A “Mormon” Captain in the British Army

A "Mormon" Captain in the British Army BY F. C. STEELE Ordinarily, promotion in the British army is very slow, but this rule has certainly been broken in the case of Captain Hyde W. Taylor, of Magrath, Alberta, who is now in Canterbury, England, with the famous Hussars, a cavalry regiment. Captain Taylor is a "Mormon" boy, born and reared in the West, and his rapid rise in the ranks is due largely to the broad, generous, comprehensive view he takes of things. Entering the Canadian militia, three years ago, his abilities were soon recognized by his superior officers. He developed a remarkable insight' into military affairs, and showed a tact and initiative so essential to the make-up of a successful officer. His promo- tion was rapid and when the war broke out last August Taylor held the rank of lieutenant. When the call for volunteers came he promptly enlisted and was entrusted with a portion of the recruiting work. The 13th Canadian Mounted Rifles were organized shortly after. Lieut. Taylor was given command of a company, a commission he held during the training at Cardston and later at Sarcee Camp, near the city of Calgary. One day last summer a call came for a detachment from the 13th. for overseas service. Col. Kemmis chose Lieut. Taylor tc take [this important command. He was elevated shortly after to the rank of Captain. When the troops left the C. P. R. depot for their long journey over land and sea, there were many wet eyes among Capf. 'lavlor's company. And there were tears— big tears— in the Captain's eyes as he shook their hands, perhaps for the last time. Bearded veterans, men who went through the Boer War, were loath to lose this boyish, clean, pleasant, efficient officer. They wanted to follow him in the charge because he had won their confidence. In this commission, as in all others, Capt. Taylor proved himself equal to the occasion. Although young in military experience, he landed his charge safely in England, receiving the warm congratula- tions of his higher officers. In England he was ordered to Canterbury, where he became at- tached to the cavalry division of the Imperial Army. He is still there awaiting orders to proceed with his regiment to the front. Recently, Capt. Taylor had the proud distinction of attending a banquet held in London in honor of Premier Borden, of Canada, who was then on an official mission in Europe. Capt. Taylor is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Hyrum W. Taylor, and is a grandson of President John Taylor. From both parents he in- herits a faculty for leadership. The Siddoways — his mother's family — have been soldiers and sailors for generations back. He is thus sustaining the traditions of his family. RAYMOND, TANATIA CAPT. HYDE W. TAYLOR.