For King and Country.
Hugh Smith of West Mersea.
It is with much regret we record the death in France on February 15th of Prvt. Hugh Smith, fifth son of Mrs Mary Overall smith and the late George Fredk Smith, Mill House, West Mersea. The deceased offered his services at the outbreak of war and proceeded with his regiment, the 1st Battalion of the Essex Regiment, to the Dardanelles. After enduring many hardships he was wounded, and eventually was moved to a hospital in England. After some months he was again able to resume duties, and at the New Year was sent to France. He entered the trenches on Feb 14th, and the next day was killed by a shell, death being instantaneous. A devoted son, a loving brother, and a true friend, his death has caused great sorrow to all who knew him. He was firm in his belief that we were engaged in a war for righteousness and truth, and he was prepared to lay down his life for his country. This great sacrifice he has made. A letter conveying information of his death was sent by his friend and was as follows:

Dear Mrs Smith - Undoubtedly you have by now been notified of the death of your son Hugh. He was killed by a shell on Tuesday last, February 15th, while doing his duty as a true Englishman. It may slightly comfort you to know that death was instantaneous. He was carried back to a village near the trenches and properly buried in a British cemetery. The N.C.O.'s and men of the platoon join with me in expressing our very deepest sympathy. He was liked and respected by all who knew him, and for myself, he was my chum, and I loved him almost as a brother. I am afarid there is nothing I can say to comfort you, but the One above who ordains all things for our good also gives us strength to bear these terrible burdens. His personal property, less his watch and cigarette case, which of course were smashed, were handed in at headquarters, and will be forwarded on to you shortly. I can assure you I sympathise with you with all my heart, as I myself miss him terribly.
Believe me to remain,
Yours respectfully,
Albert A. Branch.

Mrs M.O. Smith and family
Most sincerely thank all who have so kindly sympathised with them in their great loss.
Mill House, West Mersea, March 9th 1916.

Date: 9 March 1916