In the First World War many soldiers carried at least two books with them for most of the time. The first was their ‘small book’, their pay book with their personal service details. The other book was in many cases a Bible.
As something which individual soldiers could ask for, the First World War testament comes in many forms and was provided by many organisations. One of the consistent passages found in the majority these testaments is not a religious one but one from Field Marshal Lord Roberts.
Dated 25 August 1914. ‘I ask you to put your trust in God. He will watch over you and strengthen you. You will find in this little book guidance when you are in health, comfort when you are in sickness, and strength when you are in adversity.’ Continue reading »