Harrogate Herald - 29th December 1915

Letters

J W McBain writes : 

Just a few lines to let you know that all the lads and myself are doing fine. I am writing to you to ask you if you could send me some cigarettes, as they are very scarce. I am writing to you, although I am not a Harrogate lad, but I am with them, and I think I am among a good set of lads. I always read your valuable paper. It is a boon to us all. Yours in anticipation.

Harrogate Herald - 7th February 1917

W H Breare letter

Private J W McBain came to thank me for a mouth-organ which I sent him once upon a time. He was wounded, at Christmas, in the left ankle whilst on a wiring party. He entered the 21st General Hospital at Etaples, and next had the happiness to find himself at Heatherdene. That particular mouth-organ, I remember, Gaynor gave me for McBain. My visitor was quite full of gratitude to the Grand Duchess, for her Heatherdene Hospital had been a most comfortable home. You should have seen the light in his eyes when he expressed his appreciation. McBain's home, I believe, is really in Hull, but he enlisted at York. He has turned out of Heatherdene, now perfectly cured, and went home on Saturday for what is known as "sick leave". Next he will report at the depot. If any of you chaps meet Private J W McBain he will have a good deal to tell you about Harrogate, its people, and all the kindness he has received.