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The following letter has been received by Mr James Cameron, crofter, Abernyte, concerning the death of his son, Donald Cameron, who fell in the storming of Tel-El-Kebir, the communication being, as will be seen, written by a comrade :-
"CAIRO, September 16, 1882.
"Dear Friend - I have no doubt you will be surprised at getting a letter from me, but I thought it my duty to write you and let you know how matters stand with your son, D. Cameron. Perhaps you will have seen it by this time in the newspapers - his being killed at the battle of Tel-El-Kebir, poor fellow! I can assure you you need never be ashamed of him. I saw him with my own eyes. He was the first man to mount the parapet of the trenches, and the second man to fall. A very cheerful fellow he was, and brave as well, and a very good friend of mine, as he and I were fellow tradesmen. In fact, every one liked him in the company. He was an exceedingly strong man.
I am an old ploughman myself, and that is why Donald and I were so great friends. I have got your address and his sister's at the Bridge of Earn - a place I know very well, for I was serving there. We were marching all night before the battle, and he was as cheerful as if he had been taking a walk to himself. We were ordered not to speak a word, nor fire a shot, but to charge them with the bayonet, and I can assure you I would never like to see the like again. There is one thing I want to tell you; if you look after it you will get his medal and clasp, and his small book. There will be a remembrance of his glorious deeds. If you feel inclined you can write me a note, and I will give you any more news you may require. I intend giving his sister a visit at the Bridge of Earn, for my home is in Perth. I hope you will excuse me, as my time is very short.
"W. Wood, 79th Highlanders"