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cases most worthy of help as we have elsewhere. The Committee would therefore be very glad to consider applications sent to them, through you or any other authority, with regard to individual cases needing assistance. Applications may also be sent through any local Committee or organization that is working to help war sufferers in your Commune. Each application should be accompanied by a few details as to the present financial circumstances and need.
“May I add that the details of any application that you may desire to submit to us will be treated confidentially and considered in the most kindly spirit.
- “We beg to remain,
- “Very sincerely yours,
- “President of the Committee.”
This letter was sent to 159 Prefects, Senators, Deputies and Mayors in the departments of the Pas de Calais, Nord, Somme, Oise, Aisne and Marne and called forth a very general and enthusiastic response. At the request of the Deputy of St. Quentin members of our Committee were able to visit some portions of the devastated districts of the Aisne in order to have some adequate concept of the havoc wrought and of the present need of the inhabitants. The condition of one village will give a specific idea of what they found. Beauvois had before the war a population of between 7000 and 8000 people. An expert's examination showed that in the whole town there were only twelve buildings capable of being repaired. The result was that there was no civil population left. As soon, however, as they were repatriated the inhabitants of these desolate villages would make their way back to what was formerly their home and the Mayors and Deputies would endeavor to find means to provide them with shelter and food.
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