Private 19637 Asa LEE

Dear sir,
I regret to have to inform you that your son, Private A. Lee was killed in the trenches at the time a shell landed in the bay in which he was, and wounded him very seriously, so much so that he was almost instantly unconscious, and died within half-an-hour. I can only say how much I and the platoon sympathise with you in your gross loss. We were all very fond of him. He was brave and cheery. His behaviour under fire was always that of a hero. Please accept our deepest sympathy
Yours sincerely,
A. Borthwick,
Second Lieutenant.

He was a jolly fellow, and loved by all, both in the platoon and company, and I’m sure we miss him very much. It’s a great loss, and it comes hard to lose a pal such as your son was, but it’s worse for you, as you were his word and thoughts. Of that I’m certain. I first met him while at Wellington Barracks, London, and from that time to the finish we remained the best of pals. Please accept mine and the fellows of his platoon’s heartfelt sympathy.

He was buried by me in a cemetery close to a farm, and on his grave we have planted a flower. I am sorry to be the bearer of such tidings. Your son was much loved by all. May God, who is the Consoler, give you that alone which can make you bear up in your trouble. Go to your vicar and tell him, and he will understand.