there for over an hour. The men had gone on, so there was nothing for me to do but go back. When I came to, I saw a German starting out of a shell hole some distance away. As soon as he saw me he threw up his hands and came running forward crying "kamerad." At first I started to shoot him, but just somehow I couldn't the poor devil looked so pitiful, so I started in with him and soon met three others followed by a doughboy. He turned these over to me and went back for more. I don't know how far we went this way but finally my head reeled and I fell again. The next thing I knew I was in a bed at the first aid station. They told me that my German prisoners instead of killing me as they could have done had taken an overcoat off of a dead man and with two rifles had made a stretcher and brought me in . They said they found my automatic still gripped in my hand but it was empty. I had accounted for five boches. The man I captured said he was thru; that he had a wife and children, that they were all thru. He also said that five miles in front of our sector there was a great open plain with no woods or hills to protect them and that was why they made such a desperate stand here. The fighting was so desperate that the old heads here have named it the second Chateau Thierry. Now, little mother, it could have been worse, far worse. I could be lying out there with so many of the others; so don't you see how much you have to be thankful for? So don't you worry either, father. Just be glad that your son went over the top in the face, of one of the hottest made hells Germany ever laid down and lived thru it. Mother, you just ought to see me eat. This is the first time I have had enough in some time. You see, when you are in the line you do well to survive, for you eat when Fritz lets you and at no other time. And then you are cold every night. Just remember I am comfortable warm and not hungry. Here's the love of your soldier boy, ROSCOE-Mr. and Mrs. HALEY formerly resided here, where they are well and favorably known and Lieutenant HALEY, the writer of the above letter is in reality a Belton boy having been born here. Book 6 page 22 Paris Welcomes President and Mrs. WILSON-(by United Press)-Paris, Dec. 14-When President WILSON and party reached Paris this morning, huge crowds were massed around the station awaiting him. As the President alighted from the train a roar went up that left no doubt of welcome extended by the people of France. President and Mrs. POINCARE, Premier George CLEMENCEAU and other high officials of France greeted President WILSON. As the party proceed, the streets along the route were lined with troops and cheering thousands to the palace of Prince Mural where President will live during his stay in Paris. In replying to the welcome address of President POINCARE, President WILSON declared the peace conference must take such action as to "rebuke" Germany's acts of "terror and spoliation." He further stated the world must be made aware that such acts "cannot be ventured upon without the certainty of just punishment." It Took a Real Joke to Make Him Smile-(By United Press)-Paris, Nov. 21. (By Mail)-The grandson of "Sitting Bull," the famous Indian chief of America, was an interesting convalescent in Base Hospital No. 46. He had enlisted in the early days of the war, had gone over the top and worked havoc among the Huns before he was wounded. Nurses and doctors caring for him tried in vain to get more that a grunt out of him in response to questions while the other men in the ward called him "Gloomy Gus," because he never cracked a smile. The Red Cross representative in the hospital, becoming interested, tried his hand at "cheering up" the Indian. Gifts of cigarettes and chocolate were received but without a change in expression. "Don't you ever smile? He demanded of the Indian one day, and for the first time Sitting Bull's grandson grinned. "sure," he replied. "When I kill a boche!" The many friends of Dr. O. N. MAYO will be glad to know that he has been promoted to captain and has received his commission. They will also be glad to learn that he has been placed on the reserve list, and will be home in a short while to take up his practice. Book 6 page 23 Ship Rammed Twice-U. S. S. Benham, Dec. 1, 1918.-Dear Mother: I will try to answer your nice long letter. Believe me, that is the kind of letters I like to get. But oh, when I read sister'' letters telling of Bessie'' death, I just had to cry (guess I am still a kid) I am almost afraid to open any letters from home any more, always some bad news. I read in the papers that they almost have the influenza checked in the states. I hope so, anyway. The censor is now off, but still I can't think of much to write about. I am going to Paris tomorrow on five days leave. I have been to London, Liverpool, and around in Ireland, and quite a few places in France, but not to Paris yet. So I am going up tomorrow. I will drop you a card while there, but I doubt if you ever get it. Say I have a nice collection of pictures of ships and different other things I will send you when I get a chance. Ted SMITH came in here. (Brest, France) the other day. He is on a Queenstown boat, the Caldwell. He sent me word that he would meet me ashore, but I didn't get to go ashore. He went out to sea next morning and I didn't get to see him. I have not seen Jack HERRING for six or seven months, not since we left Queenstown. I was with Ted when we were up at Liverpool for repairs. I have some pictures of where we were rammed. We have been hit twice since we have been over here, have lost one man overboard the last time and none the first time. We were not hit by a sub but by our own ships. The first time it was by a British sloop and the second time by one of our destroyers, but we just wouldn't sink. There were some exciting times, believe me. The night the Jarvis, the destroyer, hit us, it was so dark that you could hardly see your hand before you and there were no lights burning on either ship. But we made it into port under our own steam, all right. The first time that we were hit we had to be towed in by some tugboats and the boat that hit us, also helped. One of my friends abroad this ship went back to the states some time ago. I gave him a picture of him and myself and three other sailor boys, to send to you. One of them is Kid BEAVER from Texas, he is from West Texas, where the cowboys are. He is the fellow who slept while the Covington was torpedoed and shelled. You may have seen his picture in the papers as the champion snoozer of the navy. He finally got off just before she went down after everyone else had gone but one (as sound a sleeper as himself). I guess you would like to know what kind of ship I am on, so I will enclose a post card of the Benham. It isn't a good picture, but you can tell what it looks like. When I get back, I will send you a good collection, believe me, over a hundred photographs. I have you a nice little table cover too, silk with the French flag and the American Flag in the center. It is pretty nifty. I wish I could write you a letter every day, but you see how it is; I haven't much time. There are a bunch of boys putting in to get out of the navy, but I don't know what I would do if I were out, so guess I will stay my four years out. Well, I guess I will knock off and clean up my clothes and stand by for gay Paris. I think I have done better than usual this time. What do you think, mother? Give my love to all. There at the Finish-Somewhere in France, Nov. 17-Mr. and Mrs. A. E. CALK-Dear Father and Mother-I will write you a few lines to let you know that I am still living and enjoying the best of health. I received mamma's letter yesterday. Well, it seems that the war is over, at last, and all of the American boys seem glad of it, too. I am for one. I know that since the guns have ceased firing, France has changed altogether. It has even stopped raining continually and the sun has even come out. But it is getting cold as thunder over here. There has been ice for over a week. But the cold weather doesn't seem to bother so much. It is dry for one thing. I am in hopes of seeing the states again soon. I don't know whether I will be lucky enough to be among the first or not, but things look pretty promising now, although I may be over here four months yet. I don't mind it though since I don't have to duck shells and wear a gas mask any more. Was glad to hear that mamma is well and gaining two pounds a week I hope to see a big healthy mother when I come back. The French people surely walk along the road with pride, in the countries they have been unable to visit for four years. and some of them used to live here, too. Of course, where they only find a pile of rocks where the house once stood and the fields are all torn up with shell holes, it will take years to bring the land back to standard, and I guess there will be a good many farmers killed by old shells, hand grenades, and every kind of war weapon, ready to explode from a move. I sent thirty dollars home a couple of weeks ago. Did you ever receive it? It was through the Y. M. C. A. And did you ever get my Liberty Bond? Some of the boys said that their parents got theirs. Jim and Nix are doing fine. All of us are getting along pretty badly since the war is over and there is nothing to do. I hear that the trusty old ship that we came over in, the Burna Glascow, is now in the bottom of the sea. A sub got her. I guess she had it coming, though, for she got a sub on the way over. That is one thing we won't have to look out for going back. We made the trip about four times coming over; zigzagging around, playing hide-and-go-seek with the submarines. We were on the water eighteen days and were crowded, too. But anything, now, to get back. It surely was a good sight to see the Dutch come out of their hiding places when the guns stopped at 11 o'clock the other day. I was in No Man's land when it happened. I was also in a hole, well hidden. I was surprised to see how close some of them were, and I guess they were just as surprised to see us. Well, I must write Sis a few lines. Dear Sis-Gee! I haven't written to you in a long time, but now that the war is over, I have plenty of time to write. You haven't written me in a long time, either, or at least I haven't gotten any letters lately. Well, Sis, the war is over and I am still alive. Aren't you surprised! I am. Ha, Ha. They never made that shell with my name on it, I guess. I think one over here had a name almost like mine, of some of them came uncomfortably close. Well, Opal, do you still hear from Bob? How is she? I got a letter from her yesterday and she had just got out of the bed with the flu. How is Ola getting along? Tell her I may write her when I get time. Also, tell her hello. I mailed you a card today, Souvenir de France. I haven't heard from Ray in a long time. Well, as news is scarce, I will close, with love to all. Your loving son and brother-Corp. Ray T. DUKE.- A.E. F. France. Can't Get Kaiser's Tooth-France, Nov. 12, 1918-Mrs. J. B. CULPEPER, Temple, Texas-Dear Sister: A letter from you dated Oct. 15. Was glad to learn that everything there was fine. And as to myself, am getting along fine. Yes, we had a little epidemic of which you spoke but it is about a thing of the past over here now. We had quite a bit of it in August. I know something about it myself for I was ward master over a ward of it for about three weeks. I don't believe that it was as serious with us as it was in the States. I am sure glad that the people of the States rejoiced very much over the news announced yesterday. It brought forth a little merriment from the people over this way too. Where we first located, it was nothing but desert, hardly any rain and up here it is just the opposite. It rains very nearly every day I say rain, it just keeps things sloppy all the time. Kindly, a damp, foggy weather. I have just been down to the Y. M. C. A. and eaten two big, nice brown doughnuts and a cup of hot chocolate. Believe me, that little "Y" girl surely can make good doughnuts. She surely is a fine little girl. I dreamed that I was at home last night and said "I hope that I never have to cross the Atlantic again." Well believe me, I can very readily say that, when I get back and mean every world of it. Of course, I like France, but like American much better. You might tell Byron that I would very much like to but I am afraid that I am a little too late to get the kaisers tooth for his watch charm. Missed going to see my French girl last night. That very seldom happens for I go out about seven nights out of the week. I hope this will find all of you well, Love, George W. ENGLAND.-Medical Detachment, 345 F. A. E. F. Made It Through-Somewhere in Luxemburg, Nov. 24-Dear Dad and Mamma-Will answer your letter received some time ago. Would have answered sooner, but had to be on the go since the first of the month. Dad, I had the pleasure of being in the front line when it was decorated with white flags, so I think the war has come to an end and that I will be in the States by Christmas. I hope so, at least. Well, Dad, there is no use to write a long letter, just enough to let you know that I made it through the last drive. Believe me, it was some fight. So, good bye, hoping to be with you all in short time. Corp. Barney H. RAY-Co., N. 9th Inf. A. E. F. Book 6 page 24 Can Dodge Shells-On the Front, Oct. 8, 1918-Claude JACKSON, Temple-My Dear Little Man: As I write the big guns boom around me and in the far distance I can hear the rap0tat0tat of rifles and machine guns. Oh, now I see some military police bringing back some "boche" prisoners, some wounded some singing, some whistling and even the wounded ones are happy. Life in trenches and dugouts isn't so bad as one would think. The dugout I am in now is lined with steel and covered with rock and cement. I wish I could tell you all about everything but it is impossible for me to because the censor would not stand for it. There is nothing mysterious or alluring about a dugout or a trench. You have seen the ditches they dig for water pipe. Well, they are just like that only they are in zigzag fashion. I never see the trenches myself until the "boches" are out of them. We have no trenches, just a dugout. We are not in range of the rifles, but we are in range of H. E.'S which means high explosives or shrapnel. But you learn how to duck when you hear one coming. But it is all in the war, as the French say. I would like to send you some souvenirs like a helmet but the only thing I have is some buttons that came off of a famous spike helmet. I had the helmet but some one stole it from me. Maybe I will find another one. If I do I will take better care of it and bring it to you. I will enclose the buttons and if they get there I will send you some other small articles. Well, will have to close for this time will all the love that Heaven can hold for you, may I still remain, Your Dear Uncle Rodney-James R. BARKER. Before "Christmas Rush." Somewhere in France, Oct. 13-Mr. G. M. RICHARDS-Temple, Texas-Dear Dad-Sorry that I have not written sooner, but we are very busy now. We are out all day and sometimes part of the night. After a few days of driving, one hardly feels like writing. I was on guard duty last night, and as I get today off, I am writing. It has been a long time since you heard from me but we are trying to finish before the "Christmas rush." I am in the Y. M. C. A. hut now. There is to be a concert at 3 o'clock and a movie picture show at 8 o'clock. Winter is starting in over here and it sure is cold at nights. The days are little better, but I have plenty of good winter clothes and I intend to stay warm, at least. Don't worry about me getting "enamored" with the French girls. An American girl is good enough for me. I have just come from the concert and it was swell. It was a vaudeville show with three people from the states. We just received today's paper. It says that Germany agrees to all the allies terms and will evacuate invaded territory at once. Isn't that great? The French are sure glad. They are having a grand semi-celebration. It isn't really settled yet though. It may be quite a while before I get home, even if peace is declared. It is almost supper time and I will close. Lots of love to all, -Your son, Amos RICHARDS. Former Citizen of Belton Dead-D. A. BLACK died at the home of his daughter in Woodward, Oklahoma, yesterday morning. The remains will be brought here on the morning Sata Fe train, for burial in the South Belton cemetery tomorrow afternoon. The funeral will be at the home of his daughter, Mrs. D. R WALTON, at an hour to be announced later. Deceased was about eighty years of age, and will be remembered by the older citizens as an early pioneer of Belton. He is survived by one son William BLACK of Runnells County, and four daughters Mrs. B. F. RICHARDSON and Mrs. T. J. HALL of Woodward, Okla., Mrs. Preston DUNN of Runnells County and Mrs. D. R WALTON of Belton. It's Great to Be an American in France-The following letter from Sergt. Oscar G. WILLIAMS, now on the editorial staff of the "Stars and Stripes." in Paris, to his brother, George W. WILLIAMS, of the Telegram, has just been received: Paris, France, Oct. 19-I wrote you a day or two ago, but today I received two letters from you dated Sept. 8 and 10, containing the Buffalo nickel and some more razor blades. From this morning's dispatches it looks as if the big show was rapidly drawing to a close. Guess there is some jubilation in the states. It's certainly great to be an American these days. All the Paris papers came out the other morning with President WILSON"S picture and message spread across the front pages. Guess I've been pretty lucky in this war. Got to see about all there was to see at the front and then get to come here from the finals. War time Paris is worth seeing, and guess there will be some celebration here that will shake the globe when peace is signed. As it is about time I was hearing from you in answer to my first letter written from Paris, will wait till I hear from you before writing again. Tell Pauline not to teach Dorothy too much English for I will teach her to speak French when I get home. I know about six words already. Your brother, OSCAR. Address: Sgt. Oscar G. WILLIAMS. Care Stars and Stripes, 1 Rue des Italiens, Paris, France. Am going to tack this on the bottom, so if the censor does not like it he can chop it off: I got the helmet in the St. Mihiel drive, which opened on the morning of Sept. 12. I got it off the first German I saw after it got light enough to see. I did not capture him my self, but was in the party that captured a company headquarters full of men and officers. Our division captured about 800 that day and nearly as many the next day. I was in two days of the St. Miheil fighting. While I was at the front I saw service from Verdun to the Swiss border and was in three pretty good scraps, besides being shelled most of the time. Have Peculiar Plows-Somewhere in France, Sept 29, 1918.-Mr. P. D. MAPLES-Temple, Texas.-Dear Parkie: Things are pretty lively in this sector at the present time, but we are glad to be in action and I think the yanks will make a showing on this huns ere long. We were in camp for two months and traveled across country in trucks some four hundred and fifty miles to our present sector. Believe me it was some trip: some very pretty country and the prettiest roads I ever saw. All the buildings are of ancient types and are very old too. The mode of plowing would interest you very much: all plows are seatless (how does that sound to you) with two mould boards, one above the other and one right and left. So when they get to the end, they just turn it over and go back down the same side of the land. There are lots of real interesting sights; such as, acres after acres of vineyards, as you know Bordeaux is the largest wine center of the world. It is also noted for the beautiful mademoiselles, but I couldn't afford to have anything to do with them. We get good food over here and plenty of clothes to keep us dry if not to keep clean, as it rains almost every day and the country is very hilly. It gets pretty slushy, but we have rubber hip boots, raincoats and leather jerkins, although they get damp when we work all night in the rain. We have had some real cold weather here, though there has been no ice yet, but I will be glad when the ground gets frozen so it won't rain so much and we can find a dry place to sleep in . We always sleep in heavy marching order for several reasons; one is to keep warm and the other is to always be ready to move. We usually keep our clothes with us all the time. I think the war will e over before the boys at home get to hear a German shell whistle by some twenty feet away or even hear the roar of the cannon for hours at a time. In fact we hope to be able to address our mail form somewhere in Germany in the near future. We usually wash our faces once or twice a week and can even shave with half pint water. So remember how nice it is to have all the conveniences of home instead of the ground for a bed. But just think that we will certainly know how to appreciate home, and believe me, I certainly have some home to return to. Best regard to all, and hoping that we whip the boche before you have to leave your happy home. Very sincerely, W. F. WILSON Miss TRAYLOER Goes to Washington-Belton , Jan. 30-Miss Lila Lee TRAYLOR will leave Saturday at noon for Washington, where she will engage in government civil service work. Miss TRAYLOR has been teaching in the city schools here for several years and has been considered very successful, she has taught the fifth grade this year, and her place will be filled by Miss Henri KARNES, a former Belton teacher, also but who is a present teaching at Tulia.
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