The Diary

August 1st 1914
Anna - The bells all over Paris started chiming at 4pm this afternoon; it was eerie. Somebody in the street told me it was for the troop mobilisation in case Germany declares war. I'll write to father to find out what's going on in Belgium.

August 1st 1914
Karl - It feels strange to return to Germany. At least Emile can take care of Marie and Victor. Things should calm down in the months to come. It's all so meaningless.

August 12th 1914
Emile - I started training at the military camp today. I can't help thinking of Karl who's probably doing the same in Germany. The declaration of war has created havoc. I hope Marie and the neighbors managed to finish the harvest in time.

August 12th 1914
Freddie - At last, I can't wait to get fighting. Maybe it'll ease some of the pain I feel inside.

August 12th 1914
Marie - After Karl, it's daddy's turn to leave. Why did they have to call him up> Wasn't it enough to expel my dear love from these lands? Why do they want to put daddy in uniform? He's too old to fight. And now they've left me all alone with the harvest on the way and Victor to take care of.

August 20th 1914
Emile - We spent yet another day walking. We heard cannon fire for the first time today. I don't want to have to kill. I must stop thinking about it and get some sleep.

August 21st 1914
Karl - Emile! There! Right in front me! Sprawling on the ground! Why did his regiment have to come up against mine? I hope he pulls through. He's one tough cookie. I must find out what POW camp he's been taken to.

August 24th 1914
Marie - That letter gave me such a fright. Poor daddy, he's been wounded and taken prisoner by the Germans. I don't know if he's seriously injured, and if he's being well taken care of. I've been told prisoners are allowed to receive letters. I shall write him tomorrow.

September 7th 1914
Freddie - I missed them by a whisker. It won't happen again. My younger brother's letter was sweet. It gave me a real boost. It's good he's back in the States, miles away from this nightmare. That kid has a knack of getting himself into trouble.

September 25th 1914
Marie - Today the Germans invaded Saint Mihiel. Fortunately the troops spared the farm. I took shelter in the cellar with Victor. Now what's going to happen?