The Intelligencer May 12, 1917 (page 2)

“Christ Church Choir Comfort Club held their annual meeting in the Parish Hall last Thursday evening. This club aims to send field comforts to those of its members having either relatives in this country or whose relatives are unable to furnish them with extras. During the year we have sent 50 parcels, 51 pairs of socks and have 7 pair on hand. We have raised by giving teas, concerts, etc., $148.94: expenditure, $126.41, balance on hand, $22.53.

Many letters have been written to the boys, and acknowledgements received from them assure and encourage us to further our efforts for them. We thank all friends who in various ways have helped our club by donations, etc., and ask for future like kindnesses.”

The Intelligencer May 12, 1917 (page 3)

“15^th Battalion Makes Good Start. In response to an appeal many citizens last evening assembled at the Armouries for the purpose of signifying their intention of joining the 15^th Battalion, A.L.I. for the purpose of drilling for the home defence.

Col. Barragar, Officer Commanding, was present, and previous to drilling addressed a few remarks to those present. He stated that instructions had been received from headquarters at Ottawa to recruit the 15^th Battalion up to full strength, and he would command same. It was necessary at the present time to drill men for home defence, as well as for overseas service in case of an emergency. Men from the age of 18 to 60 years were eligible to join and drill. It was proposed during the months of May and June to drill three evenings a week, namely Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and to resume again in September. Proper instructors would be available, and he (Colonel Barragar) would give all the assistance he could, and would be present every Friday evening, which evening would be devoted to battalion drill.

He was led to believe it would be a success, and he would urge upon all present to endeavor to secure at least one recruit for the next drill. If all would act as a recruiting officer the success of the movement was assured.”

The Intelligencer May 12, 1917 (page 7)

“Invalid soldier drowned. Pte. Robert Black, whose home was at L’Amable, Hastings County, was drowned recently when a hospital ship in which he was crossing the English Channel was torpedoed by the Germans.”

The Intelligencer May 12, 1917 (page 7)

“Pte. Vincent Smith, of Eldorado, Madoc Township, who enlisted with the 38^th Battalion about 2 years ago, and who has seen about a year of active service, has been invalided home, having been wounded in the Somme fight. Pte. Smith arrived in Madoc Tuesday and despite the fact of hardships at the front looks hale and hearty. Previous to going to the front Pte. Smith spent some time in Bermuda.”

The Intelligencer May 12, 1917 (page 9)

“Women May Now Vote. Toronto. Hon. I. B. Lucas to-day announced that he had proclaimed the Ontario Franchise Act, which gives the vote to women and returned soldiers. The proclamation will be published in the Ontario Gazette on Saturday.

The proclamation of the Act brings into force all the recent amendments passed. Assessors will prepare their rolls under the new Act, instructions for which have already been sent out. It also means that any municipal elections of bye-elections held in the Province from now on, all women, so entitled, under the Act will have a vote.”

The Intelligencer May 11, 1917 (page 2)

“Returned Veterans Have Organized. At a meeting of the returned soldiers held at the Corby Building last night and which was fairly well attended, it was decided to form a Returned Soldier’s Club and to apply for admission to the Great War Veteran’s Association of Canada.

The following officers were elected: President, Corporal Ed. Blaylock. Vice-President, Sg’t. Maj. Chas. Gibson. Secretary, Private Porter. Fin.-Secr’y, Private Duffy. Treasurer, Serg’t. John Gilbey. Ex-Committee, officers of Club, Pte. Melburn Sprague, Cpl. Carr.

The idea of the club is to assist returned men to secure suitable employment and to assist them to fit themselves for better positions, to protect the interests of the men abroad and to be in a position to help them when they return.

It is the intention of the club to endeavor to open club rooms and for this purpose they intend to have a tag day the date to be arranged later. The club will meet again on Wednesday night the 16^th inst., and all returned men are cordially invited to attend.”

The Intelligencer May 11, 1917 (page 2)

“Killed in Action. Official word has been received that George M. Maracle, son of Mr. Albert Maracle, of Point Ann, was killed in action on April 12^th. He enlisted and went overseas with the 157^th Battalion. He was a member of the Mohawk band and very popular in this vicinity.”

[Note: Private George Mark Maracle died on April 12, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 290 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer May 11, 1917 (page 5)

“For Postal Use Only. The public in general—particularly in general—seem to persist in confusing the waste paper boxes with the Post Office parcel post boxes, stationed throughout the city. Collectors are continually delayed by finding paper scraps and refuse material in these boxes. A degree of intelligence on the part of our people would be appreciated by the Postal Department.”

The Intelligencer May 11, 1917 (page 5)

“Another Home Bereaved. Word was received at Bancroft on Monday that Pte. Jno. Robbins, who enlisted with the 155^th Battalion, had died from pneumonia in France. Pte. Robbins leaves a widow and four small children.”

[Note: Private John Robbins died on April 15, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 316 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

 

The Intelligencer May 10, 1917 (page 3)

“Kingston Likely to Lose All the Artillery But 72^nd Battery. The authorities have decided to distribute the units of the Kingston Depot Artillery Brigade so that each place from which men have been recruited will have an opportunity of supplying more men and thus keep the units up to the strength. …

The 73^rd Battery will be moved to Belleville and thus have a closer chance of drawing men from Hastings and Prince Edward counties. The 74^th goes to Peterboro, and will draw from that city and county. Cornwall will get the 75^th Battery and the ‘united counties’ will thus be able to have more of its sons signed. …  The move will not be made before Petawawa Camp closes this season, but these places will then be the headquarters of the units named.”

The Intelligencer May 10, 1917 (page 6)

“Procedure to Follow. Since the list of casualties has so rapidly increased, many inquiries reach us regarding what procedure should be taken by the relatives to secure the personal effects and any balance of pay there may be due to a deceased soldier.

When a man is killed at the front, his personal effects are gathered together under the direction of the O. C., of the Battalion, and forwarded to the Base where they are checked. They are then forwarded to London, where they are sent to the officer in charge of Estates, Ottawa. Approximately five months elapse generally speaking before these effects reach Ottawa.

In reference to pay, six months after the death of the soldier, the last pay certificate is sent by the Overseas Paymaster to the Office in charge of Estates in Canada, when the necessary audit and adjustment takes place. Communication is then had with the next of kin of the deceased, when information is secured as to the domicile of the deceased; this being determined, the estate is divided pursuant to the law of the province in which the deceased had his domicile.

A minor soldier, that is one under twenty-one, has greater rights than a civilian in reference to the making of his Will. A civilian has to be twenty-one years of age, and in Ontario have his Will attested before witnesses. A soldier, however, by an English statute of 1837, made applicable to Ontario, and even although a minor, may make his Will and no witnesses are required. This, of course, only applies to the deceased’s personal estate.

Inquiries in reference to estates and personal effects should be addressed to the Office in charge of Estates Branch, Militia Department, Ottawa.”

The Intelligencer May 8, 1917 (page 2)

“It will be gratifying to the citizens of Belleville and vicinity, to learn that the Graham Company will restore their premises in this city, which were destroyed by fire on the morning of April 11^th last. Plans and specifications have been prepared and the work of rebuilding will be proceeded with at once. It will be an extensive plant, fire-proof and up-to-date in every respect. …  It is confidently expected that the cold storage and packing plant will be completed by the 1^st of September of the present year. The increase in the plant the company feel they are justified in making, and expect the farming community to assist in more production of food stuff.

The company have already orders which will keep them busy packing until next spring. This means that much vegetables will have to be secured.

Mr. J. Bone, in conversation with a representative of The Intelligencer, stated that in addition to the large evaporating plant the Graham Company will erect at the station, there will be another branch for the Fruit Machinery Company, which at present is doing an extensive fruit business. …  The railway sidings leading into the new premises from off Pinnacle street will be concreted between the rails, so as to enable driving upon them to be done. When completed there is no doubt but that the building will not only be an ornament to the city, but will provide employment for a large number of women and men. Work is already being commenced in the preparation of the foundations for the buildings.”

The Intelligencer May 8, 1917 (page 5)

“Teachers for Farms. Chief Inspector Cowley, of Toronto, has issued a circular to all the male teachers in city schools, urging that those who are capable of assisting on farms, and who are able to go, to arrange with the local inspector through the principal of the school, and that the period of leave, which should commence as early next week as possible, will include ten school days.”

The Intelligencer May 8, 1917 (page 5)

“Memorial Service. At St. Thomas Church on Sunday evening a memorial service was held for the late Sergt. T. H. G. McCrodan, and Pte. Frank Mondeville, who were recently killed in action. The Rector, Ven. Archdeacon Beamish in his discourse referred in an appropriate manner to the departed heroes. During the service the Dead March was played by Prof. Wheatley, organist of the Church.”

The Intelligencer May 7, 1917 (page 2)

“Mrs. Isabella Emerson of Thomasburg, Ont., received a telegram on Friday last, April 27^th, stating that her son, John Miller Emerson, was killed in action on April 9^th. John enlisted with the 39^th Battalion in Belleville in February, 1915, going overseas the following June. Although he has been very ill and in the hospital for several months, he escaped injury until now. It came as a great shock to all his friends, as John was always so cheerful and spoke so often of the war ending, and his return home again.”

[Note: Private John Miller Emerson died on April 9, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 234 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer May 7, 1917 (page 5)

“In the casualty list last week appeared the name of Private J. E. Meens, who was killed in action. Previous to enlistment in the 59^th Battalion, Pte. Meens was a G.T.R. fireman, who resided with his brother also a fireman whose home is on Herchimer Avenue. The young fireman was held in high esteem by his fellow employees, who will regret to learn of his death.”

[Note: Private James Ernest Meens died on April 9, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 292 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer May 7, 1917 (page 5)

“Dealers Selling Coal at $9.50 Now. Following in the footsteps of everything else, coal is the latest necessity to jump in price, $9.50 per ton, being the price announced for May.

A local coal dealer stated that all deliveries made by his company since May 1, had been made subject to the price to be fixed, and this price was placed at $9.50.

One of the principle reasons for the advance in the price is the increase of 29 per cent granted to the miners by the coal operators, and which amounts to about $30,000,000 a year. Just at present the coal dealers do not know where the upward trend will stop, and some of them are looking for an advance in freight rates, which will mean further boosts.”

The Intelligencer May 7, 1917 (page 6)

“The Fifteenth Regiment, A. L. I. Orders were received by Colonel Barragar last week from the G. O. Commanding the 3^rd Military District to at once mobilize the 15^th Regiment for drill. All men in the City of Belleville between the ages of 18 and 60 years are eligible for enrollment on the strength of the Regiment. The orders means that the Regiment will be required to be filled up by new men as the old members enrolled have practically all gone overseas. The 15^th Regiment is not connected with either the C.E.F. or C.D.F. and only entails the work of drilling and instruction two or three evenings a week.

Colonel Barragar wants all men in the City between the said ages to come to the Armouries next Friday night, the 11^th inst., at 8 o’clock, and enroll. There is no pay; there is no going to camp; there is no medical examination; you can continue your work as usual; there is only the desire required on the part of the citizens to take the necessary precaution to be drilled in order to more capably protect those they are responsible for in case of emergency.

There should be 1000 men at least in the Regiment. Instruction in drill will be given by competent sergeants. Let there be a full attendance of the men. The Colonel has arranged for the rifles and equipment so that drill will be carried on the same as before the war. We heartily endorse this movement and we consider it desirable for our Citizens to turn out and muster the 15^th Regiment A. L. I. to its full strength.”

 

The Intelligencer May 5, 1917 (page 2)

“Belleville Khaki Club. The Khaki Club was opened in November 1915 for the men of the 80^th Battalion, later for the men of the 155^th and 235^th. The officials have been waiting for orders from Lt.-Col. Allen, the Officer Commanding 254^th Battalion to open the Club and regret exceedingly that Col. Allen’s latest order is not to do so on account of the probability of the Battalion leaving Belleville within a few days.

The Khaki Club is maintained in the following manner: The rent is paid also insurance, piano rent free, etc., by twelve ladies; note paper, ink, etc. also provided. The Club is practically handed over to whatever battalion is in town for the exclusive use of the N.C.O.’s and men. The proceeds of the Canteen go back into the Regimental Fund; on Wednesday evenings a musical programme is given and free refreshments are served. A Battalion Sergeant lives at the Club and is in charge.”

The Intelligencer May 5, 1917 (page 2)

“T. V. Dack Wounded. Ottawa, April 21, 1917. Mrs. Annie Dack, 15 Yeoman St., Belleville, Ont. Sincerely regret to inform you 636901 Pte. Thos. Victor Dack, infantry, officially reported admitted to No. 3 General Hospital, Boulogne, April 13, 1917, gunshot wound right thigh, slight. Will send further particulars when received. Officer In Charge of Records.”

The Intelligencer May 5, 1917 (page 2)

“Wm. T. G. Wenn Wounded. Ottawa, Ont., May 4, 1917. Mrs. M. E. Wenn, 70 Gordon Street, Belleville. Sincerely regret to inform you that 306340 Pte. William George Thomas Wenn, artillery, officially reported admitted to No. 18 General Hospital, Dannes Camiers, April 26, 1917, wounded severely chest, abdomen. Will send further particulars when received. Record Office.”

The Intelligencer May 5, 1917 (page 2)

“Killed in Action. Two members of the 155^th Battalion who enlisted in Marmora and trained here a year ago, have been killed in action. They are David Emmorey and Jas. Caldwell.

Pte. Emmorey is survived by his mother and two brothers, Matthew and Bert.

Pte. Caldwell’s home was in Rawdon township. The relatives of both have the sympathy of the community in their bereavement.

Corp. Monto Bertrand, who went overseas with the 80^th Battalion, has been reported wounded. Marmora Herald.”

[Note: Private David Belford Emmorey died on April 9, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 234 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

[Note: Private James Caldwell died on April 9, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 211 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer May 5, 1917 (page 2)

Presented with Pens. Corp. Vernon H. Clarke and Bombardier Bullock, of this city, who are members of the Cobourg Heavy Battery were last night the recipients of fountain pens from the Epworth League of Bridge Street Methodist Church, of which Society they were officers. To the presentation suitable replies were made. Since joining the battery their worth has been recognized by the commanding officer as Mr. Clarke was made a Corporal and Mr. Bullock a bombardier. Previous to enlistment the young men were popular teachers in the Belleville schools.”

The Intelligencer May 5, 1917 (page 3)

“Former Bellevillian Killed in Action. Mrs. M. E. Mahon, of 14 Asquith Ave., has been in receipt of the following telegram: Ottawa, April 27^th, 1917. Deeply regret to inform you that Pte. Alex. Daniel Smith, Mounted Rifles, officially reported killed in action April 11^th, 1917.

Pte. Smith was a Belleville boy, who lived with his aunt, Mrs. Fred Oram, Gilbert Street, ‘College Hill.’ Roy Smith as he was better known, was a former employee of the Wm. Davies Co., Ltd. before coming to Toronto, where he enlisted with the 169^th Battalion and left for overseas last October. He was very popular among the young people and will be deeply mourned by his hosts of friends both in Belleville and Toronto.”

[Note: Private Alexander Daniel Smith died on April 11, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 327 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer May 5, 1917 (page 5)

“The regular monthly meeting of the Women’s Red Cross and Patriotic Association was held on Tuesday evening May 1^st. Mrs. O’Flynn acting President presided. The Secretary’s report was read and adopted. A letter thanking the Association for socks was read from Capt. F. M. Brown. Also a very interesting letter from Nursing Sister Jessie Morrice who received supplies for the Canadian Hospital in France where she has been stationed, but is now in a Convalescent home in London. The letter describes the work of transporting the patients from the clearing stations, then crossing the Channel to England and from boat to train in London and then to the different hospitals.

Cards have again been received from the Belleville boys, prisoners of war in Germany, thanking the Association for parcels of food and clothing.”

The Intelligencer May 5, 1917 (page 5)

“Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild, Friary Court, St. James’ Palace, S. W. London, Jan. 25^th, 1917. Dear Mrs. Forbes Angus:—I am so glad to tell you of the safe arrival of seven cases which were sent off on December 8^th. The Queen desires me to convey to you and all the kind workers Her Majesty’s grateful thanks for these splendid gifts, and the Queen asks me to send special thanks to the Women’s Red Cross and Patriotic Association of Belleville, for the very nice socks which they so kindly sent to Her Majesty’s Guild. Do tell them how useful the socks are as we are asked for such quantities of them for the men at the front.

The Queen desires me to say how much she appreciates your continued help. I wish you could see all the grateful letters we get from the Matrons and the men, and I can only add our grateful and renewed thanks. Yours sincerely, Aimee Dawson. (Lady Dawson) acting Hon. Sec.”

The Intelligencer May 5, 1917 (page 7)

“Wins Military Medal. Spr. Edward Alger, who is now at Crowborough Camp forwarded us, this last week, a copy of the Weekly Mirror dated Mar. 29^th. It is full of war illustrations, etc., among others is a picture of our own Frank Houston (Gunner) being decorated by Major-General Turner with the Military Medal, at the Woodcote Park Convalescent Home, Epsom. He with eight others was thus honored on Mar. 21^st. Gunner Frank is winning a name and fame for himself. He is a combination of good sound sense, a liberal supply of Canadian wit and has the nerve of the British lion.

His comrades in arms and his officers are proud of this gallant soldier laddie, and so are we all here at home and we are proud to know too, that there are a lot of just such boys as Frank at the front. Tweed News.”

The Intelligencer May 4, 1917 (page 7)

“Doubly Afflicted. Mr. F. Mindle of Coe Hill, received the sad intelligence that his son, Pte. S. A. Mindle died of wounds and the day following he received another telegram stating that his second son, Pte. A. A. Mindle had been severely wounded. The boys enlisted over a year ago and went overseas with the 155^th Battalion. They were transferred to the 21^st Battalion after going overseas, and have been at the front about two months. The bereaved family have the sympathy of their many friends.”

[Note: Private Sandy Alexander Mindle died on April 12, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 295 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

[Note: Private Ora Acile Mindle died on November 9, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 295 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer May 4, 1917 (page 7)

“Queen Mary School Cadets. The annual inspection of Queen Mary School Cadet Corps No. 8, took place on Tuesday, May 1^st, at 1.30 P. M. The inspecting officer was Major Ponton, a veteran of the 2^nd Battalion, C. E. F. The corps was given a thorough inspection, being tested in company drill, rifle drill, extended order, etc. Each officer did his work in a very efficient manner. The corps has two companies and eighty-six on the roll. This year the officers are all new, as the old ones have passed into the High School. One of the handicaps of the Cadet Corps in the Public School is that we are constantly training officers for the High School.

Major Ponton, in his address to the Cadets after inspection, said that he was delighted with the way the officers did their work. He complimented the corps upon their appearance, discipline and steadiness, and said they had the best officers and were the best Cadet Corps in the Belleville Public Schools.”

The Intelligencer May 3, 1917 (page 2)

“Wounded in Action. Ottawa, Ont., April 28, 1917. Mrs. Gertrude J. Gibson, 517 Coleman St., Belleville, Ont. Dear Madam:—I have the honor to state that information has been received by mail from England to the effect that 455,899 Private William Gibson was admitted to No. 22 General Hospital, Danness Camiere, France, on March 27^th, 1917, suffering from a severe gunshot wound in the right knee. Any further information received will be communicated to you without delay. I have the honor to be, madam. Frank Beard, Record Office.”

The Intelligencer May 3, 1917 (page 2)

“May Day Tea in Aid of Red Cross. It is greatly to be regretted that the very disagreeable weather on Tuesday, May 1^st, prevented many from attending one of the prettiest teas yet given in aid of Red Cross work. It was given by the Cardinal Circle, Mrs. P. C. MacLaurin, Convenor, and held in the Y.M.C.A. reception room.

Even before entering the building, the splendid music of the 254^th orchestra sent out into the stormy weather an irresistible invitation and, within, no disappointment lay in wait.

The large reception room, dressed for May day, was a veritable bower of spring beauty. From the centre of the snowy tables rose the May Pole, twined and woven about with ribbons in palest spring shades of mauve, pink, primrose and green, the ends being caught to the corners with bouquets of Hepatica. The table centre was a large mirror-pond, banked about with flower-starred moss and fern, in which graceful dogtooth violets and waxen blood-root bent above their delicate images, and it seemed a glimpse from the very depths of the spring woods. Moss and May Flowers were also banked against the mantel mirror and everywhere was a profusion of the dainty Hepatica, fairy of the woods. Even the refreshments were served from Hepatica-trimmed baskets tied with streamers of the delicate spring colors.

Mrs. F. E. O’Flynn, as head of the Belleville Women’s Patriotic Association, Mrs. (Dr.) Yeomans as head of the Rainbow Circles and Mrs. MacLaurin received the numerous guests, while Mrs. C. M. Stork and Mrs. B. Malory presided at the table, assisted by an efficient staff of the young ladies of the circle. The refreshments were dainty and abundant and were served in perfect order under the direction of Mrs. David Waters.

The 254^th Orchestra rendered a splendid programme and Pte. Rickwood gave several humorous sketches which were especially appreciated by all.

During the afternoon the raffle of the beautiful handworked gown donated to the Circle by Miss Lucy Grant was decided by Mayor Ketcheson, the lucky winner being Mrs. S. A. Lazier, 91 Bridge Street.

Despite the most unfavorable weather, the circle realized on tea and raffle combined $68.25, which goes to the funds of the Association for wool and other comforts for the soldiers.”

The Intelligencer May 3, 1917 (page 7)

“Harold Reid Relates His First Flying Trip. The following is an extract from a letter received by Mr. C. M. Reid from his son, Harold, who is in France with the British Naval Flying Corps. The letter was written on the 8^th of April. They spend the first couple of months learning all the details of the engine and other mechanisms.

‘During the first morning there was a crash not serious but a crash. One of the old machines and a number of boys went out to get something of what was left. …  While the boys were bringing the pieces in, one of the instructors was going up in one of the newer machines so I asked him if I might go up with him and much to my surprise and delight he said yes, so I borrowed a helmet and goggles and prepared for the journey. I was a little nervous, but before we left the ground the feeling had entirely left and I set in to enjoy it to its fullest extent.

The machine sped quickly over the ground, which made it seem very bumpy, but all of a sudden the machine was going along as smoothly as could be imagined, so I looked over the side of the fuselage and the ground was getting farther and farther away from us and I was really flying above the earth. Since I had never been in a machine before the pilot wished me to have a few of the real sensations to see how I liked it, and I did. I shall not say what all we did, but the earth seemed on one side and then on the other and then straight in front and then behind, and for a second I was completely lost, but soon found myself again.

It was the greatest sensation that I have ever experienced, and I attained the greatest speed too, which was over 80 knots at one time. After about ten minutes we came down again and I was sorry when the wheels went bump on the ground and we were on land once more.

I expect our class will start flying in earnest in another week or two and I shall not be at all sorry as I have waited quite long enough, I think.’ “

The Intelligencer May 2, 1917 (page 2)

“V. Doolittle Wounded. A cable was received yesterday by Mrs. B. Doolittle, residing on Sinclair St., which reads as follows: Ottawa, Ont., April 30, 1917. Mrs. E. Doolittle (Mother), 39 Sinclair Street, Belleville, Ont. Sincerely regret to inform you that 304093 Gunner Vernon Doolittle, artillery, officially reported admitted to No. 14 General Hospital, Winnereux, April 22, 1917, severe contusion foot. Will send further particulars when received. Officer in Charge Records.”

The Intelligencer May 2, 1917 (page 2)

“Former Belleville Man Is Wounded. Mrs. E. A. Insley of Toronto, has been in receipt of the following telegram:

Sincerely regret to inform you 412123 Pte. Ernest Insley, officially reported wounded, April 19, 1917. Will send further particulars when received. Officer in charge of Record Office.

Private Insley referred to, was a former Bellevillian, and he enlisted here with the 39^th Battalion and went overseas with that Battalion in June, 1915, and was drafted in the 2^nd Battalion, with which he went to France. His many friends in Belleville will hope that his wounds are not of a serious nature.”

The Intelligencer May 2, 1917 (page 2)

“High School Cadets Inspected. Consisting of three cadet companies, underwent a very careful inspection by Lt.-Col. Gillespie, the inspector of the Third Division. The strength of the Corps, which, according to the cadet roll, number 131, was greatly depleted owing to the absence of 49 cadets, who had enlisted at Easter for farm and munitions work.

In the words of the inspecting officer the work of the Corps was commended highly as being ‘exceptionally good,’ which is the highest term of praise given by an inspecting officer to a Belleville Cadet Corps.

The High School Corps is the finest in the city both in numbers and in proficiency, is the holder of the Wallace Robb Cup this year as well as last. This cup is held by the corps which in open competition, proves itself the most efficient cadet corps in the city. The Corps of the High School has been one of the most effective factors in gaining recruits for overseas service, and lately in furnishing recruits for farm service to meet the food crisis.”

The Intelligencer May 1, 1917 (page 2)

“Death of Private Frank Wannamaker. The report of Pte. Frank Wannamaker’s death in France, published yesterday, appears to have been slightly in error. The following, received from his mother-in-law this morning, is the proper version:

‘Word was received in the city yesterday from the Record Office, Ottawa, conveying the sad intelligence that Private Frank Wannamaker has been killed in action. The deceased enlisted at Brighton, and was son-in-law to Mr. and Mrs. Manley Wrightmeyer, of 34 Wharf street, Belleville. They also lost a son in February, 1917, who was in uniform, and interred with military honors.’ “

[Note: Private Frank Wannamaker died on April 12, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 345 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer May 1, 1917 (page 2)

“Died of Wounds. Mrs. Frank Mondville residing at 36 ½ Church street, Belleville, received the following sad message:

Deeply regret to inform you 636826 Private Frank Mondville, infantry, previously reported wounded, now died of wounds, No. 3 Canadian Field Ambulance, April 25^th, 1917. Gunshot wounds and compound fracture. Private Mondville left Belleville with the 155^th Battalion. He was known to many in this city, who will regret to learn of his death. A wife and one child survives.”

[Note: Private Frank Mondeville died on April 25, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 295 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer May 1, 1917 (page 3)

“To Defend Your Home. Get Into Khaki. You men who would go overseas but are compelled through force of circumstances to stay in Canada—you can serve with honor.

Back up the men of Vimy Ridge. Canadian Defence Force.”

The Intelligencer May 1, 1917 (page 4)

“Slandering Canadian Soldiers. Major Fred Rutherford, who has just returned to Canada after many months of military life in England, declares that the wet canteen is not only not an evil but is a necessity, that drunkenness in and about the camps is rarely seen, and that Canadian mothers have no cause to be alarmed about the moral conditions to which their sons overseas are exposed.

Similar testimony is given by Captain the Rev. W. B. Caswell, chaplain of the 18^th Reserve battalion, in a letter to the Christian Guardian. ‘As an army,’ he writes, ‘I question if the world ever saw a better or even as good a one as that represented by the sons of Canada in England.’

These testimonies should allay anxieties caused by recent imprudent and slanderous statements made in Parliament and in the press, for no other than political purposes.”

The Intelligencer May 1, 1917 (page 6)

“Early Closing. We are informed that the Wm. Davies Company have decided to close their store at 1 P.M. Wednesdays during May, June, July and August. It has been the usual practise to give the staff an annual holiday, but owing to the shortage of men they are unable to carry out this custom this season. They take this opportunity to thank the ladies of Belleville and district for their patronage in the past, trusting they will give them their full support in this matter.”