Francis and Riversdale Grenfell by John Buchan

John Buchan's affectionate memoir of Francis and Riversdale Grenfell celebrates two inseparable brothers whose lives moved from exuberant boyhood to heroic wartime sacrifice. Born into a distinguished military family, the twins grew up at Hatchlands in a world of ponies, hounds, cricket, and elaborate pranks, their uncanny resemblance and shared wit making them both delightful and indistinguishable. At Wilton Park and Temple Grove, they were as devoted to games as they were indifferent to lessons, already showing the camaraderie, competitiveness, and practical humor that would define them. Their youth broadened at Malta and in later travel, awakening a serious interest in history, empire, and soldiering. Francis emerged as a gifted cavalry officer, while Rivy pursued finance, yet both remained warm, loyal, and intensely devoted to one another. Their sporting lives, especially on the Freebooters polo team, reveal the same energy and competitive spirit, while Francis's return to South Africa shows his ambition, discipline, and promise for higher command. The memoir becomes an elegy as wartime letters and tributes praise their courage, character, and service, culminating in Francis's Victoria Cross, Rivy's death, and Francis's own final fall in battle. This edition has been fully restored with modern typesetting, custom cover design.