Chief Constable Teale has received a letter from the front dated April 22nd, 1915, from Bombadier A. H. Goss, 37836, Trench Mortar Battery, R.H.A., who was a member of the Borough Police Force until the outbreak of war.

He wrote: "On behalf of the men of our Trench Mortar, I respectfully beg to to ask if you will put forward to those people of Luton who are eager to do what they can for our men out here the most needed article of all, viz, a respirator to cover the mouth and nose and prevent the effects of the poisonous gases contained in the German shells. It is sudden death to any man who breathes the gas into his lungs.

"I am sure everyone here would very much appreciate the kindness of anyone who could supply one of these respirators, and they may prove very helpful in the next coming battle, as we shall be in the midst of it all. We have about 100 men here, and I know the people in Luton would be glad to hear that they have done a great deal to help our men achieve the great things which are expected of them soon.

"I know all of you at home will wish us the best of luck when we again toe the line, so if you will put this earnest request into proper quarters as speedily as possible, your assistance and kindness will never be forgotten by the Trench Mortar Battery, Royal Artillery. PS - Getting them on the run."

The Telegraph pointed out that since Bombardier Goss's letter had been sent it had been stated that an ample quantity of respirators had been supplied to the authorities, but it would appear that men were still lacking their respirators. Chief Constable Teale would therefore still be glad to receive respirators and would forward them to the proper quarter.

[Beds & Herts Saturday Telegraph, May 8th, 1915]