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Letter from Lieut-Col. A. L. Martin
Commanding 2nd. Wilts.
to
Vivian's father - Dr Chaloner Clay

      It is with the very greatest sorrow, I write to tell you something of the way your son, Captain V. H. Clay met his end.

       My Battalion attacked the enemy's trenches South of Bapoum at 3.40. a.m. October 18th, and your son commanded B. Company which was in reserve, but had to advance at the same time as the rest of the Battalion and had a particular objective. At 5 a.m. I received a written report from your son, that he had gained his objective, and was "digging in". Later I heard that while urging his men to dig and directing their efforts he was shot in the back and died almost immediately. Under the existing conditions I was unable to get any first hand evidence, but I believe the above to be the facts of this very great misfortune.

      I have known your son for nearly a year and have the greatest admiration for his character. Although so young and, in ordinary times, of so little experience, he commanded his company with very great ability. He was so popular with his men that he easily obtained

                                                    (2)
the best from them. He was one of the most popular officers in the Battalion and not only I but every one in the Regiment will regret his loss both as a good officer and friend.

I could not write sooner as my Battalion only came out of action this morning.

 Yours very sincerely,
A. L. Martin
(Lieut. Col. commanding 2nd. Wilts)