Читать книгу The Times Great War Letters: Correspondence during the First World War - James Owen - Страница 26

THE TREATMENT OF THE GERMAN WOUNDED

8 December 1914

SIR,—I HAVE JUST returned from an official visit to the military and private hospitals organized for the care of British and French wounded at Paris and Versailles.

In many of these hospitals are German wounded. I spoke to every German wounded man that I saw and learnt from them that not only had they no complaints but were more than satisfied with the way they are tended and treated. As far as I could learn there is no difference of condition between a German wounded soldier and a British or French. I understand that in Germany there is a widespread erroneous impression that their wounded are being harshly treated by us. So strong is this belief that I hear that my brother, a colonel of the Guards, who is lying very grievously wounded in the military hospital at Frankfurt a/M, although now admirably cared for, is not allowed to be visited by German friends in retaliation for the supposed ill-treatment of their wounded by us. The German wounded in British and neutral hospitals in France are allowed to be visited by the many kind ladies who bring gifts and comforts for the wounded, and receive their share.

In view of the wide circulation of The Times, which I understand still continues in Germany, I shall be glad if you can publish this letter.

I am, Sir, your obedient servant,

LIONEL EARLE