I now take the opportunity of writing to you as regards the death of
your late husband, Colonel G.B. Laurie, who was O.C. of the 1st Bn.
Royal Irish Rifles. He was my Commanding Officer for nearly two years.
I followed him on the morning of March 10th, 1915, when the Battle of
Neuve Chapelle was taking place. He was the first man who charged into
Neuve Chapelle. I was present with him all through the battle, and I
was with him when he met his death on March 12th just at 20 mins. to 5
o'clock, when he was about to lead the charge of his battalion. His
death was instantaneous, and he was buried on March 13th: it was I who
carried him in after he was wounded, and when I found that he was
quite dead I said some prayers over his body. Major Wright was also
wounded in the same battle. I was very sorry indeed about the death of
my Commanding Officer. He was a soldier and a gentleman, fearless in
all his actions and honest, just and upright. I will certainly never
forget him for his kindness to me and all the men who fought under
him.
I was mentioned in Sir J. French's Despatch along with my Commanding
Officer, Colonel Laurie, for bravery at the Battle of Neuve Chapelle.
You will find my name in the list. I regret his death very much; it
was a great blow to me. Well, Madam, the only thing I have to say
before concluding is that his relatives and friends may well be proud
of him, because he was one of the bravest men that ever led men. I
would very much like to have a photo of our Colonel, and I remain,
Your obedient servant,
J. LENNON.
(_From Earl Manvers._)
THORESBY PARK,
OLLERTON, NOTTS.
_March 19th, 1915._