Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Recorder (Port Pirie) 2 November 1942

AWAY back in 1918 Pte. Hurtle Lock, an A.I.F. man from Pirie, was moving across a battlefield in France when he picked up a small Testament. Inscribed on the flyleaf were the words:
"Presented to Bro. E. Brooks by members of Wallaroo Church of Christ on
the eve of his departure for the front, May 14, 1917."
Pte. Lock attached sentiment to the little Book, and sent it home to his sister, Mrs, B, J, Maynard, of Pirie. Despite enquiries', nothing was ever heard of Pte. Brooks, and Mrs. Maynard placed the Testament away in a drawer.
Now, after 24 years, the owner has been located, safe and well. He resides
at 31 Woolfield avenue, Fullarton, and he was run to earth through the efforts of
Mrs. A, E. Arnold, of Pirie West. In a letter just received by Mrs. Maynard Mr.
Brooks expresses his delight and gratification at the chance of again handling
the little book, which meant so much to him on the other side.
He remarks that his daughter, was leaving home to join the W.A.A.A.F. when he received the advice that the testament had come to light.
"I shall send it by registered post at once," said Mrs. Maynard, who seemed
is pleased as the owner apparently was about the whole thing.