Page:Memorials of Capt. Hedley Vicars, Ninety-seventh Regiment by Marsh, Catherine, 1818-1912.djvu/81

Rh the old church. Some of the epitaphs in the churchyard were very absurd. An old lady signifies to the world that she 'died fully persuaded of the many virtues of her dear husband; and others were of similar import. The park and the views from it are beautiful. We drove back well pleased with our visit.

"On Thursday I was dining with a nice family, four miles from Canterbury, and met a large party. I noticed opposite to me a very pleasant-looking fellow, and was struck with his quiet, calm manner and countenance.

"After we had adjourned to the drawing-room, I asked him if he belonged to the Army prayer-union? and when he said, 'Yes,' we became friends at once. He said 'There is a man in the 97th whom I want to know: his name is Vicars.' I replied: There 'is a man in the Rifle Brigade whom I want to know: it is Captain Hammond' We were at each other's service!

"On Saturday he came to call upon me, and stayed for some time. He is a delightful fellow. I sent for Cay, and we had a, happy time of communion together. It is a great blessing having such a brother officer as Cay. He is one of a thousand. We often walk together, and he generally comes up to my barrack-room after mess, and we read the Bible, converse about heavenly things, and end in prayer."