Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Egypt and Sudan 1882-89, 2 clasps, Suakin 1885, Tofrek (Lieut. A. L. Harries, R.M.L.I.) light pitting from star, otherwise better than very fine £900-1100

Arthur Lewis Harries was born at Tenby, Pembrokeshire, on 12 February 1864, and was appointed Lieutenant in the Plymouth Division, Royal Marine Light Infantry on 1 February 1883, aged 18 years 11 months. He was seconded on probation to the Indian Staff Corps on 9 December 1886; Wing Officer, 8th Madras Infantry, 2 December 1887; Wing Officer, 2nd Punjab Infantry, 5 September 1889; Squadron Officer, 3rd Lancers, Hyderaban Contingent, 1 April 1891. He died at Hingoli, Deccan, on 20 April 1892, of injuries received from a panther.

The following Obituary Notice was published in The Globe & Laurel:

‘The tragic death of Lieutenant Arthur Lewis Harries, late R.M.L.I., in India, on April 20th, causes deep regret to all who knew him. He was very popular, a splendid shot, and knew no fear. Though only 27 years of age he was considered an authority on the shooting of big game. His death was caused by the wounds inflicted by a panther whilst shooting in the Punjaub, accompanied by only two or three natives. He had shot at the panther and it retired into the jungle, but suddenly rushing out, it attacked Lieut. Harries, tearing his forearm. A devoted native seized the infuriated animal round the neck, and literally dragged it off, but it turned and bit him severely, when another native hit it on the head and it then made off. Lieut. Harries, by this time on his legs, shot the panther dead. He then cauterised his own and attendant’s wounds and putting the latter on his own pony, walked 14 miles to the station. Fever and erysipelas set in and he died 4 days later.

Entering the service on 1st February 1883, he joined the Plymouth Division. In 1884-5, he served with the Royal Marine Battalion during the defence of Suakim, and the subsequent operations in the Eastern Soudan, being present at the actions of Hasheen, 20th March, the Zereeba fight Tofrek, 22nd March, Convoy fight, March 24th, and burning of Tamaai, April 3rd, 1885. In January 1887, he was transferred to the Indian Staff Corps, and served as wing officer of the 2nd Punjaub Infantry, until early this year when he was appointed to the 3rd Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent.

All who knew him in the Soudan will remember the good service he performed there, especially when in command of “H” redoubt, a small isolated post 3/4 of a mile on the north front of Suakim, which had previously been a favourite spot with the Arabs from which to trouble the garrison of Suakim with their nightly fusilade. This post Lieut. Harries and Sergeant Baker, with about 25 men, held during a long series of night attacks, and kept the redoubt in such a manner that it was a perfect model of cleanliness and good order. We are sure we only echo the sentiments of all his old comrades in expressing our heartfelt sorrow at his untimely end.’