Heard the story from my mother in law Nancy and read the letters she has retained. Its very difficult to understand the emotions being felt when William tried to be so matter of fact so as to protect his family from the reality. One thing which does stand out is the strong family bond and the insistence that his brother doesn't 'come out here'. Visited Mauquissart a few years ago to remember William and couldn't believe how so many lives could be lost in so short a distance.

william stevens