Charles Lister, Letters and Recollections

Charles Lister served in the Royal Marines, Hood Battalion Royal Naval Division. Charles Lister was the second son of Thomas, Baron Ribblesdale and Lady Charlotte. He had a typical upbringing for a member of the aristocracy and was educated at Eton College before going up to Balliol College, Oxford. A highly intelligent young man Charles decided to make his life as a diplomat. He passed the Civil Service examinations then served in Rome and Constantinople. Through his family and friends he was also able to spend considerable time in India and Europe. His knowledge of the diplomatic situation and personal insight during the build up to and outbreak of the First World War is fascinating. As soon as it was possible Charles volunteered and joined the army. He first worked as an interpreter before joining the Royal Naval Division and being sent to serve at Gallipoli. During the voyage he was with his great friend, Rupert Brooke, who died en route and Charles was responsible for the burial party. He was wounded shortly after arriving on the beaches but refused the offer to return to a desk job in the Foreign Office. Charles rejoined his men at the front where he was slightly wounded however he made light of it in his letters. Charles was wounded for the third time and he died on board the hospital ship, the SS Gascon. He now lies in East Mudros Military Cemetery. Lord Ribblesdale published ‘Letters and Recollections’ a year after Charles’ death. I have re-set the original book and, where appropriate, added contemporary illustrations to compliment the text. Part III of this publication contains additional information and over eighty cameos of those who were mentioned in the original publication. 392 pages