THE SHERIFF OF SURREY'S BADGE.
THE following letter has been sent by the High Sheriff of Surrey to persons eligible for his badge—i.e., recruits who have failed to enter the National Forces owing to some personal disability :— "DEAR Srn,—I send you with this the Sheriff's badge, given to commemorate the fact that in the year 1914 you ' willingly offered yourself' as a soldier, and that it was through no fault of yours that your service could not be accepted. In the case of men rejected only on account of height and chest measurement the acceptance of the badge must be considered as a pledge of honour that the recipient will again offer himself should the standard be lowered, or if for any other reason he believes that he would now be accepted. Of your perfect willingness to agree to such a condition I of course have no doubt.
You must not part with the badge on any consideration, as it is most important that badges should not fall into any hands but those of men who have tried to join the King's forces.
Let me say in parting how much I honour you for having done your best to serve your country in arms. I who am too old even to offer my service esteem it a great privilege to give you on behalf of the County of Surrey this acknowledgment that you have done your duty.
I am, Sir, yours faithfully,
J. ST. Los SMUCKER (High Sheriff of Surrey). Net:lands Corner, llferrow Downs, Guildford :
Wednesday, October 7th, 1914."
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