TRANSCRIBED FROM THE BENTON COURIER DECEMBER 20, 1917 P. 4
I will try to write a short missive. Perhaps all the good people of Benton have forgotten me. Here’s hoping they have not. I will never forget them. I lived in dear old Benton for a period of twelve years, during which time I knew almost everybody there. I left there December 23, 1916, for Malvern, Arkansas. I only went back to Benton one time since, which was last Fourth of July. I remained there until July 7, before returning to Malvern. During my four days’ visit at Benton I saw many dear old friends who I sure would be more than glad to see now, I sure had a delightful time at Riverside Rustic Park on the banks of the dear old Saline river July 4th, where I have spent many happy days.
I am now in the service of Uncle Sam. I have been in since November 4, 1917. Am now located at Camp Beauregard, La, seven miles from Alexandria. I sure love old Arkansas far better than this place and have a longing in my heart to return there again.
Believe me, this plase is some “wet” now. Rain fell here all last night and all day today.
I guess I had better quit for fear Mr. White puts this in the waste basket. So I will send you a little piece of poetry, after which we will stand together and be dismissed by Mr. W. F. Carson. If I receive a copy of The Courier with this letter printed therein I perhaps will write again.
So here comes my poetry entitled:
The Kaiser in Heaven
When the kaiser dies and leaves this
World,
The German’s hearts will yearn:
They’ll know he’s gone to heaven ----
He’s far too tough to burn.
In going through the pearly gates,
St. Peter sure will yell:
If the kaiser’s come to paradise,
You may check my ___ to Hell!”
My best regards to all dear old Saline county people.
R. M. Burrow,
Co. C, 114th Field Signal Battalion,
Camp Beauregard, La., Dec 17
NOTES: Robert Maynard Burrow was born on August 9, 1892 and died on November 30, 1959 in Saline County. He is buried in the Hicks Cemetery in Benton, Arkansas. His military headstone identifies him as a Pvt. In the 114 Field Signal Bn.
TRANSCRIBED BY KOBE HEAGERTY