Somewhere in France

Sept 27, 1917

Mrs. Ellis
Weno, Alberta
Canada

Dear Madam,

I am taking the liberty of writing you on the hope that these few lines may be of a little comfort to you at this time. Having lost a Brother myself in the war and not having any news (definite) about him for some months I know it was a source of great worry to my parents so considered this rather as a duty than anything else. However I thought probably you might not get the few details that I might give you from any other source. I was not present when your son was killed but have since spoken to one of the boys that was and you may rest assured that there was no pain with his passing out as he was killed instantly. I happen to be one of his pals, as was one of four others and a trumpeter detailed to attend his funeral. You will be able to see it almost as we did if you can picture a beautiful September evening in a large military cemetery and just as the sun was going down behind the western horizon we carried him from the little chapel enshrouded in the Union Jack and laid him to rest, the Chaplain reading the burial service and afterwards the trumpeter blew the "Last Post" as everyone stood at attention and the salute.

I might also say that the Authoraties deserve great credit for the way these cemeteries are kept each in a separate grave and a nice whole wooden cross with full detail and is supplied by the soldiers Regiment. And in closing all I can say is that Private Ellis gave his life for the best cause for which a man ever donned khaki and that His Duty is done, and well done. Again hoping that you may find a spark of comfort from this information and sending you my and all the rest of the boys deepest sympathy.

I beg to remain
Sincerely Yours,
Stu Brown (Pte)
3rd Troop "C" Sqdn.