The Intelligencer October 9, 1915 (page 3)

“Sergt. Spafford Writes to Women Of Belleville. Bellevilla de Belge, Sept. 23. To the Women of the Patriotic League, Belleville, Ont. On behalf of the Belleville members,—N.C.O’s and men—of the 2nd Battery, 1st Battery and 4th Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, B.E.F., I beg to acknowledge with thanks the arrival of the consignment of socks and housewives through the Canadian War Contingent Association, London, which I have duly distributed as requested, to the Belleville members and the remainder to other deserving men who required them.

I have before me telephone messages and notes received from the batteries mentioned, and they request me on their behalf (and I take great pleasure in doing so) to express their sincere thanks and appreciation of your great kindness and thoughtfulness toward us. We thank you, ladies, most sincerely. …

By your kind remembrance of us, ladies, you have shown your loyalty and that your hearts are with us in the cause for which we are fighting, by your ever thoughtful interest in our welfare since our departure from our fair and more beautiful Belleville—I say more beautiful, because one realizes this more forcibly each day. None can compare with our native land, of which we dream and long to return to. …

In conclusion please convey our greetings and very sincere good wishes to the women of the Patriotic League of Belleville, with the assurance that we shall do our duty bravely. Fear God, honor the King. On behalf of the N.C.O’s and men of Belleville 34th and 2nd Battery, I am, most loyal and good friends, Yours respectfully, Gerald Spafford, Q.M.S.”

The Intelligencer October 7, 1915 (page 2)

“Mrs. B. Serviss has received the following letter from her son, W.R. Serviss:—Sept. 2nd, 1915. Dear Father and Mother,—I received your welcome letter, also the paper and pencils, and was pleased to get them. I received your letter a few days ago, and was not feeling very good. I tried to rest up all I could but when not on the roads with the horses, the banging of the guns prevented me from sleeping. For five days steady I was up at 3.30 o’clock and on the roads riding until 6 and 7 at night; it would be 10 o’clock before I would get to bed. I was living on about one meal a day. I was glad when the end came.

I caught cold in my limbs and back, and a kind of rheumatism set in from it. I am feeling a lot better today. I guess it is because it’s my birthday; I forget how old I am—this war has got me all mixed up. It is raining and there is lots of mud. I don’t know when I will get leave or anything else. This war is awful. A fellow was struck by a shell while in an attack,and after the battle was over they went along picking up the wounded. They caught hold of one fellow’s legs to put him on a stretcher, but found that he was killed. He was blown to pieces. Out here they feed corn to the horses.

I guess I will have to say good-bye for this time. I send my love to you all. Hoping this will find you all well. Answer soon. I remain, your son, Roy Serviss.”

The Intelligencer October 5, 1915 (page 3)

“Sergt. Spafford Makes Appeal For Recruits. Belgium, Sept. 17, ’15. Dear Friend, Mr. Bowell:—I have received The Intelligencer with each Canadian mail and thank you for the same. I appreciate your thoughtfulness very much indeed. …

YOUR KING AND COUNTRY NEED YOU. During my training in England and when on leave not very long ago, the above poster and numerous others greeted my eyes at every turn, wherever I happened to be. …  To-day we read a statement made by Lord Kitchener in addressing the House of Lords, as follows: ‘The provision of men to keep up the strength of our army in 1916 has caused us anxious thought, accentuated by the recent falling off in recruits, although every effort has been made to obtain our requirements under the present system.’ …

The above brings me back recollections of my efforts devoted to recruiting, when the news that England had declared war, and the call to arms electrified the nation. And I remember, too, with pain and with no little disgust, that in spite of our efforts at that time, and since by our loyal and patriotic citizens, Col. W.N. Ponton, Mr. F.E. O’Flynn and others, who with many of our comrades have carried on the recruiting campaigns at home, while we here at the front have watched with anxious, hopeful hearts that we might see MEN we once called comrades, qualified and whom we know physically fit to take their places and ‘do their bit’—but we have hoped in vain. Still they cling to the slackers’ ranks and scoff at men who don the uniform and are fulfilling their duty as loyal subjects of Britain and the fair Dominion in which we enjoy more freedom and liberty than any other country on the face of the earth. …

Remember Ypres, the gallant heroes who gave their lives for King and Country—for freedom and liberty. We must win. You must help us. I appeal to men I know. Don’t be compelled; that’s what is going to happen. Remember what Lord Kitchener says: ‘The problem of how to secure them is engaging our close attention, and will, I hope, soon receive a practical solution.’ Spafford.”

The Intelligencer October 2, 1915 (page 1)

“Successful Recruiting. Capt. Richard Ponton, who spoke at the recruiting meeting at Bancroft, and Madoc was successful in securing 15 stalwart recruits at Bancroft. These men were sworn in by Dr. MacColl, who accompanied the Capt. on his trip. The men will come to this city this evening en route to Kingston. Capt. Ponton is to be congratulated upon the successful work he is doing on behalf of the Empire.”

The Intelligencer October 2, 1915 (page 7)

“Patriotic Children Give Entertainment. In the dark days of trial and stress there is nothing so moving, so inspiring and so beautiful as to see the ingenuous patriotic enthusiasm of the children; the little men and women of to-morrow, who only see the magnitude and import of it all, ‘as through a glass darkly,’ but who realize in their own twilight way that the awful tragedy of this mighty, this history-making war is in their interest—to set the lamp of liberty and content at their own precious feet in the future.

It is evident, somehow in the fine elan of the wee khaki-clad boy scouts’ eyes, and in the dewy eyes of the little miss by his side who seems to sense, distantly, the great trial of womankind—probably the greater trial, as between men and women; for, as all men know, it is easier to die than to wait and pray, or maybe, live long years of bitter bereavement.

This was all quite evident at the entertainment given in the beautiful Queen Alexandra School, yesterday, by the children of Miss Fleming’s class. The whole affair was lovely and inspiring, and assuredly, if the home-boys in the sodden trenches, for whose benefit it was given, could have seen it, they would have been moved to tears to observe the rosy-faced children so seriously and enthusiastically ‘doing their bit’ to supply the soldiers with comforts.

Too much praise cannot be given Miss Fleming for her splendid enterprise in inaugurating this movement of school entertainments for patriotic purposes. The Board of Education could do nothing better than to allow many such entertainments given in the magnificent schools which are justly, Belleville’s pride. The programme also reflected real credit upon Miss Fleming, to whose indefatigable labor its excellence was due. The ladies who assisted deserve also a great deal of praise for the dainty tea served and the tasteful decorations.

As you entered the motto, done in colors on the blackboard by Mr. Lionel Parker, met your eye: ‘The Children of the First Form give you welcome for the relief of the Boys at the Front.’

The whole programme was so excellent that it would be difficult to single out any feature as excelling; but there was one number of local significance, namely the reading by Desmond Beamish, son of Canon Beamish, of the poem ‘Gunner Ross’ written by Joseph Nevin Doyle, about one of Belleville’s young heroes who died gallantly at Langemarck.

The girls of Miss Fleming’s class served tea, and the following ladies very ably assisted her in making the affair such a splendid success: Mrs. (Judge) Deroche, Mrs. (Canon) Beamish, Mrs. (Rev.) Smith, Mrs. (Col.) Marsh, Mrs. Alfred Gillen, Mrs. Lionel Parker (tea-table), Miss Annie Sprague, Mrs. Buchanan.”

The Intelligencer October 1, 1915 (page 1)

“Tweed Presents Field Kitchen to 80th Batt. At the Tweed fair yesterday afternoon a most interesting event took place, namely, the presentation to Col. Ketcheson, the commanding officer of the 80th Battalion, of a field kitchen. This most useful outfit was the gift of the Council and citizens of Tweed. …  It is a complete McClary field kitchen. …

Mr. S.B. Rollins, Reeve of Tweed, in addressing Col. Ketcheson, said that on behalf of Tweed he extended a hearty welcome to him and other officers who were present. …  It was a great pleasure to make such a presentation to a battalion which was willing to do its duty in the present struggle. The speaker then formally handed to Col. Ketcheson the key of the outfit.

Col. Ketcheson, in accepting the gift, said it was not only appropriate but would be greatly appreciated. …  It would be the means of providing a hot meal for the men when on the march. He was fully convinced that the residents of Tweed were willing to assist in everything that was for the comfort of the men. …

The Battalion was equipped with officers and the ranks were filled with the exception of 200 more men, which would no doubt be available. Conscription, he thought, would never be necessary, as young men are coming forward readily to offer their services in this present emergency. …

During the speeches the Foxboro band rendered suitable selections. At the close of the speech-making cheers were given for Col. Ketcheson and the members of the 80th Battalion.”

The Intelligencer October 1, 1915 (page 1)

“Recruiting at Stirling. Recruiting this week in Stirling might be well termed a continuous performance as there has been something doing in that line every day this week, and bids fair to continue for some time at the same rate.

On Sunday Mr. Ralph Scott left by auto. …  On Monday morning three left by train—Edward Clancy, Forman Sine and Duncan Montgomery. There was a large crowd at the station to see them off, including the students from the High school, to cheer their fellow student, Edward Clancey, on his way. …  About the same crowd was at the station again in the afternoon to bid Roy Bissonnette good-bye. …  He was presented with a wrist watch as were also the other boys that left in the morning.”

The Intelligencer September 30, 1915 (page 2)

“Patriotism in the Township of Sidney. Aikins Methodist church is situated on the third concession of the Township of Sidney in the centre of a prosperous community, made up largely of descendants of pioneers of Hastings County. The patriotic feeling that exists among the people had a fine expression on Tuesday evening of this week, when a sumptuous banquet was provided by the ladies in the church hall, followed by a patriotic meeting in the church building, the financial result being thirty-eight dollars for the Red Cross Fund. …

Patriotic recitations by clever school girls and patriotic songs by the ladies of the choir were most interesting features of the meeting. …

Special invitations had been sent to the two West Hastings members, E.G. Porter, K.C., M.P., and J.W. Johnson, M.P.P., and, in company with many friends from Belleville, these gentlemen were present and delivered addresses which evidently deeply impressed the audience.

Many splendid young fellows were present, and doubtless some of them will very soon be wearing the uniform of the King, and be preparing to aid in securing, through their courage and sense of duty, the continuance of British liberty, and the freedom of all the world.”

The Intelligencer September 28, 1915 (page 1)

“Billeting Soldiers. Ottawa. Hitherto the recruiting for the different Canadian contingents has been mostly done at large centres, and for the recruiting of the 160,000 Canadian troops at present under arms the larger centres are responsible.

In case more men are called for within a short time it is understood that an opportunity will be given for those living in the rural districts to enlist. For this purpose the system of billeting will be introduced. …  Each small village centre raising twenty men will be allowed to have the recruits billeted therein. Each incorporated village centre of a thousand upwards raising fifty men will be allowed to retain them. Each centre with a population under 4,000 raising 100 men will be allowed to have them billeted therein. Each centre of upwards of four thousand recruiting a full company of 250 men will be allowed to make the same arrangement. …

They will have to be medically fit, properly attested and their history and records up to standard requirements. The men will be uniformed through the usual channel of the district stores. …  It is felt that this system will be of particular benefit during the Winter months. The soldiers will be surrounded with home influences, which will tend to make the routine of military life less tedious for them.”

The Intelligencer September 28, 1915 (page 2)

“Christmas Shower for the Soldiers. A ‘Comfort’ Shower will be held by Mrs. W.J. Brown in Christ church Parish Hall, on Wednesday, Sept. 29th, from 4 to 6. Donations of Oxo, Tobacco, Pipes, Cigarettes, Gum, Socks, Soap, Chocolates, Christmas Cards and Playing Cards, will be gratefully received. Afternoon tea 10c, Music.”

The Intelligencer September 25, 1915 (page 1)

“Recruiting at Belleville. Central Depot Established, Officers Will Tour District. A central recruiting depot has been established at Belleville. Capt. C.A. Bleecker, 49th Regiment, and Capt. R.D. Ponton, returned officer from the front on leave, will be in charge.

Capt. Ponton has arranged a programme of itinerary throughout this district, at which he will deliver recruiting speeches. Recruiting will be for all branches of the service.”

The Intelligencer September 25, 1915 (page 1)

“Soldier-Postmen. Wined and Dined by Their Comrades at Belleville. Last evening Branch No. 45, Confederated Association of Letter Carriers, Belleville, met at the residence of Mr. Geo. A. Irvine, 118 Dundas street west and held a social evening in honor of two of their number who are about to leave for active service. The evening, previous to 11 o’clock, was spent in games, music and songs. Miss Mabel Miller officiated as pianist in a most able manner. Dinner was served by Mrs. C. Hodges, Mrs. Kinch and Miss Jennie Irvine. …

Wrist watches were placed on the wrists of Mr. A.C. Burton and Mr. W.J. Holland by Misses Jennie Irvine and Mabel Miller. …  The party was brought to a close with the singing of ‘Auld Lang Syne’ and the National Anthem.”

The Intelligencer September 25, 1915 (page 1)

“Patriotic Display in West Belleville. Under the auspices of the Women’s Institute of West Belleville, a meeting was held in Queen Mary School last evening, and the spacious auditorium was filled to the doors by citizens who were interested and edified by the addresses given. …

The chief events of the evening were the addresses given by Capt. R.D. Ponton and Corp. Sandford, both of whom were in active service at the front and have been invalided home. Capt. Ponton’s narrative was of especial interest and evoked much enthusiasm. …  Corp. Sandford’s brief remarks were also much appreciated. It is needless to state these two returned heroes were accorded a hearty reception by the audience. …

Col. Ponton spoke a few words on patriotism, loyalty and imperial services. At this stage of the proceeding, Marion and Anna Wiseman two little Misses came forward and presented Capt. Ponton and Corp. Sandford with bouquets. They were rewarded by salutations from the heroes. Master Jack Andrews also presented them with bouquets. …  The singing of the National Anthem brought the meeting to a close.”

The Intelligencer September 20, 1915 (page 1)

“39th Colors Are Deposited in Lydd Church. Capt. W.H. Hudson has sent a postcard to The Intelligencer, in which he states that the 39th Battalion colors, which it will be remembered were presented to the Battalion at Belleville, were deposited in Lydd Parish Church on August 23rd. The postcard gives a photograph of this fine old church, with its beautiful surroundings. It is very old, dating back to about 1200.

Lydd is the place where Lyddite was first tried out. The 39th Battalion returned to Caesar’s Camp August 24th.”

The Intelligencer September 20, 1915 (page 3)

“The Intelligencer Tobacco Fund. Dear Mr. Bowell, and the citizens who contributed to The Intelligencer Tobacco Fund: It is my pleasure, at the request of my Belleville comrades, N.C.O.’s and men of the 2nd Battery, 1st Brigade, Divisional Artillery, to convey in this manner the sincere gratitude and appreciation for the generous gift of Old Chum smoking tobacco, Black Cat cigarettes and chewing gum which you have contributed for the fighting men whose welfare you have at heart. …

In conclusion, Mr. Bowell and citizen friends, we thank you for your gift; we thank you for the spirit in which you sent it. We all join in sending our sincerest and best wishes for the continued success of the Belleville Intelligencer and the supporters of the worthy cause—The Intelligencer Tobacco fund. …  Sincerely, Spafford.”

The Intelligencer September 20, 1915 (page 7)

“The Intelligencer Tobacco Fund. Dear Mr. Bowell,—Your second parcel came to hand and was distributed among the boys who were very much pleased. Although the boys get an issue of cigarettes, they are not the kind that you so kindly sent over, but a very inferior grade, so a real cigarette is very much enjoyed.

We had our battalion sports last Tuesday, and they were very successful. Capt. Archibald, who you will no doubt remember held the world’s record for the pole vault, assisted us very much. He also gave us an exhibition pole vault, doing 11 feet. …

The battalion is in the trenches, and the Belleville boys are all well. They have been very fortunate as we have lost a smaller percentage than any of the militia units in our battalion. …  Kind regards to all inquiring friends. Yours sincerely, E.D. O’Flynn.”

The Intelligencer September 17, 1915 (page 2)

“Hospital Supplies For Overseas. During the month of August Miss Falkiner has sent from the work room, A62 West Bridge Street, seven boxes of hospital supplies and comforts to England and France, as follows:—The Foxboro Woman’s Institute—1 box hospital supplies; Massassaga Church Red Cross Aid—1 box hospital supplies; Rednersville Woman’s Institute—1 case of 43 quart jars of jam; Quinte Rebekah Lodge—2 boxes: one of 100 bars of soap; the other a case of cleaning materials; 1 French box to Gunner H.E. Doxsee, from friends; 1 box hospital supplies to Canadian Red Cross Society.”