August 1972: An interesting
gravestone. It reads:
"In Memory of THOMAS THATCHER a Grenadier in the
North Reg. of Hants Militia
who died of a violent Fever contracted by drinking Small Beer when hot
the 12th of May 1764. Aged 26 Years.
In grateful remembrance of whose universal good will towards his
Comrades, this Stone is placed here at their
expense, as a small testimony of their regard and concern. Here sleeps
in peace a Hampshire Grenadier
Who caught his death by drinking cold small Beer. Soldiers be wise from
his untimely fall And when ye're hot
drink Strong or none at all."
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