Keeling Letters & Recollections.
Edited by E.T. [Mrs E. Townshend], with an Introduction by H.G. Wells. xvi+329pp., 3 portraits. (one as Serjeant-Major, D.C.L.I.). Allen & Unwin.
1918
#62853
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Frederic (but known variously as "Frank", "Fred" or "Ben") Hillersdon Keeling was born in 1886, Ed. at Winchester & Trinity College, Cambridge, travelled in Europe & was reading for the Bar when war came in 1914. He enlisted in the 6th (S) Bn. Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry, 14th (Light) Division, served in France from May 1915, disdained to accept a commission because of socialist principals, was awarded the Military Medal & became a Company Serjeant Major. He was KiA on the Somme on 18th August 1916 & is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial. H.G. Wells wrote that "Ben" Keeling, "was a copious, egotistical, rebellious, disorderly, generous, and sympathetic young man. His egotism is the prime cause of this book; he wrote abundant letters, and they were often about himself..." Contains around 100pp. letters written in training with the New Army (August 1914-April 1915) & at the front (May 1915-August 1916). Concludes with letters of condolence from his CO & another officer. Orig. blue cloth with paper label to spine, label chipped, generally VG. See illustration on our website.
£45
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