Harold was educated at Newry Intermediate School; at Sedbergh Grammar School; and at Wadham College, Oxford. After graduating he completed for the Higher Examination for the Civil Service, obtaining the 11th place. He took up an appointment in London, which he exchanged later for one at the Public Records Office, Four Courts, Dublin. He volunteered for Imperial Service in January 1915, and being a member of the Society of Friends, joined the R.A.M.C. He entered the war in France on the 23rd July 1915. He was awarded the Military Medal for what the General commanding the Division described as “Gallant conduct and fine behaviour”. Harold died at a Casualty Clearing Station of wounds received in action. His Commanding Officer wrote: “I cannot tell you how much the Ambulance will miss him; not only was his gallantry an example to the rest of the men, but he was always cheerful, and his influence for good was beyond praise. I personally feel that I have lost a friend at my back, who always worked for the good of the unit.” The Chaplain also wrote: “Among all my boys there was none for whom I had a higher respect, or whom I loved more, and I know for certain that all his officers and comrades will miss him greatly. He enjoyed among them the very highest and best kind of popularity. Everyone knew him for a man of absolute Christian integrity, and his influence in that way in the Ambulance can never be measured.” Harold was the only son of John William and Sara (daughter of William M Doherty) Thorp of Rockfort House, Tivoli Terrace South, Kingstown, co. Dublin.