Page:Memorials of Capt. Hedley Vicars, Ninety-seventh Regiment by Marsh, Catherine, 1818-1912.djvu/227

Rh "I heard of his death on the evening of the 23d, and yesterday hastened to the front. I met one and another of the 97th, and the deepest sorrow filled each heart. I cannot express it. Rough hands wiped the starting tears away at the mention of his name, and one after another told me of the good he had sought to do him.

"On reaching the encampment of the 97th, I saw soldiers digging a grave. It was his. I stood beside them, and spoke to them as well as I could for sorrow, and remained till it was finished. Oh! how my heart bled for his dear mother and sisters at home. The poor soldiers seemed to feel this, and said that they could not forget his dear sister's parting counsels to them ere they left England. It seems to have made a deep impression on them.

"He was buried at three o'clock yesterday afternoon. All the officers of the 97th were there, with some friends from other regiments and a large number of the men of his own regiment. I stood by Dr. Cay, and Captain Vandeleur was opposite. A deep, very deep solemnity prevailed as the chaplain read the Funeral Service. It was a touching solemn hour. Yes, he had all earthly honour, all deep respect. The mournful procession went home, and dear Dr. Cay and I went together on the road to Balaklava talking of our loss, and of his dear mother and sisters and friends at home, and of those pleasures and joys he now possesses in the calm, pure, holy heaven on high.

"Being all day with them, I had opportunity of seeing many of the men of the 97th. He was the most beloved officer of the regiment, and not only in his own regiment — it seems his name is well known now throughout the army, and his loss deeply felt. I could here pause to give expression to my own feelings. I feel I have lost a dear friend, one to whom my heart was much knit. I had anticipated happy days with him in this land, and I felt I should be much strengthened. It was not to be so. Soon we shall follow. Oh! may the faltering steps be quickened, and the soul be made to mount up with wings as eagles, longing, panting, thirsting more ardently and more constantly for the living God.

"I had visited him three times, and remained long with him. On Tuesday, the 20th, we had gone together to