Harrogate Herald - 3rd January 1917

W H Breare letter

I think you boys would be pleased to know something of the feelings of the chaps who come home on leave. I was glad of one feature. I had Driver Schollitt, of Montpelier Square, in from the Front. He is on the MT. You know that is the last lot up to the firing line, or as near as the boys say, as a "toucher". He confided to me that though he was delighted to get home to his wife and children he was torn between two sentiments. He was sorry not to be with his pals at the Front at Xmas time. But then, of course, the wife and the children have the first claim and naturally his satisfaction at being home was immense. He arrived Xmas morning. Before the war Schollitt drove a cab and his stand was in Cold Bath Road. From this you may identify him. He looks exceedingly well, and deep within him is a big lump of satisfaction that he is able to do his bit. He has never had a day's illness and is better than he has been in his life. Schollitt confided to me that the people out where he has been, even in the villages that are very near the scenes of operations, seem to be a deal more cheerful than our folks at home. Schollitt met Tom Brown, son of Anthony Brown, of Harlow Terrace, and George H Beer is in his company. Schollitt was the first soldier to introduce me to the importance of hair clippers. I sent hi out a pair a long time ago. His present clippers need repairs and they will take some time, so I am going to ask one of my readers to supply another pair of the No 3 size. I am glad my friend called to see me, because he has thrown a clearer light on that wonderful thing - comradeship. We hardly know what the real thing is at home. It manifests itself completely only in moments of danger and hardship. No wonder you chaps look so well and happy, and I realise more than ever that it is mainly due to spirit of comradeship that you are just what you are - men in the most bravest and generous sense. Whilst Schollitt was in, amongst the callers I received was Mrs McNichol. She has three boys at the Front. She is one of the real brave, motherly sort, full of just pride in her lads. They are all right, I am glad to say, so far, and I hope they will come back safe to her covered with well-won honours.