Private W. Chamberlain, C Company 1st Bedfordshire Regiment

I am very sorry to tell you Bob has got wounded but I don’t think it is very serious. He got in the biggest fight we have been in this last few days, and that was the battle of Hill 60. It was just like Hell – and worse than that. It was simply awful and I am glad to say the gallant old 1st Bedfords and others stuck to the Germans like glue. Three times one night they came for us, and each time they came they received a warm reception and went back with very heavy losses. You ought to see what they have done, they have lowered Ypres to the ground, and what they could not knock down with shells they set on fire, and they have not left a house standing. It is simply murder not war. They are doing it because they cannot get through and they know it is no good trying to. I thank the Lord I got through it without a scratch. We have gained some ground and their trenches and also taken some prisoners. I have had a field card from Bob, and do not think you need to worry as he was not badly hurt. Previously I had heard he was dead.