Letter from Major-General Sir George Spafford Richardson to C.E. [Charles Ernest] Archibald, 19 October 1915

Letter (unnumbered) to 'Archibald' [Charles Ernest Archibald] from 'G S Richardson' [George Spafford Richardson] dated 19 October 1915 from the Dardanelles [Turkey], musing on his commitment to and pride of the New Zealand Army and the love he has for his family. (5 leaves)

Extracts from the text read as follows:

Extract 1

[Page 2]

"... - Death does not seem to have much effect on one here - One sees so much of it - only yesterday I stood calmly looking at the dried up skeletons of Turks in uniform without the slightest feeling of horror whereas before the war it would have shocked me - were it not for my wife & family I would calmly & without dread die at any time for my country but I do want for their sake to get through this alright & pray that I may do so."

Extract 2

[Page 2]

" - I have enjoyable companions in our staff, a splendid General & plenty of work -"

Extract 3

[Page 4]

..."My pleasure lies in the fact that it was given to a New Zealander serving with strange officers & Troops & therefore reflects credit on New Zealand - as outsiders have to earn what they get -"

Extract 4

[Page 5]

"If the war lasts long enough we shall all win all sorts of honours, but trinkets have no charm for me. I am charmed only by my wife & family & New Zealand where I hope we shall all meet soon.”