Just Another Pair Of Socks

Additional Information

Parents:
Mathew Pratt, born October 1854 Durham, England
married Elizabeth Ann Arnell 30/06/1881 and died at Melton in 1929.
1903 census lists Mathew as a woodcutter & Elizabeth as Home Duties
Elizabeth Ann Arnell was born in 1860 at Kingston, Tasmania.
10 children, 3 girls, 7 boys

Note: 26/05/1916 - Letter from mother; concerned that she has not seen Robert or David as she has to work because husband is ill. (Father illiterate; mother weak literacy skills)

Note: 16/10/1916 - Again, mother writes that and "as not recived one letter from me at home He gone seven mounths I think this a shame he cant here from home and asks for help."
Reply dated 20/10 states that some mail has been slow in delivery and giving his postal details.

The Bacchus Marsh Express
Saturday 5 May 1917 p 2
And
Melton Express
Saturday 5 May 1917 p 2

It is with much regret we record the death of "Bob" Pratt, a Melton native, who lost his life on April 18th, in France, serving King and Country. R. Burton, son of Mr. William Burton, Melton South, has been wounded a second time; and G. Wickham, son of Mrs. Wickham, Melton South has been wounded.

The Bacchus Marsh Express
Saturday 18 August 1917, P 2
And
Melton Express
Saturday 18 August 1917, P 2

An impressive Memorial Service was held last Sunday morning in Christ Church, Melton, to commemorate three local soldiers recently killed in Action - Corporal A. Martin, Corporal F. Sahr, and Private R. Pratt. The Vicar (Rev. F. Stanley Love) preached to a large congregation, from Hebrews 12, verse 1, and drew a lesson from St. Paul's conception of the athletes in the ancient games, encouraging their comrades engaged in conflict. The heroes who have given their lives in the arena of this world contest look on from the vantage ground of a clearer vision, and a fuller knowledge, and the thought of their interest, although absent, should encourage those who are left in the struggle. At the close of the service, the congregation stood in silence, whilst the Dead March was played.

The Age
12 April 1918 , p. 1

PRATT. - In loving memory of our son, Private - R. H. W. Pratt, who died of wounds 12th April, 1917.
Gone dear Bob; yes, gone for ever,
Gone from this world of sorrow and pain;
Gone from a mother that loved you so dearly. Never on this earth to/ meet again. As through this lonely world I wander My thoughts will ever be of you.
In memory I will see you ever—
I loved you better than you Know.
- Inserted by his loving parents Melton and Private D.T.Pratt (on active service)

PRATT - In loving memory of my dear brother. R.H.W. Pratt, died of wounds 12th April
Just when his life was brightest
Just when his hopes were best.
His country called, he answered:
Now in God's home he rests
- Inserted by his loving brother, Arthur, Melton.

PRATT. — In loving memory of our dear brother Private Robert Pratt, died of wounds somewhere in France on the 12th April, 1917; also his mates. Corp. J O'Callaghan, died 11th April, 1917, and T. O'Callaghan, killed in action on 26th September, 1917.
We pictured their safe returning
And longed to clasp their hands;
But God has parted our meeting
Twill be in a better land.
- Inserted by his sister and brother-in-law, Charlotte C. Connolly.

PRATT. - In loving memory our dear brother, Private Robert Pratt, died of wounds somewhere in France on the 12th April, 1917.
You're not forgotten, dear Bob,
Nor will you ever be;
As long to life and memory last
We will remember thee
Sadly missed
- Inserted by his sister, Alice, and brother, Dave, on active service.

Pratt. - In loving memory of my dear brother R. H. W. Pratt who died of wounds 12th April, 1917.
I often think of you, dear Bob,
And think of how you died;
But oh ! it was so hard to think
You could not say good-bye
- Inserted by his loving brother, Alexander, Melton,

PRATT. - In loving memory of my dear brother, R. H. W. Pratt of who died of wounds 12th April 1917.
We picture you safe return, dear Bob,
And longed to clasp your hand.
But God has postponed our meeting
'Twill be in better lands.
- Inserted by his loving brother, Fred., Melton.