Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales

Cave letters, 1915-1919 / Harrie Joseph Cave
MLMSS 1224

[Transcriber’s note:
These letters were written by Harrie Cave to his parents from his position as a private in training camp at Warwick Farm, Sydney, and include the voyage to Egypt and training there and events in Northern France where he joins other Infantry forces around various villages. He gives excellent descriptions of scenes around him in Egypt and in France.
Censored words are shown as dashes.
The letters are bound into a volume, often not in chronological order. They have been transcribed in the correct order, but the pagination does not reflect the original page numbering]

[Page 1]
Letter: August 18th 1915
No. 3 Company
A.I.E. Forces
Warwick Farm Depot

P.S. Re solution – you will find it in a vaseline bottle, Les Nuttal will show it to you. Rubber ought to be plentiful there too!

Dear Mother & Father,
Here I am again, but with no fresh news to add to my last.

It is practically certain that I shall not be home this week end, as it is my mate’s turn off.

He says he does not want leave this till Saturday week, but I would not impose on the Military, besides I was off last week end & there are others who are due for leave.

We have had nice weather all this week, except for the coldness in the early mornings. Tonight we are having our first taste of rain & it sounds very soothing from inside the tent, but I would not care to change places with the Guard & Pickets who are posted all round the grounds all, two hours on, 4 hours off.

New faces are arriving every day & there are some I know pretty well. This is a happy place. Plenty of singing, music, mouth organs, Concertinas, & even a cornet- puts me in mind of Bob Whit. The cornet player is very good & gives us several selections morning & night.

Our "Company has just purchased a "Kettle drum,

[Page 2]
2 Footballs, (one Soccer one Rugby), & 2 sets Boxing gloves, so that we can fill in our spare time.

Would like someone to bring up one of those Balaclava caps & a suit of Pyjamas, as it is very cold just now, also some Solution & rubber from amongst the Oil & parts in the cellar. Our Soccer ball has already been punctured. Someone put a pin thro’ the bladder while lacing it up.

If you see Bob Whit tell him that his mates Mr Cotton & Mr Perkins called on me & I was very pleased to see them.

I have 30 bob here that I want to send to you, but cannot do so as there are no none Postal notes to be had or registered letters. Hope no one gets away with it. Some of the fellows would take the eye out of your head.
Water is still scarce unless one goes down to the river, but parts of the bank are beginning to smell bad. Expect some to be laid on tomorrow.

Lieut. (one of the boys’ favorite officers) just told me that Egypt is our destination & that we should be on the way by the early Spring (by November at any rate) – I don’t know whether he is pulling my leg or not, but he may be right.

Colds are becoming pretty common now, but so far I have dodged them.

Had my first swim in the river yesterday afternoon & wasn’t it freezing. Went over & back once (about 100 yds altogether) & that was quite sufficient, for one afternoon.

Have just written to Jack, whose letter I started night before last, but have been finishing in spasms ever since- still very busy. Hark to the rain & wind. Starting to feel shivery already. Poor boys in the trenches, how awful it must be!

Hope all at home are well & not worrying- would not like to change places even now. Excuse scribble as I’m writing by the light of a flickering candle, which is of very poor quality & has the bad habit of going right out every now & then. Rem. me to all enquiring friends.
Your loving son
Harrie.

[Page 3]
191
No. 9 Tent
No. 10 Platoon
C Company
A.I.E. Forces
Warwick Farm Depot
via Liverpool
August Sept. 1st 1915

My dear Mother & Father,
I have nothing much to add to this letter tonight, as I think I’ve told you all there is to tell about our daily routines.

I must here thank you on behalf of out Tent for all the luxuries contained in that hamper you so kindly filled for me on Sunday night. Everything reached here "O.K. The Butter is in the boom; scones went down very nicely with Butter & "Cocky’s joy. The milk was also one of the favorites; it helped to take away the taste of Epsom in the coffee every morning. The Fruit lasted till Tea time Monday night.
The other boys who were off for the week-end also brought in a supply of good things, which together with mine made a fine showing on our paper table.

Today, our Company (now known as "C- not No. 3) were on duty, that is, we had to take on all the work of Keeping the Camp clean & doing any work thing that was required. This morning a mate & myself had the job of digging a pit 6 ft deep x 8 x 4 to tip rubbish into. Before dinner we were told off to clear the river bank, which was finished by luncheon time. After dinner gutters leading from Cook-house & showers had to be cleaned & remade; then a gang of us were started on making another new gutter over the Parade ground to take the bath water into the river. This gutter is about 300 yds long & could not be finished by Knock off time at 4 pm – Some other Coy shall have to finish it to-

[Page 4]
morrow. A swim across the river & a kick of the Football has closed a very interesting day. There is no denying the great exercise a fellow gains by this outdoor work. Better than sitting down all day at a desk & finishing some where in the wee sma’ hours. I am feeling very well now & getting a bit sun burnt on the nose. The weather still remains excellent. Nippy early in the mornings & plenty of sun-shine during the day. It is beginning to get very dusty here now with so many feet marching backwards & forwards.

There is plenty of fun here. Every night the boys start pillow fights, wrestling matches & any other gag that will keep a fellow awake all night. One gets a sore throat laughing so a cold is the result next morning. I am taking this opportunity of writing you while the boys are waiting outside the Pay Corporals Tent for their fortnight’s money. They are all going crook about the authorities being a day late with the money. We should have been paid yesterday, but for some break-down at Liverpool, with their System.

As soon as the boys come back I shall have to close this as I’m sure to get a [indecipherable] something thrown at the home-made candle stick in the ground. (This is a piece of thick wire [indecipherable] at one end to hold candle & straight at other end to stick in the ground- it is very "natty)

I will get my pay tomorrow (£3.15.0 or £4.0.0 for a fortnight’s Pay- what a large sum!) & am going to have a try to bring it home on Friday night, in case it gets "lost One never knows what tent mates or others will do, especially if they have any betting bets to pay.

This week-end will be spent here as there are others who were "on last Saturday & Sunday. But one never knows I may be home again, at any rate I will make an effort to come down on Friday afternoon.

We have had a few cases of measles in our bivies & the tents have been taken down & disinfected. The occupants have been bundled down into quarantine at Liverpool, so we are being looked after all right by the heads.

The lads are just beginning to struggle back with their pay or some of it. Some have loans to pay back, others bets & still others seem to have never had money of their own before, as they have been spending it at Sargeant’s on all sorts of stuff & are now counting out the remnants. I can see several coming on the loan stakes next week, especially when they get down to the city.

Well do not be surprised if I get down at any time now. The Sargeant Major is now singing out for all who have not yet been paid to go to Pay tent for same, so I must now close.

Remain your loving Son Harrie.

[Page 5]
Mr & Mrs H.E. Cave
109, Birchgrove Road
Balmain Sydney.

[Page 6]
No. 3900
12th Reinforcements
fpage 46 1st Inf Battalion
A.I. Forces
at sea near Wilson’s Promty.
Sunday Decr. 12th1915.

My Dear Mother & Father, & Sisters,
I am taking this opportunity of writing you in case we do not get off at Melbourne, as there is some rumour going round, that leave has been stopped. It will be a pity if they do, as the boys are all looking forward to seeing some of Australia’s Cities on the way over; it will do no good anyhow, as discontent will be sown amongst them & there is nothing worse than that for good results. Of course the argument against leave is sound & we have only to thank the "boozers & deserters in previous transports, if we have no luck.

There was a lot of trouble yesterday when the boys found out that the train was not taking them to Sydney, as most of them had told their friends & relations that they were to be marched down to the Quay, instead of which the train was switched off at Homebush on to the main Northern Line & pulled up at Rhodes just near the Ryde Bridge. On the way there, word was passed round that we would not get off, unless they sent us to town & on arrival at the Station not a soul budged. The Staff Officers & our own were at their wits end, as to what to do & only that we were to go aboard a fine ship like the "Mooltan, things would have been pretty bad. Language & bad feeling was all that could be heard on all sides, but after sitting in the train for about 1/4 hour good

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sense prevailed & off we went through the State Timber Yards at Uhr’s Pt to the "Kareela which was waiting at their wharf. Even when we started with the 1st Batt. Band in the lead, about 1/2 refused to go, but they followed after a lot of persuasion by the officers, when they were told that one or two had been chosen to make a special trip to the Station to address the thousands who were waiting there for us to come down. They were to tell them that we were going straight to the ship by ferry boat. They still got very "crook about this treatment & if we do not get ashore at Melbourne, I can tip some trouble later on, as they reckon they’ve been "playing the game right up till now. Coming down the river enthusiasm was very dead & even the band could not make them happy.

I had a good look at the old works in Fern Bay & at the Island & our home in front of the mine, also at Longnose Pt., as we passed.

We had a terrible time getting aboard the "Mooltan with Packs & Kit Bags & sweat was pouring out of me as I lumbered in the awful crush. Everyone was anxious to get up above to try & find some friends, before the boat moved off, as both tugs were alongside & the Port anchor was up, when we got there.
I am stationed on Troop Deck ‘C’ (main deck) Mess No.8 & there are 26 men at our table. We sleep in hammocks which are put away every morning till required again at night. I like sleeping that way, it is quite comfortable (only that we are packed pretty tight) & I think it counteracts the rolling of the ship. By the way, I’ve not been sea-sick yet, as we are up to now, having such a calm trip.

The old "Cooma came out of the Heads just before us (we were dropping the pilot when she went by) but she is out of sight astern now, having held on till early morning. The "[indecipherable] was left behind just near Cronulla, so she must be plugging away some distance astern also.

I had to go ‘crook’ at Lizzie on the Wharf for having wet eyes anyone would think that we not going to have a good time! -& I’m glad she pulled round before we went. Must thank the boys who came to see me off. (Frank Delaney, Eddie Bell, Gill Jamieson, Les Hickson (two latter from office) & Les Colman. I think our lot had one of the best send-offs yet; it would have been more so had we marched down & I reckon we’ll have been aboard a lot quicker too, even allowing for interruptions on the way.

The boys are having a good time aboard so far being allowed to go practically all over the ship, of course not in the saloons.

[Page 8]
Time is passed pleasantly in reading, writing, sleeping on deck, music, cards & with the little pets some have aboard. There are numerous cats & kittens, (The Chief steward has 2 of the most beautiful Persians I’ve ever seen- he only wants £60 for the pair- they strut about the ship as if they owned it) there are also dogs, puppies, galah, canaries, & a young rabbit.

Just wait a little while, I shall have to leave this till after dinner, as Reg McKay & myself are orderlies for the mess for to-day, our turn comes again in a fortnight--------!!!!

----------Here I am again, tea is all over & I am free again till we get off at Melbourne tomorrow morning (if our luck’s in)

Yesterday, when we got outside, our positions at table were registered & as I am second from the end, it was my turn today to be orderley. The job is a busy one, especially during the meal hours. You have to get the knives, forks & spoons, plates & cups & any rations that are allotted all arrayed round the table, then go to the cook house on deck above with Dixies & tin dish for the grub & tea. Serve the food out so that all get a fair share & then look to yourself. After meal you have to go some to get the dirty dishes & things washed up. Hot water is obtained along the 2nd Class compartments. The same thing applies at all meals.

As I write we are passing the Prom’ry (about 5 pm) only about 5 hours ahead of time. The ship has slowed down to about 8 knots which she has been doing for some time. The Lighthouse & Islands round about look very nice, so close are we & the weather is still beautiful. We are now beginning to feel the swell of the Southern Ocean & several have gone out to it already after living too rich on the nice tea. I must say that so far the tucker has been good. Plenty of nice meat & vegs. Bread & jam with butter between, Porridge, Rolls, Fruit Pudding (a "Plum Dough) Pickles, all washed down with tea.

We have had no drill or exercises yet, I suppose

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they will wait till we get used to our sea-legs.

We were Paid for 10 days just now, so I think I had better send some of the 30 bob back with this letter if I can get off, if not I shall have to wait another opportunity.
Hello!! We must be terrible early, the engines have stopped altogether & we are just lolling in the rollers. I’m afraid if there’s much of it I shall go down to it also. We had cats meat & spuds, Rolls & Bread, butter & jam for tea tonight & as I made the Butter & jam laugh I would not be surprised if something happens down below soon.

The "Cooma is just over the horizon now, her smoke is plainly visible, so I suppose we will get into the Heads together. Perhaps it’s the "Katoomba!

I wish it was, we would then have something worth while keeping up to.

Tell Archie & the others that I’ll write to them, as we get round the coast, that is if I’m not too sick. I know that I cannot possibly receive letters or papers from anyone till after we get to Egypt, so I am not worrying on that score.

I hope that no one is losing any sleep over me as I’m all right, never better & prospects for the future very bright, so just be like myself, make the best of this troublesome life, Eat, drink & be merry. The boys are just trooping in with their hammocks and are beginning to sling them, so I must hurry up & get this over. I know that my pencil writing is very hard to read & must be more so, as I am writing under difficulties.

Wishing all every nice wish & trust that all are well. Good night till we reach Adelaide. I will post another from there if I have time.

(30 Bob enclosed) Still Yours loving Son & brother
Harrie X X

[Page 10]
No. 3900
12th Reifts., 1st. Battn.
on board R.M.S. "Mooltan
Thurs. Dec 16th. 1915
at Outer Harbour, South Aust.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
You see by the address above that I have reached Adelaide’s deep-sea anchorage. We arrived in Gulf of St. Vincent last night reaching this berth at 6 am today, after plenty of tossing about in the Southern Ocean on the way from Melbourne. A southerly wind sprang up before leaving latter place on Monday & with it came a big swell outside, the "Mooltan of course going west had it side-on all the way, & didn’t the plates & cups have a time of it in our quarters! They would no sooner be put in position than lurch would go the ship & down the table would race plates of meat & soup & cups of tea. They generally ended on the floor in a glorious mess amidst tons of laughter from the boys. Sometimes a Kit Bag or Pack would tumble from its rack on the roof & then there was plenty of trouble making things straight again. Good job everything was made of enamel or else it would have been an expensive trip for the Steamer’s Company.

I think I left you in the last letter somewhere about Wilson’s Prom’ty. There is nothing much to relate since then. We stopped several times during Sunday night as we were ahead of time, but even then were alongside the Port Pier about 8 on Monday morning, after being examined by the good Doctor.

There was a big doubt as to whether we would be allowed off or not at Melb. but our C.O. thought it just as well, so he gave us from 10.30 am till 12 midnight on Monday, which was very acceptable, especially to me. I was about first off when the order came thro’ & had lunch with Grandma a little after 12. Met Aunt Ciss as I was on the way there. She was waiting for the tram I was on & I had about 10 mins. chat to her, as she was on her way to town (as usual) After leaving Grandma’s went to post letter to you (hope you recd it & the 30 bob) at South Melb. P.O. & on the way there, bumped across Uncle Tom in Cecil St on the bike

[Page 11]
on his way back to work & a little further on, came across Miss Williams who works at the store.

From there I saw young Violet Edmonds at Miss Otleys & caught the train to St Kilda thence trams to Aunt Soph’s. Sorry to say she was not home, but happened to catch Uncle Alf as he was leaving for Anderson’s. Aunt had gone to Miss Ottley’s, so I was very unlucky in not seeing her there. Came back to Middle Park & spent some time at Aunt Ciss’s, Mr Kennett Snr & young Wallace being there. Next to Aunt Jean’s & found an empty house, not one of them being there, & as time was very limited could wait no longer. Had a good swim at Stubb’s as weather was very hot & enjoyed it immensly.

During the afternoon a big dust storm, followed by rain helped to clear the air & when I left, things, as far as weather was concerned, promised well. Aunt Soph, Lily B., Mrs Winslow, (aunt Ciss’ sister) & Mrs Sandford kindly came to see me off & I felt very thankful for them, as there was a very big crowd there to make things look gay & happy.

We left the Port Pier an hour later on a/c of the mails (4 pm) & cleared the heads just on nightfall. I stopped about the deck to see the Pilot go to his boat & then went to bunk in my hammock as the rollers were beginning to make me feel queer. I staved off sea sickness till nearly dinner time on Wednesday & then owing to the awful rolling from side to side had to go down to it. Could not touch dinner or tea that day, but being calm water this morning had some Porridge, stew & Bread & jam (with butter between.)

We were told officially this morning that leave would only be granted to South Aust. natives, so the boys were very disappointed altho’ they knew that we would only be here 12 hrs., but later on we were taken for a 4 or 5 miles route march round Largs Bay to within a mile of the Semaphore township & back. So here we are just waiting for the "Mooltan to go at 6 pm tonight. The officers are issuing us with sand shoes for use at sea so that we can be kept fit with plenty of exercises. We are to get them tonight so that our minds ought to be well occupied while we are on our 1350 miles run to Fremantle (our next Port of Call) then follows Colombo & Bombay (both in India) about 10 days from F’mantle. Aden (in Red Sea) & Port Said (where I suppose we disembark for Alexandria & Cairo) of course we do not know where we are going to & we are not allowed to give you any information whatever as all I letters are to be Censored, but this one I’ll give to a civilian to post.

Dates of arrival at Ports, their names, names of transports, warships, escorts & any information in relation to number of soldiers or units is also debarred. So if you get any letters like that you’ll just know why. I will write again from Port Fremantle when we reach there, so in the mean time I hope everyone at home is OK as I am. Excuse this writing as I am doing it under difficulties what with flies etc, it is quite a big job. Wishing all good luck & tons of best wishes, love etc.

I still remain Your loving son & Bro
Harrie.

[Page 12]
Letter No.3 on board R. M. S. "Mooltan
Off Rottnest Island (W.A.)
Monday Lunch Time
Decr. 20th 1915.

My Dear Mother Father & Sisters,
There is hardly anything to write about now, other than what appears on the 2 Post Cards enclosed herewith, as we have had just an ordinary trip, no exitements & no work- only sea-sickness in the ‘Bight.’

My hopes of a smooth passage thro’ there were lost on Saturday morning when we were called out at Reveille (6 am) to find the boat cutting all kinds of capers, up & down, sideways & almost upside down & strong southerly blow had come up during the night, bringing with it a nasty sea & needless to say I was one of the unfortunates whose "tummy could not stand the strain. No Breakfast, lunch or Tea for me that day, only lie flat on the deck & try to sleep it off. Sunday brought no relief & I felt pretty "crook. Could not eat for the life of me, once down below, there was no getting me on deck, so bad did I feel. I’m afraid that there will never be any pleasure in a sea voyage for me. It is so monotonous & seems like wasting the best time of one’s life, so slow is it. The only excitement we had yesterday was sighting the land afar off, somewhere near Albany W.A. at 1 pm & an hour later, passing the A.N.S.N. Co’s by "Indarra on her way to Sydney. They say we passed 2 other steamers, but I was too ill to get up & look at them.

I felt a bit better this morning , as sea was very calm, so plucked up courage & had breakfast of Porridge, Steak & bread & jam. Ever since, I’ve been on deck. We had an hour’s instruction on the Rifle & now "Cook-House has just blown, so all the boys have gone below for Lunch.

We cannot be very far from Fremantle now, as Rottnest Is & the Lighthouse is just on our starboard side- in fact I’m looking at it now

P.S. We have been told that our correspondence etc should be addressed thus

No 3900 Private H. J. Cave
1st Battalion
1st Infantry Brigade
C/O Staff Paymaster’s Office
Intermediate Base Depot- Egypt.

[Page 13]
as I write. There are several little sailing boats coming out towards us, they look so small on such an expanse of ocean, but it is quite calm.

I do not know whether we are to be granted shore leave here yet, but most of the troops have been cleaning themselves all the morning in readiness. I am still in Dungarees, no hat on & with bare feet & am writing this with pad on my knees, on the Hurricane Deck. You shall have to excuse the scribbling under the circumstances & besides I shall soon have to go below, get cleaned up & shaved in case we go ashore.

All I am wishing for is a good feed of fruit & I shall have it, if there’s half a chance.

I suppose Dad & Elsie are in Melbourne this morning? I hope they enjoy their stay. Pity Mother didn’t go too, the trip would have done her the World of good. Hope Dad’s hand is on the mend by now, I’m sure he’s had a bad time of it.
I must thank Lizzie & Les for kindly coming to see me off. I sure there was not much pleasure for them. But never mind we ought to soon be coming back, after seeing a little bit more of Australia & other places than we should otherwise have the opportunity of doing.

I am not too keen on our next stretch of 9 or 10 days at sea without a stop, but I suppose I will soon get over it, anyhow others have, so ought I.

Could you send a Sydney Paper now & again? anyone will do ? ! I know it will be impossible for me to receive any correspondence or papers till at least a week off our arrival at destination, where ever that will be.

From now on, you may expect Censored letters, as they will all have to go through the Ship’s Post Office, so will not be able to tell you too much news. I have made up a little code that may be useful in letting you know things that otherwise would be disbarred absolutely. Look anywhere in the envelope (inside or out) one sign being enough for this purpose. I have another in my mind, so if time permits today, I’ll enclose it also, but this is the last chance, as I must post this letter today, we will have to be aboard again tonight, that is, if we are allowed off at all. Tell Archie that I’ll write to him from here if I have the time, otherwise shall have to post it from Colombo.

Remember me to any of the boys & girls you come across, wish them all a Merry Xmas & prosperous New Year from me. Rem me also to Mrs. Mullins & family, I must write to them also soon, not forgetting Mrs. Whitnall & Mrs. Smith.

There is nothing else to tell you just now, news all stale & sick of speaking about sea & ocean

With tons of Love & Kisses for Thelma Mother & the girls
I am your loving son & brother
Harrie.

[Page 14]
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain, Sydney
N.S.W. Aust

[Page 15]
Letter No. 4
At sea- somewhere in the Ind------- -----n
Monday- Lunch time- [obviously censored obliterations evident here.]
Boxing Day
Dec 26th 1915

My Dear Mother Father & Sisters,
If my memory serves me aright, I believe my last letter to you was written as our ship was passing Rottnest Island on Monday morning Decr. (Censor).

As the Censor holds sway now with all mail matter, you must just have to put up with what I’m allowed to write. All ports of call, dates of arrivals there, escorts, & anything in connection with ourselves, movements of troops, is strictly disallowed, so as I do not want this letter to be destroyed, I am going to run as close to the wind as possible, & let you know how things have been progressing with me since then.

We were allowed a few hours off at ------------ & the boys did not waste very much time in making themselves at home, especially in the ‘Pubs’, which did a roaring trade while they were ashore. The Post Office was also a scene of activity, the whole of the business area being taken up by the troops, to the exclusion of the General Public. My Letter (No. 3) with Post Cards, was posted from there & I hope you have received it. I was very much struck with the very narrow streets in this place- not as wide as Pitt St. Sydney-(the main thoroughfare High St). The electric cars were also a source of interest to us, as they were covered with Beer, Whisky & Medicine advertisements, both inside & out. It’s a wonder to me that they could run the things during the busy part of the day for the narrowness & the heavy traffic (mostly foot). The day turned out very hot, so I was glad to sit down & have a feed of fruit & some soft drinks. What fruit there was, was of an inferior kind & very dear. Apples, peaches, apricots at 8d. lb, cherries 1/- & bananas 1/- doz., but all the same they were very acceptable, satisfying a long felt wish. Our departure from there was another repetition of the previous Australian ports we had called at, many ladies & girls coming to the wharf to bid us good bye to Australia. The Streamers & little flags made a very pretty scene & I was sorry when it was all over. Huddart Parkers(?) big 2 funnelled tug "Wyola helped to tow us out at 9 pm- 2 hours late.

P.S. I am enclosing a surplus 10/- note that you can either use on my behalf, or put away for me. If you would like it I’ll make a present of it to you. Just let me know if you receive it next time you write. Harrie.

[Page 16]
There must have been many deep sighs as the last port in Australia was left behind- from the sober ones I mean, of course, & especially the native born leaving the land of their birth for the first time.

I expected to wake up sea-sick again next morning, as I knew we were once again on the wide Ocean. But I was surprised to find that the ship was not rolling or pitching at all, the sea being beautifully calm & blue (Just like Reckitt’s.) We were now in the Indian Ocean steaming before the trade wind, which at this time of the year is from the South. I was awfully pleased to know that the sea would be no rougher than this, till the Typhoon Season came round & that’s not just yet I’m thankful to say. We have now been travelling for nearly 8 Days (with still about 2 to go yet, for our next stop) & have not had a sign of bad weather yet. I am beginning to think that I have got my sea-legs at last, altho’ I should not be surprised if I went down to it again at the least sign of a storm. For some days now, heavy tarpaulins have been rigged on the Well-Deck & Fo-csl’, in preparation for the hot weather that is now making itself felt. A big Canvas bath was also prepared in the Well-Deck & was the means of creating a whole lot of fun for all of us. I was not the last in, by a long way. Some, who apparently are not too fond of salt water, found out later that it was best to go in without compulsion & so save our scouts the bother of hurling them, uniforms, hats, boots & all in together. There were many screaming farces, as Officers, Non Coms, & even men Passengers, dressed nicely, were tumbled into the water & came up like so many drowned rats. Hardly any escaped, & those who struggled, got something to go on with, when they touched bottom (it was only 18 or 2’ deep) by being kept under & being splashed from all quarters.

Altho’ sea travelling is so monotonous, we are kept at a daily programme to occupy our minds & limbs. "Get out o’ bed generally blows at 6 am- that’s when our Sgt. Bugler does not forget- & we line up at 1/4 to 7 for Physical drill, which works up a bit of an apetite for B’fast, (which is at 8 am). Porridge, Fish or Stew, Bread Butter & Jam & Coffee generally constitutes this meal. When this goes down, we line up again for more drill, Bayonet exercise, Signalling; the afternoon ditto. Lunch is at 12 & the food is still good, & so is Tea, which comes round at 5 pm. The rest of the evening is spent Reading, Writing & games. The latter, I’m sorry to say are completely spoilt to my mind, by the gambling that’s introduced into them all. You need not worry about me joining in & wasting my money- I think I’ve got a little more sense than that. Some of the experts are making tons of money out of the Mugs, but they stake their last cent on the game just the same & then come on the loan to those who leave it alone. But I know them now & they don’t get any of mine for their pastimes.

[Page 17]
3.
Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, & all they remind us of, have come & gone. My thoughts could be nowhere but of you all at home, – & in Melbourne. Let me hope you made the best of the holiday & enjoyed yourself. There’s no need to worry over me I’m old enough to look after myself now- dont you think? I know that amongst so many, all kinds of vices are very hard to resist, but I have gone through life so far, as straight as it’s possible for a young man to go, so it’s not likely that I’m going to do my head now & fall a victim to any of them. So don’t worry.

Altho’ we were so far away from home (over 3000 knots I suppose) on Christmas Day, our lot was made as pleasant & as happy as possible, in fact the spread at dinner time was richer than most of Sydney’s population received on that Day. The Menu, specially made for us by the Ship’s printer, I am enclosing (if possible) with our mess’ names on it, as a momento. There is no need for me to pass any comment on the items as they were done full justice to, by all, even tho’ it was pay day during the morning & most of us had been indulging in Chocs, Lollies, Soft Drinks etc from the Canteen. The Mess Deck & tables were decorated with gum tree boughs, W.A. Christmas Bush, Pretty Papers & Miniature flags & palm leaves, which made the scene brighter. Lady passengers from the Saloons showed great kindness in waiting on us at the tables. They also dispensed Iced Limejuice after the meal.

The passengers & officers right through the voyage so far, have been exceptionally liberal to us all. Cigarettes, Lollies, Cigars & Soft Drinks have been distributed practically every night, till one wonders if they have a Palace Emporium aboard.

We have had several concerts aboard since leaving the land of the Southern Cross & they have proved very nice, several of the lads being real artists at Elocution, singing & Rag Time. The Well-Deck looked quite gay when the troops gave one in return to the Passengers the night before Xmas Eve. Flags & Electric Lights overhead, made the place unrecognisable & with a piano from the Saloon, a happy evening was spent. Capt. Haddock (of the ship) was present, with all the passengers & our own officers.

You would hardly know me now! With hair cropped very short, dungaree pants to knees, & shirt- that’s my rig, when not at Church Parade or anything special & it is most comfortable- I forgot to say bare

[Page 18]
feet too. It is becoming quite the rule now to go about in bare feet, & so it should as corns & other blemishes on the skin have a chance of losing their jobs. But some of the would-be flashies still like to promenade round in full dress- what for, I’m blessed if I know!

Three of the Lady Passengers took on a big contract the other morning. They made the kind offer of taking the photos of all the troops in groups of 5. As it was made at a time when nearly all were unprepared as to dress, there will be some very funny looking humans on the print when it is finally developed. I shall be amongst the ‘sights’, being clad only in Service trousers & Cardigan. The short cropped hair will be very much noticeable, as caps could not be worn on account of the light. These ladies have even undertaken to have all the photos developed in Sydney & posted to our addresses. Let me know when you get it, I suppose it will be some time yet, as we have not yet reached port. The 4 boys with me come from Newtown & Camperdown (Syd) & round about.

We crossed the ‘Line’ today & the Bath made it’s appearance again. The same fun with the ducking as on the previous occasion, only Father Neptune with his judge, jury, policemen & Witnesses together with prisoners, provided as much amusement in an hour, as you’d get in a Sydney Theatre in Two. I thought all us Australians were in for a rough time with the Barbers- one with a big Wood Razor, another with big Wood Scissors & a third equipped with Lather (of flour & water)- but we found that our officers were the only ones to be christened, together with some Non Coms. Needless to say it was carried out with plenty of vigour on the part of the actors. Their make-ups were something to remember. When all these were done, the lads hopped in & commence a crusade on their own. It was very lively for the rest of the morning hardly any escaping the inevitable ducking. The actors were themselves emptied ‘holus bolus’ in also, & their paint & powder, fancy clothes etc, made a mess like a beach after a storm. The sides of the ship are now adorned with shirts, pants & other clothing flying in the breeze, getting dry.

The tropical rains are now with us. Yesterday & the night before, several heavy showers came down, followed by sunshine about 10 mins. after. Today is the same, only the wind has changed a point or two.

They reckon we ought to arrive at (Censor) 0n Wednesday morning, if so we will be glad, if only to see Land once again.

The address I gave you will still find me- we don’t know yet where we’re bound to.
I have been writing a lot since we got into this Ocean & will have 8 letters to post with this. Rem me to all enquiring friends- I’m now OK. If I have opportunity will write to them all. Hope Dad’s hand is now right & that he & Elsie had good trip to Melb. The two Leo’s I suppose are still well, as is Mother, Lizzie & Thelma. Many kisses to all at home trusting everything’s well

Your loving son & Bro.
Harrie.

[Page 19]
Envelope for letter No.4 posted from Fremantle, dated 20 Dec. 1915, with a 1 penny stamp attached.

[Page 20]
Letter No.5. At sea, Sunday at Reveille January [indecipherable]
Somewhere in the (Censor) sea.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
I wish you all a Happy & Prosperous New Year & trust that you are all still keeping well in health & spirit. We are still enjoying a very calm trip, altho’ we’ve left the ------- Ocean. The weather is beginning to get cooler, as we are every moment drawing away from the Equator & are now beginning to feel the Northern Winter, which hereabouts is very mild. The mornings are becoming darker- that is, the sun is rising late. It is 6.30 am here and still dark. In Sydney, which is nearly 5 1/2 hours ahead of us in time,- the people will be getting ready for Church, the lads will be enjoying themselves in the Baths, or out on the Harbour rowing or sailing, as it will be 11 am. As I write the Lighthouses of ---------- are throwing out their wonderful flashes, & we are not far from land, as it can be faintly seen on our port side.

Our short stay in --------- terminated all too quickly, altho’ I saw as much as it was possible to see in one day & have benefited in knowledge a good deal, of the Natives, it’s City & their customs (not customs House)

We moored in the Harbour, (which is not very large) behind the big stone breakwater at daylight on Wednesday last, & were at once surrounded by Barges, some empty (awaiting cargo from the ship) others with fresh water, tea or other Indian merchandise, coal in mats & small bags, & some with faggots of wood & matting for dunnage (i.e. packing between cases & cargo) There are no big Piers or Wharves here (only a landing stage right at the City- a nice two decker one too) so all vessels have to moor to buoys in the Harbour & unload & load into Barges. It was a very animated sight from the decks. The coolies on the Barges, launches, tugs, & rowing boats all jabbering & laughing at the one time, life seemed to be pleasant to these people, as none looked worried. They are all noted for their bad habit of begging & it was not long before they let us know

[Page 21]
(2nd spasm)
that anything would be quite acceptable, as long as they were not asked to pay for it [indecipherable] money (especially if it was English Coin, they got more for it than Aust. coin when they exchange) was favorite. It was exciting to see them scramble & fight for pennies, Bread, Hard Biscuits, old clothes, Cigars & Cigarettes.

They were not above snatching it out of one another’s hands even. When the money was not pouring down on them quick enough they sold Ceylon Bananas (small) & one even offered to sing "Ta-ra-ra-ra-Boom-e-ay for 1d. which had to be in his hand before he sang it. Some times he had to climb on a rope to the Port deck about 40 feet from his barge. He did this many times. I often laugh when I think of him standing below us, beating time with his arm against his ribs, all the while with greedy eyes watching amongst the coal bags for a sign of a stray coin.

There were many other characters there, but I have not the time to tell you of them as I must get this finished in time to go ashore with the other mail & it has to be Censored first. While I’m talking about the niggers I almost forgot to tell you about the diving men. These are the ordinary coolies but it seems to be their living or trade, altho’ they are liable to imprisonment if caught at it by the water police (natives) who patrol about in a rowing boat (with sun-shade over it) in & out the ships.

As soon as they see a customer with a 1/- or 6d. to part with, off comes their dress (Kimono fashion) & their loin cloth, fastened on a tape ( which is always on their right) is quite ready for duty. They squat on the end of a barge & watch with the eyes of a cat where the coin hits the water & away they go. They very rarely dive as we do, mostly jump. Their diving & swimming is very poor class alongside an Aussie with all the practise they get & silver coin is very rarely lost if they see it touch the water, & into their mouth it goes as soon as possible in case another steals it from him. I have seen them put 5 to 8 coins (pennies too) in the side of their mouth (between teeth & cheek) & then talk as if there was nothing there.

We were granted leave at dinner time & all the boys were taken ashore in two of the Barges, towed by a tug to the main landing stage.
The fun really began when we touched the shore. I’ve never yet heard the like of it. Rickshaw men in scores, surrounded us all jabbering at the same time. "Come see lovely Cinnamon gardens, "me take you round city 1/-" & other talk Then pedlars selling fruit, (mostly poor class Bananas) scouts, telling you to stay at such & such a Hotel (they may be a mile away from it at the time but would follow you till it was abeam) Beggars –both young & old, girls & boys. They were really astounding with their [indecipherable] One youngster put a native flower into my hand, stood off a little way, saluted with one hand & begged with the other. I quickly saw his game & shoo’d him off like I would a fowl. But he hung round for an hour after, as I saw him many times as we went thro’ the city.

You very quickly got used to them. The less notice you take, the better.
Going through the narrow streets of the native quarters, they were very busy displaying to us their goods, even bringing them out into the open for us to see better. But on the approach of a native policeman they would make themselves very scarce, as he was an expert in the use of his baton.-----!!!!!

[Page 22]
(3rd spasm)
There goes "Cook House so must leave you for a little while!!!!-----
Breakfast of Liver & Bacon, Coffee, Bread & jam finished so here I am again.
We have now anchored in -------- Harbour, the sun is up & the town with its’ lovely buildings (put me in mind of Post Cards I’ve seen of New York Harbour, only of course are not sky- scrapers.) Big barges with the usual multitude of coolies are alongside & unloading has commenced. Leave has not been granted here as our stay will be so short- we sail again at 4 this afternoon for ------ which ought to be reached 5 days from now.
I was telling you about the city of ------ when Breakfast interrupted me. Well, strolling about, came across the Post Office just across from the Governor’s Residence in Queen St. Just near (at intersection of Queen & Chatham Sts) was the big Lighthouse & town clock on tower. It struck me as being very peculiar seeing a Lighthouse in the centre of the city. Opposite, was the large English business firm H.M. Cave & Co, General Merchants, Importers etc. I felt like applying there for a job or telling the boss I was a long lost relation or something, but the Rickshaws drove me away. At the Post Office I had a hard job in sending you those Post Cards, on account of the great rush of business with our boys who took up all available writing & other space, so you must excuse the way they were written. The day was very hot & I was glad to get out of the place. The native civil servants were as big rooks as their brothers on the streets! Many of our boys gave them their letters to buy & put stamps on, only to find that change was given in Indian Coin. 1 Rupee (like a 2/- piece) equalled 1/4. One Anna was 1d. (16 to the Rupee) 6 cents equalled 1d. (or one anna. Their cent was like an English farthing & the 5c piece, nickel square, rounded edges.
Their big streets were blocked or tarred, wide & clean. Only one had a tram in it & it was Electric driven by natives. The trains were not too bad. I only saw two lines. One went inland 72 miles, to a place called Nandy, a great tourist resort & the district where Sir Thomas Lipton grows his famous tea. I was sorry I hadn’t the time to go there, but it took 4 hours to do those 72 miles. The fare was one Rupee each way (2/8 return). During the afternoon I followed the natives to their markets near the Cinnamon gardens & saw their customs better at close quarters Their shops were small, dirty & close together, the streets being hardly wide enough to allow their waggons drawn by Indian Oxen to pass two deep. While here, I met one of our brave Indian soldiers (there were many in garrison near the town) & chummed up with him.
They are surprised at us Australians for condescending to talk to them, as most whites ignore them altogether. So when I opened conversation with this chap he was very pleased. He walked back with me to their lovely Barracks (they are far & ahead better than any in Aust) & spoke of many things (he being able to speak Eng very well). He was surprised & pleased when I told him that I was a Protestant & Christian. It was one of his first questions I was more surprised than he, when he said he was also a Christian, as I thought he could be nothing else but a Pashan or Mahometan. His knowledge of the Bible & his hope of the Life after Death skinned me & put shame into me. I thought of the lads aboard with me, who would rather get ‘boozed’ gamble their wages away on pay day, or turn to worse vices, rather than think of their god & future. Arriving at the Barracks (just near the main street) he took me to his bed on the verandah, showed me his Protestant Bible & Prayer Book. I gave him as a momento my one remaining "Rising Sun badge, & he was delighted. He gave me in return the badge worn on his Kharki Turban. It is the No.80 surrounded by two laurel wreaths.

[Page 23]
(4th spasm)
representing the 80th Carnatah Infantry of Madras. After introducing me to his Subadah Major, he took me on to their nice football ground where they were kicking a "soccer. The boys were very pleased to see me join in with them. As a big storm was just about to break & it was dark (time 5 pm) with the heavy rain clouds, I had to take shelter in the Barracks. Before it stopped the native tea was ready & my new found friend made me have it with them. I enjoyed the experience immensely, but did not relish their menu. We started off with Pepper-Water -that’s what they called it. It was a kind of Pea-soup, but smothered in Cayenne Pepper. Curried meat followed & my word wasn’t it hot! I had to drink a big mug of water to try to quench the fire in my mouth, but without success. Their last item was like cakes. They called it Native Bread I think. To me it looked like diseased boot leather that had been run through a mangle. I did not like it. As it was getting late, & I had to be back on board that night, leave had to be taken of these fine fellows. I forgot to tell you that his name was B. Williams an Eng. name (but he was a native) he was a Private Recruit in the Carnatah Inf. doing garrison duty for a little while. I told him I would write & he was very pleased. He sent one of his boys (soldier too) as an escort with me to the landing stage. I gave this chap as a momento one Rupee (1/4) & he hardly knew what to do with it, so surprised was he. Even wanted to kiss my boot. We left this place next afternoon, no leave being granted all day. Since then we have had a lovely calm trip being now in the ------ Sea. So here I am today. New Year’s eve was spent very quietly, and some of the boys got busy with "Kiwi boot polish, mixed with pickles ink, & went round the decks daubing the sleeping beauties in their hammocks. There was much fun while it lasted & it kept us up till nearly 2 am. I dodged it all tho’.
I hope all at home are still keeping well as I am, & have settled down to their New Years hopes & joys.
War news is very scarce aboard, how we wish for an Australian Paper.
We do not know our destination yet. It may be somewhere that we know nothing of, but you shall know if I can let you, if it’s by a cable.
I shall now have to cut this short as the mail will soon be closing. Let me hope again that Mother Father & the girls are still enjoying the best of health.
Rem. me kindly to all enquiring friends etc.
I am still
Your loving son & Brother
Harrie X X X

[Page 24]
Envelope addressed to Mr & Mrs Cave.
On active service no stamp available. No. 4 5
A.I.F. Passed by Censor J.S.F.

[Page 25]
Letter No.6 On the peaceful------ (Censor) Sea
R.M.T. (Censor) – Wed Eve
January 5th 1916.
My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Since writing you last, from ------ our good ship has got under way again & is now drawing close to our next stop, (------) which we ought to reach by Friday morning next. I am writing this now, so that I can lodge it early with the Censor & so ensure it going back with the first outward mail. I hardly know what there is to tell you, as nothing of importance has occurred since we left -------
I think my last to you told of our arrival at the last named (or un-named) port last Sunday morning at Daylight.
When the morning mist lifted & the sun in all its glory arose we found that our ship was at anchor about 2 or 3 miles from the shore in a big bay. Barges as usual (in this country) came alongside, some empty, others with mail, & cargo & work commenced. The coolies in this place seemed altogether different, as far as cheek went, from those at ------, perhaps it was on account of us being so far from shore. Nevertheless, canoes manned by boys & traders from the city & loaded with Bananas, Oranges, Mandarins & Apples, Cotton singlets, Towells, & Mercery, Post Cards, etc sailed or were paddled over to us & a lively business started. At first there was ‘not much doing’ as our lads profiting by their experience (or was it because they had not been paid since leaving ------!) at our previous port, were holding off, or beating down the prices of everything offered. Bananas were first of all 9d. Doz. – they came down to 3d. or 4d. Doz. before we left (big beauties too!) One of the boys (so he said) obtained 4 Doz. for 1/2 d. as we were on the move. The "boss of the canoe in his hurry to get rid of his load, jumped at the offer of 4 Doz for 1/-. so up came his light line with wicker basket attached (that’s how they trade- throw up a basket we put the money in, lower away & in goes the goods, we hauling up when they signal) It appears that the ‘bob’ was really a 1/2 d. covered with silver paper- what a have! The same joke was played on the Diving ‘boys’ of ------ till they took a tumble at "big money coming over.

[P.S. Hope you are still all well. I am feeling very fit, the early morning physical exercises being of great benefit to me. Have you heard any news of any of the Balmain boys who have gone before me? Would like to know how this ‘game’ is going; we have not the slightest idea ourselves & do not yet know where we’re bound for. If to the supposed place Jan 15 or thereabouts ought to find us there. Rem. me to all old friends as per usual. Am writing to all as opportunity occurs. Love to all. Your loving Son & Bro. Harrie.X

[Page 26]
(2nd Spasm)
Oranges & Mandarins were a ‘bob’ per doz. & it was late in the afternoon before the price came down to 6d. Doz., when they saw we were determined not to trade at that price. It climbed down to 8d. Doz. but there was nothing doing. The canoes were soon emptied when the price was at bed-rock. In the mercery line things were almost given away. Cotton singlets were first of all 2 for 18d. but they were eventually 6d. ea. & lower still 2 for 8d. Towells (very thin) 2 for 1/-, then 2 for 6d. When the boys were full of Fruit they took to pasting the unfortunate niggers down below in the canoes, with Banana, Orange & other skins, & just as the ship was leaving half drowned some of those eager business men with buckets of Water. Some Indian Drs. also came aboard, who reckoned they were recommended by the British Military people to take out corns and manicure nails. They got a few customers I think. Then a "quick as lightning boot-maker did his rounds. He would 1/2 sole a boot for a bob & bring it back in an hour. And so on. They are comical people all right & I’ll bet they make some money too! Our crew was changed here for a new one, their time having expired till next trip. There was plenty of jabbering as they left on a barge for the city in two of this Company’s fine ocean tug "Dewan (something after the style of Fenwick’s "Hersie)
The City (as I said in my last) could be plainly seen on our portside. On the Water front, standing very conspicuous, was the big European Hotel (Tajmahal) It looks very fine. Just near was the Post Office tower, several very large mosques, Christian Churches & Public Institutions. The big domes & minarets of the Mosques stood out alone. The Surroundings of the bay were grand, mountains, little bays, rivers & islands made a very pretty scene & the day being fine, many junks & canoes with their strange Eastern sails set, could be seen dotted all over the water & outside in the A------ Sea. It was a pity we were not allowed the priviledge of paying the town or city a visit, but we left the same day at 5 pm, so there would have been no time to get back for before the steamer sailed. The shipping in the port looked to be very extensive (it was really too far away for me to see very plainly with naked eye.) I counted 10 B.I Coy’s steamers – 2 of them being apparently express passengers having 2 funnels.) Then there were 3 Hospital ships, many coasters, & a few British tramps, one passing us as we were passing the Pilot Ketch- inward bound. There were several lighthouses at the entrance, one being on a lonely rock flashing every 10 secs, then there was a floating light with a bell that was rung with the motion of the water. We lost the sight of land that eve & have seen none since. Two steamers passed us last night close to one another, & 7 small sailing craft were hardly visible on the horizon to port this afternoon. That’s the only excitement so far. The Ocean is still in its best mood & so is the weather, tho’ still hot. It must be about 1/2 past [indecipherable] am Sydney time now- we are 5 hrs behind you. Sounds funny doesn’t it!

[Page 27]
Envelope No. 6

[Page 28]
Letter No. 7 (censored) ? in the ? (censored) Monday afternoon (censored)
My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
This must necessarily be a short letter, as the Mail is closing aboard at 7.30 tonight, & I must hurry to be in time. We are very close to our destination now, as we’ve been told to have everything in readiness to quit at a moments notice. The crew are very busy getting the through mails on deck at this minute, so that there will be no delay when we arrive at (censored) tonight.
The last letter told of our expected arrival next morning [indecipherable] & that was correct. Before daybreak on Friday last, the Lighthouse showing the entrance to the port was visible, & at Reveille it was on our Starboard beam, flashing brilliantly. Daylight came soon after we got into the entrance, & the sight of the wonderful mountainous headlands (which would be very hard to put down on paper on account of their unusual ruggedness) were something to remember when seen in that dim light. The Mountain towering above the Lighthouse- it was on a high hill near the waterfront- must have been close on 2,000 ft. high & it’s many pinnacles & peaks were of all shapes & sizes. I can only describe it as an irregular summit top. Our boat seemed very insignificant in comparison. As the sun arose, we could see that the place was absolutely barren, no vegetation being visible anywhere, except just on the waterfront, where the town of ------? lies. We anchored about 1/4 mile off & could plainly see the city awakening. First a few camels, then horses & carts, donkeys, & motor cars passed along the only street they seemed to have had. This seemed to follow right along the edge of the water to the Lighthouse, (censored). The town itself was not very big as towns go. Many of the big buildings were quite conspicuous, as they were built on the mountain slope, as was the Town Clock, whose ring as the hours flew by, could be easily heard on board. I’ll always remember this place, on account of it’s unique position on & below this barren mountain - must leave you for a little while it’s 5 pm (12 midnight your time- I suppose everyone is sound asleep at Home [indecipherable] that is, those who are not night

[Page 29]
owls) "Cook House has just gone & I must not delay as there will be nothing left for me.
_ Seven pm (2 am tomorrow, your time) Tea all over, do not feel a bit hungry now. Everyone has been admiring the wonderful sunset scene on the rugged mountainous ------ Coast from the Fo’csl head. Is it true that there’s a big war on? One could hardly believe it here, with nature so lovely & serene. The coast on our port side is gradually getting fainter as darkness deepens. Right ahead is an Island that looms up large, the red & white alternate flash light, is throwing out it’s warning & we shall soon be abreast of it. Land is also close on our starboard bow. – As I was saying before my interruption- The town of ------ is only a coaling station, so barges with this necessity, were soon alongside & work was commenced right away. The Arabs (Coolies) were the noisiest, dirtiest & cheekiest fellows we’ve yet struck. (Of course all coal workers get dirty, but these people looked their part) Their jabber as they passed the ‘black-diamonds’ aboard (in mats) beggars description. Our boys got hold of a chorus they used while working. It was started by one man (who clapped his hands in accompaniment) the others joining in as he finished. It goes something like this- Aw hee-arra-zoo & repeat numerous times clapping the hands as you say it. It is really funnier that it looks, when you hear the real thing. This chorus is now used by us, when the mess orderlies happen to get on the rank & keep us waiting for the ‘scran’ Another call they have mimiced to perfection, is one that "Old Bill (one of the white sailors aboard- there are only a few of them) uses when he is heaving the lead approaching port. It goes like this B-y th’ m-a-r-k, sev-en. It is one long drawl for the first part, ending with the ‘seven’ being drawled in a lower key. The boys always start this as soon as ‘Bill’ comes into sight, but he takes it all as a joke.
The traders at this place were very scarce, perhaps because there was nothing to sell only Fish, Cigars & "Nails. Their canoes, only big enough for one or two persons looked very frail. It did not take very long for us to complete loading & discharging & at 2.30 pm same afternoon, were under steam again. I was picked as a guard for the day on the Hurricane Deck (we all get our turn at different times) & saw the last of (censored). Of course no leave was granted on account of our very short stay- worse luck. As we got out into the Gulf, the distant sun-burnt ranges could be seen plainer & they certainly reflected the awful heat that must cover them year in year out. England’s might is daily exhibited to us in the mercantile marine (& one day on the horizon a cruiser) of our allies & selves, that pass, by day & night. Signals by morse are always being exchanged & I often wonder what they say.

[Page 30]
Japan seems to have plenty of ships busy carrying merchandise, as we have passed a few these last days.
There were not very many vessels at (censored) while we were there. Three (censored) (censored) (censored) & an (censored) Yacht comprised the bulk.
We had a sports day aboard on Saturday afternoon last & enjoyed ourselves very much. I had a go at the Pillow Fight & got as far as the 3rd Round, being blown out by a big bloke with legs nearly touching the ground. It was funny to see the different sizes of fellows who were pitted against one another. The thick & the thin, broad & narrow, & long & short, all helped to amuse us. Some were knocked off the slippery pole with the first clout, sometimes both would go over together, or perhaps one would make such a terrible swing that the momentum would make him lose his balance & down he’d go.
The Treacled Bun contest followed & created much amusement while it lasted. A long string was suspended across the deck, from which hung the buns dripping with the Syrup & the fun started at a blast from a whistle. Someone would swing the string & the competitors would get smothered all over with it. I intended joining in, but as there were such a lot of entrants & as I was not a bit hungry, I watched the fun. Besides one wants to possess a large mouth & not be afraid to swallow big junks of Bun. Funny thing, that a little fellow with no front teeth should win both his heat & final, tho’.
The weather still continues hot & the seas calm, altho’ on Sunday we ran into a northerly blow that promised to bring up our first big sea since leaving the Bight, but by daylight this morning things were as of yore. We are beginning to feel the nights a lot cooler tho’, as we are getting further away from the Equator, north.
We still get plenty of drill & exercises to keep us in nick, every day & ought not to require much training when we get to Camp.
Have you seen anything of Clive Smith? Has he left yet with the Reinforcements?, also young Snowy Ferguson of Rowntree St?
I met by accident, a young chap of our name who is aboard here working. He heard my name called out at the Sports

[Page 31]
& was anxious to see me.
He has had some months fighting in France & invalided home to England last year. He is working his passage to Australia & back to get himself in nick again. Funny how you meet people isn’t it? Sorry I didn’t see him before this, as I’d had more opportunity of speaking to him. I only see him when he is off duty for a few hours down near our quarters.
Is Father’s hand all right now? I hope so anyhow! The trip to Melbourne must have given him a chance to pick up a bit. Did they all enjoy themselves over there?
Mother I trust is still keeping well & not worrying- We’re all right & having tons of experience & a good time only sorry that the trip is so soon to end.
Will you remember me to all our old friends round Balmain & in Melbourne.
How are you getting on with the Land at Chatswood? The rates must be due now, wish I was home to fix them up. I suppose you’ll soon be out of that hole of a place, to better surroundings out Woolwich Way, also away from ‘Ma’ Smith. Has she been causing any trouble lately.
Do not send anything over to me unless I ask for it, as there’s no telling where we are going to & in any case, it’s ten to one I may not get it.
Am longing only for words of some kind from home, but I suppose I must be patient. Hope you have received all the letters & cards & that the Censor has not obliterated too much from them. Goodness knows why it’s necessary, because by the time you get this & the others, this boat will be on the way back & any enemy in Australia would be very much behind the times if he tried to make use of any such information But I suppose we must bow to the will of the Heads.
Kind Regards & Wishes to all.
Your loving Son & brother
Harrie.X X X
Must excuse this had to hurry to catch the mail which closes at 7.30 pm. H.

[Page 32]
Envelope No 7 . Posted Alexandria, Cairo, 14 Jan 1916.

[Page 33]
Letter from Aerodrome Camp, Heliopolis, Egypt.
Letter No.8 on Y.M.C.A. letterhead .
No. 3900 No 4 Platoon, Bat 1st (12th Reifts)
Friday Jany 14th 1915 [actually 1916]
My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
You can see by the above address that I have duly reached Egypt, where I expected all along we’d go to, & have just started to settle down in the new & strange surroundings. I should have written you a couple of days ago, only being strange to the place, none of us knew just where we stood as to parade hours, meal hours, leave etc. I meant to cable you too, but I find that one has to be very careful with the Piastres (or "Disasters as they call them here), altho’ 96 1/2 go to our Sovereign, (1 equals a little over 2 1/2 - 4 1/2 = 1/-) & tho’ that seems a lot of money, things are not very cheap now, & by the time you get round Cairo & it’s sights with a couple of mates, you find yourself getting low in funds, besides we have not been paid since we left Colombo. All the same, I do not require any money, the 1/- per day (a 50 piastre note-we are to be paid every 10 days in this note) will be made to cover all my needs, till we go into action, when of course, it accumulates till our return to camp.
My Number 7 Letter to you, was written a day before we reached Suez, so I must continue on from there.
on the Sunday Our trip thro’ the Red Sea continued calm altho’ it blew very strong on the Sunday from the north. The African Coast was continually in sight, it’s high barren mountains, all kinds of grotesque shapes on top, & the bold headlands, were quite something out of the usual, as far as our Australian Coast was concerned (the South & Sth. east coasts, at least) Sunset in this region was always something to admire from the decks, as the beautiful effect on the sky & mountain tops, has to be seen to realise it’s glory. We also passed many Islands (always the Barren Kinds- some with lonely Lighthouses on them) during the day & night, besides numerous tramp & passenger steamers outward bound. Jan.11th (Tuesday) at daybreak was all excitement on board, (Some being out a bed at 4. – I don’t know why they should have been so restless tho’-) as land was again in sight & lighthouses ahead, also the twinkling lights of a town, that turned out to be Suez. By 6.15 we were snug in harbour off Port Tewfik, amongst tramps & warships & at 10 am, alongside one of

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the docks (berths) at Port Terofin, the Harbour & wharfage portion of Suez, which lies north about 1 mile on the Canal. The natives here I found to be as bad as those at Aden for dirt & begging. They seem to wear any old clothes they can get hold of, most wearing women’s skirts with man’s coat, or long straight black garments like a priest. Colors are also a fad of theirs, & some of their dresses reflect the colors of the rainbow- & they are great style too with them on! These are the natives I’m talking of & the low class from the slums- most of these places seem to be nothing else but slums & dirt. We were all sorry to have to leave the "Mooltan, its kind passengers & "old Bill, but duty had to be done & at 12.30 pm, our long line of 3rd class Egyptian carriages were started on their way to our present abode. The train passed close to the canal, there several steamers were passing slowly. They looked for all the world as if they were stuck in nothing else but sand from the windows, as there is no vegetation of any kind near this forsaken ‘hole.’ The Mountains skirting the bay, were just a repetition of the country thro’ which we were going- barren & sun-scorched. On the way we had our first meal of "Bully Beef & Biscuit & was not too bad- being a novelty I suppose. Our first stop was at Suez itself, & on first view of their hovels & slums, also the awful smell, did not reassure us as to what awaited us further inland. The train did not seem to be in much of a hurry on our account, as she stopped everywhere for no apparent reason. The wayside stations struck us as rather funny, there being hardly anything visible for miles & miles, only desolate sandy country; there may have been a little colony of mud hovels amongst the Palm Trees & bushes near the irrigation channel (this goes for a long distance thro’ the country near the Line) but we could only smell them. We had lunch of ‘B B & B’ also some "Turkish Delight (made in Cairo cost 6d. box) & "Orange-[indecipherable] (oranges at 1/- Doz. There was tons of fun with the Egyptian residents at Nefiche Junction (where line goes to Pt. Said, Suez & Cairo) when they started bartering their goods- Oranges, Tomatoes, Cigarettes, Turkish Delights etc. They were running all over & round the train Old men, young men, boys; Old Women, young do. [ditto] & girls, in fact the whole population seemed to be out selling. These people could not be induced to bring their price down for Oranges at 1/- Doz. so there was not much business doing. The Station Master at Serapeum (he was an educated Egyptian) told us that the Turks made their attack on the canal (which could be seen from the line) right opposite, 4 1/2 miles

P.S. I find it will be as well to put our Reinforcement No. also on all mail matter to me Harrie.

b) (3rd Lap)
back from the Canal. It gets cold very quickly here after Sunset & we were not long in finding it out when we found there was no chance of leaving the train. We eventually got to our railway destination about 10 pm that night, after nearly 10 hours of monotonous travel over about 100 miles of rotten country.
From the station we marched 2 or 3 miles with full pack up & Kit Bag to this camp it is just on the outskirts of Heliopolis, & 8 miles from the capital of Egypt- Cairo. Our [indecipherable] meal was of B B & B, & bed on the ground in one of the huts was soon favorite. Next day we removed into tents temporarily, till the new Huts are finished; they are putting them up very fast so we shall soon be comfortable.
Most of us were given to understand that we had 24 hours leave (as they did not recognise us here till that time) so, as we’d heard so much of the wonderful city of the Pharaohs, into it we went, via Heliopolis tram (which is one of the best & fastest trams in the world, & the price for 8 miles into Cairo for soldiers is 1/2 piastre, or about 1 1/4 d. each way.) There were many fine buildings visible in Heliopolis, which I am led to believe is not very old & built on modern lines. There seems to be big tenement houses there, in lieu of slums, for the nigger population. I don’t know whether that is right yet, till I investigate closer. The Palace Hospital originally built by a rich company for use as a Hotel- I had to hurriedly leave this at the dash as ‘Cook House’ went for tea & there’s no fun being last round the ‘dixie’ when it is brought to the lines, as it’s 10 to 1 you’ll go hungry. I was writing this in the Y.M.C.A. Hut just near by, but have now come into the township of Heliopolis & will try to finish it here at the Y.M.C.A. also, altho’ it’s a hard job to write on account of the big crush who are continually coming in & out, brushing one’s arm as they go- I was talking about the Palace Hospital, which is just a stone’s throw away almost, as I write, when the interruption occurred. The Hospital is a very big & beautiful building standing in lovely grounds & was, as said above, meant for an Hotel & high class gambling Den, (that’s what they say anyhow!) but has been handed over to the Military people as a Hospital. The other big Hospital, known as the Heliopolis Base, is some distance away.
The tram (or really electric train, as it only stops 3 or 4 times before it reaches Cairo) is of course manned by native Egyptians (as are the trains etc) & the journey of 15 or 20 mins, is full of interest, to the new chum especially. The whistle that the driver works with his foot & the Horn that the conductor uses both are quite new to us, also the additional connecting bar for the electric current that is used on the fast stretch out of the towns. The ordinary "Fishing-rod poles, as you have in Sydney, are used in the more crowded portions. Just fancy 1 1/4 d. to go 8 miles! I suppose it’s only done to try & prevent the boys making Kitchener’s carriages of them (that is free) Arrive at this wonderful city, Cairo, & meet a young chap from the 2nd Light Horse, who has seen months of fighting on the Peninsula & who kindly ‘pilots’ 4 other chaps & self round amongst the mysterious main

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(4th Lap)
streets & by-lanes. He knows pretty well every nook & cranny in the place, & in a few minutes opened my eyes to sights I never dreamed existed in this awful World. My God! How can I describe it to you, who are innocent as I was. If you can fancy streets (by name only) that are just wide enough to let a donkey cart & a person, pass abreast of one another, surrounded on the sides by filthy, evil-smelling, caked-mud, 3 & 4 story (?) houses, no furniture or blinds, inhabited by thousands of the scum of Egypt & other nations, who know no sanitary law, (everything is done without shame in the centre of the lanes, which after thousands of years being trodden in, baffle describing for stench) Every house is one of ill fame, the women here being I suppose, the most immoral in the whole world. For a piastre they’ll do anything whatever- I’d better not say any more about them- they are only treated as play things by every body. This is the temptation we Australians & others have to resist & I tell you candidly that it is a greater trial than anything I’ve ever thought of. The Hotels all have their ballet girls, (mere youngsters some of them) mostly French & Italian, who mix up with the soldiers at the little tables & drink with them in their short dresses. You need not buy anything- it’s all free & there are hundreds of these places about the city. Everyone is out for money, & they dont care how it’s made up. If you hear anyone mention the "Wassa Streets, Cairo, think of what I’ve said above. Perhaps when I get back I’ll tell you more fully of the place. There are very very few good women here, Ive seen none yet, except a few nurses & those ladies from N.Z. who are giving their whole time & labour to looking after the boys in the Y.M.C.A. & tea gardens & Roller Skating Rink. The Y.M.C.A. is undoubtedly a God send to the lads who will not waste their time knocking about the "Wassa. Don’t worry about me, dears, I will look after myself, as I have already learnt enough about the penalties the boys have paid & are paying for their (?) pleasure to keep away.
From the town, our pilot took us in a "garry (jinker) to the Museum, just near the City. This is a great building & of historic interest. I must go again & learn more about it & the things it contains. To enter cost 2 piastres (5d.) a guide 2 piastres also the "garry 2 piastres each. There are lots of wonderful Egyptian images in Stone, (A King & Queen in the main hall must be fully 40’ high also numerous mummies, Tombs engraved, Manuscripts, Jewellry, Trinkets, canoes that once sailed on the Nile, real embalmed bodies of great Kings & Queens (Ramesus II & Ramesus the great & others whose names I forget just now) & thousands of other historic things that all dated back to 3050 years (B.C. I think.) One can hardly realise things that far back, can they? From there we had a walk back to the town & do you know, we were quite lost for some hours walking up this street & down that & our guide admitted that altho’ he reckoned he could not be lost there after over 4 months continually in town, he was beat. He at last got his bearings & everything was right again. This will give you some idea of the size & likeness of the different lanes & streets in this awful place. Our guide turned out to be a cousin of "Gussie Blanche & his sister Bertha who married Jack Craig (of Ferdinand St) & lived at the back of Braids cottage off Cove St. (They would be related to the Winter’s of Cove St.

(5th Lap)
wouldn’t they? He was a friend indeed, I don’t know how we’d got on without him & his advice. It’s a moral we’d have been lost somewhere in those dungeons, if we had been alone. He did not "booze, so that was another thing I was thankful for, neither do the lads in our tent & there are 12 of us. We got rid of one tonight just before I came out to write this. He went to Cairo today (without leave) for the first time & got a few bad beers aboard, with the result that he looked for fight when he got back, which duly came off with one of the boys, the police having to stop them. His language, even at L’pool, was of the vilest & when he forced himself on our tent at the time we were allotted, we could hardly keep him out, but tonight fixed him up altogether & the officer put him in another tent, so we are rid of some bad rubbish. He is always ‘broke,’ always gambling his wages away, & then comes to us for ‘loans’ which are of course never repaid. Last night he brought some other waster in from some another unit who it appears has served most of his 2 months here in the ‘Clink’ (gaol) for all kinds of offences. I overheard him telling this fellow of the equipment (boots etc.) that he’d stolen from the Quartermaster’s store & disposed of to the natives for cash. I had my eye on him & let the boys know, in case he took a liking to any of our Kit bags. Oh, there are some beauties here!
We are getting drill pumped into us now with a will. Up at 5.30 am. Parade at 6.30 till 9. B’fast of ¾ hour & so through the day. It is all desert round about these places, nothing but sand, sand & more sand, but it is

Envelope addressed to Mr. & Mrs. Cave as before, posted from Cairo and numbered 8. ()

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(6th & last lap)
different sand to our beach stuff, being more pebbly & quartz. It had been raining a few days before we got here (they reckon it only rains 1 1/2 inches a year, & sometimes not that much) & the ground was harder, but this is winter I suppose. They tell us that in the Summer it is something cruel. A peculiar thing about this sand is that when it is wet you can make it like cement. The niggers’ graves or tombs are built of it- there is a grave yard just near us Flowers & Shrubs are unknown in it. They look very strange with their double tombstones (one at the head & one at the foot, the hole being covered over with this hard sand, concave fashion.)
I cannot tell you about the troops who are here as that is strictly forbidden, but I’ve met lots of old mates from Warwick Farm & Liverpool who preceded me here. I am making new ones every day.
Well I must bring this to a close now, it’s time I was getting back to camp, so Ta Ta, hoping all are well at home. I am still keeping ‘OK’, & there’s no saying when we’ll be in action, may never be, but one never knows. Kind regards as usual to all enquiring friends. Excuse this writing as I’m having a hard job, what with the number at table, scarcity of ink & the continual shaking.
I think you’ll appreciate me telling you exactly how we are placed with temptations, but don’t worry what ever else you do. I will send some silk goods home later also p/cs occasionally. Lots of Love Your Loving Son & Bro. Harrie.

Envelope addressed to Mr. & Mrs. Cave as before, postmarked from Cairo. . Same as on previous page and numbered 8

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Letter No 9 with Y.M.C.A. letterhead dated Sun. morn. January 23rd 1916
from Aerodrome Camp. Heliopolis, Egypt.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
I suppose you will at this moment, be still wondering where I have gone to, as it will be some weeks yet, before you receive my first letter from here. But I do not want you to worry at all, as that will do no good.
It is hard for me to keep on writing like this, as there is nothing very new to tell you this week. I would like to be answering one of yours from home for a change, but I suppose one will soon come now, at any rate. I am living in hopes of receiving something very shortly.
I have just come from the Church Parade of the 1st. Training Battalion. (Each Bat. has it’s own service) held in the open air near the Desert, & presided over by the Church of England Chaplain, who has been with the boys on the Peninsula. He has great admiration for the lads who fought there, & cannot say enough in praise of them. The service was very interesting, & it makes me feel a lot better after it. Our Band plays the Hymns while we sing. We Australians, are undoubtedly in a very peculiar position in Egypt at this time, being the youngest of the new nations, or countries, residing (temporary of course) in the oldest land in the World. The Egyptian peasants of today, cannot be of the same class as their forefathers, judging by their appearance & filth, as seen about the towns & in the slums of Cairo & Heliopolis (This latter town is built on modern lines, & is only 8 years old. There are no slums, the native lower classes residing in what appear to be flats.)
Our Battalion was taken on a very interesting route march

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(2nd. Spasm)
one day last week. It is a great sight to see such a lot of men with full packs & all marching together. We went about 3 miles away from here, thro’ the outskirts of Zeitoune (a town near Heliopolis & the station where we left the train on arrival) to a place called the "Old City of the Sun. There are no signs of a town there, except a row of ruins that may have been houses many hundreds of years ago. The enormous solid granite Obelisk (50’ high & 50’ foundation so we’re told) marks the entrance to this city. There was another exactly the same, alongside it at one time, but I believe it was taken to England some years ago & erected on the Thames Embankment. The Obelisk above mentioned, is covered in the quaint Egyptian hieroglyphics you’ve heard so much about, when anything new has been unearthed. I could make out Birds, Snakes or Scorpions, men, animals etc., which I suppose, denoted some happening in their history at that time. They say Obelisks were erected in front of the Tabernacle there & made to represent the [indecipherable] of the Sun’s rays, hence the name "City of the Sun. I cannot vouch for what I’ve told you of course, as we had no guide with us to point out anything of special interest, I’ve just had to go on what was gathered in conversation. On the way to another interesting place, we saw at close quarters one of the old water wheels that are so often mentioned in old Egyptian books. This wheel, or wheels (there were two others) was driven by a blind-folded camel, which did nothing else but push it round & round in a circle. On the wheel was attached little buckets, just the same as you see on the mud-dredges in the Harbour, which filled themselves as they touched the water in the well, & emptied, as they gained the perpendicular. I could not see where the water was coming from, as there was no river near. Perhaps it was an underground one, or a spring. As the water emptied, it was guided into little irrigation channels or gutters, which eventually found it’s way to various parts of the sugar-cane & Lucerne (or clover) fields, of which there were a number here. The other wheel was driven by a blindfolded Egyptian ox & the niggers in charge, had nothing else to do but keep the poor beast moving. I do not know whether it was hard work or not, for the poor animals, but I felt great pity for them, as they looked so very tired & dirty.
The women here do a lot of manual labour in the fields. We saw many working amongst the cane, carrying bundles of it on their heads. (everything is carried

3rd Spasm (Y.M.C.A. letterhead)
on the head by the women- water, baskets containing fruit & vegetables etc. & sometimes in addition to that you see one carrying a baby in her arms.)
After about a mile’s walk thro’ the slums of some town (where everything is filthy & stinking-(the streets being very narrow) we came into a better class of place, with large, tho’ old buildings & a little further ‘pulled up’ at a spot held sacred by the Christians the World over. This was the Holy (or Sacred) Tree & Well, where the Virgin Mary & Joseph, just after the birth of Jesus Christ, rested & drank (respectively,) while on the flight from Palestine, after King Herod’s decree, that all children below a certain age should be destroyed, so that his throne would not be imperilled when he heard of the new-born King of the Jews. Palestine is a long way from Egypt, & across barren & desolate country too, so it surprises me when I hear of the long trips overland, by foot & caravan, that people thousands of years ago took, when you consider what they had to go through. Of course the Suez Canal divides the two places in these days of strife, & a railway goes a good part of the way, tho’ I don’t think there’s one as far as Damascus or Jerusalem, except the one being built by our enemies for other purposes than catering for travellers & others. (I am talking of a railway from Cairo to Jerusalem, you understand!) This world famous tree, must be many thousands of years old, if the information supplied us is correct, & it looks it too, being bent in a very peculiar shape, giving when not so old a very good shade. The Well was only a few yards away & apparently was built round a permanent spring. The same old class of water-wheel was here, but of course is not used to draw the water now, being preserved as one of the relics of Egypt. The water in it, was supposed to be at that time, the only sweet drinking water in the district, the

(P.S. Enclosed – one of the Heliopolis to Cairo electric tram-train tickets that cost 1/2 piastre each way (about 1 ¾ d.) with stations shown on side in French which is the commonest of Foreign languages here. You can also see Egyptn. words & figures Harrie.)

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(Last Spasm)
others being of a brackish nature. We only had a very short passing glimpse of these places of such interest, as there were numbers large numbers of us to go round, so as I said before, cannot swear to all I’m told. But I think I am pretty right as far as [indecipherable] goes. You must not think these places are in Cairo, as they are much nearer Heliopolis, but closer to Zaitoun (or El Zeitoune) Our way back was via the better part of the latter town, & across the railway line that goes to Cairo & Alexandria. There were many fine dwellings there, that seemed to [be] occupied by foreigners to the Egyptians, such as English, French, Italian & Greek- & others perhaps, but there were also some ‘well-to-do’ Egyptians there also. You must not think, when I tell you, that these people are all low down, no, there are many wealthy people, natives of the country here, who are every bit as good as us, altho’ their religion is different. They have many fine businesses in Cairo, & dress very neat. It was the occupants of the "Wazzah & the slums, whom I referred to before in previous letters.
This was our first decent route-march, tho’ nothing to what we’ll face when we have to get out on the Desert for a day’s walk with full cargo aboard. The distance was about 8 miles (more or less) & we all were glad to rest & have Lunch in camp at dinner time. Drill followed as usual in the afternoon.
I have not been in Cairo since I wrote you last, so I cannot tell you anything new yet. There are more aeroplanes to be seen overhead here in one place as one would see in a life-time in Aust. I have great admiration for our Flying men they are brave fellows. Saw one distinctly "Loop the Loop the other afternoon. It was great.
Must draw this to a close now dears, as I may go to the Pyramids or zoo this afternoon, so shall have to hurry as dinner is just about ready & I must not be late. I hope you are all keeping well, & receiving all the letters I’ve written, also Post Cards from the different ports, They say there is a big mail here now & I am anxious to see it delivered. You can hardly realise, till you get away how delightful it is to get letters & papers. Will write regularly as usual, even if I do not get mail from you, as one never knows what is the trouble, when there’s such an immense amount to be delivered. Rem. me to all kind enquiring friends am writing to as many as possible.
With Love etc. Loving Son & Bro. Harrie X X

Envelope post marked Cairo, addressed as before and numbered 9 .

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Letter No. 10 Y.M.C.A. letterhead written from Aerodrome Camp, Heliopolis, Egypt.
Sun. Morn. January 30th 1916.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Just come from the morning Church Parade, held in the open on the Desert, outside our Camp, & am writing this while waiting for "Cook House to go for Lunch. Feel much better after the service, tho’ it was not the one I’m used to, being Church of England Ceremony.
Many times during the week, have my thoughts wandered to you at home & wondering if all is well. I am still anxiously awaiting a word from someone, but suppose I must still be patient till the letters are all sorted. It is getting harder every week for me to give you news, I would like a change of answering one or two, as I get tired of continually writing, not knowing whether you are receiving the letters or not.
Have received cards & letters from:- Aunt Alice, (she wrote before I left Sydney & the letter came straight here to the Batt.) ‘Jacky’ Jackson, Clarrie Back, Miss Olive Hill (of V.O. Co.) Miss Johnston, an old friend, -now Mrs Paine-Lizzie will remember her, & one from Lily Beaurepaire. They seem to be coming in ‘dribs & drabs,’ so I expect there must be more at the Base for me.
Last Wednesday was Anniversary Day in Sydney, & I tried to think where you’d all be going to spend the day. I hope the Weather turned out fine & you had an enjoyable outing. I suppose Athol gardens was favorite again, eh? I can almost picture the 18 footers, skiffs & dingys, with their great spread of canvas, sailing prettily up & down & across the Harbour, past Bradley’s.

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(2nd Spasm)
It is quite different here. We get no holidays, except Saturday afternoon & Sunday afternoons, if not detailed for one of the many guards, "Fatigues etc., even if we did there are no places to go to, like Sydney & its beauty spots, except one can get the necessary leave & visit some of the more distant sights of Older time. One gets very sick of going into Cairo or Heliopolis.
I think I told you in No.9 that I was going to have a look at the Pyramids last Sunday afternoon, which I did, & gained a little more knowledge of a wonder, or wonders, that are world-renowned & historical. On a clear day from the Desert when we drill, just on the outskirts of Heliopolis, the two largest Pyramids (Cheops & Chefron) are easily seen, they must be nearly 20 miles away, so you can just imagine the heights they are. Well, to go to the sights from the camp I have first to go to Cairo (8 or 10 miles away) by electric tram (one of the tickets enclosed-concession to Soldiers 2nd. class, 1/2 piastre) & take an electric tram just near "Shepheards’ Hotel- Officers only- to Mena, about 10 miles out. The fare is 1 piastre (about 2 1/2 d.) each way, Second Class. -All the Egyptian electric trams have 3 compartments, one for 1st. class passengers, one 2nd. class & one for Dames (Ladies) , so you see they are up to date, even ahead of Sydney with an electric tram. (I have enclosed one of the Pyramids’ (Mena) tickets also, that I used last Sunday)
We pass thro’ a good deal of the business part of Cairo & note many fine buildings & stores, emporiums, etc. The Streets are clean & paved, but narrow in places. The Museum (of which I told you before) is seen as we go, also the Cemetry, near which we saw several funerals approaching. One was of the lower class native, where the bier which held the crude coffin, was carried by six men, followed by a dirty mob, some carrying flags on long poles, others singing & clapping hands, it was not all, many, with tearful faces & there were no women present. The other two funerals were apparenly of someone of a higher class, as the coffins of white & gold [indecipherable] on a decorated lorry followed by well dressed men who walked with solemn step denoted something of higher caste. Several dirty streets in the outer suburbs were gone through till we reached the banks of the ‘little’ Nile, which could be seen opposite us, & Old fashioned water-wheels worked by the usual Ox & Camel, always under the watchful eye lash of some Nigger, who gave the poor brutes no quarter. I think I explained

Y.M.C.A. letterhead- (3rd Spasm)
in a previous letter, how little buckets attached to the big wheel came up & emptied themselves & returned to the river as the wheel revolved. There was plenty of cultivation about here, many pretty green fields being passed as we progressed towards Mena, putting me in mind of our Chinese gardens round about Sydney. Several old towns were entered, (Gizerah being one, I remember & many ruins of mud hovels visible. On the main road going to & coming from Mena way, were all classes & kinds of vehicles & travellers. Natives pushing their quaint hand carts loaded with Sugar cane & fodder going to market, Women, with enormous loads balanced on their heads. Donkeys loaded to a back-breaking strain, Camels likewise, "push cycles ridden by niggers & ‘civvies’, motor cycles, mo’ cars, "gharries, (the Egyptian cab with 2 horses.) horses & carts. We also saw a Camel with a covered-in seat to protect some one from view or the Sun. Cheops & it’s cobber Chefron, (I think that’s it’s name or perhaps Gizeh, I’m not sure yet) stand out very distinct as we get nearer, till at the terminus they seem to tower to an enormous height. Perhaps it’s the ridge they are built on, that makes them so deceptive. Mena House (now a hospital) is here at the bottom of a hill up which you have to walk or ride (per Donkey or Camel) about a 1/4 mile to get to Cheops. The entrance to the tomb of Pharaoh, faces this road, but as it was starting to rain (something unusual in Egypt I’m told, but since we’ve got here, rain has been pretty frequent, giving us all very uncomfortable Sleep as it pours on us at night- it is bitterly cold too when you wake in the mornings. The Natives cannot understand having so much of it- perhaps Aust. language has a

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(4th Spasm)
lot to do with it.) It was the threatening rain that made me cut the visit short so I did not go to the trouble of taking off boots & coat to go inside. Right up at the Apex were many of our boys, others under the care of Egyptian guides (of which there are hordes here) were climbing there, up special tracks known to the guides only. --------- An interval of about 4 hours here, while important movements without notice, took place, in which we all had to take part. I cannot tell you here what these movements were, but we are dismissed for the afternoon or till the next alarm. Everyone was expectant & happy, in anticipation of some ‘bother.’
Back to the Pyramids- as I said before, there was no chance of having a thorough look round owing to the rain, but I had a close look at Cheops & Chefren Pyramids & the Sphinx. This latter wonder is about 200 yards away from the big Pyramid in a hollow in the hill. It is a remarkable work, all one Solid rock, cut out in the shape of a human face. Just near are the tombs of other Pharaohs & in the distance, 9 or 10 other Pyramids, but too far away to examine. They say that an American Coy. is at work, excavating alongside these big Pyramids, for a Buried City. The poor Donkeys (of which hundreds are used here for carrying people) are treated more brutally than anything I’ve seen. The innocent always suffer tho’ some how! I’ve seen big fellows on these little animals, who were made, under a continual lashing & whipping, to gallop up sand-hills & other awful places. It’s a pity the riders were not treated the same. One poor little beast I saw as I was coming back, was whining with the pain of a savage hit across nose & eyes by an enraged black. I hardly know what kept my hands off him. I could have almost cried. It’s the same with the camels, of which there are also lots of them. Beggars, Fortune Tellers & guides are about in hordes. I met a mate of Holly Dodds at the foot of Cheops who left Sydney a few weeks before me. He belongs to the Artillery, but has not been in action yet. Strange place to meet wasn’t it? I only know him as [indecipherable]. Have seen no others that you know, tho’ have come across numerous camp mates, who were at Liverpool & Warwick Farm with me. Rain was pouring as I hurried away- worse luck. & I just got aboard the tram at Mena to have a thorough wetting through. Will go there again if there’s a chance.

Y.M.C.A. letterhead (5th Spasm)
Enclosed our Battalion Colors Black over green bars- The famous 1st. battalion.

Owing to the abovementioned alarm, my trip to the Zoo is off, as it is now after 4 o’clock & I could not get there in time to see anything, so must just hang by till "Cook House goes for Tea. The Zoo is out on the way to Mena, you get the same tram, but do not go as far as the terminus.
On the way back to Cairo from the Pyramids, got into conversation (mostly by actions) with a young Albanian boy, who in a long time, told me of the treatment he & his people had received at the hands of the awful Turk. He says that both his people & the Armenians, are being continually slaughtered because they are Christians. The Bayonet, Sword, Burning at the Stake & shooting are some of the means of death. He showed me his Christian mark on his arm. It is a tatoo of St. George & the Dragon (or so it looks) He was pleased to know that the Australians were helping the English to protect the small Christian Nations against the Turk. He was also surprised to know, that Australia had such a lovely climate, His country being continually under snow. I guess he’d like to be out there now, instead of working for his Greek master – a baker in Cairo- Had to run away for Tea for a few moments but here I am again- will finish this some time tonight if lucky. - I also learnt from this boy, that there were many Turkish people in Egypt, especially women, who wear the white peculiar veil that starts below the eyes, covering nose, mouth & chin. The Egyptian, Mohames wear a black (Kishma, I think they’re called) one, sometimes with a fancy piece of wood over the nose attached to the Veil (or Kishina?)

[Page 43]
(Last Spasm)
I was sorry when I had to leave this lad, as I should liked to have gleaned more from him, especially in regard to his own country, (which occupies a small coastline on the Adriatic sea between (?) Austria & Greece but as his destination had come, I reluctantly bid him goodnight. I spent the rest of Sunday evening at the Helmia Tea gardens run by the Y.M.C.A. which is a great boon to the soldiers who are disgusted or tired of the "Wazzah. A military band was playing some nice music in the Park alongside, which was very good. I cannot say too much for the grand work of the Y.M.C.A. for the benefit of us soldiers. You would be surprised at the enormous amount of pens, paper & ink, that is supplied, even at this Aerodrome Camp Depot. They deserve all the financial assistance possible. I hardly know what we’d do with ourselves at night if it wasn’t to come over here to hear the concerts, write or play games. The Hut is often the meeting place for long lost ‘cobbers,’ who turn up at all unexpected moments.
Have not heard yet, if Frank Beaurepaire has left to take up his field service duties. There’s one thing, he won’t be required on the Peninsula now.
We are still working very hard, day & night, in preparation for the grand Test; when it will be, I still cannot tell you.- Hope you’ve received all my Previous Letters & Post Cards by now. I posted 3 P/C’s to you last night under 2 covers, so you ought to get them with this mail.
As I’ve heard nothing of you as yet, I take it that all at home are still keeping well. There’s nothing of importance to tell you just now. I am only wishing to get this job over, that’s all.
Rem. me to all at Melb. if you write, also to any old mates, girls & friends, you may come across. I am still kept busy writing to all I can think of, so if any are missed it’s their hard luck.
Kind remembrances to Elsie, Lizzie & Thelma & yourselves hoping again that all’s well. I am
Your loving son & Bro. Harrie.

Envelope addressed as before to Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave and dated 5 Feb. 16.

[Page 44]
Letter No. 11 The Young Men’s Christian Association with H.M. Mediterranean Expeditionary Force in Egypt letterhead.
Kasr-el-Nil Barracks (Cairo) (on Town Piquet Duty- A Section)
Sun.Morn. Feby. 6th 1916

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
You do not know how pleased I was to at last receive a letter from home. – it was Dad’s, written at Aunt Jean’s on Sunday Decr. 26th (last year of course). I received it last Wednesday at the above Barracks (on the River Nile) where I am temporarily stationed on Cairo Town Piquet duty. We left Aerodrome Camp last Monday morning, & marched with full pack up, to our new quarters, which are in a nice position, in the fashionable part of Cairo. Last Sunday’s alarm threatened real business, but altho’ we were at a high pitch of excitement & hope, nothing came of it, except the preparation. I cannot tell you here what it was all about- that would not be allowed by the Censor. We are all having an easy time on this new ‘job’ & will be sorry if we have to return to Heliopolis tomorrow, altho’ the Section I am on, is the stinking, low-down, disease-stricken etc. etc. "Wasseh, of which I am entirely sick of. We go on duty at 2.15 pm (or, as they say here, 14.15 o’clock, which is the French way of telling the time. They follow on from 12 noon, then 13 o’c. & so on & return to Barracks at 7.30 pm (or 19.30 o’c.) from when we are free till next day at 14.15. I have come away this morning without leave, to the Y.M.C.A.’s Tea gardens & Buffet, in the Ezbekia Gardens (not Helmia as I previously told you) to write this letter to you, so must hurry up in case I’m questioned. Our headquarters are about a mile & half away from here, tho’ our "beat starts just out-side these gardens

[Page 45]
(2nd Spasm)
The Piquet’s duty is to look after our soldiers from Aust, N.Z. & the "old Dart who are foolish enough to spend their spare time & money in this awful region of such awful surroundings. I thought I saw some terrible sights here before, but since I’ve been on duty here during the daylight, they appear a thousand times worse. Do not fear for me tho’, my will is strong enough to resist the temptations that are all round one. Many a lad must come out of this place unconscious & robbed of every penny; I know we have tons of work at times getting them into "gharries (cabs) & trams, so that they can get back to camp. It beats me how these people live. There are thousands of youngsters & cripples, who clean boots, sell peanuts, Matches, Oranges, Mandarins, Cigars, Cigarettes, Chocolates, Newspapers, Cheap trinkets, silks, linen etc., Stationery, Native Drinks, Sugar Cane, Lottery tickets, etc, besides numerous Beggars, Business Scouts, Spies, Donkey-men, gutter cleaners, & others who seem to have no occupation, except to gather cigar & cigarettes buts, pick up papers & anything that will burn. (perhaps to warm themselves in their hovels) You see them asleep on the footpaths or in the gutters, wrapped in their thin clothes & no one takes any notice. You see the scum of the near East here, besides the scum of some of the White Nations. Arabs, Soudonese, (black as the Ace of spades), Turk-Egyptians, Egyptians, Algerians, etc. French, Greek, Albanians & Italians.
We are slowly learning the Egyptian (or Arabic) phrases in common use by Boot boys, Peanut sellers, gharry drivers etc. Good day! ("Sae-eda), Come here! ("Ta-ala-hena) or come quickly ("Ta-ala-hena awum) How much! (aals-cam), go away! ("Imshy-yallah) we generally use either "Imshy or "yallah for short, & they go for their lives, especially if we have a cane or stick), "Rooh-fi-dahia means go to h!!l. I have no money ("Ma Feesh-fooloos) Good Bye ("Maa-al-salaama) How are you? ("Imshy yak), Give me something for ‘Nix’! (Gibbit Backseesh), Tomorrow! ("Bokra) go away can also be understood by "Rooh-min-hina! & so on. It is all very interesting & we are gradually ‘picking’ it up. I can write all their funny numerals too! My regimental number is ---- (3900), [] but their writing & printing in Arabic characters would take a lot of learning. These people, like the (?) Chinese, read from right to left, & all their traffic goes the same way (quite the opposite to us, you see!) I believe traffic on the Continent is likewise- right side for trams, vehicles, etc. We are quite used to the change now tho’, as when marching in 4’s the order is, "by the right instead of "by the left at home. In one way I’ll be glad when I see the last of Slum Cairo, especially the "Wasseh, but it is interesting to try & talk to the "gutter snipes & others, who think "Australia bery good, bery rich man, bery nice, bery clean – they say this all

Y.M.C.A. letterhead , 3rd Spasm.
Still anxious to know if you’ve removed to Woolwich yet, near Archie.
You ought to get my first from here in a day or two now I know you are [indecipherable]
in one breath, & it sounds very peculiar. They like us because we’ve got the money to waste- or at least the biggest majority have. Englishmen are known as "Hello! MacKenzie! to the ‘nippers’ & you can’t tell them that McKenzie is Scotch. (They have no nice words for the latter) "Beating them down for their wares is good sport but they generally don’t lose anything on a transaction- the other way about, I think. You never want to let them see that you are eager to buy, it’s better to walk away in disgust, & they will generally come after you saying "Gibbit, gibbit. (That is, give your price for the goods.) I don’t know what they’ll do when the ‘boys’ all go back, or leave the country for another field of action. Our boys are always after "Buckshee feeds, drinks, rides on donkeys, trams etc. & the niggers always call out for the "Pickit, Pickit, when our squad (or any of the other numerous sections near) have to go & quell the bother (There are 25 of us in ‘A’ section) Our present "home is in a nice part of Cairo, away from the hum & buzz of traffic, tho’ the early hours resound with the clatter & talk of the market gardeners & others coming into town, via the big bridge which crosses the Nile, outside one of our entrances. Donkeys & Camels as usual, with enormous loads of donkey & gharry horse fodder, Sugar cane, manure, fruit etc. also natives pushing hand carts, many motors & other traffic all help to wake us early, altho’ very few of our squad arise before 7.30 am.
I had a walk thro’ the Egyptian National Bazaar, in Morisky St., Khan-Khalili, (not far from where I am now- Ezbekia gardens) & saw the small shops that mainly constitute it. There are several by Native businesses there too, & I had a run thro’ the big warehouse & stores owned by E Hatoun. One of the ‘bosses’ told me that business was very bad, even tho’ the soldiers were here in such numbers, but they didn’t all know about his foods , as the shop was not in the main rendez-vous-

[Page 46]
(4th Spasm)
the "Wasseh. I bought some momentoes here to send home, but hardly know whether it’s worth while trusting some of our "comrades (robbers) in the Postal Service here, so did not "plunge’ heavily- in fact our 50 "Disaster (Piastre) Note would not allow of such a thing & we only get it every 10 Days. I posted Thelma a handkerchief, & Elsie & Lizzie a scarf which ought to go by the same mail as this. Whether they’ll ever reach you of course I can’t tell, but you’ll let me know early won’t you? The above reason is why I have not sent anything home before now & I am sure you will agree with me. There is nothing so disheartening to us fellows here, than to know that some low-down thief & ‘skunk’ has collared anything we post. I was told yesterday by one of the lads who was in the P.O. Dept, that one is very lucky to get a parcel that will go into a pocket, delivered at destination.
We had some rain again last night, but the day has commenced with a nice sun, altho’ the tables, paper & ground, where I am trying to write are all saturated, the water having soaked thro’ the matting- roof.
Have not yet had the chance of again visiting the Pyramids & Sphinx. Owing to the alarm last Sunday the trip to the Zoo was abandoned. I must also go & see the Citadel, Tombs of the Khalifs & Mamelouks, or any of the grand mosques, of which there are nearly 500 in and about Cairo, when opportunity occurs. The trouble is we do not know the moment on which we may go to one of the main fronts. Rumours come round every day & if one was to listen to them all he’d soon be mad. All the same, one day a supposed rumour will turn out correctly, so we have just got to live in hopes. You at home get more news of the actual war than we do here & may know as soon as us, where we are to go to. There’s one good thing the "Death Trap is now no more, having been left, some weeks before we arrived.
The hot weather I suppose, will soon be coming round & then I’ll have a very different tale to tell you- that is, if I’m here for it.
Dad’s letter was a happy break into the monotony of continually writing to you, & I am glad now to be able to reply to it.
He did not say whether he was sea-sick on the way down to Melb. by the "Canberra, but I can guess he was down to all meals, as usual. The Southerly gale "tickled me up alright & I can imagine the "Canberra wallowing in it.
Sorry to hear that Mother has not been too well, but trust that everything is ‘OK’ now- Worry is no good, the job’s got to be done by someone!

Y.M.C.A. letterhead. Kasr-el-Nil Barracks
Cairo, Sat. morn. Feby. ‘16.
(5th Spasm)
What lucky Aunts, Uncles, & Cousins we have, when a whole family of them can go to 2 & 3 different resorts to spend their holiday!
Just fancy not being able to find me on the "Mooltan on that eventful Saturday! Why I thought I was in a very prominent position hanging on to the after-well Deck railings! When we began to move I went higher still, into the after life-boat & then on to the top of the Davit. Never mind you were saved a big eye strain as we got off. I could see Lizzie’s Umbrella till she moved off from her position.
Was Clive Smith on the Wharf too? I did not see him, but Frank Delaney & Eddie Bell, I was talking to for some time before we moved. I suppose Clive has left by now. I have been on the look-out for him, but so far in vain.
A wet Xmas Eve in Sydney, eh? Rather nasty wasn’t it. I remember ours was quite the opposite- plenty of heat. There is no doubt that it would do a lot of good to the crops & town folk ought not to grumble. Yes, the camps could all do with a little acqua to lay the dust. Melbourne townies were more lucky, having plenty of nice sunshine. Lily told me in one of her letters, that Dad had met her (or the other way about, wasn’t it?) on the Esplanade coming from Stubbs. She was expecting Elsie & he to call down & see the family that week. Yes, we had a good time together, while I had the luck to get the free trips. I would not mind going thro’ the same again! It would do me now, nicely. But must hope, that’s all, for the future.

[Page 47]
(Last Spasm)
What a ‘mob’ for Xmas tea at Aunt Soph’s! You must have had a jolly time, with such beautiful surroundings. How lucky some people are! But I congratulate them for having such a comfortable & pretty house. They had to work hard enough for it. I must write again to them as soon as I get a fair chance. I seem to be continually writing & hope there are none I’ve overlooked- it’s their hard luck if I have. (While I think of it, don’t forget to keep putting the 12th Reinfts on the envelope, else there’ll be delay in delivery here)
Glad to know that you rec.d letter No.2 written, or posted, at the Semaphore (South Aust) I was worrying about it, as I had to give it to one of the S.A. soldiers, who was doing guard duty on whf.
Dad was correct (or nearly so) in reckoning our position as near the Cocos Islands on Xmas Day. Very good.
Will be glad to hear from Les Nuttall if he can spare the time to write. Hope he has got over his trip home & the good things he had at [indecipherable] Ask him to rem. me to his people kindly.
The first papers came last Wed. from Lily & made the boys with me quite eager to read the News. "Clarrie Back also most kindly sent me the "Sunday Suns of 12th & 19th Decr., for which I cannot thank her & her kind sisters & mother enough. She also sent me a New Year card & I have already written acknowledging receipt of all. The young lads at the V.O.C. also keeps writing to me, so what with keeping up with them, yourself, Aunts [indecipherable] & many others, my time is fully occupied. There will come a time when you at home perhaps, will have to be satisfied with a P/C or writing on a[indecipherable] rag etc.
I can only thank these kind people by acknowledging their correspondence.
Well, dears, must go back to Barracks now, it is after 12 noon & I’ll be copping out, if I don’t look out. Excuse all kinds of inaccuracies as time is now precious. Trusting all are well at home as it leaves me here & rem. me as usual to all friends I am
Your loving Son & Bro. Harrie. X

Envelope number 11 addressed as before to Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave and headed "On Active Service.

[Page 48]
Y.M.C.A. letterhead Aerodrome Camp Heliopolis Sun. eve. Feby. 13th 1916.
Letter No.12.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Here we are again, back at our old Camp in Heliopolis & on the Desert, after a nice change in the Kasr-el-Nil Bridge Barracks (Cairo) of one week’s duration.
We marched back here last Monday afternoon leaving the Barracks at 2.30 pm (or, 14.30 o’clock as the French say) & getting back in camp, for tea, same afternoon. Most of us were sorry in some respects, that the Town Piquet job was so short, but glad enough to see the last of the stinking & sinful "Wasseh, & it’s vice-stricken inhabitants. I’m sure we all saw enough of immorality & filth, to last us to our dying day, while doing our duty up & down, & in & out, those twining, twisting & narrow lanes, that seem to hold such a sway & charm, for so many Australians, New Zealanders & "Tommies. As I’ve said so often, it’s a wonder God does not bring his Almighty arm to bear, & wipe out with one swipe, the whole region. I’m sure there’ll be a big fire here one of these days, so closely built are the dwellings & shops, & so old & rotten are they. I’ve not seen any sign of a Fire Brigade either, so don’t see how they could possibly prevent one, if it did start. If the war was to end while our lads are here, I’m sure Cairo would be a city of the past in less than a week, especially this slum area. They are fit enough at present for anything & it’s "good night any enemy they have to meet in an encounter. Germans are apparently favorites, & most are anxious

Envelope stamped as before O.A.S and Passed by censor dated 21st Feb. 1916. Cairo. Addressed to Mr. & Mrs. Cave as before.

[Page 49]
(2nd Lap)
to have a ‘go’ on the Flanders front, but I’m afraid their hopes will not be realised- they are needed for a hotter climate & that’s not so very far away from here. You’ll perhaps know at home, as soon as we, where the bother is to commence. They’ll tell us nothing till the very last minute, & then it’s only- "be ready to move off with everything tomorrow morning or some such order. I suppose it’s quite right tho’, as too much information is likely to be given away, especially in this place, where there are so many tribes & races, ready to give news of our movements & numbers to the enemy’s agents.
This past week has been a very quiet one to us all, & I hardly know how I’m to make a letter out of nothing. You’ll just have to put up with the ‘goods’ I dish out to you, that’s all.
When we came back from Piquet in Cairo, - we were only relieving another Company for one week- we were told that for a whole week our Company was detailed as "Piquet. This meant, that no one was to leave the Camp, or even the Lines, day or night & we were to be ready at five minutes notice. to ‘don’ our armour at the first call of the Alarm. It might come at any moment, & even as I write, I have to be ready to cut, & run for my life if it goes. I do not fancy the idea of leaving the "warmth of our two blankets in the very early morning hours, (say, 3 or 4 am) as the air is so very cold & chilly at that time. We all suffer from "cold feet here, not the results of fear of the enemy, but the effect of weather or air, while we are trying to sleep on the hard ground. But this complaint soon disappears by sunrise, by which time, our athletic O.C. (L. Sewell) has worked up a good blood circulation within us, as we chase him over about 2 miles of Desert sands (it’s quite hard just now, after the few short showers we’ve been having lately- something unusual when on empty stomachs ,too! Breakfast follows, after more arm, neck & leg exercises, of "[indecipherable] (Porridge) Bread & Jam & Tea.
The weather is still quite pleasant, tho’ the early mornings, as I’ve said before, are on the chilly side. We had two very foggy mornings this week, which were

(3rd Lap) Y.M.C.A. letterhead as before
something new to us. The days following were just the opposite, being very clear, & the distant sand-dunes or hills, stood out like white clouds on the horizon. The two big Pyramids at Mena or Gizeh, (Cheops & Chefron) were very distinct & only seemed to be a few miles away, instead of nearly twenty.
Owing to the week’s Fire Piquet, I am again prevented from visiting the Zoological Gardens (near the Nile River) which I made up my mind, I would see today. The Tombs of the Khalifs & those of the Mamelukes, shall also have to wait apparently, as will the Citadel, Mosques & other sights. Hard luck isn’t it?
Just told this afternoon, that before daylight tomorrow morning, (4 am) the whole Company is to bid good-bye, or Au Revoir, to the Aerodrome camp & Heliopolis. Bags & Equipment will have to be got ready tonight so I don’t see much sleep for any of us. It is nearly 8 pm (20 o’clock) now. I wonder what you are all doing at home at this moment? Why, fast asleep of course! It is 4 o’clock tomorrow morning over your way.- & I am feeling fit for a good sleep after a tiring day. Our new destination has not been told us yet, but we all know where it will be. I must not tell you here, as it is "Taboo. Most of the Balmain lads in the "30th ("Jacky Goodsie, "Frankie, Tastale etc) & I expect, Geo & Jim McKecknie, who are attached to same Brigade, (Col. Terrey’s) are sure to be there on "dinkum service. It will [be] our first taste of Service conditions, tho’ I don’t think there’s anything ‘doing’ yet in the ‘potting’ line. Look for the sign soon now, it may at least tell you something, tho’ I don’t quite know for certain what it will be. Perhaps the plain ‘O’ is near it. We may get permission to let you into the secret, when we settle down. I will be glad to meet the boys who have come here before me & learn how they’ve been progressing, although it’s possible that I may never see one of them, even if we are at the same place.- Interval of 15 minutes while I take part in the church service in this Y.M.C.A. Hut- it’s Sunday eve’s you know!-
The service turned out very nice, several well known hymns were sung with zeal ("Lead Kindly Light)

Envelope No. 12 addressed as before to Mr & Mrs Cave and postmarked Cairo 21 Feb 16.

[Page 50]
"Onward Christian Soldiers, ‘O God our help in ages past, "Throw out the Life Line etc., besides two nice solos sung by a corporal ("Nearer my god to thee,) ending with "Abide with me. The sermon preached by one of the Y.M.C.A. (an ex Presbyterian minister) was worth listening to.-
Shall have to hurry up now, it’s getting late, & I want some sleep, in preparation for tomorrow’s bustle & travel.
They say there’s a big mail from home, at the Intermediate Base which is being [sorted] Am hoping there’s something for me there, as I have had nothing since last Wednesday week. It is Five weeks next Tuesday since we arrived in Egypt, how the time has flown! I suppose you will have just read my first letter telling you about our destination. Goodness knows what we’ll be doing when you eventually get this to read. There is no need to say, my wish is that I’ll be returning to Australia with the World once more at peace & my duty done.
I am still wondering if you’ve removed out of Balmain, to more nicer surroundings. Would like to know how things are progressing at work & prospects for the future. The girls I hope are still keeping well. Are they married yet? You don’t know how little news from the circle interests me. I get sick of writing, writing, & nothing to answer. You may think there’s a lot to ‘skite’ about here, but we are debarred by the Censor from saying many things we’d like to tell you of, & local news gets very stale.
Have done a terrible lot of letter & Post Card writing since I came to Egypt, & still there’s a lot to write to yet. It seems as if I shall always have to be at it, or someone will be offended- but they will just have to wait that’s all, as the strain is almost as bad as when I was at work, with all the outdoors exercise that we get. They have not found out about my one defect yet. We have just gone thro’ another short course of musketry, prior to the real stuff, which apparently is getting closer daily.
Well, I’ll have to turn this up now. Rem. me kindly as before to all the work friends, relations etc.
Lights out!
I am your loving Son & Brother
Harrie

Envelope addressed as before and the same as image on page 49, numbered 12.

[Page 51]
Letter No.13
????
Sunday morn
Feby. 20th 1916
No 14 Section
No 4 Platoon
"A Company
1st Battalion
1st Inf. Brigade
A.I.F.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Another week has gone since I last wrote, & the World & the war is that much older. We too, are a little nearer to the real ‘bother,’ tho’ I am not allowed to tell you where the place is just now. As the Summer months come round, we can all look for a big move somewhere, & then you can bet, the "Glorious First will be once again in the thick of it. I am indeed fortunate to have the honor of being attached to this grand Battalion, which made (together with the other Batt’s in 1st Brigade) such a name for itself, on that world-renowned landing at Anzac, on the early morning of April 25th.’15. & again later, & the terrible assault on "Lone Pine & other positions. The originals who are left, can tell some hair-raising facts about modern war-fare & it is very interesting to hear their talk.
I don’t know how I’m to get this letter posted, as our Bat. is not accepting any for postage just now, in fact, I had to carry No.12 about with me for some days, as it was too late for me to post it at Aerodrome last Sunday night- the mail had closed some hours before I’d finished it. Anyhow, it ought to be on the way now, & I hope you receive it all right.
Last Monday morning at 3 o’clock, we were all awake & busy, getting everything ready for our departure from Heliopolis. It was still dark when we eventually got on the move, & by daylight, were at Ezbet-el-Zietoun siding, & allotted to open 10 ton trucks, which were to take us, & our equipment, baggage etc, to our new temporary home-here.
The journey down, was very nice, & we had the opportunity of studying at closer quarters in the daylight, the rural Egyptian, & those of the small

[Page 52]
(2) villages we passed thro’. The wooden- plough manned by Oxen (I also saw a Camel and one working in the same plough) was visible everywhere in the open fields. Those under crop looked beautifully green, quite a big contrast to the Desert on which this present camp is laid out. The tilled fields showed the soil to be very rich, & irrigation can be thanked for that. Everywhere could be seen the water- wheel at work (with the blind-folded camel, or ox, as usual, supplying the motive power) drawing the water from the muddy irrigation channel, & sending it in the many gutters, to all parts of the fields. On the main road, which followed the railway line, were to be seen hundreds of "Gippos (Egyptians) on their way to market at one of the towns on the line. Donkeys, as well with great loads of produce aboard, also camels, Mules & Oxen, ditto continually went by.
The whole family seemed to be on the move in places, & you would nearly always see fat ‘hubby’ perched right astern of the poor "Chen (Donkey) with the youngsters in front, "Wifie, being the slave, had to walk alongside & look pleasant. Our boys generally muck up, if they are on the road & a sight like this passes. Off comes lazy ‘Dad’ before he knows where he is & then the fun commences.
The towns we passed thro’ were not too clever, as towns go. As there is no such thing as a Municipal Council, or Inspector of Nuisances attached to any of these places, therefore no one seems to worry whether the street is a chain wide or 12 feet whether it is straight, or in alignment, or even levelled off. That’s why the "Wasseh is such a ‘twisty’ & rotten region. Houses go up in any old way & you rarely see one that is finished off, as our’s are. The way-back villages, are always a source of amusement to us, as all you see as you approach is, what looks like a wall round the town. This wall is in fact, part of a number of dwellings, all of which seem to face inwards to a kind of square. I suppose this is done for better security from marauders & other ill-intentioned personages. Detached houses are never seen. You can always smell these places, before you see them, on account of the enormous amount of stuff that is put on the flat roofs to dry; mostly cane & fodder. Fowls & other birds also make this their homes, so you cannot wonder at the stench.
In one village we went thro’, numbers of women were very busy filling & carrying (on their heads as usual) baskets of soil, perhaps to be used to make mud cakes in the building of more dwellings. ‘Kiddies’ too, were assisting in this work. It was a common sight to see the women drawing water (in those comical jars you’ve seen pictures of) from the irrigation channel & balancing the lot on their heads without the aid of hands. They are adept in the carrying & balancing arts. Everything goes on the ‘nut’ & if there’s a ‘nipper’ to carry too, he or she generally sits ‘straddle-legs’ across one shoulder. They’re characters, all right! Women also look after the herd of goats, who, like the dogs & fowls, turkeys & Donkeys seem to help in the formation of a village.
Am writing to all I know as I got the chance, but goodness me! its a contract. There’s 55 on my list &

(3) Coming along, some of our ‘hopefuls’ got good practice in the bomb-throwing art, but the poor donkeys, dogs, & birds had to suffer at their efforts. The women drawing water would also move lively after the first fusilade, to save themselves from getting a wetting. Yes, it’s funny for us, there’s no doubt, but the poorGippos put up with it ‘cause they’ve got to, argument is useless. "Imshy Yallah!! followed by some awful Waterloo or Surry Hills adjectives, is quite enough to send them ‘helter skelter.’ By the time Australia’s sons finally leave here, these niggers will have a beautiful mixture of Austn., Scotch & English, to go with their own Arabic tongue, & they’ll quite shock any tourists, especially those of the ‘gentler’ sex, who happen along this way after the war. I’m sure they don’t know the meaning of half the things they say.
We also came thro’ a native convict settlement, where the poor beggars, under the keen eyes of armed native soldiers, hewed, loaded & carried, large slabs of stone all day, at the Abu-La-bat Quarries.
The wilderness starts again, a few stations back from where I’m writing from now, but near here, several great victories against the Arab & Bedouins were scored in the campaign of 1882. Our parade ground covers the area where the "British Square was first broken, also the trenches- that still remain- that were used by the Eng-French troops against these marauding tribes of Arabs & Bedouins. Two other battles were fought within sight of here. Lord Wolseley, I’m told lead our English troops to victory, after a wonderful night- march across the desert.
We arrived here at mid-day last Monday, & the first one I saw was ‘Jacky’ Goodsir of the 30th. Later on I visited the lines (next to ours) & saw Tas Vale (now Lance- Corporal) & Sid Grant all of Balmain in ‘C’ Coy. I then went to ‘A’ Coy & saw Geo. McKechnie & Andrew Nelson, who both look well. They wish to be rem.d to you all. ‘Jimmy’ is some miles away from here with the 29th, but was expected back this week- no sign of him yet. Geo said they had

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all written to Aunt Jean, but had had no word from her (I learnt 2 or 3 days later, that they had got some letters.) We expect to go down to where Jimmy is this week, so I expect No.14 will be written from there. (I must not tell you where the place is.)
"Hunting is now an established ‘pastime’- or should I say necessity- Yes, hunting for "Chatties! (Lice is their correct title, tho’) Everyone gets them, some in scores, some Battalions & others, legions. ‘Tis said they come out of the sand. How much better we would admire them if they stayed there! I’ve caught 3 in 6 weeks, so far, but I expect this is only a start. I have to keep ‘putting up’ every now & then to scratch some part of my body. They would just drive one silly. How I pity the lads who were on the Peninsula & had two enemies to fight. "Chatty Parades are held now & then & Blankets & clothes are taken out into the Sun, to bring them out. They leave little bites on the skin too, & one keeps scratching at them.
Tell Lizzie I received her nice, welcome & interesting letter & have already answered it on Post Cards, also two from Elsie written from "Goonambil (Aunt Soph’s) which helped to make me happy & send my thoughts forward to the time I hope, when the world will once again be at Peace & we’ll all return to our lovely Land that so far as I can see has no equal on this planet. You can hardly realise what a letter is to us fellows. That’s all we live for. Would go without a meal to get a letter. You would be surprised to see the dejectedness, & loss of hope, on the faces of some of my ‘mates in [indecipherable]’ who so far have received no word from home or friends. I’ve been very lucky so far, as I have received something by nearly every delivery. It’s generally, "What! again. from the lads when they see me streak off with my lot. I wish you would tell me the no.s of the letters you receive from me, & the dates you get them, as it would be of interest. Let me know if the girls get the scarfs & handkerchiefs I sent some weeks ago. I cannot get any more now as I’m away from Cairo & do not expect to go there again.
Could you send me some Chocolate & good indelible pencils, as they are almost impossible to get here- Have plenty of everything else. Hope I’m not giving you too much trouble Dears in getting you to send them on at your earliest. Don’t forget the new address- Reg.No., Sect.No., Plat. No., Coy. No., Bat., Bgde etc. & there ought to be no trouble. Please let me know what Post Cards & other things I sent you.
Now, that’s about all just at the moment. They are calling for Mess Orders & that means ‘dinner,’ so if you’ll kindly rem. me as usual, to all kinds of friends, boys & girls I’ll be very glad. Do not worry as I’ve told you so often. I am looking after myself more than ever & still going on the straight tho’ narrow path.
With Tons of Love to Mother, Father, Elsie Lizzie & Thelma & Kisses for all. I am still your loving son & Bro,
Harrie. X X

Envelope numbered 13 and addressed to Mr and Mrs Cave as before. Postmark is Cairo 21st Feb. 1916.

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No 3900
No 14 Section
No 4 Platoon
1st Battalion
1st Inf. Brigade A. I. F. o. a. s. at (Censored)
Letter No.14 Mond. eve (by candle light- in tent)
Feby. 28th. 1916.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
As predicted in No. 13, we are now far away from our late camp- Can’t say any more about it just yet, except to say that I am well & there’s no need to worry.
I have been very happy during the week, as Mother’s letter of Xmas Eve, Dad’s of Jan. 23rd, Elsie’s from Caulfield of same date, besides the "Truth, "Advocate & "Referee, that dad so kindly sent, have all been received in good order. You can hardly realise how I look for word from home, even more than I do for meals.
As Mother’s beautiful letter was recd. first, I shall reply to it now. I was exceedingly pleased to receive it, especially as it’s the first I have recd. from her.
Was very anxious to know whether any of my letters had been recd, & glad to know that Nos. 1 & 2 came along ‘OK’ together with the 30/- I sent from Melb. No. 4 ought by now to have been recd., in fact, some weeks ago. It contains a 10/- not[e]. Let me know as soon as it’s delivered. Do not forget to tell me promptly what you have recd. & the numbers of them. Am very anxious to know about #4, 5 & 6, which, according to Dad’s last, have not been sighted at Jan.23rd.
Yes it was hard luck I did not see Aunt Jean, but had a bigger crowd to wave Au Revoir than most N.S.W. boys. - Rain, eh! I thought the big storm we ran into, would bring up the aqua. Fancy Dad being sea-sick, it must have been terrible rough to upset him. It’s the 1st time I’ve heard of him being ‘turned up,’ on a sea voyage. I’m not alone after all. Elsie & Les must have gone down by mail train, or excursion, to be

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(No.2)
so late reaching Melb. Yes, I got over mal-de-mer much sooner than I expected, but one could hardly get sea-sick during the rest of the trip, as the sea was almost as calm as Syd. Harbour. She was a lovely boat alright, & we all realised that we were very lucky to go by her, but had hard luck not being taken through the city. Never mind, that’s all over now.
Very sorry to hear of young "Codger Ferguson’s illness, but glad to know that he was soon able to go back to camp. Hard luck for him to miss his Company, but there are many disappointments in this game.
I saw Jack Sievwight just before I got away. I expect he’ll go back to the front soon.
What a surprise!- Bertha Holcombe married, eh. Was her young man ‘too old’ to come over here? Raining too, not a very good start was it?
My thoughts were naturally "Home during Yule Tide, & I was sorry to hear that Mother was so lonely all that time. Never mind. I’m hoping for a better one this year. Poor Thelma! Sorry I was not able to put something in her stocking for Xmas. She must have been happy next morning. It is no doubt, the best time of her life.
Very much surprised to hear that "Perce Phillips was on the wharf to see me off. I’ve sent him a P/C. - I cannot understand how they all missed me, as I was practically alone, where I was.
How delightful that will be; You & Thelma to go to Melb. to meet me, when I come back! I’m just living for that happy time.
I’ve written to practically every one I know in Balmain & Melb. now, so you can tell them all I have not forgotten them. The letters of course like the one’s I’ve already written you, may be delayed.
It now looks as though my letters will be less frequent, but you must not worry, as we are not allowed to write from here, except we are issued with special env. or Field P/C.
I have already advised you that I would like you to send along some good indelible pencils & some choc. You could enclose the pencils amongst a paper (or papers) I don’t think there’s anything else just now, thank you.
I believe Aunt Soph did tell me about young Les going to Dux & Scholarship, s’pose you’ve seen plenty of him by now.

(No.3) carol Singers, "Peace on Earth eh! Almost a mockery just now isn’t it?-
Must thank Mother so much for news-
Now for Dad’s- you must excuse the scribble, as I am lying prone on my greatcoat, & tea is not long over. (No.3 of Jan 23rd.)
Am very pleased to know that you’re going to write fortnightly also that everything is going along smoothly & all’s well at home.
Don’t say you’ve got the "Screws! Better call it stiffness. Rheumatics are not good to know about. - Grandma not well, Hope by now she’s on the mend. I have written several times to her.
What lucky beggars our Uncles & Cousins are! Trip to Syd. & staying with you too. The old home must have been pretty well crowded, I guess. By the way! Have you left the place yet? You’ll soon be buying Ma Smith another house. What about her 4 able-bodied sons? Did they get married to dodge this bother? Anxious to know. Mind often wanders to those families with more than one boy. Delaney, Bennett occur to me, as I lie here. R.C’s too!
Glad to know that my room has again been occupied (Lizzie & Thel) Hope they find it comfy.
You don’t mean to say that Uncle Tom has signed up after the ‘rousing’ I gave him. What a heartbreak to Aunt Ciss if he has. You say response to Govt’s 50,000 not too good. What about the thousands that we are told are rolling up Not true eh? Yes, I heard about Jack Grose being in camp, Tas Vale of 30th (who were camped alongside of our Bat.) told me about it; also that Geo Noble & Col’ Shand had also done the trick! I think I told you that I visited Geo McKech & Andrew Nelson, didn’t I? They of course are in ‘A’ Coy 30th. (Tas.Vale, Sid Grant & Jack Gadsdell , "C Coy.) Jimmy McK, ‘D’ Coy 29th, came alongside the 30th a few days before we left (Sunday we deptd.) & I saw him 2 or 3 times. He, Geo, & Andrew, appear to be ‘OK’. Have met many old cobbers since I came here, & am continually seeing them- Harry Grose got my add. did he? How pleased I’ll be to hear from him. Drop the re-

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(No.4) inforcement No. now, & use the one I’ve put on this. Better mark it- [indecipherable] road or c/o I’mediate Base, Cairo. - Fancy Mum getting a card from Frank G[indecipherable]. Good of him, wasn’t it ?- Thank Bob Whit & Pearl for kind enquiries I’ll remember them alright- Archie’s left the G.A. Coy eh? That’s news to me. I’ve heard nothing of him yet. I’ve written some letters to him, which I hope he’s got by now. No, neither have I heard from Jack Mullins. He’s got more time to write than I have, hasn’t he? Have written regularly to his people.
More trouble at the V.O.Co? That is also news. What more will these Wharf "tradesmen want. They ought to be here for a while on "Bully & hard Biscuit. It’s clever I tell you.
I should think Uncle ‘Bill’ would get a Comn. before coming here. He’s earned it, hasn’t he?
I am worried to hear that you also, have not yet recd. my letter No.4 (Colombo) & 5 (Bombay) before Jan.23rd. There surely must be something wrong with the mail boat. No.4 has a "10 bob note in it. Trust you’ve got them all by now. Nothing worries me more than to hear that my letters have not been deld. Do let me know early if you receive them.
Mr Atkins is getting a rough passage too, with mails. What hard luck Reg must have had. 2 broken glasses eh? Have seen nothing of him & it’s hardly likely I shall, as he’s in a different branch of the service to me.
I cannot help you re the payment of my 5/- day, paid in Sydney. Very glad to know that you are banking it.
Three canaries now? It must be grand to see them so free in the aviary. How’s old "puss?
I’ll let you know if I require any more clothing. Have not tried to get myself used to lots of clothing, as cold as it is. Never yet worn scarf, Balaclava, Knee pad, tho’ of course may have to do so later on if we go to some other part.
How I wish I was home, to go some more ‘bike’ trips. My mind wanders to Athol when you mention going there for Anniversary Day, with our visitors. Hope you all had a good day.
Exceedingly glad to know that Mother is now OK also the girls & self. - As I said before, I cannot tell you anything in the military line. Look for the O when you get this, it will tell you something. Many thanks for great kindnesses. Hope you are all keeping well. Rem. me as usual to all enquiring friends. Excuse scrawl- writing under difficulties.
Loving Son & Bro. Harrie X X

Envelope addressed as before and numbered 14 with March 2, ‘16 date and censor’s stamp.

[Page 57]
Letter No 15
On "Dinkum Service at - (Censored.) O
No 3900
No. 15 Sectn. (Late No. 14)
No.4 Platoon
"A Company
1st Batt. 1st. Inf. Bgde
A. I. Forces
Sunday morn. M’ch 5th. ‘16

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
How I’m to fill up a sheet of "News this time has got me baffled, as owing to the strict censorship, & lack of anything to write about, I’m afraid you’ll just have to put up with what I can "dish up.
Since coming to this place, (Censored) - altho’ on real service, & waiting in expectations for a scrap, - we have really had a good rest from continual "Form Fours, "Slope arms! etc. & feel much happier in consequence.
Except for an hour or two’s drill in the forenoon, - if not on Patrol, "Sentry-go, or Piquet- the whole day is practically free for us to do as we please. About 20 yards away, is the lovely water- salt, too! – & you can bet that I lose no opportunity of taking advantage of it being so close. Altho’ the weather is so fiercely hot during midday, the water is at times icy cold, especially if the tide is running from the North (Mediterranean). If the wind hits up at all, like it has these last few days, the water becomes very choppy & one is liable to take many mouthfulls during a lap across- about 100 metres, (nearly 110 yds) – or more.
Last Tuesday afternoon was devoted to a Special Swimming Parade, for the whole Company, & great was the joy as we neared the lovely water, after such a monotonous & tiring few hours drilling etc., in the boiling Sun. (We have shifted a lot closer now, being on top of the bank) This day will be remembered by me, for the thrilling experience I had in the water. Had completed a pretty fast swim across the choppy & cold aqua, to the other Shore, & was returning, when I noticed one of our fellows in difficulties, about 20 yards from land, & in water about 35 feet deep. It was a trying time for me, as, what with the cold & exertion of swim, I was not in a very fresh condition to drag people out, but with some words of advice re Keeping his head, I managed, after a hard struggle to get poor old "Sam out (he was about 50 yrs old- & found he was not as strong as of yore) much exhausted- so much so, that he could not essay the swim back, having to return per Pontoon bridge, some distance away. After a few minutes, I was right again, & soon on the way back. The boys soon got to know of it, some

[Printed sideways on this page: P.S. Am on lonely outpost & patrol work again tonight & feeling rather tired after all the swimming & the hot sun nearly all the week, we’ve had the bad luck to catch the awful Desert sand-storms that are so noted in this region. It is almost suffocating both in & out of the Tent. As I write, one is raging & making it hard for me to finish this. Other than that, all’s well. H.]

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(No.2) having seen the incident from the shore.
A few more days or weeks here & you’ll not own me when I return. Talk about yer Manly, Coogee, Bondi & other surfers & their lovely color! Why you ought to see me now! Soon we’ll be like the "Gippos themselves. Clothes are almost dispensed with, when we are off duty- & quite right too!
The Gippo’s felucas (sailing barges peculiar to this country, that load stores for use about here) are made great use of for diving & swimming from, altho’ the niggers do not like us going aboard. They beach them on the sandy-banks, & all unloading is done by man-power. We used to put our "pants & shirts on the deck, while we were enjoying ourselves in the water, but soon took a "tumble to this, as we found that fleas as big as bugs, & "chatties, (body lice) soon made themselves comfortable in our clothes & at night gave us a terrible time. You could hear the lads scratch, scratch, scratch at all hours- in fact one could hardly get any sleep till it was time to arise. These "Gippos are awfully dirty, & it beats me how they can live as they do. The Felucas have no cabins, likewise no furniture- they are just bare, & the owner & his dirty crew, sleep & eat in a filthy compartment in the stern. Everything about these punts, puts one in mind of the crude war-canoes that were used in the South- Seas – as far as finish etc. goes. Like the "land-lubbing brothers, these fellows will eat anything & "Backsheesh (something for nothing) is their password.
My present Tent-mates are representative of a collection of Trades & labour. We have a sail- maker (Bro. in law of Arthur Brett’s) farm-laborer, carter, jockey, farmer, motor-mechanic, dealer, fisherman, ordinary laborer & myself- a clerk. So you [see] we are all of different temperaments & jobs. I get on with them all very well tho’ I am not very much in favour of their language at times.- Have had no word from home for some time now, so cannot make much of a letter of this. Am patiently waiting for the next delivery, which ought to have been brought to us ‘ere this.
How’s everything at Home? Work plentiful, & health good all round I hope. Rem. me kindly to Archie, Bob Whit & any of the boys you see. Have had no word from any of them yet, but will wait patiently- Any of the girls you see, of course I want to be kindly remembered also. Hope grandmother is now alright. ‘Spose your visitors have been gone some time now eh? Well must close up now, as the Company’s Post Box is just about being cleared & I don’t want to miss this chance. Need nothing, only the good indelible pencils & some choc! if you can send them along. Clothes I have all that we are allowed to take-& that’s only one change. Even then the load we have to ‘hump’ aft is close to 1 cwt. Hope Mother & Father, you are OK. Don’t worry I’m still ‘OK’, tho’ in the ‘bother’ zone.
Kisses & Love for all. Ta Ta Loving Son & Bro HarrieX X

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[Envelope numbered 15 and posted to Mr and Mrs Cave and dated 7th March, 1916.]

[Page 60]
No. 3900
No.15 Section (Late No. 14)
No. 4 Platoon
"A Company
1st Battalion
1st Inf. Brigade
A. I. Forces. O
Sun. pm. March 12th ’16.
On Active Service at O (Censored)

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
I hardly know what I’m to write about this week-end, but I suppose I must just go ahead & think of "news as I go along.
First of all, I owe Dad very many thanks for the batch of newspapers that he sent. I received yesterday the following:- "Sunday Times of Jan 23, Jan. 30th., & Feby. 6th., "Daily Telegraph of Jan 31st., & "Advocate of Jan 28th., which have provided myself, tent-mates & others, with plenty of "Home reading matter for the "week-end.
I notice that there is now a Birchgrove Sailing Club- something new, eh? How’s the Recha Swimming Club doing? Have had no word yet from any of the boys, but would like to know who’s been getting away with all the races. I notice that "Longy had not left Sydney by Jan 30th., as his name appeared in the result of one of the Rose Bay club’s splashes on that date, anyhow, he’s in a branch of the military, where there’s not very much risk of stopping a pellet. Relieve Cec. Healy is in Egypt, tho’ have not seen him myself. Saw young Geo. Erickson (Alby’s Bro) the other day on the -------, while I was in swimming. He is in the same Brigade as myself. Young Schneider of Balmain & "Bernie Butterworth (of Balmain Swimming Club) are also in this Brigade. The latter has had a very bad time of it, having been thro’ the Landing on Apr. 25, "Lone Pine & other famous actions with this glorious First Batt. He was twice wounded, & now has a slight limp. - a very decent young fellow too. Would like you to let the lads at the Baths know that he still asks about them, & would be glad of word from any of them. Have seen Geo Burns- you’d know him thro’ Football- he also is in this Brigade & looking fatter than ever.
In a very short while now, we shall all be on the way to the main front in ------, but you’ll know before this reaches you, by the papers. We are sure to be in a responsible "posy too, on account of the reputation the Papers, both here & in the "Old Dart have built up for the "Anzac boys. I don’t want you at home to worry tho’, as I’m trusting in the Almighty, & if I’m to come thro’, "his Will be done.
Everyone is anxious to be on the way now, & so get this horrible ‘job’ over, one way or the other.

Sideways on page: P.S. Have just recd. Letter from Les Calman, will reply direct, this week. We are now only allowed to write one sheet & to use one side. Pretty stiff ain’t it? ‘Spose we’ve got to put up with it tho’. I have some Anzac photos in my wallet, but am afraid to post them,

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(No.2) The Platoon I’m now attached to, (No.4) has been commanded by a well-known person- to Sydney-ites- especially- he is (or was) Sergt. "Teddy Larkin M.L.A. who fell so gloriously at the "Landing April 25th. ’15. Major Blair I. Swannel was in charge of "D Coy. of this Batt.-(First) & he also fell at the Landing (Capt. C. Howell Price, son of C.E. minister at Balmain is now in charge of that Coy.) Another well-known man who was connected with this grand Batt., was Col Braund, now gone over the "Big Divide.
I have ordered some "Anzac Books to be sent to Australia. According to all accounts they ought to be very good. They are being sold to us "Swaddies at 2/6 ea.- & 6d. extra for postage, So The money will be deducted from our pay here, so you’ll have no bother. Two are to go home- you’d better reserve one for me for when I return. Will have no chance of reading it on Service. One is to go to Grandmother, & one to Aunt Soph. I thought it was no use sending any to the others, as they all have Brothers & relations here already, who are sure to send them one.
Had a letter from Archie, (in fact 2- they both came together) & he tells me that Mother & Lizzie were both over Woolwich way on the look-out. Will be glad to know when you leave Ma Smith’s place for a better district. By the way Have any of her big, & able-bodied sons been allowed to come away yet. They’re all wanted over here, & in a few weeks too!
Was very much surprised to learn of Pearlie’s Uncle’s death. Sudden, was it?
Having any trouble with my land at Chatswood? How’s the values going? What does the Council demand for this year- still 4d?
Still more strikes in Sydney I see! - goodness me, can’t they give us a show to get this business over first, & then fix up their squabbles after? It’s up to some of them to take a tumble anyhow! They’ll get enough "strike if they come here, I can promise them. Strike of a different kind, tho’.
How’s "Thellie getting on with her music? Am living in hopes of soon being back to listen to her. She must be getting a big girlie now, & getting ‘on’ at school. The girls, I suppose are busy with their trouseux’s, pending the finish of this awful strife. Good luck to them! Hope you are all in the best of health & spirits as I am just now. Perhaps by the time No.17 goes I’ll be with the Battalion on the way to--------! for the scene of the real bother.
Well, I said I had nothing to tell you & that’s turned out some things are going along as before. Swim every day- tho’ now 2 miles from salt-water. Weather at midday still fiercely hot. Rem. me as usual to all kind friendsat home & in Melb. I still remain
Your loving Son & Bro. Harrie X X X.

[Written on side of page]: P.S. Excuse the scrawl & dabs of ink. Am trying to write in the open air with roll on my knee. Wind & dust is flying about & can’t go to our tent as it has been pinched. Looks like a "dos in the open tonight. Anxiously waiting for more letters from you. Don’t forget to tell me the nos. of mine that you receive, as I’ll know if you are getting them all. Love Harrie.

[Page 62]
[Envelope addressed as before to Mr & Mrs Cave and dated 14 March 1916 from Field P.O.]

[Page 63]
Letter No. 17 on "Dinkum Service at E.S.------- Mon. pm.
March 20th 1916.
No. 3900
No. 15 Section
No.4 Platoon
"A Company
1st Battn.
1st Inf. Bgde
A.I.F.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Like last week, I’m afraid that this one will be as short & information-less, as news is at a very low ebb in this forsaken hole of a place.
There’s no saying when this will reach you, as no letters are leaving here for some time on account of important movements, so I shall just have to wait my chance to get it posted.
Have still been doing lots of Swimming, tho’ we are camped about 2 miles away from the salt-water. We only toil till lunch time, & except occasionally, when we get a little fatigue, the afternoon is usually free to do as we like. Thousands of Australia’s ‘brown- men’ line the banks, till it resembles a scene you see so often at Manly, Coogee, Bondi Beaches etc. Much fun is had when the big passenger steamers pass bound ‘Homeward’, with the tins of Cigarettes, Chocs, Books etc thrown over the side by lady passengers. You ought to see us sprinting for the prizes! There’s no nice costumes here tho’- we are just a nature study, but that does not prevent us making the best of the water. It’s lovely in the sun, & we are all now much browned- I’m afraid the "Gippo will be jealous of the color soon. The water is very fresh- too fresh at times, the temperature being pretty low. A strong current is always running. I thought it only went towards the North, but yesterday I found it going South. Looks like a periodical change. "Coo-ees are always exchanged with the steamers & the ladies aboard, who are much amused at our aquatic achievements.
I think we ought to be expert "washer-women when we get back. Everyday you see hundreds with their parcels of dirty clothes under their arms trotting down to the water to scrub them with wet sand & salt-

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water. The "Chatties get a rough passage with the sand, but they come again as strong as ever. Diving off the Felucas (Native sailing barges) & steamers moored to the banks, is great sport. I had my highest dive from the "flying-bridge of a "C.S boat while at the last camp. The height could not have been far short of 40 ft.
I have just had my last swim here & enjoyed it as usual to the full.
Our Colonel told us on parade, that we are to move off tomorrow for ------- so that in a week’s time, we’ll be tasting a new clime & fresh panorama- quite a contrast to this Desert. Cannot say more just yet. Your "Dailies will soon be sending out the news, so I expect by the time you receive this, it will be stale news. Don’t worry, as I keep telling you. Am hoping all will be well.
Yesterday, we had as Visitors to the 1st & 3rd Brigades, H R H Prince of Wales, Genl. W. R. Birdwood & Staff, who inspected us prior to our departure. The Prince looks very young & timid, & sat on a broken neddy!
Met Walter Preston a few minutes ago, as I was returning from the Canal. He looks well & is in the ‘Third. Geo Burns also passed. My old Liverpool tent mate, Bert Cowell, joined up with the Fourth on Friday last. I had a swim with him yesterday.
Nothing else to tell you of doings here- anyhow it’s debarred.
Would like to get more letters from you- none for nearly a fortnight now.
Received first letter from Bessie Mullins & the Brown Family, also Mrs Whitnall, & Bob this week.
I see the Rozelle Band got away with the State Champ. again this year.
One of the lads here told me that he saw the account of the death by motor-bike Collision, of one of the V.O C. staff in Sydney. Is it true ? & who was he? Hope he is wrong.
Well, I shall have to wind up now, as there’s nothing more to say, except that you rem. me kindly to all enquiring friends & tell them I am well & think of them all, even tho’ I may not write regularly to them- anyhow the contract’s rather large isn’t it? Tell Les Calman, Dorrie Back, Bob Famely, Mrs Whit & Bob, & Bessie Mullins, that I’ll write to them if possible, on the transport this week. In the meantime I trust you are all keeping well & work is plentiful. God bless you all. I am,
Your Loving Son, Harrie X X X

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[Envelope addressed as before and numbered 14, posted from Cairo]

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Letter N. 18 H.M.T. "Ivernia in Mediterranean Sea
Sun. morn. March 26th 1916

No.3900 No 15 Section
"A Company
1st Battn, 1st Inf. B’de
1st Division. A. I. F.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
This week-end finds me still further away from you & the home I love so dearly. How the days seem to fly!
Rumours were very many before we finally left E--- S------- on the S--- C----, & it was not till we embarked on this 15,000 ton Canadian at Alexandria on Wed. last, that we got the least idea where we were bound for. Even now we’re not sure, tho’ (Z) is favorite.
Our departure from the sandy Desert Camp was a great relief to most of us, not only on account of the terrible dust-storms (sand- storms I should say) - that seem to have a bad habit of rising, just as we are ordered out on to the Desert, & at meal hours, when the food is simply spoilt & much waste occurred.-but this next move will bring us to a new panorama where different peoples (more to our own liking) & customs will help to make us more at ‘home’. All the same, most of us will miss the daily swim in the S--- C---- where we saw so many steamers passing to & fro, bound to different countries, & were able to shout Coo-ee & messages to the passengers.
The march to the train terminus (about 2 miles) was in places, most trying, as we were carrying all our belongings, together with 2 days rations & 150 rounds of ammunition, & walking in sand that at all times covers one’s ankles, was no joke. It’s no use sending a lot of wearing apparel to anyone in Egypt, as when moving day comes, it means that all surplus has to be left behind & burnt, & goodness me, you ought to see the awful waste!

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(2) We are allowed to carry one extra pair of ‘sox’, extra shirt or singlet & balaclava in the apparel line, so you see we’re cut down pretty fine. Of course the greatcoat & other issue clothes are taken. I’ve managed to hang on to the Vest Mother gave me, & intend to, as long as possible, especially now, as we are daily getting nearer to the colder clime, & all the warm wollens we can get will be needed. Do not take this as a request tho’, as the Overcoat still contains the things Lizzie so kindly sewed in for me. Goodness knows what’s going to happen to the hundreds of sheepskin vests that were not allowed to be carried!
I had my last swim in the C---- as we were awaiting tea at the rail-head prior to entraining for Alexandria, & it was most refreshing after the march in the heat & dust. Open trucks again did duty to carry us, & we got tons of ‘hurry-up’ with bumps & jerks, (there’s no brakes on these "Gippo trucks; the Engine does all the work & you can hear the clatter & bang coming as the buffers hit one another right down the string of trucks- I was in the 2nd from end) cold & heavy dew also helped to hardens us. We travelled right thro’ the night, & over some of the lines we had previously gone over in shifting from Suez & Heliopolis. The train stopped for some minutes at T--- K--- (my previous camp- where I joined up with the Bat.) but it was 11 pm, & all the boys were sleeping peacefully. It was here that I left Jim, Geo. & Andrew, Jacky Goodsir, Tas Vale, & Sid Grant, & they (or their Batn.) were still waiting instructions. Claude Kennett (a Sergt in 22nd.) has (if out of Hospl.) preceeded us by some Days, as his Division were said to have left Egypt just before us. I may see him in our next camp.
It was lucky for us in the trucks that the night was fine, in fact, the moonlight looked great, but the air was on the nippy side. Crossing over the Great Nile by the big Iron Bridge was a nice sight, but we could still smell the ‘Gippo’ villages & hamlets as we swept past. If we stopped near any of these places, the Women & nippers would soon be running about with their cry of "Orring-ghies 2 fill one! (Oranges 2 for one piastre) "Eggs-a-cook! 3 fill one (Cooked eggs (in shell) 3 for one Disaster) & so on with Matches, Turkish Delight, Tomatoes etc. As we reached the low-lying land about the Nile Delta towards early morning, a very thick fog came down, which made things more unpleasant & cold besides giving us a wetting. Alexandria was reached at 6 am & the train took us right alongside the ship, which towered above the wharf. Hard luck for us that leave was impossible into the town. Money changers soon turned our Gippo notes into English coin of the realm,- even gold sous being exchanged before the rush started. (Just fancy owning a real gold [indecipherable]!)

(3rd spasm)
Our final leave-taking of Egypt was a very tame affair, & one could hardly believe that we were going from there, perhaps for ever. The only people to bid us Bon-Voyage were a few Italian women with youngsters, & some Gippo ‘guttersnipes’, all of whom came alongside for what they could get for Backsheesh. They were sorry when we pulled out, as that meant Finish of pennies etc. for them. (Professional beggars they seemed)
The harbour- (a made one like Colombo’s, with a big breakwater) was full of shipping. Many big liners, (all disguised with man-o-war grey), Colliers, Trawlers & mine-sweepers, war-ships, Hospital ships (I counted 12) & sailing vessels, of most of the neutral & allied nations made a big show. The only German I saw, was one of the ex Austn. mail NDL, (like the "Zieten) now being employed to better use by Britain. She, like the others, was hardly distinguishable for paint of a different hue, & I shouldn’t have known her, only that she was berthed next to the "Ivernia.
We left the 2nd port in Africa at 4.30 (16.30) on Wed. last, & so far have had a grand, calm trip. (I have not gone down to Mal-de-Mer so it must be!) ‘Berney’ Butterworth (Balmain Swim’g Club) "Jock Hawkes of Spring St B’main (his Dad & self were both ‘down below’ in the mine- he’s a signaller with ‘A’ Coy) Lt Howell- Price (B’main) & "Horrie Cook (B’main East) are some of the local chaps on this ship. There may be others amongst the legions here, but I havn’t seen any I know- except of cause, many ex Camp mates, who still keep turning up un-expectedly. Have not come across young Schneider yet- His Bat. are on another ship I believe.
Lying in a life-belt is not a pleasant pastime at all, but it has to done as we are just where some fine merchant & in-offensive ships have

[Sideways on page]: While I think of it! Did Lily go over to Sydney for the Ladies’ Swimming Champs? She was saying that they were trying to make things right for the Vics to enter. Let me know soon!

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(4th Spasm)
been sent to their doom without the least warning. What a terrible thing it would be for us. Here am I, three decks below the main deck, with very small exits to the top- what show would we get? Still, no one dreams that we could possibly be torpedoed- & no one worries much about it. God grant that the occasion will never arise, as it will be an awful calamity. I am getting a ‘rough passage’ trying to write this while lying on the spring bed (Yes, spring bed I said!) one which persists in bobbing up & down with the ship’s vibration. My quarters are in No.1 Section, right forehead on port side. (The port hole near my bed, is right under the letter ‘R’ of the ship’s name- my bed is also a top one) The mess orderlies are now busy alongside here cleaning up the dishes from Dinner- I’m still hungry tho’. (We’re on Navy rations they tell us- the poor Navy!)
We are getting a rough time with letters etc. I have only had one from Dad, one from Mother, one from Lizzie, 2 or 3 from Elsie (at Melbourne) & one from Les C. Surely there must be more somewhere. I’ve had a few from others outside the family. It’s very disheartening to us here- you’d think they’d put themselves out a little to let us have them, considering that receipt of mail is as much important as our meals, & besides why shouldn’t we be considered? Many of us perhaps will never return to our homes- but once you’re one of the spokes of the military wheel that’s the end of it, I s’pose. Then again, our outward correspondence is limited in such a way, that it’s a sheer waste of time writing at all. Goodness, what kind of heart these "grand-stand heads expect us to go into battle with when they won’t meet us in a matter like this. They talk of giving information away to the enemy, if a boat is captured etc.- but I understand Britain still rules the waves- besides any news that a common private is likely to give away would be very much stale by the time you get it. I’d better not say more here as the Censors may object, but I know they’re sports so will let this go thro’- Don’t forget to let me know what you have recd. in Numbers, will you? Must finish up now, so would ask you to very kindly rem. me as usual to all friends & callers, tell them I’m still very well & hope the same of them. When you write "down South advise them ditto- Thanks!
Of course there is no need to ask after the health of you all at home- you must be well! I hope so anyhow. Much Love to you all, my Mother, Father & Sisters. Still living in hopes of being home this year.
Still remaining, your loving Son & Bro.
Harrie X X X
P.S. The old address will still find me. Can’t say when this will be posted- sure to be delayed.

[Envelope Numbered 18, addressed as before]

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Letter No.19 Billeted ‘somewhere’ in Northern France
Sun. Morn. April 2nd 1916.
No 3900
No 15 Section
No 4 Platoon
"A Company
1st Battalion
1st Inf Brigade
1st Austn Divisn.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
This is a beautiful morning,- just like what we have at Home about Easter time,- but there is one thing that mars the peacefulness, & that is, the near roar of ‘heavy thunder’- Yes, one could not tell the difference & refrain from preparing for the coming storm. But what a delusion! The roar we have been hearing so constantly since Friday last (we arrd here at mid-day) is not thunder, but the boom!, boom!, of our heavy artillery right along the front- it seems as tho’ it is on every side. Waking & sleeping, the sound is with us, till now, we take hardly any notice of it. The French "civvys in these small villages & towns, go about their daily toil- in the field, factories, railways, homes etc- as if they were still at peace, tho’ they all wear that face of sadness & much sorrow, made more so by the black attire (which they are wearing for the National Mourning) It makes me think that our army is intruding in this pretty country, tho’ the population- women & children & old men- greets us every where with sad smiles, & must recognise that we are helping to save their country from the un-"Kultured modern "Hun, who has, with the Kaiser & War Lords’ sanction, done his best to out-do the savage tribe of Attila of old, in the wrecking of God Almighty’s Laws, made for the good of humanity.
It is hard to realise that 18 months ago, the Allemands (as the people here call the "[square] ‘eds) passed this little hamlet on it’s "all conquering march thro’ Europe & the World, but our Canadian Brothers put the "brake on just over the rise there at H------, & since then, they have been going fur

[Sideways on page]: PS Tell all enquirers that I’ll write if at all possible, but they must not now expect too much from me, as I’ve got quite enough to worry about. We are allotted to farm-houses here & are made as "snug as possible. The weather is getting gradually warmer & nice.

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2. ther back towards their own now-we hope- starving land.
I must revert back to my last letter (No 18) where I left off on board the "Ivernia- Land was sighted several times on the way across the Mediterranean, & many guesses made as to our position. It was not till Monday, when we were approaching land in a bit of a blow, that we knew where we were. Even then, two places or ports were favorite, till the ship was riding at anchor in the pretty harbour. It was T------! The scene that met our eyes was so pleasant- green hills & Mountains over-looking town & harbour- that many were voting it far superior to "Our Harbour at Sydney. Even Sydney-ites joined in this belief, but I must put it down to their long absence from Home & the lack of such scenes in the Desert Country, which I hope we have left for a long while. Our stay here was very short, but the passing to & fro of the little ferry boats brought us face to face with the sorrowful people of France, who in black as usual, waved to us as they went by. It was so hard to think of strife way down there amongst the peaceful surrounding hills & M’tns. Next morn at reveille found the good ship under way once more, & I was on guard duty, having been on all night. The previous day’s blow had brought us a nasty cross-sea, & we soon knew all about it after the breakwater was behind. Needless to say, I was soon "crook, but I could not leave my "post (which was down below deck) till 10 am. Was very much thankful when the relief came, but the poor chap was worse than I, & my sympathy went out to him. How he fared I don’t know, but I felt much better in the fresh air on deck.
We were very close to the coast, which was seen to be very high & rugged, denoting rough weather in this region. There were some remarkable rocky- islet formations which caused much comment A few hours tossing & rolling brought us to M----- where we disembarked that eve & took train for here. Our entry into M----- was in rain it seemed as tho’ nature was objecting to us entering this country, but next day in the train, the sun shone beautifully as we tore along northward bound, thro’ the Mtns & Rhone valley with the great river on our left. It was indeed a grand scene, with the little cultivated fields & hill-sides. Women & children could be seen at work as we came thro’ but must reserve these details for some future date, as I don’t know what our censor’s instructions are yet. Suffice to say, that it was the longest & most impressive train- journey we’ve had yet, lasting from Tues. mid-night, till Friday mid-day. The trip will always remain in our memories, but it’s a pity it was not made in peace times. The French govt gave us good 2nd class cars (38 of them) & we were made comfy as possible. No word as to our future movements just at the moment, but you’ll hear soon in Australia. Am waiting anxiously but patiently for letters from you & hope some come before we get into a "stoush. Will write fully later on if opportunity occurs, in the meantime I hope all is well with everyone at Home & in Melb. Do not worry what ever you do, God Almighty’s will be done & I will trust in his judgment. Much Love to you all, My good Parents & Sisters. Rem. me as usual to the legion of friends who have been so kind to me. Opportunities for writing may be fewer now, but don’t give up. Still your loving son & Brother
Harrie

[Envelope addressed as before numbered 19].

[Page 71]
Letter No 20-
My dear Mother Father & Sisters,
All this past week, I have been worrying how I’m to make a letter fit to read for this week-end, but now I’m as happy as "Larry, because of the receipt this morning, of no less than four letters from you at Home, also 2 "Daily Telegraphs & a "Sunday Times,- the latter providing splendid reading for those not as fortunate as I. The letters are still coming very slowly, not only in my case, but the other lads as well. I think there were only two of us got any mail this morn! & we’ve been here a fortnight already.
Mail recd. just now: - Mother’s of 9/2/16, "Thellie’s of 10/2/16, Dad’s of 12/2/16, & Elsie’s of 20/2/16. As Mother’s beautiful & encouraging budget is of the earliest date, I shall answer it first--------! Ladies first, anyhow!
My Dearest Mother,! Since reading your splendid, interesting & long-looked-for letter, I feel much better in heart & spirit. This is the third time already, that I have gone over those grand words of yours, & the more I read it, the greater is my desire for the Home-coming.- I’m as pleased as you say you were, to hear that you recd. my 5th. letter & Post Cards from Bombay, because I was wondering if they had reached you alright. Am hoping that all the others reach you safely. Let me know if the censors cut anything out, it would interest me much to know.
Still buying another villa for Ma Smith? Goodness me, how much longer! Have any of her ‘lusty’ sons signed- up yet? I asked this question before, if I remember aright. Hard luck you & Lizzie did not come across a suitable place in Drummoyne or Woolwich. It looks as tho’ you’ll have to go to Gladesville after all. The locality as I’ve often said, is fine for Dad & his toil, only it’s a bit far out for the girls, if they continue to work in the city. There is no doubt, my dear Mother, that you must be very tired after you have seen to the many requirements of Dad & the girls, before they set out for their day’s labor, & I have always thought deeply- especially while home- how I could help to lighten those duties & allow you to rest,- as all Mothers should. Never mind, there may be a good time coming soon, so we must all trust in our God above- His will be done.

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2. How unlucky I am, to be absent when you are having a guest staying with you- a whole fortnight too! What a pity she’s not going to a more pleasant region of Sydney than Balmain, but I suppose it will be a change for Miss McPherson from her home in Glen Huntly (Vic)- I take it that this town is in the country, some distance from Melbourne. Great friends of yours & Grandma’s eh! Hope she spends an enjoyable time while with you. She ought to be good company for you during the lonely hours of the work-days.
‘Yes’, to your query re the 30th Bat. You’ll see by my previous letters that I was camped right alongside them while at Tel-el-Kebir (on the desert in Egypt.) It’s hard luck you didn’t mention young Goldie’s name before, as it’s now a very poor chance of seeing them here. They were fast asleep as our train went by, on the way to Alexandria prior to embarking on the "Ivernia.
What youngsters are enlisting! "Artie Cowd [?] & young Bingham! & still there’s lots of fellows of military age & physically perfect, still living in peace & safety at Home. What shame they must feel! Perhaps they have no conscience tho’?
Yes, young Ernie Holcombe is rather under the age to come away. This kind of game requires tons of patience, (while at drill etc) strength & stamina & good nerves for the actual combat. We are right close to the trenches now, & are moving a little closer to them tomorrow (perhaps right there). Cannot tell you where we are, but you’ll soon know worse luck.
Why the thanks for the 10/- note? No need for that Mother! I thought it better to send it home, rather than ‘bust’ it up on the ship, on trash. I would like to send some more from here that I do not like to waste, but cannot trust in our own non-combatant comrades, tho’ some may be alright Everyone nearly all seem to [be] out for what they can make, & the foot-soldiers are the ones that generally suffer.
Just fancy Grandma sending over the letter I wrote her, for you to read! I do not remember it being anything out of the usual as far as my letters go None are very brilliant anyhow! Often feel as tho’ I ought to take another course in a primary-school. You have no idea what work it is for me to keep this correspondence up to all friends & relations, besides a weekly letter home to you. I have over 60 on my list, & have written to them all- some several times- so you see I do not waste much time when "off duty. (There’s no such thing as "off duty on active service, even on Sunday’s they find some job that must be done.) I was counting on finishing this by candle-light in the barn (outside which I am now- the gambling- school being busy with the tossing of Francs & Centimes) but the Company Sergeant-Major has just come in with a rush, & detailed most of us who happen to be back (the others are in H----- or in the village (W---C---) drinking I expect, as this is Sunday) to do piquet duty on the "Pubs (Boissons) at 8 pm getting all the drunks out, so that everyone will be ready to move off at [indecipherable] tomorrow morning. Ta Ta for a little while---- Tues. pm. April 11th ( I commenced this on Sat afternoon Apr.9th, but owing to orders, am now not allowed to put dates, places or regimental particulars on the top, or in any conspicuous part of a letter. This is to baffle any spy or enemy, if a mail-bag should go astray & fall into their hands, My regimental address is now-
"No 3900 (name) No 15 Sect. No 4 P’tn, "A Company, 1st Batn., 1st Inf. Bgde, 1st Austn. Division, British Expeditionary Force, Abroad. So if you work on that, all will be well with mail matter)
Owing to Monday being "Moving-day, I could not finish this letter, as we were all day being fixed up, after the tiring march with all our goods & chattels on our backs- dead-beat too! Had a passing glimpse of Eric Steele (Reg. Atkins cobber) as his troop were on the way. (I have not found out yet where they went to. No sign of Reg. or the other Balmain boys yet) We are only a few miles from the trenches now. Yesterday, saw many British ‘planes going out & coming in from the Aerodrome at B----- I was quite close too, a most thrilling sight to see the Pilot & Observer bid the mechanic Good Bye, as they leave on every trip. A German Taube was signalled while I was there, & I saw the flash & puffs from the anti-air-craft guns, as they shelled it on all quarters. It did not venture any further. Captive observation baloons are plentiful along the front. Will tell you more later on, as it’s rather too early yet for me to draw conclusions. Must confine myself to yours----
I write Grandmother pretty frequently & send her Post Cards, but if they do not come too often, she’ll know it’s not because I’m lazy.
Lily Bosey told me she was expecting to go Sydney-wards for the Ladies Swim’g champs., but was abiding a decision of the NSW LSA re admittance of men before she could go. I see by the "Times that Victoria was not represented there- Fanny Durack being still champion.
Yes, I get about a good deal on my own, as I find teetotallers & decent fellows hard to find, tho’ mind you, they are all fine fellows in their way, but I was always of a lonely disposition, even at home- hence my many lone hours in the country. Do me! You talk about the trip being an eye-opener? It is that, and more- a fair stunner! Never forget what I’ve seen? No never! - I cannot get over the confidence you have in me, & my will power, to resist evil. I did not think you knew anything of my will, but glad to know you’re not worrying on that score. It will give me more heart.

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4. I seem to be getting all the papers you are sending, for which I am truly thankful. I wish the letters would come as constant. Yes I’ve heard of Jacky Grose enlisting. He took ill soon after, they tell me.
- I am very pleased to hear that "Thellie is coming along so well with her music- & she’s eager to learn elocution? Good!
Thank Mr & Mrs Garden for kind wishes, & rem. me again when you visit them. I sent a Post Card some weeks back, which I hope they received. - I expected Jack S[indecipherable]wright to return after his injuries had healed. He can’t be discharged unless pronounced ‘medically unfit.’ Hard luck for him tho’- Bert Tetley turning up "wheelwrighting left-wheeling, quick march, etc. Good Exercise, tho’ monotonous in the extreme.- ‘Codger’ F[indecipherable] must have gone by the same boat as Frank Bogey as he too, came over with the "Osterley I left Aerodrome for Tel-el-Kebir, just before they reached Egypt, so have not seen either yet.
I heard from the office, that Aubrey Venn had taken very ill just before sailing for the Front. Married life evidently did not agree with him. Jack Mullins I have not heard from, but if he expects me to write to him in addition to the Family, well [he’ll] wait a long while, that’s all. I’m sure he’s got much more time than I. Bessie wrote, & I have replied to her’s- last week. She was saying that she was going to see you at that time.
My old "Boss back in Sydney office again? Which one do you mean, Mother? What was his name, Finlay, Blumer, Moore or Cutts? Would like to know.
I recd. Les Calman’s letter & have replied, addressing it c/- you, as I lost his address at East Serapeum (Suez Canal).- Thanks, on behalf of all the boys, for your kind wishes for future; Trusting you, my Dear Mother, are still in good health. Don’t worry on my behalf.- I find I still have a letter from Dad to answer, dated Jany. 9th B’main, which I received at W----- C----- last week. Many thanks for it, tho’ it’s been such a long while coming. One from Harry Grose of 2/1/16, came with it, both having been to various camps in Egypt.-!
Glad to know you are once again at Home with Mother, after your rest in Melbourne. Passed some "troopers eh! Rather exiting for all I s’pose. What a happy time at Aunt Soph’s at Xmas. You make me wish I’d been there. And to Mornington too! Very Nice! Lucky Aunts and Uncles we have to be able to go away every holiday. Saw the Jamieson’s at Black Rock? Malcolm has really enlisted after all? He said he would not go anywhere but to the A.M.C, so I s’pose that’s the branch he’s gone to. Glad to learn that the ‘Bosey’s’ were all OK while you were there.
Pleased that "Thellie received some nice presents at Xmas time & that she was happy.
Hard luck for you that the accident to your finger has affected your writing. Trust it will eventually disappear.
Yes, you’ll feel it having to turn to hard toil again after such a long rest.

5. I too, am awfully sorry to hear of Archies Dad’s trouble- news to me, indeed!
Do not send me anything Dad, unless I ask for it. Being a non-smoker & teetotaller, my 1/- per day pay I find plenty, so if I want any necessity I can buy it here. Am delighted to know that all are still well at Home. No marriages yet?
Now Thelma, ma cherie seour, you’re next on the list! Your letter of Feby 10th came with Dad’s, Mother’s & Elsie’s, & I was greatly surprised & pleased with the progress you have made. I had to look at it several times, before I was sure it had really come from you. Very good indeed! - You’ve been promoted at school, eh? And what class are you in, now? Surely you don’t miss me, after such a long absence from home? Never mind, I’ll soon be back with you again. Don’t worry. - Flo’ sick with the good things she ate at the picnic? That was hard luck wasn’t it? My word you are doing nicely! Two more canaries! Very kind of cousin Les I think! They must all be happy now in the Aviary together- What a nice lot of presents you got on Xmas Eve! Wish I was young again! You’ll soon have enough books to start a Library Thellie! Must have nearly all of Ethel Turner’s by now. Dad gave you a book about Egypt! Wait till I come home & I’ll tell you many things of that place. Mother is going to let you learn Elocution? My, that will be grand! Elsie had a go at that once, See if you can’t beat her. Sums are the only things that worry you at School eh! I’m afraid dear, they have worried millions of others before you.
Half a mo’, here comes the "tucker! - (Interval of 1/2 hour) Glad to know you enjoyed yourself with "Marguerite Clark on the screen at the "Nash. I s’pose big crowds still go there every Friday & Sat’y nights as of yore? - Hard luck for you that the canary egg did not give better results. Still looking after the garden eh! Fine! Save some peaches for me, won’t you "Thellie? I am looking forward to seeing the "Aust photo frame with the photos in it. How nice it must be- Will you thank all the kind people who asked after me? (Mrs Herb Smith & Mr Smith, Mrs Thompson & Nellie- you know the others) Thanks also for the lovely kisses you sent me. I shall save them all up till I come home & for the lovely letter you sent me. Ta Ta, all’s well with me. With love & kisses.
Now for Dad’s long budget of 12/2/16! - (No.4.)
Very pleased to know that you recd. Nos. 5 (Bombay) & 6 (Aden) Letters (with Post Cards) alright. I did not come across any of the Artillery (Hard & Cartwright, Reg Atkins, Stopford etc.) or A. M. C. boys from Balmain in Egypt, but as I said on Page 3, got just a passing glimpse of Eric Steele. We are resting outside the village of I---- when he went

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6. by, so I hadn’t the chance of asking him about the others. Mr. Atkins has certainly had bad luck, as Reg must have written. All’s well with him by now I expect, He may have gone into the Desert after marauding Arab tribes, as there was some little trouble while I was there. No, I have heard of no other "Rechas joining up, but Jacky Grose. Harry does not mention any either- but his letter is dated Jan 2 & some may have gone in since.
So Elsie came back by the "Levicka. She was anxious to get back I believe Home sick eh! - I wrote a P/C to Mr Cowan some weeks ago. Glad to know that all is well with him & his family. Rem. me again kindly. Tell him not to "pull my leg so much about my correspondence.
Exceedingly pleased to know that you have the title for my block of Land & that you had no trouble with obtaining it. That’s a big weight off my mind. My word the rates are flying upwards! Getting larger every year. Is the Council still borrowing money off the rate-payers? You think the ‘Spec’ a good one, do you? Houses all round; very good. Why should you worry about Smith’s place, & improving it for them. Oh yes, know all about the evacuation now. I was rather lucky in one way not going there, tho’ the honor & experience should have been great- Have recd. all the papers you have sent- the "Advocate with I.OR magazine, coming along yesterday. Many thanks for them.
Very pleased to learn that Harry Grose recd. my letter at last.
Often think of Les’s grave & glad to know that it is still looking so well.
Mr Walker must be going a long way out, if he’s bought a place in Victoria Road. That leads to Parramatta. Have gone that way hundreds of times on the [indecipherable] Would not mind going along there now.
Thanks to Lizzie & "Thellie for their love. I reciprocate, fifty-fold more.
Had better turn this up now, as it’s nearly time for more work & the weather at the moment is far from agreeable to us Austns.- it’s very cold, & raining steadily, as if set in for a week. All are wishing for some "Dinkum sunshine, as this dreary weather is "no bong, "mis-kwas, or no good to us. The guns still disturb the apparent peaceful country- rain, hail or shine. Oh not nice to hear.
Let me still hope that Mother, self, Elsie, Lizzie & Thelma are in the best of health etc. Do not worry about me, my Dear Parents, the future is all mapped out I expect, so I must just trust as of yore, in the Almighty’s will. Give my kind regards as usual to all inquiring friends both in Syd. & Melb. Tell them I am well & content. Thanks for all your many kindnesses.
Love & Kisses for all
I am still,
Your Loving Son & Bro.
Harrie XXXXXXXX
P.S. Will reply to Elsie separately. H.

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Envelope numbered 20 and addressed to Mr & Mrs Cave as before and dated 14 April 1916 from Field Post Office- .

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Letter No.21
My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
I am afraid this is going to be a very short letter today, as the censor has forbidden us to write about lots of things, that to my humble mind appear very trivial. What I can’t get over, is the fact of newspaper reporters, magazine-writers, correspondents, & the like, being allowed to come within the fighting zone, & sent to their editors, full accounts of the civil life of this country, raging battles, impending actions & their forecasted results, preparations for big battles, (bringing up of miles of transports, Artillery etc, to the trenches) & yet, we who are about to perhaps lose life, limbs & future happiness by meeting the foe, are prevented from telling you anything at all in the military line, that effects ourselves. It seems as tho’ one has not sacrificed enough by leaving- for ever very likely- comfortable employment, good homes, near friends & relations- for what? Mostly abuse, - because one elects to be in the fighting rank- & imposition. No wonder the rank & file lose confidence in all that goes for good order & discipline. There is no doubt tho’, that a lot of fellows have gone over the limit, in sending home ‘news’ of the front, & they have, - perhaps unthinkingly- spoilt their comrades in doing so, but I can’t see how an enemy is going to benefit by anything a Private or anyone else writes home, especially if the correspondence is going so far as Australia- in our case Pretty stale ‘news’ by then, I guess! - Of course, this is only my opinion, the "Heads may be wise in their action.
Letters are still coming along very slowly. There must be a block somewhere, tho’ we’ve been here over a fortnight now; surely the Postal people know where we are! Perhaps it’s my impatience to hear continually from you, that makes me think so.
We’ve had some ‘crook’ weather all the week, that has not been to the liking of we Australians. Having left Egypt- with it’s heat, sand, desert, & sand storms, - such a short while ago (Mch 22) we have felt the sudden change to cold, rain, sleet (or snow, as some reckon) mud & slush, very much. Now & again, the lovely

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2. Spring sunshine comes out, but is soon gone again behind storm or snow-clouds, as in mockery of our intruding to this war-stricken country.
But today has been grand- so far. Just like one of our winter sunny days at home, & here I am, outstretched on blanket (over waterproof-sheet) in the sun & on lovely green paddock alongside the barn,-(our billet,- temporarily of course) with the surrounding districts apparently at peace. Every few minutes, the rat-a-tat-tat of machine-guns, long drawn b-o-o-m! of the artillery or trench-mortars, & the sharp crack of bombs, reaches our ears from the north- we’re not far off now from the trenches where the "Bosches are shortly to be forcibly removed from. Aero’s of both sides, are very busy aloft, & ours have been here all day.
We still have another enemy to fight tho’, & that’s the "Dingbat or "Chatty (in English, body-Lice) They nearly drove the boys on the "Peninsh mad I believe, & I can quite understand it now, having experienced them ever since I reached Tel-el-Kebir (Egypt). It does not matter how many baths or changes of clothes you have, they always make their appearance, which you’ll soon know about. I used to think Special "Hunting Parades great fun then, but can now see the great necessity for them. Could do with a few here, as our frequent shifts of quarters towards the firing line, - when we have to sleep & eat in barns where thousands of "Pommies & other troops have been before us- warrants a closer inspection. During the week we had our first hot shower-baths, since lobbing in "La Belle & I can tell you, we felt as if we were at home. Nice & clean, - only for the mud & slush that greeted us outside, caused by the continual rain. A change of shirts was also given us, in return for the one we had on "Kwas! "Treis Bien! Very good!
My! Hasn’t the time flown? Today is "Palm Sunday (Apr 16th.) commorating the entry of Christ into Jerusalem, prior to His Crucifixion- Next Sunday therefore will be "Easter Sunday. I wonder what you’ll be doing at Home- & what I’ll be doing? I often try to picture things like that, as I dose off to sleep. We are 10 hours behind your time, so I expect at this mo’, you’ll all be in the "Land of Slumber, unless you elected to be night-owls. I make it 1 am tomorrow, as it is now, (as the French & Continentals say) 15.00 O’clock- or in English, 3 pm. I must hurry up as I want to visit, B----- again this afternoon, it may be the last opportunity for awhile, as we expect to get a little closer to the "warrens this week.
I forgot to tell you, while in Heliopolis I came across "Jimmy Morrison- the Boilermaker’s married son (‘Alick’ was wounded on the "Peninsh, but I believe had rejoined his unit.) He was then OK. Have seen no others that I have not previously mentioned. ‘Jock’ Hawkes (of Spencer St- "Tommy Holmes’ cobber is still attached to ‘A’ Coy., & "Berney Butterworth of Bald Rock with D Coy.-Cpt Howell-Price commanding) All’s still well with me & I trust the same of you all at home.
Kind regards to all enquiring friends in Sydney & Melbourne. Love & best wishes
Still your Loving Son & Bro.
Harrie X X

P.S. [Sideways on page] Re my regtl. address- It still remains the same with addition of 1st Austn. Division (after 1st Bgde) & British Expeditionary Force France (or elsewhere) following H.

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Envelope numbered 21 and addressed as before to Mr and Mrs Cave and dated 23rd April, 1916.

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Letter No. 22.
My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,
Am hoping that you all had a nice, quiet rest from toil, during the solemn period we are now celebrating, & that all are still keeping well in health & spirit. I suppose the R.A. Show still held pride of place for the amusement & education of the people, as in years past, & that the attendance on Holy Day, (Good Friday) was still as large as usual despite the large numbers of men away ‘touring.’ Surfing & swimming, with Cricket, will now be giving way to the winter pastimes I expect, & the prospects of the various "footy clubs’ chances for the new season debated.
This is Easter Sunday afternoon, (Apr 23) & the Sun has once more favored us with his great light & warmth, after several weeks of absence, - on & off. The weather since we "lobbed here, has been the object of much favourable comment, on account of the lack of sunshine & dry roads. It is just the opposite to "Gipps Land. Rain has fallen nearly every day, which combined with cold, light snow & wind has made conditions very severe for us, especially as we’ve all just left a hot & dry climate, & our blood must be still ‘there.’
We do not live in tents here- Aero’s would be too busy over them I expect- but are allotted in squads, to the many farms or villages that we are near. This brings us in close contact to the people remaining & working in & about the fields with whom we get along with first class. The barns (where we generally live) are large & lofty, & together with Stables for Horses, Cows etc, Pig-sties, dwelling, all go to make the farm building under one roof, being formed round a 3-sided square with a manure bin & waste food recess in centre. All the farm-buildings are built on the same principle.
With pleasure I have to acknowledge the receipt this morning, of the "Sunday Times, of Feb 20th & "Advocate Feb 4th. for which I owe you many

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2. thanks, as they have filled a long felt wish for some home reading matter. Would like to have recd. some letters too, but I suppose I must not be too greedy.
I see that Norm Lotze has got himself into a lovely "mess by embezzling Hospital Funds. It was a very big surprise to me, as he was always a very decent fellow. He’s sure to get a heavy punishment & he really deserves it, considering the place he robbed.
Frank "Bogey is over here, only 5 miles from these front line trenches. I have not had a chance of seeing him yet, as I only found out about him as we left our last billet to take up our "possy in front of the Huns.
Funny thing, I got into communication with him while at Tel-el-Kebir (Egypt) just as he arrd. by the "Osterley. He replied straight away, but it was a month before I recd. his note, as we had in the meantime moved to East Serapeum on the Suez Canal, where we were stationed for some time. I wrote him again while there, & shortly after embarked for this country. While at our last billet, he met 2 of the lads from my Company in S----- (where he is stationed with the Y.M.C.A) who were in on leave, & luckily they knew all about me. When they came back, the good news was given me, & I straight away prepared a note for him. Our billet was only 2 miles from where he was but I could not get leave to see him, as we moved off next day, passing the very place he was in. I looked very close, but on account of the horrible wet & cold weather it was better for him to be inside out of it. The note I handed to a "Bantam Tommy while we were crossing the Town bridge. I hope Frank got it, as he wanted to see me. Fancy being so near & yet so far.
I will never forget our night of arrival in the trenches. The weather made it most disheartening for our debut against the Huns. All the week it had been raining on & off, & with it, was the awful cold. The roads everywhere, were nothing but mud & slush, making it very hard for us to keep our feet, especially as we had all our "furniture on. To crown the lot, the path leading to the main communication trench (where O’Leary won his VC) was nothing but a bog & as slippery as an ice-skating rink. Many of us did some fancy turns as we

3. came along in the darkness, one behind the other. Just before we reached this awful region, rations were dealt out for Squads, which had to be carried in addition to our equipment etc, each one taking turns to take the extra load. The Germans – as they (& we) do every night- threw up numerous "star shells at intervals which lit up the region as by day. Machine-guns in scores (with their different noises, - some putting one much in mind of the working of winches on boats unloading, others like the rat-a-tat-tat of the mechanical riveter & so on) & rifles, helped to make a din as if there was a big foundry working overtime. Now & again, the heavy thud of a mine, bomb or big shell, could be felt, & the muffled explosion, as it did it’s awful work on some part of the long front line. None of us were at all ‘put out’ by what we’d heard & seen, tho’ at any moment a "Swish-banger might have sent us all to the new world, instead we had to laugh often at each other’s misfortune, while making our way to the new "posy in the dark. Every bend of the tortuous trench would find one or the other of us go sprawling off the narrow foot-board, (that protects our feet from the liquid mud which abounds everywhere) into the water & mud at the side of the trench. Yes, the opening prospect was not too good, but altho’ we’ve had a very hard time working, sleeping & eating in mud & water, we are gradually getting used to the new conditions. Our greatest hardship is cold feet, caused by the dampness of the earth, which is more apparent during the evenings & early mornings, owing to our being on duty in one position for such a long while. We are really "night-owls now. Work & watch & wait all night, sleep if you can during the noise of the day.
Aeroplanes are very common over the lines & we hardly take any notice of them now. It’s marvellous that so few are even brought down, considering the amount of shrapnel that is fired at each one as it approaches the anti-air-craft gun batteries hidden in the ground.

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4. We take a big risk in the trenches from the falling pieces of shell, but no one cares much. There was some excitement aloft this morning with a Taube & a British plane working for a position to knock one another. We could see everything; the machine guns of both kept up a fusillade for some minutes. Neither suffered. The sky is always dotted with hundreds of little white balls of cloud- this is the puff from the shrapnel-& the planes seem to be right amongst it & never get hit. The flashes & the reports are very distinct, & the latter can be discerned by sound, without looking up.
You would laugh to see us in our adopted trench rig-outs. With grey steel helmets & big Wellington rubber boots (that reach to the hip) we look about the queerest lot of soldiers one could hope to see. We often laugh at one another, as each (Covered in mud from head to sole slips & splashes all over the ‘shop.’ It’s really funny at times. Otto, Carl & the rest of their Hun Comrades, have not worried us much yet, but we are quite ready for any of their grim jokes. Our gas helmets & "sleeping-gas protectors, are always on our person, so we are never to be surprised with that dreadful method of extermination.
Sleeping in "Dugouts is something new for we later re-inforcements, but we soon settled down to the cramped style of living.
One could hardly realise (even right here) during the lulls in the firing, that such a thing as war was on. Birds of several kinds keep up a constant whistle all day long & we marvel at it, considering the terrible din that is often kept up. In the short trees in "no-man’s land (between the opposing trenches) they whistle & twitter just the same, altho’ a perfect hail of lead is always going either one way or the other, or both. Such is the ridiculousness of war.
Well my Dear Parents & Sisters must shut up now, as it is getting dark & I’ll soon have to stand-to for the night watch. XQQ the terrible hieroglyphics, but I can do no better with this crayon- pencil (could buy no other) & holding the book as I am- there’s no dry spots anywhere, even the dugout is dripping with the soakage thro’ the mud bags. All’s still well with me. Sorry I cannot say where I am other than somewhere in North France.
Hope all are well. Love to all
Harrie X X.

PS (2) Rem. me as usual to all kind enquiring friends. Recd. paper from Mrs Whitnall, & Clarrie Back today. The sisters Back have been very kind to me with reading matter. Harrie.

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Envelope numbered 22 addressed to Mr & Mrs Cave and posted on 26th April 1916.

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Letter No.23 "Dingbats’ Retreat Dugout
"Chatty Alley
Somewhere on the "Conty-nong
My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Glad to be able to say that I am still in the best of health, & that we are having nicer weather now. We dread the rain most, as it makes the roads, tracks, trenches etc awful to be on or near, for mud & slush. The "Dugouts in the trenches do not keep the water out much, as it soaks through the bags of soil that go to make the shelters.
Will be glad when we are relieved this week (so they say), if only to get a change of clean clothes. It becomes very monotonous to be in the one position day after day, especially as there’s no chance of going to any of the near villages or towns to break the spell. We never know when to expect an attack along the line, or when our Comdr. may do likewise. One night last week the alarm went to "Stand-to, also the gas bell rang. Everyone rushed to their positions, & awaited the attack from the enemy, with bayonet They never came tho’. The dirty yellowish –colored gas hung over "Dead-man’s Land, as if a fog, & rolled over our Parapet, but we were all prepared with special helmets, together with steel hats to help protect us from shrapnel. You ought to have seen us! I guess our appearance over the top of that breastwork would have scared the Devil himself. While in this armour, we cannot tell who are mates or not, as the helmets with the glass eyes-pieces make us all look alike.
While the gas was coming, our machine-guns & artillery, together with our own rifle-fire, poured the lead into the "Hun breastworks, & so made it almost impossible for any of them to venture over. It was all a good experience to us later re-inforcements, tho’ our earlier association with the feeling of being under fire, stood us in good stead. After a weary wait we snatched a little sleep, which was much needed. The smell of the chemical in the gas-protector is

P.S. Sideways on page: I’ve just plucked a pretty little "butter-cup from the ruined fields outside our "Dugout door, so will enclose it here. They look beautiful now, all over the place. H.

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2. very unpleasant when you first get it on, but you get used to it by degrees tho’ you always get a stifling kind of feeling. We also have another gas-protector the shape of goggles of special kind, for use when the "Huns let loose their [indecipherable] Gas shells. The acid in these explosives have a burning & tickling effect on eyes & nostrils, giving all that come in range, the appearance of crying or weeping.
Shall have to leave this till tomorrow- today is Sun. Apr. 30th. as we must hurry up with the Dugout in case the "Huns get busy on to our parapet with their "swish-bangers-
Monday morn May 1st.
- Here I am again, still very tired & sleepy, as rest is very hard to get. The hours of duty for 4 days now have been 7.15 till 8.30 pm "stand to! then you get either of these shifts (watching for any movement of the enemy, between the hundreds of great flares that go up continually, while the light is dull) 8.30 pm till 10.30 pm-10.30- 12.30, 12.30- 2.30, 2.30 till stand down (generally at dawn, 4 to 4.30 am) You have a couple of hrs rest, then have [indecipherable] it for B’fast at 8. More rest till dinner time, then pick & shovel & any other job that’s to be done till tea-time at 5.15 pm. Of course, Fritz may go mad at any time then these hours are not recognised.
The place where our line goes, was once a flourishing farm & the plough, roller, harrow & other agricl. implements are still lying about, left as they were while the Huns ravished the Country. The houses are only such in name being now heaps of ruins, caused by the "Hun artillery. In front, separating us, the ground is quite level, dotted with the peculiar formed trees seen in this country, & the grass is beautifully green & fresh-looking. Fritz ‘bobs up’ now & then but does so with much caution. (It’s very dangerous to even peep over as the lead is always flying.) Ha! What’s this! No less than eleven letters for me (One from Father, Mother, "Thellie, Harry Grose, Dorrie Back, Mrs Dadd (G’ville) young "Jammo, Eddie Back, Jack Mullins & 2 from others in the V.O.Co. - Shall have to leave you now to read them. Will answer yours in No.24 as I must get this posted now. How pleased I am to hear from so many after all my writing in Egypt. They’re all dated between Feb.22 & Mch.6th. Well Bonjour, Sae’eda my Dear Parents & Sisters
Love to you all.
Your Loving Son & Bro. Harrie X X X
PS/ Here’s 2 Silk badges from our Issue Cigarettes for Thel. (I do not smoke yet & not likely to) H.

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Envelope numbered 23 addressed to Mr & Mrs Cave and postmarked from the Field Post Office date obliterated

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Letter No. 24.
My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
I wonder if 12 months ago today, I could have guessed where I would be for this my Birthday. How time comes & goes, & what events are sometimes crowded into even a 12 months, of a fellow’s life-time!
Yes, this is Sunday mid-day May 7th. 1916, & I am at this moment in our battered billet (farm house), having done our first turn in the front breastworks. We are now in reserve, & there’s no saying when we’ll have to rush back to the position we’ve just come from to help our comrades of the ? Bat., if "Fritz shows any sign of activity.
Since we came here (4 days ago), many exciting & thrilling incidents have happened to us all, & the seriousness of them will live with us for many years. I was lying on the lovely long green grass, in one of the farm paddocks, (opp.’ our Billet) writing in answer to the lads of the V.O. Co., when without warning came the terrifying scream of a ‘long-distance’ "wiz-bang, followed by several more. Most of us were too much taken by surprise to move on the instant, but when one of the first burst in the soft ground just in front of where several of us were writing, there was a general scatter in all directions. "Andy Locaine (a Rozelle lad) & I both "dived into the side of the hedge & ditch, & were just in time, to get covered in mud & soil from the shell’s explosion. A few minutes after, I found to my discomforture, that I’d "dived a little too far, having brought up amongst a cluster of "stinging nettles, which however, was nothing to what I may have got. These nettles are very common amongst the hedges here- there’s no fences as we have at home- & one never thinks of them, when "mooching about. What I can’t understand, is how so few of our boys "copped out with the bombardment.

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2. "Fritz is a very poor humorist. After pummeling the poor old house till he got tired, we all returned to our "possies inside. (Mine is at rear facing "Hun artillery, way back on the distant ridge) It happened that our cooks had prepared a now rare dish for our lunch- lovely rice & raisins.- gibbit!-we were all busy "bogging into it- in fact, I’d just come in with a 2nd helping (Treis Bon!)- when the aforesaid humorists, sent over some more of his "Sleeping Draughts. There was no waiting after the "scream & whiz was heard, (trouble is that the "wizz & bang come rather too close together) all being too eager to get away from the flying "ironmongery, dust, bricks & smoke. I managed to save my "dixie lid full of rice, & finished it in the trenches outside. Once again, I think Providence was with us, as so few were injured. This day’s "demonstration was our first experience of shells bursting in our immediate vicinity (much too close to be pleasant) of course we got them overhead in the shape of shrapnel, while in the trenches we just vacated. There are still a few (?) French civilians hanging on to several of the farms round about, & the funny part is that their residences so far, have escaped injury. Our fellows are much interested in them & their avocations-!
There is no doubt that shell-fire is a most demoralising thing, as is being hit without the hope of hitting back, that’s why we all vote the front line much preferable to this.
I am now a little closer to Frank Beaurepaire (3 miles off) but my chances of seeing him yet is not too good, on account of us having to always be ready for an instant’s removal to the firing-line. Anyhow I must get someone to take a note to him.
Will you send me the addresses of our relations in the "Old Dart There’s a big chance of us being granted a short furlough soon, I believe. A grand experience it will be to see the "Hub of the Empire! Do me!
I am sorry my Dear Parents, that this is such a short letter this week, but can’t be helped, as I’m very tired & sleepy after our long hours of broken sleep, so must try & get a wink or two now while there’s time.
Am trusting that all is still well with you at Home. Kind regards as usual to all enquiring friends & relations. I’m in the best of health so far.
Love to you all Harrie X X
Over.
Don’t forget to address my letters as per my last instn. No. (name) Sec., P’toon, Coy, Bat., B’gde, Divn., B. E. F. H.

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Envelope numbered 24 addressed to Mr & Mrs Cave and posted 9 May 1916.

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Letter No. 25
"Somewhere on the "Conty-nong

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
With gratitude, I have to acknowledge receipt on Friday last, of another batch of newspapers from Father, for which I owe you many thanks, as they have helped to while away some of the little time we get to ourselves, besides bringing one in contact with things of interest occurring at Home, now so far away. The ‘newsies’ recd. were: - "Advocate of 18/2, "Sunday Times of 27/2, & "Daily Telegraph of 28/2. Thanks!
For the life of me, I don’t know what to talk about this week. What with the censor & his strangle, & lack of real news, it’s got me beat, dinkum!
Oh! After chasing Frank "Bogey about with letters & notes, ever since he came to Egypt, & late on to France, I saw him at last on Saturday, while we were having a hot bath & change, near his Depot (The YMCA. Soldiers’ Club.) just outside the town of S-----. Owing to our long hours of toil & duty, (we came out of the trenches- where we are working every night while in support- at 1 am Saturday morning) not many took the opportunity of going to the baths, owing to the long march of about 5 miles each way, & it was raining, making the roads as usual, muddy & slushy. But as tired as I was, I saw a good chance of talking to "Bogey. We passed his place on the way in, but I skinned my eyes trying to see him without result. My hopes seemed "dead out, & I thought of the old saying "so near & yet so far. The warm bath (in wood- tubs) & the change, was much needed, as we were all covered in dirt & mud & we all felt well

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2. after it. As we were forming up to return to the Billet near the firing-line, who should come to me but "Bogey himself. I was never so surprised in my life, even tho’ I knew he was so close. He is looking & keeping splendid, & I know from what I’ve heard, that he & the grand YMCA, are doing a lot for the soldiers in the way of entertainments etc., which is much needed after a turn under fire. Owing to us moving off, I had to cut the ‘convo.’ short wo[r]se luck, but feel much better now that I’ve seen him. Regards to you all from him.
They say we are to go into this town for a spell in a day or two, but I won’t believe it till we get there. Have seen nothing of the "Keckies, or the Kennets yet, tho’ I don’t doubt they’re not far away. ‘Blieve Claude Kennet’s Bat. is only a few miles away (near A-----) so I must try & get a note to him.
I don’t know how I’m to thank "Clarrie & "Dorrie Back for their Continued Kindness. On Sunday I recd. a tin of Arnott’s Bisquits, a tin of MacRobertson’s Sweets & a Pocket Wallet in a parcel from Dorrie. Needless to say we did full justice to the goods. It’s too kind of them altogether. It’s a wonder the parcel even came this far.
Mrs Whitnall also sent a batch of reading matter & I must thank her also, as soon as I get a show.
I must cut this short now, as tea is coming along & soon after, we have a walk of about 3 miles to the rear of the "trenches (breastworks) where we must work under fire till between 1 & 2 tomorrow morn. It’s a killer this night work, & it’s still raining too. Everything looks miserable & it’s dead crook working in it. This is our programme ever since we come out of the firing-line. During the daytime, when we should be resting they rake up jobs about the Billet for us. They’ll make ‘scare-crows’ of us yet.
Well my Dear Parents & Sisters, All’s still well with me & I hope the same of you. Give my kindest regards as usual to all enquiring friends etc.
Love from Harrie X X X.
(Today’s date is Mon. May 15th.)

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3. Well what a thick-head I must be! Was first going to post this last night, when I thought of the letters from Home, that reached me in the breastworks (trenches) last Sunday. (Dad, Mother, Thelma- & Elsie’s on Monday,) They were too late for me to answer in No.23, so I shall do so here in brief
-Father’s "2 in 1 of 27 & 28/2/16.-
There’s no need for me to keep on telling you how pleased I am to get news of you all- it only wastes space, & you understand what they must be to me.- So you recd. my first Egyptn. letter alright? Good! We arrd. at Port Suez on Tues. morn. Jan. 11th, going overland by train to El Zietoun (near Heliopolis) arrd. 11 pm same night. Glad to know Elsie has started again at Jones’. Heard about the ridiculous strike of recruits for reduction of hours, & the disasterous result. Good enough. Pleased that the "Pubs have to shut up earlier. May do a lot of good.
Jack Moore was at Ismalia with the 8th Bgde eh! Ismalia (pro "Is-ma-lear) is only a few miles north, along the Suez Canal, from where we were at Serapeum. Reg. Atkins was unfortunate right enough, in losing so many of his "spec’s. Trust he’s now ok. He can’t be far away from here at this minute, as the region is alive with "wiz bangers & "pop- guns. Eric Steele is still the only one of the 8th F.A. I’ve seen yet.
Glad to know that you’re making a decision re buying some land. The Spec’ ought to be a good one. Do what you think best with my money in that regard, & don’t trouble about me. Get in early, as even if you can’t build, the asset is always worth having. Hard luck the plot at Chatwood is rather far for you, but a fellow may be able to realise on it later on, if a house is not put on it.
Let’s know about the Motorbus Coy! May be better to get the £ 10 back & use it to better advantage. Do as you wish with the shares & money. - A grand letter of your’s Dad, sorry I could not do it better justice by a fuller reply. (It’s hard luck for me that I can’t ‘hang’ on to all these letters from home, but a foot-soldier really has too much to ‘hump’ about now.) - "Thellie, you’re next! (27/2/16) I must cut it short tho’. Am so very pleased to hear again from you Dear, & to see the great progress you’re making in your education. Glad to know that self, "Puss, & the "Dickies are all so well. Hope you continue so. Miss McPherson was very kind to give you such a nice present. She did not stay a fortnight after all? Thank Elsie & Lizzie for Love same to them & you. Rem. me to all friends in B’main when you see them. X X X (over)

[Page 92]
4. Again I must thank Mother for her lovely inspiring letter of Mch. 6th & will endeavour to answer it here- but in brief, worse luck.- !
Am much more at ease to learn that my 8th & 9th Letters & P/C’s from Aerodrome Camp reached you alright. - yes, I seem to be getting all the letters & papers you are sending. They come in batches-papers one week, letters the next.
Pleased to learn also that Mrs Whitnall & Mrs Lewis both got my cards too. Yes! You’ve got no idea how I’m kept going with correspondence to all friends
I should not think you would worry about improving Ma Smith’s place! Let the grass grow! She may come round a bit after a while. What about her A.B. "Soldier sons? - You mention the loss of Mrs. Dadd’s only son , Mother? I could not make out what you meant when I read your’s first- it took me by surprise. Mrs Dadd’s letter to me, came with same mail as your’s under reply, but I read it after those from home. She is very much ‘cut up’ over it, as can be expected. It was the eldest child of family- (Ray) who passed away. He caught a bad cold on way from Vancouver & [died] 4 days after arrival in Syd. (Feb. 15th.) She has 2 other sons (Hedley & ? the latter is on the H.M.A.S "Australia in North Sea) besides Leila & Alma (married) - Have not seen the M[indecipherable] family eh! Jack wrote to me, & I have replied from "trenches (breastworks they are here- much to wet for trenches) - No, have not met Bob Goldie of 30th here yet. I don’t know where the 8th B’gde are.
Glad you appreciate my candour in telling you of all the pitfalls that one meets in & about Cairo. They don’t interest me much, & you can always rest assured, that I’ll do what’s right at all times, tho’ a soldier’s life is surrounded with so many vices & opportunities for going wrong. I recd. G’ma’s first letter & was glad to get it- have already replied.- I can never say too much about the grand work of the YMCA at the Front, & my opinion is voiced by all the "swaddies. Frank B. is in charge of the Soldier’s Club (YMCA) at T----- only 3 miles away & well within the danger zone, as big shells often go that way. May be able to see him soon, as we are to move a little closer to where he is in a day or two- My word, my mail must be coming in alright- 2 more cards for you & 2 for the girls! Treis Bon! No! I require nothing in the way of parcels whatever. Don’t send anything- they’ll never reach me. Thanks my Dear Mother for such a lovely letter. - Elsie’s of 5/3/16-very welcome-
So you all look ahead for letters from me? You can put yourself in my place, & see how important it is for me to hear from Home. I am now 12,000 miles from you all, & it takes news a long while to travel. I have recd. no parcel yet from anyone so hope you did not send it along. Dorrie & Clarrie Back told me they were sending one along. Sorry to say have seen nothing of it yet, tho’ it may be here soon. Yes, they are grand girls, I can’t thank them enough. Perhaps you’ll do so for me. Good!- Just fancy sending the new recruits so far away! Yes, have heard all about "Sylvie B. being married. Els. & her mother [got a] surprise alright! Will be glad to hear about the new piece of ground at G’dville.
B’lieve Fred Fleming’s in B’main Hosptl! Mrs Dadd told me Milly is living in Melb.- Sorry I couldn’t make a longer reply Elsie, but I must get this posted right away so’s to catch the mail from here. All’s still well with me. (Thanks for extra paper & cards.)
Love to all at Home
Loving Son & Bro. Harrie X X X .

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Envelope numbered 25 addressed as before to Mr & Mrs Cave and postmarked 17th May 1916.

[Page 94]
Somewhere on the "Contynong
Letter No. 26.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Received a batch of 11 Letters in this Billet last eve., amongst which were 2 from Dad, 2 from Elsie, & 1 from Lizzie. To say I am happy, is only putting it mild, as I yearn more & more now for news, (ever so small) from Home. I am going to answer Dad’s of March 12th. & 26th. here & perhaps one of Elsie’s too as I have not much time to write in answer to every single letter.
The other letters came from Aunt Soph., the Miss Sommervilles’, the Office (Typists) Arch. Murdock & Mr. & Mrs. Herb Smith (with card also from latter) I was on duty when they came- Aeroplane guard (watching with strong glasses for the appearance of Fokkers, Aviatiks, Taubes etc.)- but I could not resist the call to read them all. I was again wondering what I’d have to talk to you about today, but your grand "newsy budgets have once more saved me the trouble of perhaps running foul of Mr. "Censor, who you know, is so strict about what we write. They tell us that scenic Post Cards of towns are not allowed to go through, as they are likely to "give our position away (as if "Fritz doesn’t already know all about us.) It’s a pity, because I had intended sending some every mid-week, of the towns I am billeted close to, & I know they would be very interesting. May yet be able to get some through to you yet.
I am still on duty watching watching for enemy ‘planes, but at the moment have been relieved. It’s a lovely Spring day, & everything round about looks beautifully green. Up above, the ‘mechanical birds’ are busy going backwards & forwards to the firing line, (about 7 miles away from here) but one gets sick of watching them, even tho’ they’re amongst the shrapnel & having close calls. I know the glasses gave me a stiff neck & "wobbly eyes with so much craning upwards, & was very glad to have a rest for an hour or two. Hans[huns?] generally gets

[Page 95]
2. busy in the early mornings (it is light here on a fine day at 4 am.) but is not always up very high. A "Fokker came over the Billet while I was ‘on’ at 3.30 this morning, but returned North again from here soon after.
This is Sunday morning May 21st. & things seem very quiet all round. Now & again one of our big howitzers opens up with a salvo, & the smaller guns with their snappy bark can also be heard. Machine guns (with their rat-a-tat-tat!!!) were also lively at "stand to! this morning & last night. ("Stand to is generally at dawn & dusk when one has to mount the parapet with fixed bayonet & rifle loaded in case of attack- that’s when it is liable to take place.)
Now to Dad’s splendid interesting letters- they are really grand to read. !! You’ve lifted another big weight off my mind, when you tell me that my "Gippo letters, cards & momentos, reached you alright & are continuing to do so regularly. It is really good news. I like to hear of their receipt, just as much as I like to hear how things are progressing with you all.
Oh yes, getting tons of experience alright, & plenty of hard graft too. It’s not a picnic or a [indecipherable] by a long way, & I’ll be right down glad to get out of the business but we’ve got to go on with it now I s’pose..
Am grieved to hear that Mother & Dad have been suffering from "influenza but trust that the malady has gone ere now. It’s very annoying they tell me. Glad I have so far escaped all ills & aches, tho’ goodness knows we have to live & sleep in all kinds of rough places, some full of "Dingbats (Lice) & others damp & stinking. Such is War.
I did not know that Reg. Atkins & his unit were ever at Tel-el-Kebir. Glad to know he is well. Rem. me to his Dad. Young "Carty must have been making it hot to get his letter so badly censored. We were not allowed to say where we were while at the historic Tel-el. but you apparently "jennied to my abbreviations.
Surprised to hear of so many youngsters donning Kharki, & sorry too. (It will either be the making or the destruction of them.)
Your arrangements re the buying of the block of Land seems to be very good & clear. Hope everything turns out correct. The money part of it you need not worry about as far as my account at home goes. Go right ahead. Even if you can’t build yet, the time I hope is soon coming when it will be a splendid investment. Anyhow you cannot go wrong about Gladesville or the "Hill. Will wait patiently for further particulars re your permission being granted by the Council to sub-divide the lot. Just fancy it containing so many fruit-bearing trees & flowers! It’s good-another asset. Don’t consider me at all in the matter of building etc. Uncle Alf, Jack & Tom, ought to be able to give you some good tips in that regard.
Pleased to know that Mrs Herb Smith recd. my card & was pleased with it. I am writing them in reply as soon as possible. Rather busy in this support line, tho’ it’s supposed to be a (?) "rest. It’s one continual "Fatigue. What do you think of this. We left the reserve (immediate) line Billet one day last week at 6 pm for this place (about 7 miles from front, tho’ well within the range of long-distance "Huns guns) - Next day got tons of drill with full pack up, & at 6 pm were marched off back to just behind the firing-line to do pick & shovel work making new trenches till dawn next morning, (3 am) when we had to do

3. the same trip back again, arriving here at 4.15 am, dead-beat & weary. We were all too tired to wake up for Breakfast. This kind of thing is usual for the "men of the line (Infantry) & we have been at it like that for over 3 weeks, - a long march to the "job, work all night & part of early morning, – (always under fire) – & return for Breakfast. They call it keeping you fit, but I was never so much out of "condish as what I am at this mo! That’s not saying I am ill, far from it. I can sleep anywhere at all now, & eat well too, but I don’t seem to be half as energetic as I was. This applies to most of the boys- athletes & all.
A referendum at last on the liquor question! About time too! I wonder if 6 pm. will be favorite with the masses. I hope the Brewers will get a knock this time. It’s apparent now from the evidence, that drunkenness was a lot to blame for the late big serious riot. How do the city "recruits like being sent to Newcastle & Bathurst? No Bon, eh! "Mis-Kwas!
Sorry to learn of G’mas illness, but trust she’s now "OK. She ought to get a letter from me with this Mail, as I answered her last a day or two ago.
Don’t talk about rain! Didn’t we get it thick & heavy too. It’s a terrible place here during & after rain, the roads get terrible muddy & slushy with the heavy motor & transport traffic, & we unfortunate "gravel-crushers have to bear the brunt of it when on the move. Behind the breastworks (there’s no trenches-ground too sodden) it’s as bad, if not worse, even tho’ there’s boards to walk on.
The trio of Uncles still "Knocking at the door, eh? Goodness me, if they only knew!!!? Glad you are not as silly as that, anyhow. I say "silly, but of course they’ve no idea what it is. Give ‘em the straight tip from me- it’s "Dinkum no bon (no good). Pleased to learn that more of my letters found their destinations in Melbourne. It’s very comforting to me to know that my efforts to try & please all were not in vain, after all. Will be pleased to hear from Miss Clarke. Aunt Soph & G’ma are the only ‘ones’ in Melb. I’ve heard from so far, & I’ve written to all of them long ago. The Miss Sommervilles (Dot & Marj) wrote to me on 12th Feb., but I only recd. the letter last night (May 20th) They were saying that you’d be thinking them very rude when they saw you in the tram one night with Col. Shand. "S’pose you don’t remr. The poor old "Vac. undoubtedly got a rough passage from the "Wharf Mechanics & I’m glad to know that the beggars were beaten. Just fancy 2 "bob an hour for handling case oil. There must have been a big shortage of Kerosene & spirit in New

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4. South in consequence of such a big delay. There’s no doubt that the World has gone mad just now, & everything seems to be coming to pass, as prophesied in Revelations thousands of years ago. Goodness knows what the end of it all will be. In a few weeks big things are sure to be doing here- anyhow, the "man in the street wants to know why the "big advance has not come off yet, & what the Allies are doing by wasting so much time in getting a move on, so I s’pose he must be satisfied, no matter what it’s going to cost. There’s too many "men in the street for my liking, & too many "Dead heads in the army who are not doing anything to help win the war, but some behind "Cushy jobs way back in the Base & other safe places, where they are making more money at our expense, than they ever earned in private life. Such is the irony of a Private. Beware of the shiny-legging, polished-buttoned mob. They’re the Wasters & "Cold feet as a rule. By the time you get this, many things will have happened I expect, but I will still trust in the Almighty- His Will be done.
Sorry you sent the parcel, tho’ mind you, t’will be most acceptable to me & the boys also- that’s if it gets this far, after going thro’ the hands of so many (?) "Comrades. What a splendid assortment in it too. I told you that the Miss Backs sent me a parcel which I recd. in good order. They are really too kind to me- I’ve done nothing to deserve it all.
Poor Lizzie! Teeth again! Hope she’s got over the trouble by now.
I did not know that the 20,000 recruit scheme was so successful. Treis Bon!
So pleased to know that Leslie’s last resting place is still a "picture. How I yearn for the chance of riding there again. Hope it won’t be very long now.
The horse-racing strike at Adelaide undoubtedly leads the way in strike line- what next! Pity some of that mob were not using the horses to the engine’s advantage.
No, I require nothing at all- am fixed right up. You know an infantryman has to carry everything on his back, & it’s a terrible strain when you have everything all your belongings aboard, & marching 10 or 15 miles along a muddy & slippery road. Our weight at times (with 150 rounds of amn. which we must always have in our pack is well over 1 cwt, so you can see how we are placed.
Very pleased to learn of "Thellie’s good progress with her elocution & music. You are making me feel homesick, also Elsie’s rise in wages & her new responsibility, is quite a good change from the old order of things.
Poor Mother! She still gets tired & weary o’nights. What about a trip to the Mountains or Melbourne for a rest & change.
I am worried to think that Dad is not as well as he ought to be. Let me hope that better news greets me in your next.
Three more letters this morning! Doing well (Mrs Lewis, Brown [indecipherable])
Give my Love to Mother & the girls. Remr. me very kindly to all friends, both Sydney & Melbourne. Trusting that when this reaches you all will be well at Home.
Au Revoir! Till I write again.
With much Love.
Harrie X X X.

Envelope addressed as before to Mr & Mrs Cave and numbered 26. Posted 23rd May 1916.

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No. 27 Somewhere in "La Belle Francais

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
With a heart full of thanks & gratitude I have to acknowledge receipt during the past week, of your lovely parcel containing delicacies & useful articles, also Mother’s note enclosed, her welcome letter, (dated 27/3/16) & 5 newspapers (with Recha. Magazine) from Dad. (Sun. "Times of 5/3, 12/3, 26/3, & "Daily T’s 11/3 & 25/3) for all of which I am really truly thankful.
The good things in the parcel, (got here quite intact, I’m glad to say.) provided myself & some of the lads in 15 Sectn., with a welcome break in the monotony, & all were pleased. Mother’s enclosed note, with such encouraging words, I read also, & glad to learn that all was well with you. I had forgotten all about my birthday, which was spent amid such uncomfortable surroundings- "whizz-bangers & high explosives- in & around our late Billet, just after we came out of the firing-line.
Last week’s mail was a rather big one, (16 Letters, 20 newspapers & the parcel) & I have been steadily at it, trying to cope with the rush of acknowledgments ever since. There’s not so very much time available either, between, meals, drill, "fatigues, route marches & sleep, - but this letter brings me right up to-date, so I hope all kind people at Home will be satisfied with my efforts to try & please them.

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2. As Mother’s long & welcome letter has been reserved for this, I will take the opportunity of replying to it now.
It’s like a real tonic to me, to learn from all your letters, that mine from Egypt & the Canal, have been delivered so regular to you. Hope same happy condition continues till I return.
Ha, Ha! the long weary marches in the broiling sun on the "Gippo Deserts! That’s all gone from our memories now, to be replaced by the marches in mud & slush of today, to the firing-line, or to "jobs just to rear. I must say, that the elements at moment of writing are right in our favour, as we are now enjoying the French Spring, that so much talk is about- wonder what it holds for us "swaddies before it gives way to the coming Summer?
Today (Sunday May 28th.) is just lovely. The sun is shining in a cloudless sky, (just as it does at home) & all around are the lovely cultivated fields, hedges, & avenues of big trees- it’s past description at times.
The old-fashioned farm-houses nestling amongst the hedges, give the lie to any sign of a world upheaval in their vicinity, tho’ it’s only a little march to where Hans & Fritz are ready at all uncertain times, to turn on their wicked gas, or spray their liquid-fire over our defence-works. Today the big guns of

3. both sides are very quiet, as if recognising that this is the Lord’s Day. Our mono. & biplanes are always aloft tho’, their dull drone or hum being heard from before dawn, till after dusk. They put one so much in mind of a hugh dragon-fly as they pass backwards & forwards. "Taubes & Fokkers, when they venture this way, always fly very high- in fact, are only seen when our many batteries open-out on them, & then are hardly distinguishable from the white puffs of the shrapnel-bursts which always seems to go all round them.
The big observation balloons, - (with their 5 smaller spheres suspended on their Communication wires)- look very stately way up in the air, where they remain in the same position for weeks. (brought down daily for refilling) They are of a peculiar shape, the only way I could describe one, being the "finger-pointer, with the thick end towards terra-firma. They must see many things from them, & it beats me why the enemy planes don’t try & bring them down. - The "Huns also have them along their front behind the lines.
The "Home-coming! My, & what a lot that conveys, to not only us, but our enemies as well. Rejoicings, sorrowings, heart-breakings, misery, & so on, in many different phrases. It’s hard to think about just yet, as there’s such a lot to be accomplished. yet The "Dead-Heads will feel the

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4. pinch for a while after it, as they are earning more now at the expense of the Empire, than ever they could in civilian-life - & taking no risks either. The place stinks with them
I see that Norm Lotze received a stiff sentence over his low-down embezzlement of Balmain Hospital Funds. "Three months in Goulburn Gaol! What a big blow to his people! By the way, the name appears to me as running very close to the "Hun. What are they?
Sorry to learn of the accidental drowning of Mr. Oates. - My sympathy to Mrs Thompson & Nellie.
How pleased I am to know that dear Les’s grave is looking so nice. Often wander in mind to his all too-short life with us, but he may be much better off.
Ha! Ha! "Thellie’s glory box! Wish I could buy her something more valuable- risk too great tho’.
"Johnny Holcombe married! News indeed.
No mother, I require nothing at all, not even spare writing material, so don’t on any account waste time & money, as anything that’s needed is easily purchased in the villages, which are always close here. - Will be glad to know how "Thellie got on in her recent race at the Domain Baths.
More news! Holly Dodd to enlist & Bro. ‘Joe’ already in! I am surprised to hear it. None of "Ma Smith’s thought of it?
I don’t rem. Mrs Whitford, Mother. Sure that’s the right name? Thank her for kind wishes on my behalf- Well Mother, I have reached the censor’s limit, so will have to bid you Au Revoir till I write again. With much Love
Harrie

Envelope numbered 27, addressed to Mr & Mrs Cave as before and dated 30th May and clearly signed by J.C. Davidson Field Censor.

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No. 28 "Somewhere in Northern France.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Have just completed a big mail-week, answering & writing to many kind friends & "cobbers in Sydney & Melbourne. One does not get much of a "fair-go in the infantry for letter writing, & besides, they put a big restriction on us, by limiting our correspondence to one page only. This is a hard hit on me, as I like to fill both sides of a sheet up, when once I start, as I know you, & friends at Home, like to have something to read, even tho’ the ‘news’ may be stale. (it’s always stale to us ), so if you hear of anyone complaining about my small hieroglyphics, tell them it’s done for a purpose- to get as much as possible on such a limited space. You get me, I think? I have really nothing to talk to you about this week, but will try & think of something as I go along.- The state of the weather is always a favorable topic, so I’d better tell you first how the elements are treating us, so as to bring myself in line with the usual everyday correspondent. There’s no doubt about it, that Spring on this side of the Sphere (Antipodes to you) is something worth living for,- when the Sun is shining so nicely, just as it does in Australia- & you see on all sides of you, lovely green crops (Wheat, rye, oats, "spuds, onions, beans, etc) now at their very best, big avenues of high trees, pretty hedges, & the funny little farm-houses,- thatch-covered roofs & mud walled. –No, there does not seem to be anything modern about the present-day French "cocky & his habitation. All the buildings (as I’ve told you B4) belonging to the farm, are under one roof- the whole built around a square (some on 3 sides of a square) & in the centre, the usual stinking manure & rubbish pit, in which great big white "porkers (with ears covering their tiny eyes) forage & wallow for any chance morsel-. The living apartments occupy one side, then follow round the square:
- the chevaux (horses), cows, pigs, calves, storage –barn, fowls & ducks, & open sheds for implements- carts (very different from our’s) ploughs, harrows etc. Of course every farm is not the same as far as above olden goes, but it will give you some idea of how things are done here. The reason for this housing under one roof, must be on a/c. of severe winter experienced in these parts, when most of the animals have to be hand-fed inside. The horses & cows (pigs too) are very docile to the owners. Horses work up & down between the rows of "spuds & growing crops, guided by one rein only, (sometimes by word of mouth) & the cows are milked anywhere in the paddocks, just as they stand, without having to use bails. Small hand-ploughs are at the present mo’ being used all round here, banking up the earth round the new-seasons young beans & "Murphys (spuds). The ground must be very soft to allow of this hand power being used, I ‘spose the continual cultivation for centuries & much rain, allows of this being possible. Walking along the winding road

(continued on side of page- but to be read after the next page)
to go on duty again. (Hours:-started 9 pm last eve) 9 pm till 11 pm, 3 am (this morn) till 5 am, 9 am till 11 am & 3 pm till 5 pm, finishing up at 7.15 pm. X Hope you are all keeping in the best of health at Home. Kind regards to all enquiring friends & Visitors X Do not send any parcels, as we can always buy what we require at the near-by towns & villages or military canteens. I must express my sincerest thanks for all the trouble you’ve gone to over me. I would rather you did not go to so much xpense with newspapers etc., as we are only [indecipherable] hours from the "Old Dart & get their papers daily. One now & again would be acceptable, but letters are what we all live for. I have lots of friends who send me Syd. & Melb. newsies so do not do too badly. I always take those I’ve read, to "Bogey for his YMCA where possible, so there’s no waste.
Much Love to you all Harrie X X X

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2. (all the roads here seem to have much un-necessary winding round fields & plots) one’s mind wanders to the lovely lawns & well-groomed trees in the Botanical Gardens, as he gazes across the breast-high crops, with their background of hedge & avenue of trees, all in their prettiest dress; a little white-washed, thatched-roof, mud-walled dwelling completes a picture such as you’d see in any Art-Gallery. All looks so quiet and peaceful, but when you shift your eyes towards the north, east or west, & see the bursting shrapnel over some unfortunate position, or turn them sky-wards, & see & hear the humming biplanes & monoplanes doing their ceaseless watch, (always amidst the enemy shrapnel from the anti-air-craft batteries) you come face to face with the presence of the World War. What a terrible shame & a crime against God to upset such a delightful scene! - When we first came thro’ "La Belle, the trees everywhere, were bare of foliage & the vine-yards along the Rhone-Valley & on the mountain slopes were likewise; but that was in the Autumn! It’s quite different now & I was (& still am) on guard all night (finish tonight-Tues. June 6th) & rain commenced with a steady downpour. It is still coming down, so I would not be surprised to have a few days of it. & I am very late getting this letter written, as most of us went away on Friday last to a place 16 miles away, (per foot of course) & returned on Sunday night. It was a severe trial for many, as the roads are very "crook on the foot, & most of us are now wearing "Tommy boots, with the iron-heels & iron-projecting sprigs in the toes of them, which makes a big difference, after our light Austn. issue. They feel just like a flat board on your

3. sole, when you first get them on. I did not feel the march so very much, (of course all were tired) but others had terrible blisters & were straggling into the camp hours after us, (we always carry our heavy equip.t Rifle & [indecipherable]) equipment. We saw a few more French towns (nearly all built on the same style- very old) & Villages, & passed thro’ one of the woods or forests you read so much about. The trees here seem to be artificially planted (or really in an artificial forest) as they are all in line. Undergrowth of course helps to make the region more difficult. It was a grand road, with a lovely avenue of big trees (with smaller ones between) on both sides that went thro’ the Wood, but the cobbles make marching very difficult. (all the streets thro’ the towns are cobbled & must last for centuries) Two of the big towns we passed thro’ were connected by canals which ran thro’ the centre of each. Big barges (with families aboard) laden with m’dise & produce were alongside the banks. (Horses supply the power, pulling the barge along from the side of Canal.) X Had a job to do about 4 miles away yesterday; having to pass Frank "Bogey’s place in S----- on the way. Saw him as we were returning, just on the bridge over the Lys, but only said a few words. Must try & visit him tomorrow or Thursday, as we will very likely be going into the firing line in a day or two again, tho’ nothing is certain yet. X I don’t think there’s anything more I can skite about just now. Oh yes, a young chap named Arthur Johns of (?) Phillip St. has joined us up. He knew me but I could not place him. X Claude Kennett’s Bat. were not far from where I was yesterday. I was speaking to one of the boys, but he did not know Claude, as he was attachd to a different Coy. May yet have an opportunity of talking to him X Have seen no others since I wrote last. Well, my Dear Parents & Sisters, Shall have to close now, as it’s my turn
(turn back to No.1.)

[Page 102]
Envelope addressed to Mr & Mrs Cave as before, numbered 28 and posted 9 June 1916.

[Page 103]
No.29 Somewhere in "La Belle France.

PS. Tell the girls not to send any more spare writing materials, whilst I’m in France. We can always buy what we require here. Thanks for your past kindness. H.
Wish I could keep all the letters I receive while away. Have too much to carry about.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Only for the timely arrival this morning, of a big batch of mail for me, (15 letters) - included in which were 4 from Home- this week-end’s letter to you would have been very dry & uninteresting. As it is, I have not much to tell you about my doings here, & I can guess that that is all you want to know, but you’ll XQQ me if I devote this page (the censor’s limit) to answering Dad’s grand budget first. X The mail received was from Dad 9/4 & 2 B’day greeting P/C’s, Mother & "Thellie, B’day P/C’s 4/4, Lizzie B’day P/C 2/4 & Els’. Letter 9/4. Other letters & Cards from Mr & Mrs & young "Gus Cowan, Mrs & Bob Whit, Arch. Murdock, Harry Grose, Mrs. & Els Brown (Balmain), the Office & several other friends in Syd. & Melb. All these were received in the "firing line to which we came on Thurs Friday night last, after a short "spell from the "Whizz-bangers, "zip,zips, "rat-a-tat-tats etc. some distance away, amongst civilization & the lovely cultivated country-side. X Dad has surpassed himself in the grand homely letter he sent me & which I will do my best to answer here. (Date Apr. 9th) - You cannot realise how glad I am to hear again from you, & such a budget too! My, you know how to tell me things of interest. Glad you always let me know the things you receive in that the Tel-el-Kebir mail reached you alright. How nice to learn that all’s well with everybody inc. Mother & Sisters. So the Land deal came off "OK ? I’m so pleased that it is such a valuable block, & so close to the boat & tram. Don’t worry about the little bit from my A/C that you got. Yes, much better to pay ‘right out’ it’s always the "interest that causes baldy-heads & sleepless nights. How nice it will be for you now to get your pet hobby going again during the holidays & Sat. afternoons. Wish I was there to give you a hand. Never mind, may be back soon, God Willing. X You can get £120 for my Chatswood block? Good! close on it right away if you think advisable. You can have a free hand to do with it as you wish, so don’t worry about me at all, anyhow it will prove a good investment if you can get that much. X Glad there’s tons doing at the "Island & that the future looks so ‘easy’ for you. Will pray that that happy state remains X Good news to learn of Elsie’s "rise & her new responsibility at work. Good luck to her. X So G’ma recd. another letter from me that’s nice to know. I recd. a letter some weeks ago from Aunt Jean, & replied next day or two. X Yes, have recd. numerous letters & "newsies from Bob. Whit & his Mother, which I always ack. straight away. They have been xceedingly kind to me right thro’! X Sorry you have worried about the papers you sent me weekly. The letters you are rec’g. now will be telling you what I had recd. As I said B4, don’t go to so much trouble & xpense with them (or parcels either) as we get all the ‘noos’ we want right here. A local now & again, with Rocha. Mag. very acceptable. Now don’t 4 get ("Mirror is the paper for the "Swaddies.) X Was much interested to read about the doings of those concerned in the Petrol Monopoly Scandal. The VOCo not in the Limelight eh! Treis Bon! X Heard about the B’main Roll of Honor. Would B very glad to see a photo of it. X Tell the girls (by the way) to send me any P/C of themselves if they are taken. Would like some very much.

Continuation written sideways on page:
Will B glad of the indelible pencils. Can’t buy good one’s here. German & Austrian goods are Finish inc. "leddies. X Very kind of Bob Whit to offer send me some ink tablets. Thank him very much. Will B hardly any use, as we may B on the way back soon. All are hoping so anyhow. Don’t take this as "inside informaish., we know no more than U, Compre? X Ivy Nuttal ought to B nice Company for Mother & the girls during her 3 weeks’ holiday. Rem. me kindly to her. X Les’ Anniversary of this life’s departure! My, what memories it brings to me. So glad to know that his last resting place is so much admired by strangers & friends. X Re promotion! I have no ambition in that line on this "stunt, my big defect being one bar & being a re-inforcement, all positions are held by lads of the "Landing "Lone Pine etc. is another. The bigger money is all that [indecipherable] a lot to take more responsibility (likewise less yakka) & it’ll B just as much honor to return "just a private as anything else or it’s he who gets the hurry up & the "Rocks & does the dirty work Oh, today’s date Sun June 11th- raining mud again making movements outside the "Dugouts very crook for getting about in it. Our whiz-bangers have just been hitting the Huns right opp. & they in return send some our way. All’s well with me tho’. X Much Love to all. Harrie X X.

[Page 104]
Blank page except for "What a terrible waste!!!

[Page 105]
Envelope Numbered 29, dated 15 June 1916 and addressed to Mr & Mrs Cave as before

[Page 106]
No.30 "Culwulla Mansions Dugout’
Front-line Breastworks,
Somewhere in Northern France.
My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Under the sand bag protection of this "Dugout, I have again the pleasure of writing you the usual week-end letter. Before commencing to "rake up news, I must thank Mother for her grand inspiring letter, dated 16/4th, which came along on Friday last at "Stand-down! (a Carry-on!) - 3 am. - Was surprised to learn that our Egypt (or Canal) letters had been held back, but I s’pose it was on a/c of us leaving the "Land of Bucksheesh & Eggs-a-cook’d, for La Belle France. The Prince of Wales, (with Lt.Genl. W.R. Birdwood, Genl. Walker & staff) had a look at us on the Desert at Serapeum East (Suez Canal) a day or two before we entrained for Alexandria-& then the trip across the Mediterranean). The "Prince reckoned that Egypt was a better place to be in than France- in the winter I s’pose he meant- but he was on the Canal when the weather was good. Should liked him to have seen us (or tried to) during one of the sand-storms with all our gear on! - He may have changed his mind. So Ivy Nuttall spent the holidays with you? She must have been good company. Would like you to rem.r me kindly if writing. The memorial stone at the "Uni Corner must be very good, tho’ a terrible memory to those who have lost dear ones on the "Peninsh. Am living in hopes of seeing it soon (God Willing). My! how happy "Dad must be now amongst the flowers, trees & vegetables! May do him the World of good, & anyhow it’s a great satisfaction to know that every minute you "put in improving the property, is not enhancing the value for someone else. Am glad he cleared the lot off, as far as the money part goes, as interest at these troublous times is a "Killer to all ambition. How’s the Starr-Bowkett going? Are you still paying in? Much at ease to know that 2 more of the Serapeum East letters reached you alright (14 & 15.) What, no Smiths joined up yet?! Oh well, if they’re the kind who have to be pushed, they are better where they are. I don’t think our boys would stand their kind. Of course, they are not alone- there’s other families, much bigger, who are sheltering behind the A.I.F, in peace & security. I have several in my mind now.

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2. Was sorry to hear of Fred. Heming’s illness & subsequent operation, but trust he’s well again. Rem. me to him & his people ("Millie I believe, is now living in Melb.- so Mrs [indecipherable] told me in her letter). Glad the "Uncles could not work the oracle- tell them this is No Bon! Mis-Kwas! or in English, no good! There’s tons of "Pugs, Footballers, & the "cream-trousered mob still at large, who are still asleep to their responsibilities. Yes, Mother you can always rely on me to go "straight, even here amid such terrible surroundings & fellows who own no God. (it’s a nasty thing to say, but nevertheless true.) I must write to [indecipherable] Hynes as soon as I get a minute or two to spare. One gets tons of work behind the parapet filling & carrying sand-bags, pick & shovel work, carpentering-& lots’ of other "jobs. After being let off, from dusk to dawn, watching & peering across "No Man’s Land (ready with fixed-bayonets, & fully charged magazine, for any unexpected rush from the "Huns, one takes full advantage of the all too-short 3 hours sleep in the "Dugout, as "Fatigue follows immediately after B’fast, (7 am of Bacon, Bread, Jam & Tea.)- lasting till lunch-time. If "off in the morning, you catch up for the afternoon, so you can guess one is not always in the mood for letter writing. Nevertheless I never neglect my many kind friends at Home. Their letters, when they come, I number in order, (the earliest date first) - no matter who they’re from, - & keep on writing as opportunity permits, till I get thro’ the batch. I am then ready for the next lot. Rec.d over 20 in last mail (Sunday last) & cleared the last off yesterday. (today- by the way, - is Sunday, 2 pm June 18th.) Do hope that both Thelma & Lizzie have got over their nerve-wracking tooth-aches- that complaint is No Bon!- Am terribly pleased that you are all keeping well. Do hope that happy state continues. - I s’pose our doings here are being watched for [indecipherable] all kinds of feelings. Would ask you not to worry over me at all, as everything is right & in God’s hands & Will.- We are experiencing a strange state of things here. Can you fancy the days over your way being in sunlight till after 9 pm? Well that is a fact. It is close to "10 before dusk comes over- & then if the moon is "up full, it is still pretty light. Dawn comes at 3 or 3.30 in the mornings, so you see there are very few hours of night left. Of course during the rainy & cloudy weather, we have just had, the darkness come quicker as soon as the sun sets, but given a cloudless sky, we can move about in daylight till 10 pm. What a contrast their winter is tho! It is grand when on "post (the fire-step below the parapet) during the hour before dawn, to listen to the whistling of the skylarks above us. They are "some singers I can assure you! Even when the bullets from Mach-guns & rifles are racing across "No Man’s Land, on their terrible errand, they still keep up their joyful song, as if Nature was mocking man’s modern madness. When the big shells & "whiz bangs start during the day the concussion & noise thro’ the air, sends the smaller birds in all directions (if flying above us) with the appearance of a man taken out by the surf & carried round & round by the eddies- it’s so strange. Still they chirp & sing amongst the large green trees to our rear, & amongst the now overgrown wheat, rye & other crops, through which the sand bag barricade (that keeps the modern Hun from Paris, London- the World) takes its’ course. It is hard to realise, that 2 years ago nearly this very place was still the scene of peaceful occupation of some unfortunate French farmer. His plough (like those in a previous position further on) is still in the place where it was hurriedly left- now rusty & useless. To stand back from the barricade (or breastworks- no trenches it’s too wet & damp here) & look on the long line of sand bags (8 & 9 ft

[Page 108]
3. high, 8 feet across) which run right across this lovely country from West to east with many zig-zag twists & turns- gives one the impression of an interminable wheat stack. Out from the parapet (on our side of course) you see the "Dugouts (so called by us after those on the hill-sides of Gallipoli) where we all have our little homes. These places are hardly big enough for two ordinary chaps, being (as a rule) about 3 feet high x 5’6 long x 4’ deep, or wide. They are surrounded by sandbags (3 or 4 layers on top & 1 1/2 round the sides) & the inside is supported by thick wood-beams. The "Tommies used to build their’s under the parapet itself, but as shells have a bad habit of dropping there, we are getting rid of them as fast as possible, for the above new style- detached. The space where the fire-step is, is called here, a "Bay, so our boys have got to work with name-boards & each "Bay is (in addition to a number) known by some place at Home & elsewhere. These occur as I sit here:- "W’loo’ "Suvla, "Anzac, (of course) "Rose, "Jervis, & "Long Bays. The passages are also known by name. "Geo.’ St Pitt St. "Devon Avenue etc. are some. Of course, most of the "Dugouts are named too! (there’s "Hotel Sydney, "Rest-Haven, "Crocs, "Hotel Aust., "Culwulla Chambers (Riviera, ground floor.) It’s funny to see the different little weathercocks & wind-direction-guages on tops of the "Homes. These are most necessary, so that we can all see at a glance, which way the wind is blowing, & so be on the alert for the cruel gas that the "Huns send over, if in their favour, & an attack premeditated. Yes, it’s a terrible thing, & God will surely punish these modern savages (or at least their War Lords) for their low-down cruelty. Do not worry tho’, the respirators we have (must always carry two slung over outside of tunic or overcoat in waterproof cover) can beat them everytime, - they are now perfect. We’ve had several alarms (there’s triangle gongs & empty shell-case gongs all along the line) but other than the inconvenience, we have had no bother. The other night they put a lot over, some miles down the Line & everyone was out ready in a few minutes, as this stuff is effective for 10 miles.

[Page 109]
4. We must look terribly savage with all our gear on waiting with fixed-bayonet & fully charged magazine on the fire-step. On top of the comical looking respirator we have the bag-covered steel helmet (protection against shrapnel) & our equipment is on of course, fully loaded with lead "sleeping-draughts. I was going to tell you about the weather vanes! They were made by the boys; some are models of "Fokkers (with propeller, wheels, & "Iron-crosses complete) Monoplanes (one wing only) Aeros etc. Every night we have a "Buckshee fireworks display, mostly from the "[square diagram] eds who seem to be on "pins & needles at the least sign of activity from the our artillery & other "arms. This display takes the form of "star shells or flares- or sky rockets (what ever you like to call them.- They are fired from a pistol about as big as a "blunderbuss of olden-times & the effect is grand. The whole region of "No Man’s Land in front is lit up as by day, & anyone moving about is detected if caught un-awares. That’s rarely the case, as the standing (now seedy) crops of wheat etc. are about breast high, & one would have to be terribly slow not to get down in time, besides the Patrols of both sides (they go out in small parties every night, wet or fine) always get about "snake-fashion or the "bent-back, so as to escape observation. You would hardly think it possible to go across this "death region, but it is done every night. When the Patrols are out, no shots are fired in the vicinity, & you can always tell when "Fritz & his mob are on the "pad, by their lack of fire. The machine-guns are keeping "Fritz in port security, (tho’ we have more than he now) & he gets very cheeky with them. I often watch the flashes of flame, as these terrible engines of destruction, "churn out their hundreds of rounds of lead on to the roads & approaches, to our rear. We can almost detect the tunes of favorite old songs ("There is a happy Land. Etc.) when "Fritz turns his muzzle towards the parapet (on which we are peeping) partly protected with heaps of sand-bags.- it’s a trying time, & one can always see fun in the quick "ducking of heads round us, as these bullets crack, whistle, & thud all round us & over us. We were close to a big "stouch the other night, when poor old "Fritz got towelled up badly. On

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5. our immediate right the bother started.) Rifles & Mach-guns opened the programme on to the Hun sand bags for about 20 mins. without a break. Then all was silence. All of a sudden the Artillery all round us (to the rear of course) opened up to a region of trenched Huns on our left, & then the trouble started with a will. Flashes (almost blinding) from the many guns & the terrific reports & bursts from both sides, kept the din up for a long while- well into the wee sma’ hours - Flares in their hundreds, lit up the region. (Red ones from the Germans went up after the first few shells had lobbed on or near their parapets- this they say, was to signal their "Whiz-bang Dept. to commence, which they did.) The result to the a.I.F. was most favourable when daylight had come- to the Huns, disaster. You see there’s plenty of "bluff in this game (Rifles & mach. guns to draw attention away from real object, & then the Artillery on to their mark in a different region.) Such is part of the "Circus in this Armageddon. Every dawn (in fine weather- we’ve just had another week’s dose of miserable, cold stuff) we can distinctly see the "Hun Observation Balloons over their lines (to rear) & in front of us. There’s 5 of them in sight now, same style as our’s to our rear. - Funny looking things they are too! We saw a big aeroplanes fight over opposite here this morning. A Squadron of our battle-planes, disregarding the Hun batteries- got over their territory to reconnoitre. Up comes a Taube & Fokker (both Bi-planes) to engage or drive them off. After much mach-gun fire the Taube dives homeward (I don’t think he was damaged) & his cobber went for the lick of his life. Our little fleet continued their journey, & again came in the range of shrapnel. These fights are pretty common in fine weather (hav’nt had too much of it yet) & create great excitement for us on Terra-firma. Have not seen any hit yet, tho’ there’s thousands of shells fired in the air. "Junks of these cases & bullets fall down here when the ‘planes are overhead under fire & one runs a risk if out without the steel-helmet. You can hear the stuff rushing earthwards at a terrific speed & thud into the ground. Sometimes an un-exploded shell lobs close- it’s no fun then! The "Chatties are still

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6. a source of annoyance to us, even tho’ we use the "Fixopest Insectibane & other Kill-powders. I must thank you for the tin you sent in the parcel I recd. (the first one- other not here yet), it’s getting plenty of use. Some fellows seem to get great harvests of these Lice on them- reason obvious- but I have not be too badly off. They are very troublesome when a fellow has a lot of clothes on & the body warm- The whole line of the front is over-run with Rats- great giants that will not run away from you. We have fun "potting them on the parapet as they rummage amongst the bays o’nights. Mice too, are very common. Have seen nothing of any other Balmain boys (except those with this Bat.) since we came here, but may do so when we go out at end of [indecipherable]-perhaps. Young Pont of the Coal-yard, has now joined us up. He came with Arthur Johns of Phillip St. Both are well./ While I think of it! Recd. during the week following papers: - "Referee 3/4th , Daily Herald 22/4th, "S. Times 23/4th , for which I am truly thankful. / You have learned all about the Big Naval Battle, the loss of the "Hampshire with Lord Kitchener aboard, the battle for Verdun & Ypres (pron. "Eaps or "E-prees) & the new wonderful Russian Steam-Roller Advance, which is developing into an Austrian rout. It’s all very encouraging to us, despite our sad losses. We all pray to God, that this turmoil will end quickly. He will end it in his own way at the ripe time./ Do not worry over anything I’ve told you here, as all’s well with the A.I.F.- & me. / Kind wishes to all our neighbours, friends & relations, when you write or see them. They have all been xceedingly kind to me, & I write as I find time.
Much Love & Best Wishes to you all. Harrie X X
P.S. XQQ the "painting I’ve turned out on these sheets- the poor old "Waverley nib is ‘dun.’

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Envelope numbered 30 addressed to Mr & Mrs Cave as before and posted on the 20th June 1916.

[Page 113]
No. 31. "In Support-
Somewhere in France.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
How the time flies! I have already completed my first 6 months O.A.S, & now on the way to the 2nd. The many experiences, thrills etc, gained in Spasm No 1, will never be forgotten by me, so I don’t expect the next spasm to be lacking in excitements, now that we’re right at the "stoush.
Since sending away No.30. we have left the piles of sand bags & "Dugouts, for a town just to rear of firing-line, where we are to be in readiness to leave in Support of the – Bat., who took our place on Friday evening last, should the occasion warrant it- they won’t come tho’!
We had lots of thrills behind the breastworks this time, & I think we must have lived a whole life time in a moment, a certain period. It is very rarely we ever get sight of a "Hun, as sniping is a very fine art by both sides in the daylight. Loopholes in the parapet are cleverly concealed, & it’s only with a powerful glass that they can be detected. How silly it all is! There’s the skylarks & nightingales & thrushes, (as I told you before) singing with joy above us every morning before, & at dawn as if nothing was wrong with the World & its inhabitants. Across "No Mans Land (Still covered in high seedy wheat, barley, & other old sown crops.) fly without break, the leaden ‘sleeping-draughts, & there we are (& our enemies) hiding behind sand bags & peering into the mist, lucky if we don’t stop a "pill while doing so. As it gets lighter, we make ourselves still more scarce, till the gladsome sound (or order) "Stand-down! or "carry-on! is given by an "OC. This "stand-down! is like balm to a weary traveller, as it generally means a 3 or 4 hours sleep (after the "bay or "firing posy is cleaned up of empty cartridge-shells, clips, papers etc.) without a break. It usually comes at this time of the year, (Summer) at 4 am, or as soon after as the enemy positions can be clearly discerned. The dawn (or before) & the dusk are very critical times for us in the firing-line, as one can never tell the moment when "Fritz will "come over Lately I believe he’s favored night attacks, as a bit

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2. of a change.
After breakfast (7.30)- we don’t like leaving the "Dugout, as hungry as we are, because it means "finish sleep for the rest of the day- comes the daily "fatigue, of which there is no end, in & about the "line. The Engineers arrive from their Billets about 9 & commence on making new "Dugouts, parapets, parados, gun "possies, communication trenches etc, & we have to do the work. This lasts till lunch-time (12.30) & we sometimes get off for the rest of the day- another party taking up the work till tea-time, 5 pm or in Military style, 17 00- "seventeen-double-oh.) One can’t get much rest after fatigue, as there’s letters to write (our only chance) rifle & bayonet to attend to, & other jobs, so that by the time one is finished "fooling round, the other extreme to "stand-down- "stand-to!- goes, & there’s a bustle to get our heavy exquipment on, overcoat fastened & gas helmet carrier slung, & take our post on or below the fire-step. It is hard for me to explain a "bay & "fire-step as they are not all the same- our’s were something like this [diagram - & so on eh eh!!!!] You might "compre that the shivery-stuff rep’s a "broken parapet (made irregular with heaps of sand-bags along the top, so that we are partly! protected- only from the direct front tho’) the right-angle pieces are part of the parapet,- they stop an enfilade, or side-on, fire, Between the two you have what is known on the front, as a "Bay. The "Fire-step (or platform) is just a long seat- extends from one "wing of "Bay to the other, & is high enough to allow an ordinary "swaddie to keep a watch over "No Man’s Land.
(Monday) The "Dugout used to be built with the parapet- there’s still a lot left yet- but the latest style are a little out from the fire-step. To look at the whole business from a little distance back, puts one for all the world, much in mind of a high (without end) wheat or produce stack awaiting removal per train at some country station. Just fancy (or try to) the immense number of sand (mud here)-bags used by both sides from Oostende to the Swiss border- staggering!
We "stand-to at dusk from about 9.30 pm- till 10.30 pm. (The "Daylight savings stunt is working here now, the clock being advanced one hour the other night at 11, so that really we are 9 hours ahead behind of you now, instead of 10) The different posts, reliefs, or watches are previously fixed by the Sergt, & only those on "Post first (the 9.30 -11.30 shift) stand watch on the platform, the rest of us wait below on the "Duckboard, of course with fixed bayonet-all ready- till 10.30 pm comes when we lie down with all our impedimenta on, till our turn comes to mount guard. Sometimes, instead of us "standing to, those not on the "step have to "wire-in filling & carrying sand (mud)-bags to the parapet builders, till "stand-down! at 10.30 comes. (Today is Sunday June 25th (evening) – still daylight at 8.30 pm.)
I’ve had a go at Parapet building – it’s rather an exciting job, as one is working on top, right in the line of fire. Big flares continually go up, (they make night into day, & put your fireworks-skyrockets to shame) & one has to stand (or crouch) stock-still in case "Fritz picks you out, & turns his Machine-guns on to you. The wire-workers are below us in "No Man’s Land, fixing & strengthening the entanglements & they too, are

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3. on a risky job. I was "told off for that one night, but a big artillery stunt started, so "finish parapet builders & wire parties, till some favorable time.
The patrols (both sides send them out every night) always have lots of thrills, as they have to get as near as possible to working parties & the barbed wire barricade to find out "informaish. You generally know when the enemy’s are out, by their restrained fire (so it is when our’s are out), but if they’ve spotted any of our parapet or wiring-parties at work, they soon get the mach-guns busy on their return. Sometimes there’s a meeting between the two parties (both crawl on hands & knees practically all the way, as star shells (or flares) would soon give them away) & then if both are obstinate, there’s something doing. All carry bombs & revolvers & use them if necessary.-"No Man’s Land at night, would present a funny picture if the veil was lifted all of a sudden.
There’s always two on the "fire-step during the night (from "stand-to 9.30 pm. –till "stand-down!- 4 am next day) so that there’s not much chance of a fellow dozing off & being caught un-awares- that would be most disastrous!
During the daylight, we get other thrills. The artillery get very busy onto the "Hun breastworks with "whizbangs, & the mortars send their bombs of death high into the air, to lob right into their "trenches. You ought to see the shards, pieces of "duckboards ("duckboards have to be used here to walk on, as this tilled land is almost impossible to keep upright on after rain) mud & debris sail into the air, gee! "Fritz soon gets wild & over comes his big bombs, rifle-grenades, "whiz bangs & high-explosion shells, amongst our sand-bags & "Dugouts Such is part of this silly modern warfare- it’s the "Devil’s own work & most terrible. Other thrills are provided by the R.F.C. (Royal Flying Corps) with their big battle bi-planes, scouting monoplanes & bi-planes (scouts). They are bare-faced! Right over the "Hun lines & territory, amongst the hundreds of shrapnel shells that are aimed at them from many batteries, they go as if there was no danger. Diving, volplaning & banking, they are the "goods. Now & again, "Taubes, "Fokkers & "Aviatiks come over our lines (that’s when none of our’s are about) spotting for their artillery, & there’s generally some "Buckshee Iron-rations (shells etc.) sent over to the rear when they get back. A fight in mid-air is hair-raising- we’ve seen a few now & the "Huns have not always come off best. You’d scream every time a ‘plane took a header or heeled over that it was the "terminus for them, but no, that’s only a manoeuvre. They are at these capers the whole time, their "rat-a-tat-tats!!! from the mach. guns, going full speed when the right moment comes.

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4. The captive or Observation-balloons (with the five ballonets strung below) also get sight of many important moves, with the result that hundreds of shells go to the one spot in a few minutes- Result "permanent shut-eye for Some one. There were five within sight of our lines all the time we were in (German of course) - Our’s were visible to rear- Hullo! What’s this!-! One of the lads has just handed me your "Birthday Parcel (Monday 10 am, June 26th ’16) for which merci boucou! Thanks for it to you all & Ivy Nuttall & Leo’s. This is the No.2 you have been asking about, & I feel very grateful for it. The pencils (1/2 doz), Nuts from Vic, choc’s, cheese, Tooth-brush & cream, h’chiefs, & comb, together with combination-note containing Kind wishes, all intact. Have shared the eatables with Comrades- they were Treis Bon, (Tray-bon!) in English "very good. It’s really too kind of you to go to all that trouble. In this place we can buy all we require- except good pencils-so don’t worry about my comfort now-all is well. I asked Elsie about the socks. If we’re here for the coming winter, long one’s (long-short ones, you know) will be very useful, also the "mits- Send nothing else. Oh, writing material! Some included in this parcel were "OK, but we can get "tons here. Of course, had I been on the Desert or Canal still, they would have been indispensable. Then while I am on the "acknowledge-stakes, I must tell you that I have Bet me, Dad’s splendid long letter dated 23/4th, Elsie & Les’ B’day Card 10/4th & Lizzie’s letter most welcome also- of 27/4th – all recd. during last week in the "trenches. Will endeavour to answer Dad’s now!-! (Els. & Lizzie I will reply to later on, when I get rid of some of the others- (18 so far in this mail)
Pleasing news that all is well, work plentiful etc. at Home. Hope same happy condition continues. Ha! Saving the Soldier’s life in the Suez! Funny thing, I met him accidently only yesterday morning-he’s now in the 1st Pioneer Batn- & he reminded me of the incident. He’s looking well, tho’ much over Military age. You thought we’d have been sent to "Kut eh! Yet a good enough guess-it was probable, - but they’ve given us a bit of a fly here in "La Belle. Sent Territorials to Townshends’ relief instead. - You’ll know all about it now, of course, . Quiet Easter in Sydney! I’d forgotten all about that solemn festival, & even now, do not know what month Good Friday was in. Pastry-cooks evidently thought the Masses could not do without the hot + bun- bit of a knock to them, having their award cancelled, isn’t it?
How nice it must be to work in your own garden & land! I can see you leading

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5. the way out Gladesville & Ryde in the gardening line. ‘Twould do me! (This stunt is no bon!) Good soil & plenty of it! My, that’s fine! Perhaps I’ll be in time to eat some of the fruit from the trees when I get back. Mr Atkins evidently doesn’t hear very often from Reg. by the tone of your letter. Believe he’s here somewhere, tho’ have not run across any of his "cobbers yet.
S’pose Ivy Nuttall has enjoyed her stay with you. How nice, a trip up to "Fairy Land, Lane Cove River. A trip I’m yearning for again, per rowing-boat in the near future.
Yes, Miss Matthews of the Mission wrote to me. I have already replied, & also written to Mr Hynes. I get lots of letters from different ones & they are most acceptable- more so than anything else. Letters, letters & more letters- our biggest yearning, with exception of the Home-coming. Will you give my new address to any of my kind friends you come across- You know it by now, I expect-(No 3900, No 15 Sectn, No 4 Platoon, "A Coy, 1st Batn, 1st Inf. Bgde, 1st Australian Division (don’t 4get that!) British Expeditionary Force, Abroad. - that’s all, not much eh! Re the papers & expense you’re going to! Steady up a bit, we get tons of reading matter, in fact, have not always time to even scan over 1/2 of what we get. We’re here one day, somewhere else the next, trenches, & so on. Our next move is to be the "King of the lot, but I don’t want you to worry, if it’s God’s Will- well, His be done!
Re "Gussie Blanche (related to Jack Craig of Ferdinand St) - Did I say in my letter that I met him? No, it was his cousin- oh, I 4get his name now, it’s so long ago. This chap was in the 2nd Light Horse, if I remember right. I know that ‘Gus’ is a "wharfie, have seen him often while with the VOCo. Read my letter again!
Yes, I know all about the trouble with the oil-ships! What a strange ending- the victimisation by "Certain heads in our "Gas-house over the Petrol Scandal. They only wanted to make 3% profit out of the buying of the "Shell Company, Shame! ‘Spose it’ll all be hushed up & forgotten, tho’ according to papers we saw, the court was always crowded with interested outsiders. Tho’ "Vacuum are still "Lily-white, good!
Mr. Fitz-patrick’s death must have caused a stir over your way alright. What a big funeral! Re the Chatswood Block- do as you wish with it- the more you can

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6. get of course the better.
Glad to know of remarkable progress of the "Store. They’re getting out into the new suburbs alright. Seems to be a good policy – the future will decide that. I see that some one has "defended Mr. Schneider’s case in the Mirror. His 3 lads away, ought to be good enough for anyone. Dr. Breitner (Austrian) has also come under the "Lime-light. Good Enough!
La Guerre! (The War) it’s no Bon as Frenchies always tell us. There’s enough men here to eat the world & then start on Mars. Very few comparatively have ever seen the firing-line- too many "Dead-heads & tons of "Cold-feet- it’s marvellous.
Surprised to hear of Jack Ashley & his money-grabbing in the football line! I didn’t think he was a lad of that calibre. ‘Spose this game is rather dangerous eh! - League not in boom amongst [indecipherable]
Read about the mess Bruce Ferguson got himself into, gambling in the Bootmaker’s Shop, Rose & Cove Sts. Good enough for them. The Magistrate told him almost, that he was a [indecipherable]
Oh, the "Anzac Books! Yes, in the first place I ordered 2 to go Home from Serapeum but somehow or other, they mislaid all our lists, & did not refer again to the matter till some time after we got here. I ordered one to go Home & some to Melbourne. Could only get three altogether. Hope they’ll soon reach you, as everything is right now.
Am still Billeted not far from "Bogey- came as a surprise, as I thought we’d go to another village further away. Have already seen him twice & had lunch with him. Must pay him a visit again tomorrow, if I’m still here. One does not know the minute he’ll be told to pack up & "Imshy back to the firing-line, tho’ goodness knows there’s enough Austn. regiments here now to let us have a bit of a rest (the rest we get, is "thrill by numbers, route marches, bayonet practise; & so on- it’s "some rest I can assure you. It’s just as well I s’pose, as we’d soon get [indecipherable] )
Well my Dear Parents & Sisters, shall have to wind-up this now if I’m to get any more away. All is well with me. Don’t worry over what I’ve told you here, as millions are getting the same gruel on all the Fronts. Kind regards to all Kind friends you see or write to
Much Love to you all Harrie X X.

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Envelope numbered 31 and addressed to Mr & Mrs Cave as before, postmarked 27 June 1916.

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No. 32 "In support
Somewhere in Northern France.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Glad to say that everything is still alright with me. We are still a few miles away from the Firing-line, tho’ easily within range of the "Huns, but in a few days I expect we’ll be going in again for the real "tickle. I don’t want you to worry in the least- everything will come out right, God Willing. X The "job I am on now (with a small party from No.4 Platoon) is a "bisker after the gruelling time we’ve just gone thro’. We have nothing to do in the mornings at all. Work starts at 1 pm & finishes between 7 & 8 pm- treis bon! Our duty is to help the Engineers load up the wagons with material for the trenches. We are then free till same time next day. The pity is that there’s generally a sudden end to all these good things. Tomorrow we are expecting to be told to join up with the Company again, & we won’t like that, tho’ there’s nothing definite yet X Frank "Bogey is only about a mile from here, & I visit him often. He is still stationed in the same town as he was when we first went into the Firing-line, - on April 19th last. He is getting "fatter every time I see him. The job he’s got is a "cushy one. Besides looking after the Y.MCA Hut, (with canteen, Reading Room & Writing Room, etc) he also runs a "Movie Show, which is very popular with those lucky enough to be Billeted in or near the town. "Charlie Chaplin & other favourites are shown every night at 7 pm, (finishing at 8.30 pm, so as to allow everyone to be in Billet by 9 pm) & The admission for Soldiers is 1/2 Franc (5d)- Officers 1 Franc (10d.) X We are still in luck’s way at this place- the River Lys runs past our very door, & I make daily use of it for a swim, which comes in very nice after our long absence from a real bath. It runs pretty fast near the Lock (nearly all the French Rivers appear to be provided with these) – especially after rain- & "swimming the Rapids is exciting sport. I initiated this thrill the other morning by gradually getting nearer to the falls & letting their force carry me down stream till the eddies brought me round in almost a 1/2 circle. To look at the

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2. "bubbling & busting water from the banks, you’d think a fellow would be sucked down under, but I upset that little theory the first go off. The thrill is some thing like getting on a breaker, but it doesn’t last long enough. This River also runs thro’-----? (where "Bogey is now) & also thro’-----?, where such heavy fighting was some time ago. It is not a wide stream, (only 15-20 yds here) but carries a heavy barge traffic for many miles. Canals run into it from various towns, & I believe it’s possible to go to the Coast in this way. The barges are drawn by horses (2) from the banks, but the modern ones are driven by motor. Sometimes a Barge-tug (combination) is seen with 7 or 8 strung behind. Fast military Motor-Launches go up & down all day long, some being very fine models, built for Ocean-travel. X Along the main road to A----- (in front of us) is a never ending conglomeration of vehicles, nearly all being used in this terrific struggle. Great big lumbering Motor-wagons loaded up with Food Stuffs, ammunition etc., fast motor-cars, (loaded with generals etc.) motor cycles, caterpillar motors, for drawing guns over muddy & uneven fields & bad roads) Horse-drawn wagons, carts, -in fact anything that can be moved faster than a walk, is used for something. On the Railway line too, are the trains loaded with material & food. Armored-trains are also seen now & again. X Up aloft, during the fine weather, our airmen are always busy, if not dodging thousands of shrapnel-shells, then giving "Fritz a tickle below, or spying out a good mark for our Artillery, which just now is very busy sending lots of "sleeping draughts over to the Huns. X For the last few afternoons we’ve had the grand sight of over 20 ‘planes up, at one time all near the Firing-line. Poor "Fritz is sure getting tickled now! I ‘spose if you see a ‘plane up at all over your way it’s a marvellous sight? Not so with us now, tho’ when there’s anything ‘doing’ in the fight line, it’s "all eyes on. Two "Fokkers came this way tonight (its 8 pm, tho’ the sun is still up) flying as usual, very high, but did not like the reception from our anti-air-craft guns, so "Imshied home again. As I write in this Factory, I distinctly hear the full hum of one of our’s just above, & away over can hear the thud! thud! of bursting shrapnel being fired at another- may be one of our’s or their’s. X The observation balloon still silently carries on it’s good work not far from here, but some of "Fritz’s (6 altogether) were brought down last week. He has not replaced them yet. X Have not seen a "Zepp yet, tho’ I don’t suppose they’d risk sending one this way, with so many daring airmen about, besides, all the damage one of them could do to hundreds of miles of "trenches would be nil, without considering the danger of dropping shells or bombs on to their own men below. I think I told you that one of France’s airships of "Parseval type, passed over our train near Calais while we were on that "grand tour thro’ "La Belle, March 28th – 31st last. It was a grand sight & worth seeing if only as a Novelty. X There’s lots of bother doing now, all along the "Front, as you’ll be reading in your "dailies every morning. I know your thoughts will be our way, but as I keep telling you,

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3. "Don’t worry- there’s hundreds of thousands of us, & the English, Canadian & other troops, have been thro’ some terrible engagements & emerged victorious, Can’t we? Look at our French "Comrades in arms before "Hell itself at Verdun! Could anything be worse than what they’ve encountered? They’re still unbroken X ‘Tis said the terrific bombardment that has been going lately, could be heard in "Gay Paree, & many in the English East-coast towns swear that the battle of the guns round Ypres, ("E-prees or Wipers or "Eaps- the latter name must be nearer the mark now, after such "Hell since Octo August 1st ) is also heard- I think they must be suffering from "noises in the ‘ed, tho’ it’s possible with a favourable wind I ‘spose. X The Sergt-Major of "A Coy- a fine young fellow- ("Vic Fowler) told me he had recd. a letter from Nellie Ross of Copel St North Melbourne asking him if he had met me (Mrs Young’s nephew) in the 1st Batn. X What a strange thing isn’t it? I was always in the boom with "Vic from the time we joined the Bat. at Tel-el-Kebir, & he often gave me many little clerical jobs to do, that saved a bit of sweat on the Desert at Serapeum, (Suez Canal) He’s a "Dinkum ("Landed on the Peninsh 25th April ’15) & comes from Albert Park. I spent some hours with him in his Dugout (in our last "possy) in the Firing-line, & he enlightened me somewhat with his knowledge of the Ross’s & Aunt Em. Says he’s often been a visitor to "No.27 & spent many happy hrs. What a small World after all! He’s a real soldier too, cool & steady, & looked upon with pride by the boys of "A Company. I’ve never come across a more straight-forward chap- he would not go behind one’s back to tell his opinion. X We have a few Australian Rule Footballers with us too, in "A Coy. Wal Abotomey (Easts I think) were the Kicking comp, Jack Spinks 2nd & Tommy Brownlee 3rd.- both enthusiasts in the [indecipherable] art. "Vic Taylor’s (YMCA) another, & our worthy Sgt. Major (next rank to 2nd Lieut.) – Vic Fowler – is also some class (The latter ought to be a "Capt. & the boys would go anywhere with him.) There are other players in the "Glorious First whose names do not occur to me at the moment of writing. X Ever since I was attached to 12th of 1st at Sydney (about Nov. 1915) till now, Lionel Parsons has been in same platoons as me.

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Last spasm/ It was not till yesterday, I learnt from him here, that he was a regular attender at the "Mission & Centenary Hall (new) & knows "Bob Whit Fred Henning, the Stills, Geo Roberts, etc. He is related to Arthur Ackers (now in 20th ASC) & tells me his Sister (Ackers) was married to Dave Pettigrew (now living at Rockdale.) Funny thing, it was Lionel that first struck "Bogey in L-----, when Frank was asking 4 me, (having seen the black & green bars) & it was I who first came across Andy Pettigrew in the same place. (the Soldiers’ Club)
Well my Dear Parents, I shall have to hurry up now & get this posted in case we go back tomorrow.
Recd. Les Nuttall’s 3 papers a day or two ago, for which I must thank him later. "Clarrie Back & Dorrie are still very kind to me, & I would like you to thank them personally if you come across them, the same applies to Mrs Whitnall & "Bob, & Mrs, Elsie, & Flo’ Brown. It’s nice to have such sincere friends, who don’t forget when one gets out of sight.
Recd. a letter from Grandma & Aunt & Maggie during the week, which I have already answered.
Am hoping that the letters from the Canal & France (that were held up purposely while we were being transported) have been deld. long before this & are now following in regular order. Don’t 4get to let me know what kind of passage the Censor gives them- it’s very interesting 2 me, as such trivial things (to us) are deleted, while "Yankee scare-mongers & English magazine writers are allowed to come to the "Front, & tell all about [indecipherable] devastated towns, & villages (illustrated) & all sorts of ‘informaish –"not? useful 2 the enemy, while we who have to do the dirty work are hardly allowed to say anything. X Today is Sunday 8 pm July 2nd & all’s well. Many thanks for Parcel & useful things inside recd. intact). Don’t 4get my wish – "Send no more (we are able to buy all we require) X Am hoping Mother & Father are still well- same with the girls.
Love & Best Wishes 2 you all. Harrie
[Printed on side of page]: Send plenty of Letters-nothing else reqd. H.

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Envelope numbered 32 addressed as before to Mr & Mrs Cave and date posted illegible.

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No. 33 (Spasm One) "Somewhere in France.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Since No 32 was written, I have travelled many miles, & this is the first chance I’ve had of writing you, for 10 days. Even now, we are only stationed in the village, being on our way to a place I cannot disclose, - even if I knew it. X I tipped pretty correct when I said the "job I was on, would not last long, & so it turned out. We left the "Convalescent Home for tired swaddies last Tues morn, & were quite sorry to bid it Au Revoir, after such a good time X Saw "Bogey as I was passing his branch of the YMCA Depot at ----- X Aunt Ciss kindly sent me a parcel of good things. I am very thankful to her, & have already replied X I am now att’chd to the Batn. Orderley Room as a "Clark, but old address is still "OK: please pass it on to old friends; they don’t like us giving the part’cs too often in letters, or dates either, compre? I’ll very likely be with the old mates on "der tag. X Met young Wal Schneider of 2nd (store m’gr’s son) , Young McNamara (Artillery)- lives next Mr Moore, Louisa Rd- also "Mick & "Bill Greathead of D’moyne (Sons of tailor) both in the Inf. All were OK X Yesterday came across Jack Kemp of Reuss St. He’s in same Batn. as self- a Corpl- but this was the first time I have seen him. You might remr. any of these lads to visitors- they are "A1 X The Country we have come thro’ is looking beautiful. Crops of wheat, rye, barley, oats etc, just sprouting when we lobbed here, are all now breast-high everywhere. The big trees are in full foliage, & just lovely to look upon. From the flat regions, we have come to one of rolling hills & forests, which puts one much in mind of parts of "Noo Sowth & Vic I have cycled over. Oh, for that happy time again! The days are still hanging out till 9 pm which is so strange to us. At 3 am daylight comes again, & glad to say the weather still holds good, tho’ it rains "mud now &

[Written on side of page:] again which is no bon for the INF. ‘Spose the Kicky’s & all the boys are here now. Am keeping a strict look-out for them & I have recd. Dad’s bosker budget written on my Birthday (May 7th) also Mother’s great letter of 2/5/16, both of which I will answer in "Spasm Two. Don’t worry over me. All’s still well thank God. Hope same of all at Home. (Today is Wed July 12th ’16-4pm) Much Love to everyone Harrie X

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(No 33 – 2nd spasm)
(Abroad – "Touring on the ‘Consy-nory’)

My Dear Mother, Father and sisters

Continuing from the 1st spasm – have just a few minutes to spare while there’s a lull in the Orderly Room. I think I told you before, that I was attached to the Bat (First) Clerical Staff, having started last Thursday week – today is Fri (3pm) July 14th – The old address as I said before, will always find me, just the same. Vic Fowler of Melb – now Regt Sergeant Major, - (a great friend of Mrs Ross’s and Aunt Em’s) got me the job. I did not ask for it, in fact all along, I’d rather have been with the lads I’ve had as sectn mates so long. I may go back to them at ant time, as Clerical work in the field is up to "Jok[?] – too much night work as usual and no time to one’s self. Letters may be fewer now in consequence, that is, if they prevail on me to stay. Don’t think because I’m pen-pushing again that I’m away from the ‘stoush’ – oh no! The H’Quarters is generally immediately behind the "Line – (front line) and is the object – or the region is – for lots of "whizz-bangs, high-explosives etc. When the great advance comes for the Cornstacks – we’re getting "somme closer – I’ll very likely be in it with Cook’s, "bottle-washers and the boys, and you can bet "Fritz and the "Sauerkrauters will get something to hurry them onto the "Rhine – they’re on the way there now – fast! The reason I’m in at this mo. (Censor of course) is quite a change to the lowlands of the Coastal parts of Northern "La Belle, where we have just come from. The rolling hills with Valleys – everywhere cultivated, as usual – puts me much in mind of some of our lovely scenery in and around the County of Cumberland – Campbelltown, Camden, etc – The lovely high trees bordering the main roads and hedges are the admiration of all, as they’re now looking

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2.
at their very best - and why shouldn’t they! You ought to see (and feel) the rain they get here! If Australia only got 1/4 the rainfall yearly that France gets, no country on this earth could hold her for production. Irrigation (they have it here with their hundreds of connecting Canals, is after all, the only solution to our greatest trouble. These canals are everywhere in the lowlands, and carry a big traffic of barges (shallow draught) which help to relieve the work of the railways. They’re slow of course, but most useful. All along the banks are magnificent avenues of high trees and a road too. I am not longing for a Winter here (S’pose Oct-Nov will start it) so can’t say what the scenery then will be – quite a transformation I expect! May our God above end this world madness ere that time comes – it’s "no bon: for anyone. The only people who don’t want this war to end, are those in "Cushy jobs way back at the Bases, who have not heard the real sound of a howitzer a fun, and only know what a "Trench is like from Picture-books they’re seen. On yes, there’s many thousands of those kind here and elsewhere. "The man in the Street is another who of course, must be satisfied. It’s he who wants to know "why the Allies are not now over the Rxxxx. Gee it’s funny! I’ve heard ‘em. They ought to come here and see, and hear, and dodge the terrible death-dealing devices modern man has invented to stop and kill, or main his opponent – they’re the work of the Devil and if this is not the Armageddon, will then, God save us from the sights of that time. People can sit back in their rocking chairs by the Fire-side, or in the sunshine in gardens and criticise the why and the wherefores of army movements, but what insignificants they (and we) are, alongside the millions engaged in this "terrific struggle. It must surely bring to bear against the "engineers of this world – they[?] move, the rewards they have reaped for their sins. Oh while I think of it, I must answer Dad’s splendid "communiqué of May 7th while I think of it, right now - . Thanks so much for Kind regards on my Birthday – getting olds "Quist I? You’ll have learned ere now how I put that memorable Day in. I rem’r it well (and the days before and after it). Dodging and crouching in the reserve trenches in our Billet ground while the "Hun sent over the "whizz-bangs and other shells. Yes, it was

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3.
a very critical time for us. You ought to have seen the old Farm-house after we finally "imshied! Sleeping inside, after they stopped for the eve, (it’s dangerous for the artillery to open up in the dusk or night as the flash from their guns is seen by observers) was risky but one forgets these things when tired and weary, so takes a chance. So glad (as usual) to learn that No 17 and Cards (the last from the Canal) reached you "OK. Am wondering if those from France have been delivered intact. Very anxious to know. Would not be surprised to learn that they’d been opened by "Mr Censor. As I say so often, "don’t worry – you’ll get old quick enough without that. Live in hope of a "sweet peace to come – in the near future I hope, as does everyone else. Yes, I do miss the daily swims across the Suez Canal – they were "tress bon! Was awfully sorry to hear of Archies illness. He’s very unlucky and I must sympathise with him. Do hope he’s over the trouble now. Regards to him and his people. Very pleased to know that Dad gets plenty of work at the "Island. Hope that happy state continues. I head from a paper of the accident to one of the V.O.Co staff – Mr Cook of Melb’ne Office was killed on the City Rd North Melb, while on his motor-bike. I can’t make Jack Mullins out either – I write to his people regular and have no letters from him. Am always delighted to hear you speak (per letter of course) of the new "Farm and the "Ville, and pleased to know that it’s now your "long suit. What a good time you can spend in and about the grounds! You’ve certainly got o good "cop, even without the plank, tiles etc, contained in "the block. "Tress bon! (Very good, in French) – pronounced "Tray bon. Very glad to know that you are getting on the track of a horse to go on the Land. That will be good. My block and the [?] can go and the best price you can obtain for it, and the money go into the new ‘domicile’. Gladesville must be giving promise of big things according to all accounts re new shops etc, and there’s a "bit of a war on too! Glad that Les’s last earthly resting place is the admiration of

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4.
all visitors – that’s grand to know. Hoping to visit it myself again ere this terrible year closes. So good of Bob Whit to send along Hymn-sheet per your letter. Thanks! Now don’t forget! Send less newspapers, save expense. I really havn’t the time to read 1/2 of those sent, as everyday we are in a different place. The same applies to parcels – I have as much as I can manage with already. You’re got no idea what a weight we in the Infantry have to carry every time we move. Besides extras in the pack, there’s one blanket and waterproof sheet, overcoat, Rifle, bayonet, water bottle (always full), haversack (with Bully-beef and Bisquits - and other things-) Gas helmets(2), Steel-helmet (very heavy on pack) Mess-tin and heaviest of all is the 150 rounds of bullets, which we must always have "aboard. You can hardly imagine the weight when all’s ready for the road. Er generally have to "pad 10 to 12 miles at a stretch, and its no joke here on the hard road and in all weathers. Many cannot manage it with thin feet and the weight gets us all "dead-beat. For 4 days now we’ve "padded the hills and dales of this part of France, and there’s no saying when we’ll stop – perhaps we have to go on Somme more, as the Line is receding towards Belgium and we can hardly keep up with the Rush. The ASC, AMC , Engineers, Transports, and other arms will always enlarge on their terrible lot – all say they are in the worst jobs – but if they can tell me that they’re got to put up with more than the men of the Line (Infantry) I’ll raise my hat to them. Ha! Ha! ASC’s, AMC’s! You never see them within miles of the Firing-Line. "Cushy jobs, good times, no worry as to what the next meal will be, plenty of sleep – oh, it’s too funny to hear ‘em talk! They’ll never say much when an Infantryman is about and beware of terrible tales from those fellows. Of course, they can’t be done without – all have their "jobs to do (but do they do them??) The men of the "Leet Horse always lead the way in processions – will they when we come back? Still keep meeting the "cobbers. Percy Lazouby (4th Bn.) was here in the town with me, and Jack Hawkes is writing along with[?] me in the Orderly Room. Others you don’t know still keep turning up daily. I think all Aust. must be here now. D’ed I tell you that I had rec’d a big batch of "Newsies in Spasm No 1 – From Dad, "Sunday Times, 30/4 and 7/5th [?] 26/4th, D T 1/5th and from Elsie "Truths 23rd and "Sportsman 26/4th and today from [?] "D T 6/5th – so you see I’m not doing to badly, the only trouble is that there were 12 other papers from various friends and 2 more today with yours.

[Continued on side of page]
From below – The mail is just closing here now, Padre (Capt Chaplain Ashley-Brown) is busy censoring so Bon Santé (good health) to you all and Au Revoir! With much Love Harold.

[Page 130]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
Mr & Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Rd
Balmain
Sydney
N.S.W.
Australia

[Page 131]
No 34

On the way to ?
"Somme-where in France

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,

Once more the Batn. Has chosen a Sunday to move off, and in consequence I am late again in writing to you. We have just finished an 8 mile march with all our belongings on our backs, along worn roads, and in the dust. It was a grand day to be out – something similar to our nice spring days – but the pleasure is always taken out of the beauty and surroundings, by the thought of work to be done when we arrive at temporary (we are still on the "go) destination, and the sore back and shoulders (some suffer with their feet also) caused by our heavy load. I am still wringing-wet with the sweat brought out by the exertion – it went almost thro’ to the "goods inside the canvas "pack. This part of France is not too bad, as there’s plenty of hills (don’t the "I.N.F. know it!) and valleys. We passed thro’ several lovely woods or Forests, which are now at their very best. The regular rows of trees and the undergrowth, is in full foliage, and gives one the impression of a Botanical Gardens, as you approach it along the road, looking across breast-high crops, - also a picture! From what I can see of the ‘woods’, they appear to me to have been planted by the Govt as most of the trees are in rows right thro’ in regular order. They are not very extensive as a rule – perhaps 1/4 mile thro’, by 1 mile in length – but must be terrible obstacles to an advancing army. It’s a great pity the Austn. Govt does not bring about laws to stop the dreadful cutting down of our timber, more than they are now doing. ‘Timber-reserves’ such as we see in France, must be a big asset. Nothing is wasted here, the undergrowth is cut (in Season), and sold in faggotts about the villages for fuel in the long winter months. Just now, thousands of tons are used by the Military to give "body to roads in the mud, for the carriage of

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2.
heavy guns, ammunition, stores etc. Last night we had the thrill of the loud dull hum of a ‘Zepp’ above us. I was lying half asleep at the time in our "Orderly Room (a school-room with brick-floor-Boy’s school it was) was thinking of you all at home and what you’d be doing then (12 midnight here, 9 am this morning in Sydney – according to our new time) when I caught the sound of bursting bombs not far away. I thought it was a number of our ‘planes from the Aerodrome just near, practising in the Dark, but I soon realised that it was something more serious than that, when our air-craft guns nearby opened up. Going into the "playground, I saw the numerous powerful searchlights all round, trying to "pick up the marauder. She must have been very high, as no sign could be seen with the naked-eye, but the hum of powerful engines (like several ‘planes "up together) told her direction. She did not drop any "pills on us luckily, but the shrapnel and shell-cases from one of our batteries, came down at a terrific rate in and around and the garden alongside the école (School). I did not stay long in the cold air, so I only had a shirt on, and "shut-eye was favorite, as we in the ‘Office’ did not finish till nearly 11 pm (or 23.00 – "twenty three double oh as they say here) with the orders that came in re our "trek today. They say that many of the [?] folk of the village (we almost bought it out, the day we arrived) would not venture in-side till well into the morning for fear of the "Ship returning. Several of our battle-planes went up, but was in the "Land of Dreams when they returned. Several of our officers got "Buckshee trips into the sky while we were near the sheds and all seem delighted. The ‘planes round here are "Somme (very appropriate to this region), the big ‘battle’ ones especially being ‘beauts’ – Hullo!!!! here’s a mail, or part of the last one! wait til I run thro’ them – they’re better to me than a good feed. – My word that’s fine! Five came thro’, and I feel light-hearted and content, tho’ always thirst for more, and soon as I finish – you can write too much. This is Sunday 19.00 (7 pm – still beaut daylight) July 16th. The letters before me are:- Father’s and Mother’s combined 21/5th, Lizzie 20/5th, Elsie 21/5th and 3 from other friends. I rec’d 6 also in the town we’re just left. Father’s budget is as usual a ‘bosker’ – tons of "nous-vo he says. Everything is news to me, no matter how trivial to you at Home. Tut it along – Sorry to hear of long delay in delivery of my first letter, those following, from France, but trust that ere now you’re been put at ease. There was nothing in any of them transgressing the

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3.
Censor’s Orders, so I don’t think he could destroy any. Some had already reached Melbourne, that I wrote during the first fortnight, and I can’t understand why yours had not been delivered up till the end of May. Never mind, you must not worry, all will come out right in time. Yes, I thought the papers would beat us by many weeks as to our whereabouts, but it says much for the Military organisation, that the transportation was kept secret so long. Furlough was given to a good many of the "Dinkums (Anzacs) to visit the "Old Dart, but it has all stopped now, as they shall have to wait some future date if the war (La Guevre) is not over soon. The 12th Rifles will have a long wait for their turn, so I don’t expect to have the luck this year unless – ? Thanks to Mrs Standowick’s address in Walworth – it may be useful yet. Fancy the boys of the "Whizz-bang Dept ("Puddin Atkins, Harold Cartwright etc) going to the "Old Dart – news indeed! Have had no luck in striking them yet, tho’ may stumble across one of their batteries one of these days. They are always well hidden in fields etc, when it’s their turn in, to back up the INF. Was surprised to hear of Les Nuthall’s donning of the Kharki. He’s gone to a new unit eh? I can see tons of work (hard manual stuff) for him and those in the Pioneer-Engineers Batn. They’ll be working in and about the Communication Trenches, the Front-line, and Dugouts when it’s their turn "in, and will get lots of work making "trestles for trenches, frames for dugouts, +’s for the departed and other useful work now being done by the men of the Line, (Inf) with Sapper and Engs as the "lookers-on. Yes, I can assure you the skinny-legging mob (army unit) don’t do too much "yakka, when they can have the Inf Ordered to do it for them. The Poor Inf! Besides standing the brunt of all attacks by the enemy, enemy artillery, etc they have to clear the way for bayonet, rifle and bombs, when our side start the airraids – over No Man’s Land, into trenches (barricades really) dugouts, Saps and across all kind of ground under intense fire. It’s to be hoped our branch gets its due reward (the pride of place in all ceremonies) when this horrible strife is

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4.
over. What unit has Joe Dodd gone to? It is true that Holly has [gone] into Camp too? Very pleased to learn of you great work on "A[?] selection (as Els’ says) and the progress with the plans for the Domicile. Am anxious to learn result of your efforts with the foot and H Nel[?] re plans etc. Hope the Strawberries and other fruit is in full bloom when I return. You’ll be able to sell lots of flowers in the Market on o/cs.

So delighted to hear that Thelma is growing so big and progressing nicely with the "jo-anna. Must while away some lonely hours to see her plays – I’m looking 4ward to the happy time when I can listen once again to Les. – Those chaps going "Home to learn Submarine building for the C’wealth Govt. are on a sure pod wicket – only 250 a year!

Glad Mrs Porter got my letter. You see I always keep my promises. So many people asked me to write before I left, that I made a list up, and sent im word as opportunity came. I don’t think I have 4gotten any, - no to my memory anyhow of course, they may not expect a letter very often as that’s more than I could possibly do even with an assistant. I don’t mind writing when we’re not on the move, but just now, it’s "no bon for me having to carry completed letters about in my pockets for days, waiting for a chance to dispatch, as I get wet with sweat (caused by the hard marches) and are thereby spoiled. Tell all my kin and friends to be patient if they’re kept waiting, (If you partly understand the position I’m in) as I lose no opportunity to reply to anything they send me, - letters, papers etc. You’ll know by the various letters what my wishes are regarding parcels, (Don’t sent ‘em!). My papers (go steady – one now and again of the Locals). The "sox and mits stu[?] food, in case we’re here for the Winter – don’t post them too early, as we’re not able to carry them round (too much to look after already). Oct the "shivery spasm on this side, so you can use your own judgment.

Would ask you to rem’r me Kindly (as usual) to all enquiring friends and give my best respects. Am trusting that all is well with you as it is with me just now.

Much Love and "Bon Santé (sonlay) to everyone of you

Loving son and Bro
Harold xx

Enclosed a "Bully-Beef Souvenir.

[Written on side of page]
Will reply to Mother and the girls on Post Cards which I hope you’ll get – also those sent previously. H.

[Page 135]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
No. 34
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Rd
Balmain
Sydney
N.S.W.
Australia

[Page 136]
"Somewhere
in France

My Dear Parents,

This is just a very hurried note, written in a late Hun Dugout while shells are whistling and screaming all round.

I am dirty and unshaven, not having washed or shaved for 3 days.

Everything is alright, tho’ we are on the brink of Hell.

Am trusting in God Almighty to bring us out "OK. His will be done.

May be relieved in a few days tho’ nothing is certain.

There’s tons of souvenirs and material in and about here, that will take months to remove. Just above me are a battery of guns (4 in No.) left in the retreat together with thousands of shells untouched. ‘Fritz’ is just over the next rise and getting "Hell from our artillery.

Will try and write you No 35 on Sunday if at all possible. (Today Sat July 22nd ’16)

Enclosed a German Lts Regt. No (R$28 and a Postcard found here with mud

Love to you all –

Don’t worry,

Harrie xx.

[Page 137]
No 35

Still in France –
"Somme-where

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,

God Almighty has once more willed it, that I should be able to write you again, after being in an Earthly Hell for 6 Days, – a Hell I never wish to be near again. If the real one is worse than what we’ve just been permitted to come out of, well God help us!

My mind is full of dreadful scenes and noises appear to have taken possession of my head. How I’m to make a letter out of this without alarming you, I know not. You must allow a good deal for the excited state in which I am – and above all, Don’t Worry!

Since I wrote No 34, and the cards that have gone between these, a whole life-time seems to have flown, but in reality, it’s only a few days.

We left W---- on Wed afternoon (July 19th) for the new firing-line, in "Battle Order (Haversack – with 2 tins "bully-beef and 8 bisquits – and Water-bottle, both strapped on back, entrenching-tool, 250 rounds ammunition, 2 gas-helmets, 1 steel-helmet (shrapnel protection) and 3 sand bags a piece) per boot – a distance of about 10 – 12 miles. Tea was had out of the moving-Kitchen outside the ruined town of -----. The wonderful and remarkable hanging statue of the Madonna and Child, which once graced the steeple-top of the Basilique (Church) was passed as we went thro the City. This phenomenon must be one of the wonders of the Great War, as after many bombardments and direct hits on to the tower, this statue of the Virgin and Child is not yet destroyed. Looking above as we came under it, we see more still how remarkable the position is. I sent you several P/C’s of this place just before going into the "Line, which will explain better than these troubled words of mine, if you get them "OK. The statue is in gold and lovely colors, and must be nearly 150 feet above the

[Page 138]
Level of the street, over which it hangs at a dangerous angle. The Church itself is badly damaged, as also is pretty well every house or building left standing. Passing on, we reach the trenches lately occupied by the British and French for such a long period just outside the town. Further on, evidence of the "great push meet our eyes. Great shell-craters, (15’ deep x 20’ across), small ones, twisted and buried barbed-wire, equipment, and other goods, are at every step. It must have been a terrible time for all. As we reach the late "Hun trenches, the "Hell that must have been let loose, is more evident. Their trenches were apparently never meant to have been left. Great deep Dugouts, strongly supported and lined with heavy timbering were crushed and crumpled like paper. What a heart break it must have been for "Fritz to leave such quarters – and at the "ickery too! Darkness was creeping over as we entered the valley, and shells were "plonking uncommonly close at times. We were not to fresh by the time our positions were taken up, at 11pm but the long and weary vigil had to be commenced. I was still with the Orderly Room, and our quarters were in the Reserve Line. The old Coy ("A) had gone further on about a mile, to the new Front, where Fritz, Hans, Otto and Coy were bust "digging in and improving their "temporary home. The ridge where I was, once (not so very long ago either) protected our formidable enemy from Artillery-fire. It was a wonderful network of defence, and must have caused the "Hun officers many big and deep sighs, as their Infantry (swept back by the wonderful "Tommies in attack) retired to take up new "possies, which meant that they too, must fall into line as their communications would soon be cut. To describe the places we beheld, would take me longer than I can spare just now – (the mail is closing in this sleepy village, -"Somme-where - at 5pm so I must hurry. It is 3.30 now). A rough description will have to do. Near the top of the ridge, were 2 Batteries of "Whiz-bangs, (4 in each battery) still intact and in position (breech only removed). All round was ammunition in thousands. (Three shell in a special basket was how it was found.) They must have gone in a terrible hurry, as the shells were all ready for use along side the guns. Thousands of empty baskets and shell-cases told of the work the guns had been doing. Leading from the batteries, were steps to the deep Dugouts or dungeon and to the ammunition shaft. The "Dugouts told a pitiful tale of confusion! These places were 20 to 30 feet deep into the hill-side. Deep wood-trenches, wire-netting on top, Duck-board to walk on, and then iron plating protecting the Dugout itself, this told of wonderful activity by the Huns during the long spell they had. But inside our eyes were opened still more. One had to walk down 35 or more wood-shafts (sides and top all timbered and stayed with iron bands) to get to the floor. Here we see a[?] table, chairs, bunks, (arranged like on ship-board) with spring mattresses and bed-c[?]. Telephones (to Batteries above and other parts) speaking tubes, and electric light (supplied by

[Page 139]
dry-cells. Some had carpet on the floor and must have been used by Generals or other of high rank. I sent you a German P/C, Regt No. and envelope found in the Dugout I was in, which I hope will reach you. Out of the sap was a Cook-house, the like of which would be hard to beat. It was made of concrete and brick built into a knoll. You went down a dozen or more Concrete steps to get to the floor. There was a hugh-boiler, stove and coffee urn all in position. Electric light also fitted there. These "Huns must have done some dirty work round about here in the captured French villages. Doors with glass and blinds attached, table-cloths, and other household effects, besides Women’s clothing, we also found here. Books on "Kultier and other "Hun works were lying round in great disorder, besides maps, letters, parcel-wrapping from the Fraus in Germany, equipment - and lots of odds and ends. There were Dugouts like these for every battery - and the ridge was alive with them. One gun they tried to remove, was caught by one of the British shells, and is still upside-down across one of the trenches (I don’t think they’ll be able to return for it, or the others either). The magazine was another fine work. One had to go nearly 50’ down steps to reach the floor (of concrete) where was stacked in baskets (3 in basket) the shells that were to send some-one to "shut-eye. I’m afraid they’ll be used against themselves, as other weapons of there’s are at present.

Our first night in, was only a poor sample of days and nights that followed. I spent a damp and shivery 5 hours in a little Dugout, only big enough to sit in. "Fritz with his artillery, was still pounding away at the ridge with allsorts of shells – no wonder the "Tommies were in a hurry to "Imshq all of the place! Many of them plonked and thumped into the hill-side, just near where I was, others went screaming, hissing, and moaning overhead – a little further on. Oh it was horrible. To make the position worse, he sent over many Lachrymatory or weeping-gas shells, which caused a lot of trouble to those in immediate vicinity. I had one burst very close, but by applying a piece of the gas-helmet to the nose and closing the eyes, I got over it alright. – The view of the Countryside at daybreak was almost heart-breaking, I will remember the awfulness of

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4.
the sight of the shining sands of Egypt in the flaming Sun, but I think this ran it close for lack of beauty. Down in the little Valley below us were nothing else but shell holes – every yard meant one or more. It was as if ploughed by a mighty machine. On the next rise the same sight, only with the addition of whitish-earth in patches, which showed up terribly in the sun, not a blade of grass or vegetation was seen, with exception of 2 or 3 parts of trees. On our immediate right was once the pleasant and peaceful village of which nestled (prior to Oct ’14) amidst the trees. All you see now, is heaps of whitish material, which might have been bricks or mud-houses once. The trees are now only such by name – just mere sticks, bereft of foliage. To rear of this some distance, was the village of La B---- so the map said anyhow. It is harder to find than "soos. About 11/2 miles away, (from Reserve Line) to our left, was the "Anzacs objective – the wood and village of P----. This peace like [?] others presented a sorry sight! While "Fritz was shelling us, our hundreds of guns did likewise to this region – only more so. The intensity of fire increased as days went by – we lost count, as sleep was impossible, with death lurking about so near. One day, Lt Col Hearne (our Com’dg Officer) told us, that late that night (really very very early next day) we were to take the woods and village, which had been a stumbling block for so long. Never will I forget our artillery, and the effect on that already battered heap of material to our left front, as "15 inchers, immerse [?] bombs and other devilish instruments went over, with such deadly accuracy. Hundreds of tons of earth and stuff was sent 50 feet or more, into the air at each explosion. Maybe death would be preferable to this! "Could anyone live there? was what we asked ourselves.

The dreadful hour came quickly. "The first wave will prepare to advance was the order that went down the trench as the boys of "A Coy waited with their Bayonet, beneath the parapet. "Advance!! followed almost immediately, and away into "No man’s Land, some grand lads – comrades all. Two more "waves went and I went with the Colonel and Adjutant with them. Meanwhile the Artillery to our rear (hundreds of guns) increased their awful fire, till the sky was lit up all around with flashes as bright and as dreadful, as vivid lightning. "Fritz sent up lots of star shells which combined to make a more terrible effect. I hardly remember the incident of "hopping over, but I know that by some reason or other I lost the line and found myself alone, with bayonet still at the "short-carry. Next thing I recollect was stumbling into what I thought was a shell-crater, but really the German First-line. Facing me were 3 "Huns below – I soon came to my

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5.
senses at their sight, and made ready to defend or offend, whichever it was to be. "Hopping in I found no movement from any of them – they were already (in soul) in the next world, before the Creator. I could hardly bury my scattered thoughts together and stood as if Dumb. Yes, it was an awful sight, and I pray to God Almighty I shall not have to behold another such. At this moment another Batn. came over and joined in a party who were "Digging-in for their lives, making a Comn. trench between our’s and "Fritz’s. The position were all taken by our boys, who excelled themselves. We worked harder than even in our history, getting the battered Hun trenches down as deep as possible while it was still night. – I must turn this off now, as time is up and I must not lose this opportunity.

Rec’d following letters in the Firing Line –

Dad’s of 4/6/16 )
Mother’s of 30/5/16 ) For which I owe you lots of thanks
Thelma’s of 30/5/16 )

Will reply as soon as poss. We are still marching about over La Belle and have not been more than one day in any place.

Kind regards to all kind friends and relations

Hope all’s well as it is with me

Much Love to you all

Harrie X

[Page 142]
Sorry I haven’t the time to fill this up.

[Page 143]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Rd
Balmain
Sydney
N.S.W.
Australia

[Page 144]
No 36.

In France
"Somme-where???

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,

Continuing from last letter, (No 35) I must tell you further, of the "Anzac dash during our recent turn in the Firing-line. Before I commence, I must answer and acknowledge more letters from Home – Father’s grand 18/6th, Lizzies’ 6/6th, Elsies’ 19/6th, all rec’d while on bivouac on the night of Thurs last. I was so pleased to get them, that tho’ half asleep at the time under a tree in the open, I lit a candle and read them with delight. Today I rec’d another letter from Elsie dated 11/6th so I am doing alright. I will answer the girls’ on Post Cards as they will help in the collection you are making. You’ll notice the haphazard fashion in which I am posting the Cards – often with no information on them – but my reason is to get as many to you as possible. Of course you know we are forbidden to write about the places we visit, but most of them I can send you, represent villages, towns and other scenes I’ve been lucky enough to see. From the Firing-line I sent you a P/C and a Ref. No, as German Souvenirs. I have another Card here that I got from the trenches we captured on that memorable Sat-Sunday (July 11 and 23rd) – hope you get them alright I would liked to have sent you a Prussian helmet with spike and one of their round caps, but I doubt whether they’d have ever reached you.

Now to Dad’s – as usual – splendid letter this I left over from last week! (Date 4/6th)

How nice to know that at last the letters, cards and Anzac Souvenirs I sent from France in early April, reached you intact. This knowledge puts my mind at rest, as I also was worrying over their delivery. I’m glad you still continue to tell me the Nos of the letters you secure, as the "running list I carry with me, tells at a glance, where and when I wrote them.

Yes, Is’pose the "hold-up in the mail delivery was rather annoying but I think it will all be plain sailing now – Do let me know if the Censor

[P.S. on side of page]
P.S. If you come across any of the Miss Peacks, Mrs and Bob Whit or the Brown Family, I’d like you to thank them personally for their great kindness to me. I can hardly keep up ack’s the many favors I receive from them. Kind remembrances to Mrs [?] and Mr and Mrs Callam [?] , Garden, Thomsons (T[?] and Nell) and all others in Melb and [?] you wish to see. [indecipherable] [indecipherable] Harrie.

[Page 145]
2.
obliterates anything from my letters – all these little things are of interest to me. You’ll notice that I am numbering those Cards, where names of places are taken out. I am doing this because I have another "running list stating full particulars against the number. Some say I hope to talk to you all about things God willing. In the meantime I am keeping well within orders, as sheets issued to us and not transgressing the Declaration on the "green envelopes which are now and again issue to us.

The feelings of you in Australia, on hearing the British Admiralty’s report on the Jutland Battle, was much the same as over here, when the first result came thro’. I had to go very "crook on some of my Sydney mates for their lack of faith and trust in our wonderful Navy. They made a terrible song about it as soon as the disconcerting early news came thro’ and didn’t know, but I felt very confident, notwithstanding the apparent black report. I had the laugh and sneer on them later, when a clearer a/c came thro’. The tragic in S[?] K of K was another knock, but from letters I rec’d in the mail, you in Aust appear to have been more effected than we, I suppose we had enough, horror of our own, in and about the Fire-zone to outweigh others that continually came. The Huns also have lost some War Lords – Von der Golk and that other square her[?] – "what’shisname?, so you must not lose heart so easily. It’s the price, (or p[?] of it) that Britain and the Allies are paying for this terrible job of protecting the smaller Nations from the bullying and humiliation of these terrible "months. Yes, the "stunt aat Verdun has been a real Hell – (we had a task in [?]) and God must be with the wonderful French. We are not so very far from that place, now that we are away from the lowlands. Can’t say when we’ll go back as we are still a "Mobile Corps – you know what that means? Sent here and everywhere as conditions require. It’s clear alright – but not for the INF. It has meant many many miles of marching with full packs to us, and the roads are very hard and dusty.

I am terribly pleased to hear of the progress you are making towards the new Home and Farm at Gladesville – Don’t fail to make an urgent use of the Land at Chatswood, if money is wanted to go on with. You’ll have my precious letters in regard to this matter. Don’t consider me at all, - go right ahead!

Holidays for us!! Gee, we hardly know one day from another! My Diary is the only guide I have. By the way, it is already filled with tiny hieroglyphics, and I am awfully anxious to get it over to you, tho’ there don’t seem much chance till "après La Guerre, is the authorities will not send them on.

I am very sorry to hear of Mr Jack [?] serious illness and do hope that he’ll soon improve and be able to get about again. Good old Albert Lane! He’s a "sticker of some merit to our grand calling. I wonder how many "Beery advocates could stand the insults and interference he gets, while "on the Corner? None, I guess. Good Luck to him anyhow.

[Page 146]
3.
I still communicate regularly with Lily B, but apart from that, I have not altered in my habits in anyway and if lucky to get back, will perhaps still continue on the old lines – tho’ one never knows, eh! I am lucky to be a non-smoker and teetotaller as I don’t miss these "luxuries when hard and serious times come along. The fellows in the Firing-line continually "cry for smokes and rum.

On the way from Marseilles the French people at the stations had hot coffee, ‘dashed with rum’ (or spirit) ready for us, but I never once touched it - and so till today, the same refusal, my rum issue in the Firing-line went to others. The only non-alcoholic drinks we teetotallers can get, are "Citron (like lemon-syrup) and "Grenadine (in the raspberry syrup line), so you see we have not much scope, some of these "tin-pot old time villages, can’t even supply that, and our boys can buy the whole place out, "lock, stock and barrel, for a score or so of Francs (one Franc to a British Soldier is worth 10d, tho’ in commerce, under 81/2d at this time).

It’s welcome news for me to know that you and the girls are still in employment. Let’s trust you continue so. The "Island must be getting thro’ some good work know, to have so many vessels on their trials and nearing completion. I do hope that the strikes etc will not be heard of while we are away. You’re got no idea how depressing it is to us all when we hear of this continual labor and trade trouble.

I wonder what Ma Smith is thinking of her place at "109, now that you have let the garden go to pieces? It may bring her to her senses; and I hope it will.

Thanks for your nice kind words in regard to my welfare. Don’t worry, I feel as of all will come out right I am still trusting in Almighty God, and His will must be done.

Tell Archie, Bob Whit and others, that they must not think I forget them if they don’t hear from me. They know the position I am in with correspondence – it’s me against 70 (a very big contract). Now that the links are connected, my only plan is to answer letters from them, and tell of incidents as they occur. Their letters from me must go via the Censor, as the Issue of "green envelopes to the "men of the line are very few and far between. Sometimes one in a month (or longer). I think they will see what I am driving at – I am writing this letter in

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the village next to the one I wrote No 35 from. We are still (?) "resting tho’ at any mo’ will move off to the Fire zone again for more.

Strange things are happening to me. I was working in the Batn Orderly Room for awhile, and asked to go back to the Sectn, as "Clarking does not appeal to me in the Army. They did not want me to leave, but I eventually rejoined. Was only in a few days when ordered to pack up and "report to 1st Brigade HQ’rs. No one knew what for, only that I was to attach myself to the signal sectn: so to them I went. They were bivouacked near the Railway Line, under a little wood and it was there I rec’d the letters stated above (except Elsie’s 11/6th). For 4 days I did not do a hand’s thing, all of a sudden I was told to pack up again and report to the 1st Divisional Signal Coy - and here I am today. Funny thing is, I’m not a "Sig at all. They tell me I’m to be a Cycle despatch rider – so there you are! Whether I’ll stick it long I don’t know, as my eyesight has not improved (too much [?] perhaps) and being away from what remains of the old Sectn and the grand Batn ("first in all things) may turn me back again. If I continue on, you’ll get a new address – may be "Sapper now! – but in any case, you’ll better put in brackets, somewhere on the front of the env. (? 1st Division Signal Company) – it may save delay to me. There’s no saying what next they’ll give me to do. All Divl. jobs are free of the Firing-line, tho’ shell-fire reaches all.

I really meant to "carry on with my a/c of our charge, but I can’t seem to bring my troubled mind on to the subject. You’d better wait till I return to think as I can hardly describe things here.

I left you at the "digging in part of the "stunt if I remr. right. Well after that lots of things happened. Our fellows were walking about "No Man’s Land, in the once village, woods and Cemetry of P----- as if the War was already won. Not a "Fritz was to be seen, tho’ many were dragged out of deep cellars (untouched by shells) with hands up calling "Mercy Kamerad!! Yes this cry was heard at all times. The "Huns can’t fight. It’s their far away guns that do the damage. They make a half hearted attempt (under treats I s’pose) to retake the positions, but got no further than the "attempt. Later on our real Hell was gone thro’ – the fire from guns of all calibres, on to the trenches we had taken. My God I never wish another 5 days of that. If Hell itself is as bad, God save us from such fate! Never for an instant did their fire cease – it was demoralising. Still the "Anzacs held on.

I must now conclude my Dear parents and Sisters as it’s getting dark and I want this to go tonight (this is Sat eve, the 5th, the [?] day of the 3rd year of War). I am glad to say that I am "OK 7 think hourly of you and Home.

Rem. Me to everybody. Glad you are all so well at Home and hope that happy state continues. Good Luck and Love to you all

Harrie XX

No 2 PS

I will answer the other letters as time permits – there’s many others from friends to go too. There’s 2 p/cs here that I found in and near the Firing-line. Will prove interesting some day. I hope I also have some photos of Cairo I’ll send along from time to time.

X Harrie X

[Page 148]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 149]
No 37

In France
"Somme-where
(with the B.E.F.)

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,

As I am still hanging on to Dad’s last splendid letter (18/6th), I will take this opportunity of answering it, as we will any minute receive orders to move off to the Firing-line once more (for 4th time). It’s a great pity I cannot keep all the correspondence I get from Home and elsewhere but as I told you before, we already have too many things to carry about and look after – every "feather added to our already overladen "packs, means many pounds at the end of a long, dusty march. I read the grand letters over many times, ere I reluctantly destroy them. For this reason, do not send me any Post Cards, as I must do the same with them – tho’ with sorrow of course. I trust you are receiving all the Cards I keep sending along, as they will someday prove of much interest to you and I. You’ll be surprised to be receiving more "Gypo Cards and photos, but I thought it best to swell the collection, rather than see them go to waste, or thrown in the fire – as they surely would be. These Cards I saw lying about not far from our last position in the "new Firing-line, (caused by the "Great Push – somme-where) and they must have once belonged to some of the "Kanhas, "Anzacs, and "Cornstalks, I hardly knew, what to write on them, as news from here is so hard to get through the Censor, never the less, they’ll keep up the link of Communications between us from Saturday to Saturday. The girls must not think I am overlooking them, if one gets more than another – that’s not the case. I’ll answer there’s on Cards when I have them. This part of France – tho’ pretty and intensively cultivated – is very much out of date, as regards their villages and dwellings and public conveniences. No attempt seems to have ever been made to keep pace with modern ideas and ideals. The only things I can congratulate them on, are their name and direction "boards, and the roads. Our people at Home could well take a lesson in regard to the former – the latter question of

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of course, is always prominent in the dailies. No matter how small the "community village or hamlet, you’ll always find that most useful and important convenience to travellers – a name and direction board. The "board is really an iron plate with raised particulars (as if moulded) and fastened to the wall of a house near the entrance to the village, also at the junction of main-roads, or side-roads in the village itself. Take Rozelle corner! If that was here, you’d see on the most prominent side something like this – [small drawing]. (K is kilometres) The back paint is blue, and the raised particulars white – a [p?] "nifty idea, and one I wish they’d adopt over our way. The initial cost must have been pretty heavy, as there are scores of these plates in the ordinary sized village, not counting those at the road junctions further out. Another indicator – like our milestone – that is also seen everywhere we go, and must be a great boon to all road users. It also is of iron, and shaped something like this – [small drawing] – On the front, (which is white) is stated the shire (or region) the road is controlled by (in raised black letters). The sides tell you how far from the nearest village you are, in the direction you’re going – between these marks, you see at stated intervals, what would be to us, 1/2 mile posts. The roads are very good tho’ hereabouts are cut up a good deal with the heavy motor and other wheeled traffic going to and from the Firing-line. It’s the villages themselves that are "no bon. They have no shops "as we know them in Australia – fine window displays and displays of goods – tho’ some of the larger towns have. You have to look at a house long and often, before you "compreé what they sell, as window displays are absent, and the "shop is an ordinary house. When you get inside – that’s if you’re there before the inevitable rush of "Cornstalks – it takes a lot of "parley-vouzing before they know what you want. A 20 Franc note is a goldmine to some of these people and they can rarely change a 5 Franc note.

Footpaths are not known and the dwellings are worse than our old bark huts "out back. They are made of mud, mixed with straw (or clay) held together by laths or saplings. This war will undoubtedly be a blessing in disguise to these places that had been "wiped out, as they’ll have a clean start "après la guerre with new ideas. The water-supply system is "rotten all over the place (I suppose being entirely wine-drinking people they have no reason to worry about the water). In this region, there’s nothing but wells, with the old-fashioned hand windless and bucket, that have been doing duty for the community for many generations. Their sewerage system is terrible – in fact it’s scandalous for a country like this.

Saw a "Town Crier at his job the other day, for first time. I’d heard of these gentry before in story books, but it was a real novelty to see one in real life. He was a very old chap, with hand bell and book. The bell got a lot of work, and he read the latest village "scandal and so forth from the book in large weak voice. I didn’t notice anyone running about tearing their

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3.
hair or weeping over the "noos he dished out.

I am now away from the Batt’n, as I told you before – attached to the "First Divisional Signal Company. You’d better put this address on my letters (etc) in addition to the Infantry particulars, so I may go back to them again ere you get this. My job for this last week has been "switch operator, having been taken from the Don R’s (Despatch Riding) to fill a vacancy. I am learning Morse and "flag waving, so it’ll be a little more variety to my Military career, tho’ I’ll be delighted to leave these jobs behind, as relics of a strenuous "spasm in a troubled lifetime.

We have left the (?) "Rest Camp in the Hills, and are now working back gradually to the Firing-line, from where we came just recently.

Claude Kennett’s Bn. (in 2nd Div) has just come out of action, and we took over their Billets in this old village, they moving onto the one we just left. I still had no luck in finding him. Do hope he came thro’ all right.

After chasing young "Codger (Arthur) Ferguson of 2nd Bn. about for some days, I eventually "ran him to earth here yesterday afternoon. He is "OK, and just missed going into our last big "stunt by a day or two, (having only recently joined up). He is now in the 2nd Bn. Signals and likes the job. I want to see him again this afternoon – (Saturday August 18th) before he moves on. "Mat Thorburn of Giore St, I also met some days. Like "Codger, he’s just joined up, but is in the "Glorious First.

Funny how you met people!! As the Wireless troupe, attached to the 1st Div Sigs, is a Melb chap (they’re nearlt all Melb and Adel fellows with me) who tells me he knows the Camerons and Harish’s of Croydon very well. He lives in Mooralbark [Mooroolbark], in the place lately owned by Squires of the "Age fame. He knows many people in the District and I enjoyed a few hours talking to him.

The weather is still very nice, tho’ we thought rain had dared to spoil the "Great Push, the night before last. Glad to say it is still very favorable for air aems, in fact it is rather hot at mid-day, especially if on the March. The nights are now closing in, so I suppose it wont be long before the shivery

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Stuff comes along.

Nine o’clock, when we were in the trenches further up, was daylight. Now it gets dark at 8. By time winter claims us, we will be lighting up at 4 pm I’spose. All are hoping that there will not be any winter to worry about, but there’s no saying what the future holds.

Oh before I get carried away again! Your letter still remains un-answered so here goes!!!

Am much relieved to learn that my letters and cards are getting such a "smooth passage, and that once more, they arrive in regular order. I’m glad you tell me full particulars of what you receive. – it takes a good deal of worry from me.

I only wish we had better facilities and opportunities for writing while, OAS [On Active Service], but you can see the difficulties we have been under. The Censor is our biggest worry, as one never knows when he is transgressing orders and the many regulations put the "damper hard down on our literary ambitions. I don’t know how you can find my letters interesting under those circumstances. I could have written pages about our first impressions of France, after coming right through the Country, but I knew they’d object to us even mentioning it - and so right thro’ the "Chapter we meet the same obstacle, tho’ goodness knows the "news is every one’s property in the "Old Dart, a few hours after. The papers are allowed to talk about actions, and publish pictures of ruined villages, farms and countryside; yet we who are taking all the risk and doing the work are not allowed to say anything. (Even the Post Cards I am sending you regularly, tho’ I stick to the order about obliterating the names, I’m not certain whether they’ll go thew, as some Censors read orders different to others - and there you are!

I think your letter fun. How much more interesting than anything I can "turn-out here. I will keep a look-out for the Les’s as soon as I know they’re on the way. Don’t forget the full Regt. addresses – they’ll help me much more in looking thin[?] units [?].

Was sorry to hear of the younger Nutall’s serious accident, but trust he’ll pull tho’ OK.

The Officials must be more strict with Final Leave now, if they gave as much trouble over a pass. I don’t think there were many as fortunate as myself, to obtain 2 "Buckshee trips to the [indecipherable] Capital. Am eagerly looking 4ward to some more!

Les Chapman will get tons of scope in the branch of the service he has chosen – it’ll open his eyes! "Fritz is fair bluffed down this region. His ‘planes are frightened to come up and his artillery shoot any old

[Page 153]
5.
where. They get very wild and angry when their Infantry lose their trenches and I can tell you it’s real Hell for us.

Poor Fritz!!! His big "gas-bags (the Observation Balloons) are "Nap poo (finished) now, I have not seen one up since we "lobbed in this part, tho’ I believe he had a couple in the air a little further along, but they only lasted a very little while, as several of our ‘planes fixed ‘em up in real good style. You ought to have seen the contrast on our side of the line, the morning after our charge! I counted 10 – but I think there were more further on. The Fokkers are bluffed!!

Thanks for the news re Claude and Eddie Bell I knew they were both wounded on the "Peninsl, but could never find out about them. I wish you luck in your efforts in connection with the new Home and Farm, and trust you strike a tender which will be favorable to you. Yes, one does well to consider a house that will be of use, and not to look at. Uncle Alf and the others ought to be able to give you some good advise. It’s a terrible pity this war has turned things so "lop sided, but you may do well by "getting in now, as "après la guevre there’s sure to be a heavy boom in the building line – that was my only reason for hanging on to the Chatswood block so long, also the hope that the Line to Hornsby would be the first to be electrified – it must come, now that "Vic has led the way. All the same, my previous letters will make my wish clear in regards to disposal of it – so don’t hesitate if you require the cash.

Fine!!! "Warrnambool is just the name real Austn too!! I would early like [indecipherable] the flower-beds and the fruit ditto! – God grant we’ll soon get out of this "Hell!!

My word you did get a bargain! I did not know the block was so well fenced and with water laid on – it’s real fine!

I don’t doubt that you’ll soon have the best garden in Gladesville – your previous Agricultural experience ought to stand you in good stead.

Are you still paying in to the Starr Bowkett Society or have you withdrawn your

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6.

shares?

I am sorry you have not had my acknowledgments and the 2 parcels you kindly sent – of course you’ll know ere now I’m sorry you are sending another parcel, after my wish to the contrary. They cause a lot of trouble to you and the postal authorities. We can find all we require here, with few exceptions.

No, don’t send Post Cards, as I cannot carry them about – have already got a back-breaking load to hump. Thanks all the same! We don’t have very much "truck with the French people – there’s been too many here before us, and besides we’re only in a place a few days, and away again somewhere else.

So Thel rec’d the silk cigarette cards I sent – here’s another.

Was surprised to hear of the [?] amongst the B.N.F. Co’s "Fleet of mail packets. What a terrible loss – the "Likey and "Daph (they’ll take some replacing, eh!!) Looks very "fishy to me!

So Snowy Hopford and his "crew have had some excitement! – I’d guess they’ll have had much more after the "stunt they have just come of (I believe they went into action as we came out, this cannot say for certain, as none of them have come my way yet) – Well my Dear Parents and Sisters, I shall have to "wind up now, as it’s getting close to tea time, and I still have a visit to pay, (to Codger Fergusson) in case the Divn moves off tonight or tomorrow morn – one never knows.

Would like you to thank my kind friends in Balmain (The Misses Back, Brown etc and Mrs Whitnall and Bob) for their continued kindness. I wish I could repay them somehow I cannot write long letters to them on a/c of the Censor.

Rem’r me very kindly to Mr and Mrs Jas Cowan and young Gus, Mr and Mrs Herb Smith, Mr and Mrs Walker – in fact, all visitors and enquirers.

I havn’t too much time now to write letters, so they must not expect too many from me. The only thing I can do, is to write in ack’t to their favors and put a few remarks in the life here. The same applies to Melbourne.

Since I came to this Unit, I am having a rough time with Mail. Shifting about is "no bon to me. I am going to my old Bn. on the bike com (they are in a neighbouring village), to see what luck letters. S’pse usual, they’ll come in a heap – Well ta-ta, Bonjour or Au Revoir for a like while.

Much love and X’s to you all

Harrie.

[Page 155]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Rd
Balmain
Sydney
N S Wales
Australia

[Page 156]
No 38

In Action (4th Spasm)
"Somme-where in France

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters

As predicted previously, I am once more in the "region of stoush, tho in this new ‘job’, am some little way to rear of the boys in the "Line. All round us is the Artillery, who help to keep things very lively by day and night, in their efforts to keep "Fritz on the move, and to send him over the Rhine, only for his terrible tactics of the past two years.

We of the "Sigs, are stationed 20 or more feet underground, in one of the old Tommy trench Dugouts, that once constituted part of the main line – that was, prior to the great "push on July 1st last. It would need be one of "Fritz’s largest shells to reach us, and I’m sure he’s got none to waste on speculations.

It’s a strange thing with the soil here – one side of a hill is chalky and the other clay. I’ve noticed it with several ridges that are between us and the present Firing line, including the one our "posy here is on, and they’re all the same.

Had a look at what was once a village – you’re undoubtedly read all about it, and its name must be common knowledge to you in Aust now – just over on the next rise, this morning. I would like to give you a description of what I saw, but I’m afraid I could not do the awful sight justice, or whether I’d be in order with the Censor. Just to sat that there’s hardly one brick on another, and trees that once surrounded a peaceful community, are now only sticks. Holes and craters cover the ground at every inch, and there’s hardly a foot that has not been churned up worse than an earthquake. "Fritz made a real fortress of this village, (like he did of many others during his long stay) but our great guns and shells, likewise the gallant "Tommies rooted him out to the "alckery. During that now historic first

[On side of page]
PS
(2)

– forgot to mention that instead of the Black over green bars that are the Regt Colors of the 1st Batt’n, we have to wear a plain purple oblong representing the colors of the 1st Field Coy Engrs to which we are really attached.

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2.

"Shove.

I was looking for the E’glise (Church) but could not even make out where any building ever stood, or where the main street was. I also looked for the Estaminet (pub) where a "Tommy was said to have been entering, when it vanished from his sight. It appears that he had just grabbed the handle of the front door, when a Hun "Jack Jonns lifted the whole establishment into obscurity, leaving Tommy with the door-knob in his hand – this is only a joke of course.

S’pose you’ve already heard of it , oh to think of the feelings of the old residents in this village, when they return to take possession of their late homes. I guarantee they’ll be lost! Just to be left front is seen another village that has helped to make history. All you can see are several trees, or at least, the sticks that were once trees and white chalky soil and bricks that only recently represented a village. As you go from ridge to ridge, the other places that were once Hun strongholds and fortifications are seen in same condition as those near here – it is stunning! This hellish destruction must continue now till the end of this awful strife. There are still some by towns and villages that might be razed to the ground if the Huns hang on, not considering the whole of Belgium, which is of course all under the Hun.

The smell of these places is something awful – you can guess what it is caused by – the new firing line is just the same, but one gets used to it in fact, especially if you’re got to eat and sleep near a protruding arm or leg of a "Fritzer who died some weeks previously, and who now goes to strengthen a parapet or parados, buried without ceremony or fuss. Oh yes, this is war, some say it’s the Armaggeddon – I think it must be the latter (the last before the end).

The weather is still good-oh for the offensive, tho’ we’ve just had a few showers, that make the ground rather slippery for the Inf. when on the move.

Our planes still hold sway in the sky and the big gas-balloons are up all day without molestation. [?] so with the Hun. One of his Fokkers was brought down not 1/4 mile from here a day or two ago by one of our planes. The boys all saw it, I was unlucky enough to be on duty at the time. I believe it was as usual, flying very high, when our plane’s machine-gun got him fair, and down he came in flames, the pilot falling out from a low height. Our fellows ran over to get souvenirs and Fritzs’ whizz-bangs got busy on to them, with result that several were wounded and the

[Page 158]
3.

Rest of the souvenir-hunters got under cover at the "ickery. You see, Fritz knew well enough that our fellows would go over to see the result, and he knew his pilot was in the "New World so over comes his spare ironmongery in the shape of shrapnel, oh yes! He’s up to our dodges!

There’s no doubt the Allies are masters of the air now, It’s rarely one sees a Taube or Fokker aloft, when they come in sight, our anti-aircraft guns (mounted on motor-wagons) give them lots of "hurry-up, besides which our planes give them no rest. Fritz’s observation balloons are very scarce. I havn’t seen one on his sky-line for weeks, but I’ve counted as many as 20 along our front. No sooner does he appear over the sky-line, than our planes bolt over and down she goes at the double and if a bit slow, down she goes in flames.

Oh yes, they’re got him baffled now. The Allied planes (bi’s and mono’s, scouts and battle) are very daring and think nothing of hovering over the Hun region taking photographs or spotting for the artillery, amidst shrapnel and mach gun fire – it’s all so barefaced!

Gee! You "orter see the "pills and guns we’ve got for Fritz. This region is simply alive with the, The guns are right out in the open with very little cover, not like they were in the early days or till just prior to the "Shove. I rode on a big motor-wagon amongst a load of 8 inchers (shells) the other day – they were "somme shells too, believe me! Wouldn’t care to be near where they lob!

Young Conger Fergusson, Mat Thorburn and others are in the "Line now for the first time, I am hoping all is well with them, amidst the horrors of war.

Have to acknowledge with many thanks the receipt of 2 grand letters from home (also 2 from friends) – the first for a good while (or so it seems to me). One was from Mother, dated 15/6th, and the other from Thelma, same date. It was grand to hear from Home again! They reached me here in the Fire-zone on Thurs. ere last (This is Saturday eve August 19th – my weekly letters day now, once I gave over Sunday, on a/c of it being generally the 1st Battalions moving day).

[Page 159]
4.

I’ll answer Mother’s welcome one first – !

Good! Am glad to learn that mine to you are still coming along in numerical order, also the Cards I sent in between. Hope you still get them "OK.

Yes, I’m still keeping well. Havn’t had one days sickness or been absent once from Parade since I left Sydney. Had a touch of toothache once or twice during the cold weather which kicked me up a bit, but that is so long ago. I’ve forgotten all about it.

You could never picture us in the trenches, not from all the descriptions and pictures you see. The ones we are near now are quite different to those "up above – our lak region. These are real trenches – dug in a hurry and any old how (just temporary, that’s all). Those "up above were really sand-bag barricades – you rarely see a sand bag here )there’s no time to fill them). "Dugouts here are the real things – just a hole under the parapet to lie in – no bigger than is needed. We have no rest time, or water to spare, to enjoy a wash or shave, so needless to say, we present "doleful pictures when we come out. Things are slung everywhere, and one generally comes out minus his belongings in consequence, when the happy moment of relieving comes. You are in such a hurry to get out of the "bother, that you just grab the first thing that comes along. I’d like to see the moving-picture the War Office Officials took of us, the morning after we came out.

The Hun Helmets (taken from the Kaiser’s pets – the Prussians) made our boys look very comical and with their hands up crying "Mercy Kamerad made the picture complete. I did not get in the picture myself, but was looking on alongside. – No, I don’t think you at Home in peace and quietness, could picture us in the trenches, especially if it’s all wet. It’s quite a different tale to Gallipoli, and I’m glad (in a way) to hear those who were in the "Landing and "the "Pine and were with us at P----, say that this was real "Hell and they’d rather be at Gallipoli any day – so you can see how things are here.

Talk of wet weather in Sydney reminds me that we on the opposite side of the globe, are having it nice and sunny, tho’ the wet and cold months are soon coming round. We notice the night’s drawing in already, and it won’t be long now, ere the cold snaps are on us. Ugh!

Do I understand Aunty Alice to tell you that she writes often to me? Still I’ve only had one letter from her and that was written while I was at Liverpooland followed me on, and I rec’d it at Aerodrome Camp – my first letter from Australia it was. Have rec’d none since, tho’ I’ve sent cards to her.

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5.

pretty regularly – mostly Field P/C’s – the same with Aunt Em. Have not had a word from "Capel St since I came away, and I wonder whether they’ve got my right address. – Oh, by the way. It looks as tho’ I’m here to stay now, so you’d better address all future mail as follows (if I go back to the Batt’n again they’ll send it on) – "Sapper (name), No 3900, 1st Divisional Signal Company, 1st Australian Division, B.E.F. Ab. Road. Seems strange to me now being called "Sapper. Our dress is now, bandolier, leather-belt, leggings and rifle without bayonet. Some "guy what!!

So Lest Vur likes the life eh?! Oh yes, it’s good-o at Home, where there’s all comforts and no "stoush – I wonder what his opinion will be when the "bother’s over? I guess he’ll think all kinds of "crook things about "Fritz and Otto, and will, like us, wonder why the whole tribe of "Hun swine in Australia, have not been en "caged or transported, after what their madmen have done over here, and to the world in general. It’s hope "Billy Hughes’ determination to "fix ‘em up, will materialise.

Les Dalman’s complaint is "no bon for soldiers O.A.S. [on active service], as there’s plenty of wet places, that will cause him lots of trouble. Even we who are not so afflicted as he, get touches of the malady, but of course the Inf. go thro worse than any other branch. I got it crook the last time we were here thro sitting on the damp trench-floor and I can assure you it was no good at all.

Many thanks to Mrs Callan for the kind remarks and regards, also for her prayers – it’s nice to know we are not forgotten.

I too hope you are out of Balmain ere this war end – coming to a new home will be something for me to look 4ward to with delight. Glad to learn of Dad’s great progress. Good Luck to him and his efforts. It must be grand to be able to get such a quantity of nice flowers – they seem to liven and sweeten up surroundings.

We see many kinds of flowers amongst the crops here – different to ours - and they are very nice.

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6.

The people are taking in their harvest now – wheat, oats and barley. The fields look lovely – it’s cultivation everywhere. Wheat, oats, barley, rye, spuds, cabbages, mustard, (with it’s pretty yellow flower, that makes a plot in the distance look like gold) poppies with the lovely frail flowers, lucerne, and so on – all helping to make a pretty picture of the hills, dates and country-side. The farmers still use old fashion appliances. They cut the wheat and other crops with the hand-scythe and use the old windmill to grind their wheat into flower.

Thanks once more to Mrs Thompson and Nellie for their enquiries. I hope they are well, and that Nell is not fretting over her young man in England still.

Glad Thel got the buttercups from France in good order. I did not think it would last long.

Very pleased to hear that you’re banking the money from the Military Authorities and that you get it regular. I did not spend much here, in fact, I have over and pound5 to my credit, that I have never drawn from 1/- day allowance. I will get it if I go to the Old Dart and will save me wiring you for any. I can’t understand how most fellows get thro’ their’s like they do. Some draw 2/- day (some more) they are round getting loans a few days after pay day.

Kind regards also to Mr and Mrs Prout and family, and Mrs Lewis in return for their’s. and all others you see or write to.

Have not come across the Kicknies or Claude Kennett yet. Enclosed is a cutting out of Sydney Mail, showing a Lieut T.H. Kennett of Artillery – is this Tom Kennett?

Neither have I seen the Artillery or AMC boys from Balmain. I spose Johnny M[?] being in 8th Field Ambulance will be with the same Brigade as Jim and Gus McKichnie, Jack Goodsir, Jas Vale and did Grant belong to. I heard they went to England from Egypt, but are now on this Front.

Well my Dear Parents and sisters, I must turn this up now, if I’m to get it away. Much Love and Kisses to you all, hoping you are still enjoying the best of health etc.

Don’t worry
Loving Son and Bro.
Harrie
[on side of page]
PS

Will answer Thelma’s as soon as I get a chance. Fritz is getting annoyed. His artillery are slinging shells about the trenches where I am writing this.

[Page 162]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 163]
[Front of an envelope from a Company in Berlin, to a German soldier, Postmarked Berlin W 19.6.16]

[Page 164]
[Reverse of envelope]
Part of an envelope add. to one of the Hun Lts. of Artillery whose Dugout (a Palace they never intended to leave, apparently) I am now in – He belongs to the 14th Reserve Armeecorps (army corps) 28th Reserve Division/ 28th Reserve Regiment (I Dont compree the rest) the figures enclosed (P.28) stand for this "mob.

Harrie

[Page 165]
[First page of letter from Sapper Caves to Home]
No 39
On the Front
"Somewhere on the Continent

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters
Another week finds me in a new region! We only "loobed here (somewhere ?) last evening, after a train-journey in open trucks of about 6 hours. The bike (pushy of course) took most of us of the Sig Company to the Railway Station, in one of the largest towns we had had the luck to see in our late region. I guess Frances Birtles would feel jealous, if he’d seen us on "trek with all our furniture aboard. He carried about 5 cwt, I believe from memory, so I don’t think our lot was far short of that. We had a Service Rifle, Bayonet with 50 rounds Ammunition, Water bottle, 2 gas-helmets, Steel-helmet, Haversack with "Bully beef, Bisquets and other rations and sundries, Pack (or Valise) with our spare clothing and other luxuries we shouldn’t have, one Blanket, Waterproof-sheet and Mess-tin.

As we went along, we loaded up still more with the peculiar shaped French ‘pain’ (pronounced ‘pang’) which means bread. This is made in big flat, round loaves, which cost 1/2 Franc, (5d.) and in some villages 1 Franc (10d.). Everywhere we looked, was cultivation. Oats and wheat, (now being harvested) barley, maize, potatoes, lucerne, mustard, peas, beans, etc – all looked healthy and strong. The scenery from the many hill-tops we had to mount, was very nice, but we’d have enjoyed it more had it been in peace-times. The bikes themselves are very heavy and cumbersome, and it takes much sweating and hard "yakka to get them over the slightest rise. Our ride was only 14-15 miles, and quite far enough after our long absence from practise. At Home of course, I would laugh at a "tour of that length, and would never liked to have said that any one of my outings was anywhere near that limit.

We are now back near the region we first came to when we left the long train journey in March last. The country is flat and low-lying, and one can almost imagine mud and slough even tho’ the sun is nice, and the rain is holding off. We had a short

[Page 166]
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ride to do in the pitch dark, after leaving the train at night, and there were several spills – bike and all – into the road-side ditches. I was lucky enough to keep upright tho’ couldn’t see a foot ahead of me. It’s "no bon riding at night.

I think my last to you (No. 38), was written while "in action. Well, I am glad to say that once more I am spared to come thro’ this unharmed. I was not in the front Line this time with the boys, our post was some distance to rear. [?] whilst Fritz’s shells lobbed all about us when he got a chance, and his planes dropped some bombs not far off, that did some "bother. I witnessed the artillery preparation for a great "stunt one afternoon, from the top of a ridge near our "posy. It is impossible for me to describe it in writing. How people at home in peaceful surroundings could not realise the barking of several hundred guns from all quarters, watch the terrible burst of flame from their muzzles, hear the awful screech hiss, and roar of the "Iron rations (Shells) as they went on their on their terrible journey, in the dense clouds of smoke and dust in the distance, where their concentrated fire was directed with such good judgment, No I cannot ‘do the Devil’s’ work justice! There stood , (officers and men) watching perhaps, a bombardment quite as intense, if not [?] or than any at Verdun. This whole region is one vast "Verdun, only instead of the French bearing the bombardment, it is the other way about. Of course it is not all give, and nothing in exchange – far from it! The war would be over now if such was the case. To our rear and both sides, the terrible "heavies (8 inch, 9.2 inch, 12 inch, and 15 inch Howitzers) sent over their shells that knock "rotten in one blow Railway Stns, houses and hills – they all joined in with the "whizz-bangs, "4.75, 6 and 18 pounders and others, to dig "Fritz from his underground fortress in a village that was in our way. Above it all, our planes kept humming and buzzing, as if eager to join in with a few more "buckshee rations – they did great work for the g[?] tho’ from where we were, it looked impossible to peer thro’ the smoke on to the soldiers below. Never will I forget those guns! You’d get sight of about 5 firing at once in one sector, and at the same time in about 5 other places the same thing. The noise (worse than heaviest thunder) was incessant and for nearly 3 hours it went thus without a lull. What the place they were tearing up was like I dare not try and guess, but it must have sent a nasty feeling through the "Fritzers. They say that this was as intense as the one that prepared our way on that-to-us historic 22nd-23rd July, when we had our first "[?] over

I saw some of the "creds they had caught, next day as Cd Stedman – bro’ of Ivan the Victorian Swimming Champ) and myself, were snatching a swim in the shallow, fast running River Ancre – it’s more like one of ours. They looked a poor lot for Prussians, and if the Kaiser can’t produce better than they, he and his dynasty are in for it in the near future. Amongst the barb-wire a few more laid – of course we have lots in the A.I.F. – but things I’d seem to have the "go in them that ours have (there seems to be something in their

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make-up missing. The water was very cold – as most running water is, but the temperature livened us up a good deal, and we badly needed a "scrape. Big shells some over often and just where we were, was a "pit made by one of his "9 inches (or 8.7) the day before.

This river is a tributary of the one that is now a household word everywhere just now. It runs under the church or Basilique (of which I sent you some P/C’s some time ago) and on this the large town itself, joining the ------? some miles further on. The church of course is now in ruins, as with most other dwellings in its vicinity. It’s lovely statue on top of the dome is hanging over the street 150’-200’ below, at a terrible angle.

We’ve now left that region as I said before and I don’t think we’ll return – tho’ one never can’t tell.

"Codgers Ferguson and Young Thorburn (Mat) went into action for the first time in the last stunt, and I am hoping that they come out "OK. Jack Kemp of Reuss St (an original) was also in (with the French Motor Sectn). Of the Rickies and Kennetts, I still have had no tidings, neither from the Artillery lads from Balmain. The latter of the 5th F.A. (Harold Cartwright and Fred Atkins etc) were in action with us I believe, in fact I did not hear till the day we came out of action, that their batteries were over in the next dip or valley from where I could easily have slipped over and seen them if I’d heard earlier.

We went to the late Billet in R – from the Front - and only stayed 3 days, when we moved off to the railway station, as I said in part one of this.

One soon forgets there is a war on when he gets away from the Hell-regions into the quiet, quaint and old fashioned villages in the hills and amongst the trees. (Every village is surrounding by trees or woods, perhaps as a protection from the terrible cold wintry blasts which sweep over the country in the wet season.

I paid a visit to one of the old windmills in that region before we went "in, and it proved an interesting call. They look very comical, as they swing their long 4 arms in the wind. All are used as grain-crushers and I saw this one at work. The Wings are worked on the Venetian Blind system, that is they have strips that close together when they

[Page 168]
4.

require the "Mill to work, and of course to stop they open them up which allows the wind to blow through the frame-work of the arm wings. The top portion of the building (a tower – some of stone and others of wood) is movable so that the wings can be shifted to which way the wind is blowing. These places of course are not to be confused in any respect, to anything like a modern flour-mill, they only exist for local farmer’s crops. Water-wheels are also still in use on fast-running permanent streams, - they also help in flour-making. Have seen a few of them in different parts.

Coming along in the train, very hilly journey (till we reached these lowlands) – we passed thro’ a mining district. The big waste slag heaps from the pits put us very much in mind of the Pyramids at Giza, for their size and shape.

As usual, every patch was under some crop or other – they don’t waste land here. Girls, mothers and fathers all work in the fields, driving ploughs, strippers, with the hand-scythe, or tying in sheaves and so on. – Oh while at it!! – I still have 2 letters to acknowledge – Lizzie’s 22/6th and Thelma’s. I’d better answer Lizzie’s now - and Thel’s on P/C’s.

Glad to know you’re still "kicking, and the same of the others. Les C. has had to go this a good deal of questioning in the artillery right now. Do I understand after all that, that he did not get in? He’ll see [?] fun (?) if he stays in the INF – they are the only "soldiers I know of. The INF who protect the "cold feet legions at the rear – in fact, they protect anyone who is not in the Line. They ought to get their due praise and honour after this is over, not the "skiny legging, cock-feather, pretty-uniform crow the man with the nicely pressed "uni, so the one who stays "way back as a [?]. Very sorry to hear of Les N’s people’s great trouble, but trust they are [?[ now. Tell Els. to rem. me to Ivy and Mother when she writes. Glad to hear there’s plenty of work for you in Sydney during these troubled times, hope it continues so.

Yes – I am looking very much 4ward 2 seeing the new "Farm – ‘twill do me!

Half a mo’ I’ll have to go and have a ch[?] they’re something awful, send a block dotty in time. – Back again feels itchy. Well my dear Parents and Sisters, once more I must close as I’ve got lots of Sydney and Melb mail to answer. (Rec’d Aunt Em’s first letter yesterday). All’s well with me today (Sun pm August 27th ’16) – last week’s (letter) was undated I believe – was written on Sat Aug 19th ’16. Hope you all are well

Au Revoir till I write again.

Love

Harrie x

[Page 169]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 170]
No. 40

At the Front

Somewhere on the Continent?

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,

We are once more in the lowlands and the region of windmills and rain, having moved a little further on since No. 39 left here. One does not hear the "booming of the guns in this place, in fact, tho’ only a few miles from the front line, one hardly realises that there’s a war on. Had a taste of real wet weather during the week, which made the countryside one huge quagmire. No wonder the main roads are cobbled! One could not imagine any traffic getting thro’ some of the terrible mud here abouts. Even on the edge of the cobbles after a little rain, it’s like a ditch. I dare not try and think what the coming winter months, with the incessant rain, long nights and little sunshine, will be like to us Australians O.A.S. I ‘spose we’ll get over it – the Indians did, the "Tommies do, "Fritz does, and so will we!

All round us the Hop-vines are at their best and picking is now going on, whole families being in the field in this work. Mothers, Fathers and Kids of all ages sit on chairs beneath the tall climbing vines, and pick off the buds, which they fill into baskets. When we were at -------? (just prior to going into the Line for the first time) they were busy planting, and preparing the peculiar trellis on which the hop-vines climb. The wheat and oats are now being brought in to the Barns, and the soil being got ready for the coming winter. The old windmills are now very busy all round us, crushing the grain for flour. They look very peculiar, as they wave their long four arms round and round with the wind.

Away on the edge to the rear, are four or five of these old fashioned flour-mills – they are very conspicuous for a long way. No wonder "Fritz made fire practice out of those he came across further up! The poplar-tree is very common in these parts, and is easily noticed amongst the other trees for its straightness.

Visited one of the big towns about 2 miles from our present position during the week. There are 3 large churches in it which have proved good marks for "Fritz. All round about them the result of their shell-fire is seen and makes one realise

[Page 171]
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that there is a war on after all. Like all other towns on this part of the continent the roads are all cobbled, the streets very narrow, and the usual old "squares, into which most thoroughfares lead. Some of the shops round the "square show the effects of shrapnel, bullet, and shell-marks very clearly; here and there a whole building has collapsed. Many names over the doors and walls look very "Hunnish, and are just as they were left.

Business still goes on, tho’ much curtailed of course. Something which opened our eyes were a few fruit-shops. Just fancy fruit!!! Why we’d forgotten there was such a commodity! Not since leaving Fremantle (with exception of "Orring-fr[?] in Egypt) have I seen so much. We had a taste of grapes "somme-where in France – that was all! In this town we could buy grapes, pears, peaches, bananas, pineapples, water-melons, apples, (or "pommes as they say in France) and nuts – all from Spain I believe. But the price, gee! Water-melons (little shrivelled-up things) cost 4 Francs, ‘per each’ – or 3/4 in English money. Pineapples, only 6 Francs (5/- each – 1 Franc to a soldier equals 10d.) Peaches that would cost 9d. dozen in Sydney, changed hands here at 1/2 a Franc each (5) just think of it!! I think we’ll go mad when we get let lose amongst the shops at home! There is very little fruit grown in France – we only saw apples which were growing along the road-sides or borders.

On the Railway-lines, we saw here for the first time, real English engines worked by British Military engineers for the army’s requirements. The gauges (4’8 1/2) are the same in both countries I believe. They are "some engines too! The big French express and goods-engines, are also very fine, and put me very much in mind of Victoria’s ‘A2 and N or Souths "NN with the big body and squat funnel, which makes them so conspicuous and business-like. What would I give to be standing on Albury station, now, comparing the two types – Newport and Eveleigh!

Up above me, as I lay in the long grass writing to you is one of our "BE Scout planes, "whirling and humming, on its way to the Line. In and out the cloud it goes, just as if it was the simplest thing in the world to fly. The big battle-planes (with hardly a body and only stays between the wings and pilots "possy and the tail) continually pans backwards and forwards, their powerful buzz and dull hum, being very noticeable, even tho’ you may be inside. At the front (in our old region) where so much "bother had been doing since July 1st, we often had the "Scouts planes dropping messages and our "possy at rear of the lads in the Lines. They signalled their approach – a sheet was previously laid out on the Field, to show where message was to be dropped by the blowing of a horn (by the observer I’spose) and after a circle or two of the region, at the same time approaching closer to the ground, the observer would let fall the message wrapped in a canvas-bag, attached to a colored streamer. There’s doubt these planes are clever – or at least their pilots are! They come so close to the ground, that both men aboard (Pilot and Observer) can be dis-[tinctly]

[Page 172]
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[dis]tinctly seen and the 3 colors of the distinguishing circle are also very plain (British naval = white circle in red centre, British Military = Blue, white and red circles, French = Red, white and blue circles, Belgian = Red, yellow and black circles and the Hun "Fokkers, Aviatiks. Albatross etc, is of course the "iron cross)

We do not see many "Iron Crosses roaring aloft, tho’ now and again, especially if the sky is at all cloudy, they pluck up courage. They generally don’t get very far in our region, as there’s a few snags always in their way – (the anti-aircraft guns and our battle-planes) – so they get a rough passage. Expect to hear a few "Zipps over this way now and again, tho’ of course it’ll be by the dead of night, and they’ll be only a speck – even in daylight.

Some of the lads had "noises in the head last night, as after bust up their 20 or 40 francs pay at one of the Estaminets (pubs), they woke up in this Hut at midnight with terrible visions. One of them was "dead nuts on climbing – he kept telling everyone he could climb, and to emphasise his words, struggled out to the hedge and fell amongst the blackberry and other prickly bushes. I think the nettles must have brought him round a bit. We often get circuses like this, even amongst the supposed ‘elite’. There are plenty in this non-combatant corps, and they make one sick with their forced ‘naice’ or pulby[?] talk. I don’t know what they’re got to be proud of, as none of them have ever been in the trenches, and none have fired even one shot at a Hun, let alone chase ‘em with a bayonet. I get full of them at tomes, and will not surprise myself if I go back to the soldiers at any moment – they’ll do me!; anyhow one feels as if he’s doing his duty there exterminating ‘Huns’ – I’m blowed if he does here!

The nights are now closing in fast, and at 8 pm it is quite dark, a big contrast to the long nights in June. Oh how we hope for hostilities to cease ere then! My hopes of being home for Xmas are still possible, tho’ it’s rather a lot to hope for now when we come to look at the hard and serious work still to be done on all fronts. Of course the intervention of Romania may hasten on a final decision – certainly Austria’s anyhow. – Before long Greece may come in and

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then we’ll be pretty well fixed for the Armageddon – it might be the last ‘Guerre’, surely. No sane Nation can come at such a slaughter again tho’ greed is a terrible thing amongst Kingdoms etc.

The heavy boom and guns is missing here, and we feel lost after much of it "down below nevertheless it won’t surprise us if there’s something doing "hereabouts before the winter. I can hear many rumbles as I write, and they mean "bother somewhere.

This is the region of Fritz’s first use of gas – the poor lads from the Land of the Maple leaf stopped the forerunner and taught the World the lesson. They still put a lot over, and one cannot go anywhere without the respirator. We had 2 alarms the other night, but the wind sent it away from here as we slept on. In the town of ------ is a big notice board in a conspicuous position in the "Square where all can see it. This is to warn people of the presence or otherwise of this terrible devilish device. "GAS ALERT, OFF means all’s clear, "GAS ALERT, ON means prepare for the worst. The Town bell or whistle notifies the near approach of the cloud, and one must not take chances. The helmets or respirators issued to me are perfection and Fritz always gets hold of them where possible. I don’t like his arrangement at all! I had one during (and after) our "hop over at P-------, which has never been used, tho’ it’s owner was lying "finished on the parapet alongside it. They have theirs in a canvas case, inside of which is 2 tins – one contains the peculiar perforated mouth-piece and the other the special goggles that fit on. Give me ours every time! He’ll soon be sorry ever he brought such a devise to this War.

Still my Dear Parents, I must turn this up now, as the mail closes in the morning and I want to get this finished. I doubt whether you can read the scrawl, but never mind, I’ll try and translate when I get back. Today is Sat Sept 2nd and it is not night and I am glad to say that, also all’s well with me and I trust same with all at Home. Give my love to all enquiring friends as usual and Much Love to you all.

Harrie XX

[Page 174]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 175]
No 41

In the Field
OAS with the "ANZACS etc
Somewhere in Flanders

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,

Am delighted to acknowledge receiving some letters from Home during the week – Dad’s 2/7th, Lizzies 29/6th and Elsies 26/6th, for which I owe you all lots of thanks, as they have filled a long felt wont – some home news. There’s nothing for me top talk about this week-end; things are going along just the same. I am still with the Sig Company to rear of the "line, the Infantry are in action, and so are our Artillery. As I write, the ground is quaking with the vibration of heavy guns, sending out their messages of death to the Huns in front of Y?-----.

For several evenings now this bombd’t has been very severe putting us somewhere in mind of the din while the "Big Push was on, down the S----- way. "Fritz must be getting it hot, as he is always turning on that gas of his, causing us to be waken up in the dead of night, with the warning of "gas on.

I visited the large town of ------? Again the other day per "push bike and saw my first moving Picture show since leaving Bojey at S------ some months back. I heard while there from the operator who was with Frank, that he had gone to Salisbury in England, having handed over charge of the YMCA with this Division to Mt Hamilton, who is to open up a new one near here. Frank I understand is to return to Australia, tho’ I’m not sure whether this is correct till I see that operator again. He’s a lucky beggar anyhow, to be able to go to the "Old Dart.

There does not appear to be much chance of us getting over (unless with a "Blighty - and think it must be a good one) yet awhile, anyhow until the Winter, when the "Great Push will have

[Written on side of page]
PS

[indecipherable] the hurried scroll, I have lots of letters to ans and I’m getting lot of interruptions – I feel [indecipherable] as I can hardly decipher it myself. H.

[Page 176]
2.

- if necessity – subsided somewhat. It gets deadly monotonous the work in the army and continual thrills etc. God grant it will soon end and let us get home again. There’s no doubt someone must stand the responsibility of this most devilish war - and the Kaiser seems to be that man.

It has been raining on and off all the week, but today (Sat eve Sept 9th 16) has been a lovely sunny day. This is the Hop region and people (families) are still gathering in baskets of the hop-pods. The wheat is nearly harvested and the fields are being prepared for the long winter months which I ‘spose we’ll have to weather – unless the unexpected happens.

All wishes for Home must once more be sent across the water apparently.

Like France, this is also a great Catholic Country and way-side shrines (Christ on the Crucifix and the peculiar – to us – Cabinets) are everywhere to be seen. Our Head Quarters are in a School conducted by Nuns who still potter about doing work for themselves. The school is not in use for the Kiddies – the Military having taken it over.

Fruit is a luxury indeed! Coming from Spain it is not too good a condition by the time it lobs here and there’s not much of it. Grapes cost 1 franc 50 centimes (1/3d.) per lb. Apples ditto and bananas 2c. each, and take your chance whether they’re ripe or not.

"Fritz sends shells over now and again, so the people take a big risk. At the "Pictures I saw a very interesting film depicting part of the late San Francisco – Panama Exhibit included in which was a comedy-tour of the old Australian Convict ship "Success of Melbourne, showing all her deadly torture devices as used in the bad old days in Port Phillip. It was very interesting to us Australians so far away from Home. It made one forget all about war for the time, even tho’ the guns were still banging away not far distant.

I noticed in the "Australasian (Melb) the other day that "Arty Simonet’s name was amongst the wounded – over in France, I take, I wonder if that’s correct? Young "Barney Bitterworth is in "Blighty – so I believe – having been "knocked while with us, at

[Page 177]
3.

S-------, during our first appearance on that part of the Front. Have heard nothing of any of the lads, either Artillery, Inf. or AMC.

Met an old school mate some weeks back – Jimmy Duke of Glassop St – who was also taking part in the charge (with 1st F. Coy Engrs). He was slightly wounded with shrapnel but is OK again now.

I don’t know when I may go back to the Batn. – often feel like it. The YMCA are still doing wonderful work at the Front. I visited one of their depots the other day and spent a happy few hours. It was as usual very popular with the boys. Canteens are generally attached, as are also Reading and Writing Room, and Music. Give them all the boom you can – they deserve it.

Now to the lovely letters before me, which are the best tonic I know of, for dispelling loneliness, and the "down in the dumps feeling. Dad’s grand budget takes some answering, so I must compress as much as possible owing to limited space. The best news is we are all well, and I’m glad to see it appear again. Hope you continue so and with steady employment. Sorry to hear of slackness at the other "Iron-shops, but hope it’s only a temporary lull.

I s’pose ere now you have recd the Anzac Book I had sent to you in May. I could only get a few, so only one will go home now.

Les N. certainly has good times at Moore Park – close to City too! I’ve almost forgotten L’pool now, amidst the "bother here. They gave Les C. a "crook trot by sending him to Mudgee on the "Cudgee. – No Dubbo , my mistake. He has not managed to get into the "Whizz Bang Dept yet? Let me know they’re regt address when they leave – there may be a chance of meeting them, tho’ goodness, the whole manhood of Aust seems to be here! Are there any of military age left in the Cities?

The Orig. Anzacs got a great rumour round here that they’re going to be sent to Aust for a 3 months visit – the Govt must

[Page 178]
4.

have lots of money to throw about!

I am awfully sorry to hear of the continued ill health of Mr Jack Atkins. We can only hope for the best. Will be bad news for Reg, worse luck. I also recd that letter from Aunt Em – have already replied. Don’t let the Motor Co shares worry you – they don’t worry me at all!

Yes I’m always a real listener to news of "our Farm. It pleases me very much to learn that you’ve made such swift progress with plans, tenders, etc. I hope everything comes out alright. It seems a bad time to build while the war is on, yet again when it is over (God grant soon) there’ll be a terrible rush of applicants with new homes etc. I think you are wise to get it over. Working the soil must be a good diversion to you, after such a long absence from your pet hobby. I don’t doubt but that you’ll make something worth looking at when you’re finished.

Have you heard anything further re selling the Chatswood Block? Go right ahead and get the best you can for it. The young chap that bought it from (Harry Fellows) is away here somewhere with "Sigs of 17th Bn. I have not run across him yet. He comes originally from Moss Vale, and knows Mr Fullerton’s store there well.

It did not take the first news of the "Great Push to reach you at home. We were not in the opening round on July 1st, but came where the block occurred, a week or two after – the result you know.

Tell the girls there is no need to send extra writing paper, as there’s plenty here. I thank Elsie and Lizzie for their ever welcome letters and am pleased to know they are faring well, tho’ of course feeling lonely since the inevitable came along. Ask Els to rembr. Me to Ivy N. and her mother when she writes.

I will watch out 4 g,ma’s parcel, tho’ would rather none came. Rec’d the 2nd from Mrs Whit a fortnight ago – they beat the band 4 kindness. If she sees Els Brown and the other girls – kindly rembr. me. The Miss Bracks as usual still help to brighten the rotten life with regular letters, etc., I have here letters from Uncle Jack, Bessie Mullins, Archie Murdock and 3 from the office – Lizzie! "Con Buckleys’ young lad (a [indecipherable] ) that I know and have met him in 1st Batt’n., also his brother who came over with 12th of 1st Bn. Con was in the 1st Bn. Pioneers and was wounded that day before our late by charge at P------ ("down below) with shrapnel. I believe his "OK. I was with him for some time.

Remr. me to Arch and Paul and their people, and any others you come across.

Much Love to Mother, Father, Thel and yourselves – owing to new order prohibiting us sending P/C’s away I can’t reply on them this time. Our correspondence is also limited and one gets downhearted with it. All’s well with me.

Love Son and Brother

Harrie XXX

[On side of page]
Enclosed a cutting about ourselves and the gentleman of the Army – General Birdwood. He stands alone and all they say is correct of him.

[Page 179]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 180]
[Cutting from The Daily Mail of 5/9/16]
Under the Six Stars

A visit to General Birdwood

The General and His Men

By Lord Northcliffe

The following article was written by request by Lord Northcliffe for the United Cable Service Ltd., of Australasia, and is published by arrangement.

Somewhere in France

The high hopes of the Australasian peoples are centred round a bare room in one of the numberless French chateâux where nowadays the air vibrates with the throbbing of the guns. In that small room, the furniture principally consisting of the simplest possible bed, a telephone, and a map marked with the latest moves on the battle line, is General Birdwood, the idol of the Anzacs.

An officer from Victoria received me at the gate of the chateâu, where stood on guard two Australian giants having before them a fluttering flag of the Six Stars. It was a muggy morning, reminding the officer of October in his own country in the late shearing time. We passed through one of the halls of the chateâu where numbers of the clerical staff were busy at typewriting and telephones, and upstairs to the general’s room.

General Birdwood stands 5ft. 9in., has not an ounce of spare fat on him, and looks like a man in hard training. He has a strong but gentle voice, firm mouth, with a slight moustache, deep-set pale blue eyes and a cropped head. He looks a fighter every inch of him. He is fifty years of age, and has been engaged directly or indirectly in the business of war during most of his adult life. He eats and drinks little, is up and away at daylight in winter and before six in summer. He pushes his headquarters as near the front as possible, knows many of his "boys, as he calls them, who fought with him in the Gallipoli Peninsula, by their Christian names, and they believe in him as implicity as he believes in them.

Birdwood, erect in pale khaki coat with some four rows of well-earned ribbons, cord riding breeches, and riding boots, is not a man to lose a moment of time. He was just off to meet the boys back for rest from Pozières. They were camping in some woods to which we drove in his

open car, which flies the Australian flag. Some of them had already arrived. The sun, which had been absent for some days, came out at this moment, and never do I remember seeing a more delightful sylvan scene than that presented by these battle-worn but merry soldiers with their booty of German helmets and caps, German drums, and German field-glasses, riding and walking up to their huts and tents. Some had already arrived and were boiling their tea, making dampers, cooking beef in the cookers they extemporised from kerosene tins, and eating keenly and heartily after their long, long vigil in the heavily-shelled trenches.

Good Diggers.

As the general stepped out of his car he was instantly recognised by his men, most of them from New South Wales, who had been engaged in what was probably their hardest fight since Gallipoli. They had dug themselves in deeply the other side of Pozières, and had not left their trenches for days. "My boys are good diggers, remarked the general. "They dig deep and quickly, and their trenches are so clean that you could eat off them at dinner time. He addressed his soldiers simply and truly, and drew, first from one and then from another, stories of the fierce fighting they had just experienced. Some were so tired that we had passed them asleep just as they had arrived, others were full of life and gaiety, and as Captain MacKenzie, of the Salvation Army, known throughout the Peninsula and in France as "Mac, said, many were already anxious to get back to the firing line and show the Germans that if they were looking for more trouble they could get it.

I looked with interest at these already hardened warriors for whom death, wounds, and the German guns held no fear. A good deal has been said of Australian discipline. English Australians who were among them told me that when it comes to fighting their discipline is as rigid as the most adamant commander could wish. They obey their officers implicitly from the moment serous business begins, and their relations with the Imperial officers are perfect. The fact that the young English schoolboys and slightly older lads who man the aeroplanes have driven the spying German aeroplanes from the sky greatly rejoices them.

Their long experience in the trenches in Gallipoli have made them the excellent trench fighters that they are.

A Simple Speech.

I Accompanied Birdwood and his Staff from one portion to another of the scattered forest scene. In some of the huts all the men were asleep, and Birdwood would on no account allow them to be disturbed, but in others they were merry with mouth-organs, flutes, and a captured drum. The general peered in, but would not allow them to desist. Here and there they temporarily formed into line and saluted him as he approached. He had a simple speech for every group, always to the same effect. "You have suffered, but you have done splendidly. Are you ready for more when the time comes? and there always came a great shout of "Yes. Many were the stories told. One of how a mere lad (for some of them are ex
[indecipherable] time we were talking the "crumping and booming of great guns was a reminder of our proximity to the terrific struggle waging at the moment. The men came into the wood in a constant stream. Having seen their general they at once went to wash and eat or sleep. Birdwood had always one piece of parting advice to the boys. "Write home. Let your mothers know where you are, what you are doing, and how you are, for if you don’t write to her she will write to me. I get dozens of letters by every mail asking for one or other of you.

Once, while we were in the forest, attention was riveted on an air fight of which we could see nothing by reason of the leaves. The sharp rattle of the machine guns high in the sky told of a prolonged fight whose end we afterwards were informed was not satisfactory to the Germans. It must have been a rare spectacle, for the Hun is not often seen to cross our lines these days.

I left this forest scene with regret, but there was much to do that day. Something was in preparation. General Birdwood had work to attend to. He took me with him in his car, and we passed more and more of the Anzacs on their way in from the battle. Some were asleep on the top of the highly packed general service transport wagons. Those in German helmets were singing, all smiled affectionately as they saw their general and saluted by a quick "eyes right on the raising of the hand to the hat. Mounted men dropped their right hand sharply to the side. It was a long and interesting cavalcade on its way home from the battle. The dust, as one of them remarked, made him fairly homesick. All were in good spirits, and in spite of heavy losses they had done well and their general had come to meet and to greet them.

Passing through one ruined town and village after another we came to a divisional headquarters where in a small house some new movement to which the general had to attend was being arranged for, and he entered a two-story ruined building, a mass of telephone wires pouring in at the windows from every corner, and in side the busy click of typewriters and the voices of men working in the heat in their shirt sleeves. Hard by a great shell fell wounding several men and cruelly mutilating a young English officer, whom in the evening, I saw being wheeled out to the operating theatre at a neighbouring hospital.

The Ambulance Work.
General Birdwood is a soldier who thinks it his duty to be in the firing line wherever possible, but his officers do not agree with him. Two years of his acquaintanceship have endeared him to them that they feel they would be lost without him. He has often been thought to close to death for their happiness and they urged him not to go any closer but to take me to the nearest field ambulance, which was No. 2 Australian. Cheerily a slightly wounded Australian at the gate, in reply to a question from Birdwood as to how the hospital was getting on, replied: "Oh, we are filling up nicely, general. The ambulance arrived at the gate and stretchers were carried in in less time than it takes to write it. The men were classified, fed, and those who were fit had anti-tetanus serum injected. The serum was administered with great care and speed, and the letter "T was marked on each forehead in indelible pencil. Arrangements were being made to convey such as were well enough to the casualty clearing station, whence they will go to one of the beautiful base hospitals probably looking over the Atlantic, that

but in general they were ready for a joke and a talk and a cigarette. "How do you like France? I asked a young Victorian. "I like it fine, he replied; "they can teach us something in farming. And another one said: "Not an inch of land wasted. They work on the land rain or shine. "Girls are all right too, put in a young giant from Bathurst. "Yes, I should like to take a couple of them back, chipped in a wounded Adelaider. I was duly shocked, but the compliment to France was sincere.

All expressed admiration for the French, just as the French love the British for their kindness to the French children. Gallipoli, which all of them, Birdwood included, pronounce "Gallipli, afforded no rest. Here when they are not actually fighting they have delightful resting camps with well-fitted canteens.

I asked the general where these men were drawn from. They are of all types – clerks, blacksmiths, men from stations and farms. Many of the officers are of the same class. They understand and obey each other implicitly. They have exactly the same rations as the British soldiers, and draw only a portion of their handsome pay. "We have had no lunch, said one of the Staff officers at this point, "Birdwood eats nothing, and expects us to do likewise.

We drove away from the wounded lads along the encumbered roads, past miles and miles of wagons with the emblem of the Australian rising sun and the New Zealand fern, and back to the château. I learnt during the ride something new from General Birdwood of Australasia’s generosity to its forces, of the promptness of the Australian Government in responding to his requests, of the great help of the Australian Red Cross. Those fine soldiers are making Australian history. They are building up the traditions of Australia’s future armies. There is hardly one of them who has not patriotism burnt into his soul and burnt into his body. Many Australian soldiers have tattooed on their arms the Australian, French and British flags with the words "1915 Gallipoli underneath.

After a long drive through the dust I shared a simple meal, at which tea duly predominated, with the alert and agile chief and his staff, and as I drove away many miles along the lines, I could not but marvel at the turn in world conditions that had brought these young giants from the farthest corner of the earth to shed their blood on behalf of the Powers which are so gallantly fighting for the greatest cause in the world, the cause of freedom as opposed tyranny.

[Page 181]
No. 42
Y.M.C.A. Depôt
Somewhere at the Front
??

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters.

We have pretty well settled down now, so things are going along smoothly, id a bit monotonously, after our late "stunts ‘down below’ with their hurry, bustle and excitements and thrills.

The weather is a bit of a puzzle in this region, after our long stretch of sunny days and mild air, which reminded us to much of Home conditions. We hardly get two fine days running now – I ‘spose we can put it down to the closing Summer months. Eight o’clock here means darkness, tho’ we had a lovely full moon a few evenings ago. At 6 am it is breaking day. What a contrast to the long days of last June!

I am quartered in a hut with 10 lads of the "Sigs; and a merry lot we are! Four come from Victoria, (Brighton, Elsternwick, etc_ Two from South Aust., 2 "Noo South, and one West Aust. Needless to say interstate arguments are common, in fact they are generally our lullabys at night. Sport usually starts the "ball rolling, then come in order, politics, population, production, shipping, scenery etc, ending up with sport again. It is really funny to hear the "points that are ‘wrung’ in. Being an "1/2 in 1/2 out, I can generally manage to level up things between "Noo South and "Vic, when one nearly gets the better of the other, so as to keep up the fun. Amongst the "Vics are two swimming enthusiasts – "Col Sledman (bro. of Ivan the Victorian Champion Amateur – now with Artillery "OAS) and "Bob Grieve, both of the Brighton Amateur Club - and I gain much information from them of conditions in the "Southern State. They have both met "Bogey over here in France, in fact this Company (the 1st Divl Signals) was quartered in the same town as he’s just the

[Page 182]
2.
next street – it’s the nearest they got to the "Line. I have been unable to find out any more about Frank yet, as I did not see the operator go in - ? when I went in. I am wondering if it’s true that he was going to enlist from Australia, as this young chap told me. There may be some truth in it yet.

This is Saturday afternoon, and I am spending a few quiet hours "off shift, (Sept 16th, 1916) in one of the many grand Y.M.C.A. Depôts near the "Front. As I’ve often said, they are still doing a wonderful work for the soldier OAS, spiritually and socially - and cannot be praised too much for the splendid way in which they look after us. In this one is attached, Reading and Writing Rooms, and Canteen and Dining Room. You can buy at very reasonable prices, almost anything you want at the Canteen. Lemonade (1d. glass) and Tea are always "on tap, together with Cake and Bisquits. It is quite a good change to reach one of these useful Depôts after a trying term in the "Line. Every evening (like those branches in Egypt), there’s always a "sing-song, lecture, or some other attraction to keep one’s mind engaged. Reading matter – a Library is attached here – is accessable to all and sundry, as is writing material.

Our huts are about 2 miles from here, but the walk (alone again) is worth it – anyhow it’s exercise, and that’s always a good thing. Coming across the Fields and thro’ Farm-houses, I struck a free supply of good ripe blackberries, growing amongst the hedges, which "pulled me up for some time – I don’t feel a bit hungry now! Blackberries grow wild in the hedges hereabouts, so I am looking 4ward to some more feeds.

The country-folk are all busy outdoors now, some hoeing, planting, bringing in the wheat and other crops, ploughing and potato digging, others under the giant climbing hop-plants, are going for the "time of their lives to get the job over plucking the pods. Many of the hop fields are bare, only the long slanting poles, with the wire guides for the plant remaining, putting one much in mind of a bird-trap on a large scale. The ground is not idle while waiting for the next season, garden vegetables and other winter varieties are planted in the meantime between the poles.

The old windmills on the ridges, are still grinding away continuously, the wheat and other grain, and their peculiar long arms, with sails out, make a strange picture. These sails (worked on the venetian-blind system) can be regulated (as far as wind capacity goes) so that there’s no chance of them getting too much of a strain on the rickety old structure, that holds the grinding machinery.

Interval of an hour and half -- --!!! Have just had a very interesting

[Page 183]
3.
conversation with some of our "brothers in Arms from the "Land of the Maple-Leaf, (Canada) and feel a lot more enlightened on many things that I did not know much about – it was really a little geography lesson with first-hand "information supplied gratis. The handling of the wheat output in Bulk from the Prairie provinces, proved to me what a splendid ides is going to waste in Australia. The saving of gunny-bags and its labor are only 2 factors of many. I believe our Govt. is gradually thinking the idea out; so some day it will be one established fact. These lads have been thro’ some "tough-stuff with Fritz on this part of the Line, but they tell me, they’ve got him "wet now. They get "5 bob a day, (Privates) so are pretty much like us for making it "go round. "Tommy is not so badly off with his "bob, tho’ of course he rarely leaves a 1/2d. on the counter, if his entitled to that much change. Being so close to the "Old Dart (under 50 miles here), he gets lots of parcels, and some money too, if he needs it - and so can we in time.

The Canadians exploded my idea that their country was nothing else but snow and ice for the best part of a year, by drawing my attention to the vast timber tracts up north and west, also to their pet scenery province of British Columbia. This picture, (:round the world in 20 minutes), brings back to me very clearly, what I saw on the screen when the "Niagara started her maiden-trip on the "All-Red-Route. Some of these Colonists are very interesting to listen to, and I will look forward to more "lessons.

The YMCA is always in much favor with the lads from Overseas, and will always be mentioned as one of the splendid things of this world war.

"Leave has started again I believe, for the old hands, so I ‘spose some day I’ll get a chance to visit Aunt in London. Will look forward to that day, tho’ I don’t expect I’ll be lucky enough – not this side of the Declaration of Peace, anyhow.

My mail is not getting a very "smooth passage since I came to the ‘Sigs’. It has to go

[Page 184]
4.
To the Batt’n. first, then to the Brigade, so by the time I get it the others are getting the next delivery.

I answered Grandmother’s last letter during the week, and learnt from her that "mysterious Bert had a "popper again in Melbourne, to let them know he had joined the A.I.F., and was in Camp at Seymour undergoing training – he certainly beats the band after "lying low: for such a long time. Let me know his Regimental partic’s if you can; I may be able to look him up in "La Belle (or elsewhere) when he "lobs.

I believe the Unc’s are still "knocking at the Door! Would that I could be back to tell ‘em things – might open their eyes a bit. Please convey my best respects and wishes to them, and all Aunts, Unc’s, and cousins.

Still have a letter from Unc Jack to answer. Rec’d a delayed one last week from him, but have already written in reply. I don’t know what they’ll make of my letters now, as I have to practically confine myself to answering their’s that come along, owing to strict censorship. Same applies to this and others that are to leave me. Picture Post Cards are "tabooed worse luck, so I shall just have to same ‘em up till I return, or else wait till the embargo is lifted. Tell Archie that I am worried over not writing more often to him, but like 50 – 70 others I have to wait till their welcome ones come along. It’s so much as I can do to keep up acknowledgments from both States – I think he’ll understand.

I am still trusting that all is well with you my Dear Parents and Sisters, and that work is plentiful. The new house I needn’t worry about, as Dad is the man for that. I don’t mean the worrying part, but the looking after arrangements and the improvements to the Land.

Kind regards and remembrances to Mr and Mrs Herb Smith, Mrs Callan, Mrs and Nellie Thompson, Mr and Mrs Sinclair, Mrs Lewis, Mr Keynes, Pearlie and Arch, Mr and Mrs Garden, the Misses Back and Brown (if you see them) and all other kindly enquiring friends at home and in Melbourne. I am still keeping in the very best of health and looking after myself as I did prior to becoming a Private in the A.I.F. and will continue so.

With much Love and many Kisses to Mother, Father, Elsie, Lizzie and Thelma

Your Loving Son and Brother

Harrie xx
[In margin at side]
Many thanks to Mrs Whir and Bob and kind regards – I nearly 4got them in my usual hurry to get this away.

[Page 185]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain (Sydney)
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 186]
No. 43
Somewhere in the "Land of Merk and Mud
with the "Anzacs and other.

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,

Here I am again, well and happy. Seems no time since I wrote to you last, tho’ it’s a week today. We are still in the same hamlet, jazzing along with few excitements to break the monotony. Now and again in the early mornings, our anti-aircraft guns waken us with their plonk! plonk!, denoting the presence of enemy planes in the neighbourhood. As I write in our hut, (10 of us occupy it in a field) the familiar sound of the "Archibalds (the R.F.C.’s [Royal Flying Corp] "nick-name for anti-aircraft shells or guns) strikes my ears. The boys are watching the shells bursting (like snow-balls in a clear sky) round a "Fokker or "Taube, which is as usual, only a speck in the blue. He can’t see very much from that height, as a mist still overhangs this low-lying country. We ourselves can only see as far as the hop field 1/4 mile away – or less.

There was another "Hun airman over this way at Reveille – the first for quite a long while - and he got a rough reception from the ground batteries. Two of our scout bi-planes went after him, but he "imshied down the line towards L???? Our boys still "rule the roost up aloft; wet, windy, gales or fine, makes no difference. Even at night – specially "down below. Where all the "Stoush is being "dished out – they are particularly active. They denote their presence by the dropping of colored lights, which are very pretty as they come down like falling stars.

Today is just perfect for flying – (at least this morning is – it may rain again BEFORE afternoon comes) there’s hardly a breath of wind and the sun is shining nicely – quite a pleasant contrast to the best part of the past week – cold, rain, wind and as usual, lots of mud. No wonder "Fritz is up and doing – it’s too good to be idle.

This is Saturday morn Sept 23rd ’16. I am off shift till 1 pm, when I work till 8 tonight.

[Page 187]
2.
Yesterday (Friday) was another nice day, so we were not surprised to lots of planes (battle, scout-bi’s and mono’s) about. Twenty of ours went over this way to Fritz’s territory during the morning. They were very high up, but their shining bodies ‘put them away’ as they ‘ducked’ in and out of the big cumulus clouds. The combined dull hum of their engines, puts one much in mind of millions of insects on the wing. Needless to say what their mission was over the other side – I’m sure something of importance to "Fritz, must have got a "tickle. They came back later, and some gave us a good "buckshee exhibition, of manoeuvres in space.

One was quite close to us, and the control of his machine (by the pilot) brought forth praise from us on "terra-firma. His volplaning, climbing, banking and diving, was something to send a thrill thro’ one. The plane was almost standing on edge in some of the "banking, the pilot and observer’s heads could be seen plainly. Was sorry when he went to shed in along volplane. We get these sights daily, - what would you give in Australia to see them? Never mind, after the was our boys will be able to do as much, if not more at Home in their own planes.

I received a heap of mail from you this week. Owing to my many changes some of them have been much delayed. No papers have come along since I came out of the "Line at P----- in July. I hope you have refrained from sending me more, after I told you some time ago, as its only a waste of good money, which I know would be of more use to you at this time.

Things have got worse in that line, since I came to this unit, as the Postal chap in the Batt’n. does not bother about forwarding papers on to me here, or to any of the others who go away. It’s a lot of trouble, so you can’t blame him. The boys who remain get them.

We can buy the English Dailies every morning here, as the spasm between us is no more than 50 miles – so near and yet so far, ch[?]. The "Daily Mail, "Daily Mirror, "Chronicle, "Times, "Telegraph, "News of the World and other well known papers are some that reach us, the day after publication.

The letters that reached me during the week are:- Dad’s 16/7th and 30/7th, (the latter came first) Mother’s 27/7th and 9/7th (former first rec’d) Thelma’s 11/7th and 27/7th (latter first) Lizzie’s 16/7th and 31/7th (latter first rec’d) Elsie’s 24/7th (rec’d 16/9th) 31/7th (rec’d 16.9th) and 16/7th (rec’d 19/9th). It was a real happy week for me, as there’s nothing I long for, more than letters – unless it’s Home Sweet Home. I rec’d a good many others from Kind Friends in Balmain, the V.O. Coy Office, and elsewhere, so I felt very content. Have been busy all the week answering their kind favors. Mrs Whitnall and Bob, the Misses Bach and Brown are still exceedingly kind to me, and I would like any of you who comes across them, to convey my very best thanks for their self-sacrifice of time and money. Same to Archie Murdock for his regular brief of "Noos – it’s really refreshing to hear so often from them.

I don’t know how I’m to answer so many letters here, so I must do my best in the little space I have left.

[Page 188]
3.
Dad’s 2 grand communiqués are still as ‘newsy’ as ever, and I must thank him for putting things so plainly to me, especially in relation to our new Home, and other financial matters. It is nice to know that arrangements to start, are going along smoothly. I hope you have heaps of Good Luck in the venture. Have you sold my block at Chatswood yet? The money you get for that, ought to make matters a bit plainer sailing for you. Let me know what’s doing in that Line. The shares of that Coy. you can sell also with pleasure if possible. Did you meet with any success on your 2nd visit? The parcel I rec’d last June was the one meant for my birthday. I have rec’d no others from you since, tho’ you say another left. I may be wrong in saying this, as I’ve rec’d a few parcels from different ones since I came here and may be mixed a little.

I’m glad you realise the difficulties under which I labor in regard to corresponding – there’s lots of obstacles to clear, and opportunities do not always occur. I am terribly sorry to hear of the very serious illness to Mr Atkins and do trust he pulls thro’. It’s awful to think that such a steady and fine man should be stricken and have to suffer like he is. It will be a big shock to Reg if he hears about it over here. I have seen no sign of him yet worst luck.

The death of Mrs Ted Lawler was also a shock. Kindly convey my condolences to the Family – what a long illness!!

Fancy the Gov’t. tackling the new tram line to the "Grove! I didn’t think they’d worry about a "job like that at this critical time. It ought to give good employment to some anyhow, and send up land values around that ‘dead area’ opp’ the ‘Grove.

Glad you rec’d the ‘Anzac’ Book alright – I thought it would reach you alright. I had ordered 5, but could not get them all, so Aunt Soph’s did not go on. Our limit was 3 each.

I hope there’ll be no need for you to be "Knocked off at the Island, tho’ they are getting slack. Would like to see the "Brisbane and the new destroyers now that they are finished – some class of Australian workmanship I ‘spse?

I hope the Govt. meet with that loan application – how long will they let it out for? and what is the rate of interest? I think you did tell me

[Page 189]
4.
ave 4gotten with the excitements of the past month or two. I know nothing about the "stoppage of mail that Harold Cartwright mentioned to his Dad. The only block ever I remb. Was when about to leave the Canal for "La Belle – he must be mistaken.

Those papers you mentioned as having been sent, have not appeared yet – reasons as I explained BEFORE. Hard Luck, but can’t be helped. Thanks to Mother for her Love and Wishes – I will write in reply to her 2 letters (and Thels) during the week, as soon as I clear this accumulation.

Les Calman is getting a "rough passage with his visits from Dubbo Camp to Bakshee trips in Kitchener’s trains from the ‘Pool. I don’t think it would pay to come down every week-end at that terrible cost, tho’ they say Love is blind to such trifles. – Yes, I guess g’ma would be sure surprised to all mystic BEFORE ‘pop’ in, after such a long silence. Was he married that time in Newcastle. I can’t make him out not calling on you while in Camp in Moore Park – more mystery I ‘spose! So he belongs to the ‘Binyergees’[?] eh! Send along his prop. address if you get it, there’s a chama of sticking him here – a small one, tho’ amongst the millions of kharki.

I’m glad you visited Mrs Mullins and Family at Bondi and found them all well and happy. I have replied to Jack’s letter some weeks ago now, also Bessie’s. Her parcel has not come along yet (this is Sat. Sept 23rd, 1916).

I have 4gotten nearly all the girls’ birthday dates. Good Luck to "Thel in her 12th year. Happy returns to Mother when her’s comes along. (There’s the 2 extremes – too late for one and too early for the other). – Good Luck to you for the work you’re putting into the "New Farm – "Warrnambool. The spot must be an ideal one, if it excites so much admiration. Have the Gov’t duplicated the tram-line out that way yet? ‘praps they will in time. It is more urgent than the one from the Balmain P/O to Snails Bay I reckon, tho’ it reflects great credit on Mr Storey – as I ‘spose it was thro’ his efforts in Parliament that the work was put in hand. Rem. me kindly to him if you see him.

Well my Dear parents, things are going very well with me, still keeping in the best of health. Don’t worry about me, as I am looking after myself as I did at Home – more so ‘praps - and expect to be Home soon – maybe early next year, God willing. We can only trust in His Great Judgment that His Will be Done.

Remb. me very kindly to Mr and Mrs Cowan and Gus, Mr and Mrs Garden and Sinclair, Mr and Mrs Herb Smith, Lewis, Callam, The "Whits, Misses Poack, Brown, Summerville, Mullins and relations - and all other Kindly enquiring friends (oh, Mrs Thompson, Nellie, Mrs Tetley, George etc too).

Much Love to Mother and the girls. Hope all’s [indecipherable] at the very best with you. Keep happy, it will soon be all over – Trust.

Loving Son and Bro.

Harrie xxx

[Page 190]
[On Active Service Envelope addressed to]
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 191]
No. 44
"In the Field with the Anzacs and Others.
-Somewhere in ???

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,

Another ordinary week has come and gone, but nothing of importance has happened to break the monotony of my new "job, with exception of meeting a few old mates and lads from Balmain in one of the near-by towns and villages. Harold Fillingham – late of "Msiion and Glassop St, now of Rockdale – was near here the other day. I had a long yarn with him re old times, and was surprised to hear that he was on the "Fenwish with the Orig. 18th. His brother "Perc is in one of the other Divisions now at the Front. Saw young Mat Thorburn of Grove St again and am glad to say that he came thro’ the second "stunt at ?? unharmed. He was with young Blue of Roundtree St (2nd wiz-bangs) when I met him, so we had a long yarn. "Jock Hawkes (1st Bn. Sigs) also came along while I was speaking to them and he too is looking very fit. I have had no further news of Snowy (Codger) Fergusson (2nd Bn.) but trust he’s OK.

Another Balmain lad I saw was "Dutchy Hand (45th) who is a bootmaker for that Bn. Wal Preston (3rd) was at BHQ during the week, and looks very well, having been thro’ the "hot stuff with us at ?? His brother Arthur is just outside Y?? with the :Iodine Dept having been thro’ the lot. I cannot remember any others just now.

If you see Bessie Mullins (or any of her people) tell her that the parcel reached me alright this week – very kind of her to go to such much trouble over me.

Saw one of the big "Sausage Balloons come down in flames yesterday (Today is Sat. Sept 30th) and it was a thrilling sight. We of the Sigs were playing football at the time, when the sound of a machine-gun in

[Written at side of page]
PS. Enclosed – a fern-leaf souvenir from the remains of the ?? at ???.

Harrie.

[Page 192]
2.
the sky, drew our attention to a fast falling body of flame coming from a great height. The smoke from the balloon left a long trail like a water spout. This is a pretty common occurrence lately – the bringing down of gas-bags. "Fritz hardly ever has one to bring down now, so expert are our airmen and so "bluffed is he,

It’s been a lovely week of good sunny days – seems too good to last. Only hope it keeps up for a while yet, as we’ll have quite enough of the wintry stuff when it comes along. The people are still very busy in digging[?] the fields. The hops are now pretty well all picked, the wheat oats etc are stored, the haystacks are dotted everywhere. We often watch them gathering in the potatoes and beans. The former do not grow deep, so by raking the withering plant with a peculiar shaped pitch fork, the spud comes to light, the bean plant is cut with a scythe and made up in bundles or sheafs.

Blackberries are very plentiful in all the hedges and we have many good feeds, as fruit of any kind is a great luxury. Bananas (poor ones) are still 2d. each. Apples (pommes) 13.50 (?) per lb. and pears ditto, also grapes. Sugar is very scarce common beat sugar costs 50 cents (1/2 franc or 5d.) per lb and white crystal is hard to get.

My furlough to England is still as far off as ever, in fact I’m building up no hopes of ever seeing it. Those leaving Aust now, and a few months ago seem to be the favoured ones, I don’t know why. We’ve been hanging about here ever since April last, without a spell away from the "Stoush, so can expect to stay till the end of the chapter.

If you write Mrs S, tell her that I may "pop in, one of these days – there’s no telling. Glad you’re showing the Smith’s a point since their crook action to us. Their place won’t bring the value now. Regards to Mr and Mrs Sinclair for kind wishes. That has turned out a bit of a surprise packet. No thanks are needed for the fancy card etc, I have sent on. Only wish we were allowed to continue doing so, but orders must be obeyed. Obliged to her that Olly Dodd has written to me – have rec’d. none of the letters yet.

No, I don’t want you to sent me anything at all – I’m doing all right on my "bob-a-day, and can buy any article that’s needed. If I go to the "Old Dart, I’ll have enough in credit in my Pay Book to cover the few days there. Parcels are a great worry both to you at home, the postal people and others, so save all the bother by not sending any. Papers are the same bother – don’t send any unless we go to another front.

Remr. me very kindly to all in Melb you write, also all kind friends in Balmain. Have you seen Mrs Backs yet? Hank them for the continued kindness to me, also Mts Whit and Bob, who surpasses anything I know of in the kindness-line. All’s well with me and I trust the same of you at Home.

Much Love and Best Wishes

Till I write again, Ta Ta

Loving Son and Bro

Harrie xx

[Page 193]
[Envelope addressed to]
O.A.S.
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 194]
No 45

Still in the "Land
Of Mud & Windmills

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters

It is hard for me to realise that another week has already gone – seems only yesterday since I wrote last. Funny thing is, that there’s been no excitements whatever to make the days go faster – it’s been a very ordinary week right thro’.

The elements have once more been unkind to us, as rain started some days ago & still hovers over us. The wind has been very boisterous also, making the air a most unsafe place for our wonderful planes. Despite it all, they are to be seen almost all day battling against the [?] gales, or flying at a terrific pace with it toward the Hun lines, I was watching our big battle-planes this morning (Sat Oct 7th ’16) ducking in & out of the flying clouds, banking & volplaning, all the time the wind blowing very hard. One plane was only about 200 feet up from the ground & passes right over us. I s’pose the pilot was trying to get out of the wind a bit. He was rocking to & fro like a ship at sea, & the 2 men aboard were easily seen, likewise the business like machine-gun pocking out of the projecting pilot’s carriage. Another plane was coming down in steep spirals from a great height, right thro’ the clouds. One could have sworn, - by the rate he was dropping, - that it was a ‘cert’ smash-up, till the machine gently glided to earth as if there was nothing in the performance. All these manoeuvres were done in a high wind, & a very dull & threatening sky, so I reckon they are worth talking about.

Did I tell you of the big balloon I saw brought down in flames last week? I think I did. It was a great, tho’ thrilling sight. The observer came down to terra-firma

[Page 195]
2.
per his parachute )so they tell us). Poor "Fritz doesn’t get a chance to put any of his "Sausages (captive Kite-Saloons) up, as our airmen soon send them down in flames, with their daring exploits.

I am anxious to hear from you again. It is a fortnight since I rec’d any Sydney mail & I am trusting that all is well. We are all in the same boat in that respect – Vics, South Aus. West Aus. etc. – so I’ll just have to wait patiently. Xmas will soon be with us again as the Homeward Mail will be closing here in a week or two. It is sure to be a big one this time, owing to the large number of lads OAS. It will be the 3rd away from home for the Originals & early reinforcements – what a long spasm out of a man’s life! Wonder if this will be the last. Of course everything points that way, but it is better to prepare for the worst, just in case.

I have made application to go back to the old Batt’n again, as I feel that I can better serve my country on the "Line than way back here. Of course a fellow has a chance of getting hit even here – but he’d be terribly unlucky. I don’t know yet whether they’ll let me go, but don’t be surprised if I lob back with the soldiers again. They are now "in & I feel very much as tho’ I should be with them. The work here is not very good for anyone who likes outdoor exercise, so I’ll be more content "bogging in.

Have been twice to the now famous City of - ? - , which has made history in this terrible war. It is about 11 miles from where I am stationed with the "Sig Coy. I sent you a fern-leaf which was growing amongst the ruins of a beautiful - ? - , last week. I’ll put another in with this in case the first does not reach you. Am wishing for the time when I’ll be able to tell you all about the sights I saw there & in neighbouring towns – it’s real terrible. How lucky Australia is, to be so far away from these "madmen of Europe & Surice[?]. God save us from such a fate, as this unlucky & unfortunate little Country!

Bessie Mullin’s parcel of luxuries came along alright last week & I have already written in acknowledgement of her kindness. If you see her or her people do the same for me.

Well, my Dear Parents & Sisters, I must "wind up now, as it is getting time for me to return to the Huts. (I am scribbling this in the YMCA in ? which is 2 or more miles away.)

Oh rec’d a letter from "[?] yesterday. He is with Jacky Rose’s Divn. at Salisbury Plains (Eng) & is staying with his cousin & aunt (Beaurepaire’s also) in Kentish Town (London). He is trying to "Enlist, so he tells me, but does not say in what branch.

Lots of Love & Kisses to you all, hoping to hear again from you soon XX regards to usual friends.

Loving Son & Bro.

Harrie XX

[Page 196]
O.A.S.
Mr and Mrs H C Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 197]
No 46
(spasm Un)

Still touring abroad
Somewhere in "La Belle

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,

Am glad to say that at last I’ve heard from you at Home, after a long & anxious wait of some weeks. My recent transfer to this Unit (the "Divvy Sigs) has undoubtably added to the unavoidable delay, so I trust the delivery will be alright now. Besides including 3 parcels from Sydney & Melbourne (one with "sox from Elsie), I also rec’d last night, (Saturday) letters from Dad & Thel of 13/8th, & Elsie also of 13/8th which have gladdened my heart a good deal.

We are once more on the move, so there’s no saying where we’ll eventually "pull up. I am writing this from our Billet in a Chateau grounds, in a small village "somewhere – that mysterious region you’d all like to know more about (It’s not our fault that toy can’t either). Two of us had a hard cycle ("pushy of course) ride, of just on 30 miles against an awful south wind, to get here, (today is Sun Oct 15th 3 pm) but we managed it without mishap. We set off yesterday morning at 7.30 – the rest of the boys enjoyed a motor-wagon jaunt - & altho’ the wind was very bad & disheartening, saw all the countryside, towns, villages, hamlets etc, on our route, which I myself enjoyed. We were not hurried for time, as we had practically the whole day to go those 30 miles - & we needed it too, I can assure you. Military "bikes are not like my old "Metro, - far from it. They are very heavy & cumbersome, badly want cleaning & adjusting. Oil has not known any part of them since they went OAS, so you can guess what kind of a job it is pushing against a head wind in a practically flat country. The cobblestones which we travelled over did

[Page 198]
2.
not seem to improve our lot, nonetheless we did well to reach our destination. The towns & villages we went thro, were the usual kind met with in these parts but we had a better opportunity of seeing them. At two of the big towns Market was in full-swing in the square. It was a very busy sight & put me much in mind of Sth Melb & the North Melb Markets on their days g[?] bustle. On one part of the journey we had to ride up a small mountain, on top of which is a fairly large town. The view from the summit was great & I was sorry we had to pass on. The wind got so bad on the long level stretches of unprotected cobble-road that it took us all our time to keep on the machines.

Going thro’ the old fashioned city of - ? – was great, as we saw many grand places of historic interest. A big Cathedral (or the remains of it) were worth a visit. We learned that it was destroyed by cannon during the Franco-Prussian War 1870 – anyhow it seems to be terribly old & is now fenced off as a sight for tourists. The very high tower still stands intact but the body of the building has entirely disappeared. A traffic canal runs thro’ this place & there’s lots of barges, launches, etc. on it. There are also 3 other large churches besides some big business-houses & factories scattered about. We lobbed in this village during the afternoon, tired & sleepy, but a good night’s rest in a barn soon refreshed us by morning. Can’t say how long we stay here – may be off again any minute. We find the people generally much more to our liking than any that we’re yet come into contact with, perhaps it’s their nearness to "Blighty (England) that has educated them to our peculiar – to them – ways.

I will answer your welcome letters in "Spasm deux, as soon as I get a chance, in the meantime accept from me a Merry Xmas & all good Wishes, as I expect this will reach you about that time.

Convey same wishes to all kind friends in Sydney, Melbourne & elsewhere. I trust you are all in the best of health as I am just now.

Much Love to you all

Loving Son & Bro
Harrie XX

[Page 199]
Miss Thelma Cave [long s used]
109 Birchgrove Rd
Balmain
Sydney
N.S.Wales

[Re-addressed]
Warrnambool
Batemans Rd
Gladesville
21.12.16

[Page 200]
No 6 General Hospital
Rouen, (France)
Wed Nov 1st 1916

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,

Don’t be alarmed when you see the above temporary address – all’s pretty well with me & I’ll soon be about again, as right as ever, thanks to grand treatment & rest I’m getting here. I was admitted on Tues’ eve’ Oct 24th, after a lot of travelling per stretchers, motor ambulances & a beautiful Hosp’ train, from the region of bother, to which we were returning at the time. Most of the "Sigs were on motor lorries, - some motor-cycles & "pushies – with the kits I was originally detailed to "push a bike, but somehow or other, found the order cancelled, & instead got a ‘lift’. We were to go about 30 miles or more to a "possy not far from where "Fritz is getting licked in good old style. I was riding on the tail-board with 5 or 6 others, & our feet were dangling. Not far from our destination, - Mon. 1 pm Oct 23rd – another big motor lorry coming in opp direction, in trying to squeeze past on the narrow road lurched on to our’s, just where I happened to be.

Am terribly fortunate to be as well off

[Page 201]
2.
as I am today – a crushed left leg. It might have been much worse, eh! Never mind, I’m feeling very fit & will soon be about again. My card is endorsed "Base, so any day I’ll be over in the "Old Dart – quite an unexpected delight if it comes off. I’m only waiting now to be removed, so don’t worry in the least over me. I am the only Aust in these wards – there’s only about 1/2 doz of us in Rouen at present - & was the only one in the Clearing Station & on the Hosp train. The Sisters are very nice – English, Irish - & were to have a gramophone in here after tea. There’s one or two Aust Sisters, in this Hosp & one came to see me a day or two ago. She belongs to Little Coogee so I was quite at "Home with her. Another Sister from one of the Bureaus came to get all my partc’s for the Head Office in London. She belongs to Gippsland somewhere & was very nice to me. The regular weekly letter is a bit overdue now, but I’ll send No 47 as soon as I get a better opportunity.

Will leave you now, hoping & trusting that all’s going fine & prosperous at Home.

Remr. as usual to all.
Much Love to toy
Loving Son & Bro
Harrie XX.

[Note on side of page]
The old Regt address will still do – this is only temporary. By the time you get this I may be back.

Mr & Mrs H. E. Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Readdressed to]
Warrnambool
Bateman Rd
Gladesville.

[Page 202]
At The Front –
Somehwhere ??
29.9.16

To Thelma
My Dear little Sister,
Was awfully pleased to receive your lovely letters (11/7th & 24/7th) that came along with two from Mother last week. I always look 4ward for you welcome, cheery sheets of news, as each one is an improvement on the last, telling me of good progress at school, & with other studies. Am very pleased that you are taking an interest in your music & elocution, & I can assure you, I’m wishing for the day when I can hear you in our new home at the ‘Ville.

We thought Xmas would have seen us out of this part of the globe, but we are a bit out in our expectations – never mind, live & hope. Perhaps it will all soon be finished – God grant so anyhow - & then what a happy world it will be! – for some alas, the end will bring back terrible memories. It behoves all at home to give the wreckers, of the World’s Peace "the cold shoulder, or got to the extreme of prohibiting them living with civilised peoples – put a bar on them like we do the "chows.

I s’pose that Les’s are pretty well on the way now. (Today is Fri. Sept 29th ’16.) If their Regt part’es come along, I may be able to look them up on this side, tho’ I don’t s’pose they’ll be here for a long while yet, as England seems to be their first stop.

Love to Elsie & Lizzie, Mother & Dad.

Remr. me to the Prout family & all other friends.
Loving Brother
Harrie XXX

[Page 203]

Miss Thelma Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia.

[Page 204]
Somewhere in
The Land of Mud,
Mud - & more Mud.

To Elsie

Ma Cherie Soeur, [My Dear Sister]
Was delighted to get such a batch of letters from you during the past – no less than 3 coming to hand within a day or two of each other (of dates – 24/6th, (?) 31/6th (?) & 16/7th) think the two former were meant to be July letters as they both bear Aug 1st post marks, & there’s only 30 days in June. Nevertheless, your regular budgets are always read & re-read with much interest, & I have a lot to thank you for. My mail has all received a "rough passage since I came to this Unit, but I trust the delivery will improve now.

Please do not send any more spare material (paper, envelopes, etc) as we can get all we require here. Many thanks for previous kindness in that respect. – I s’pose you will miss yer "pot & pan now that he is in Kharki, but trust for the best. Will keep a look out 4 him on this side if you give me his particulars.

Best Tebley going for Com’n eh? oh well Good Luke to him! Remr. me to Mrs & "Gladdie if you see them, also Nellie Ray.

Yes, I am surprised to hear of the marriage of Ivy Fountain – I can only wish them the best of luck etc.

You cannot do better than join a Swimming Club for coming season. I was disappointed that neither of you have done so before.

Surprised to hear of new addit’n to the Junior Drake Family – Congrats to them! Yes, heard all about Stedman’s big blaze – will put a few girls out of a job. Sorry to hear of Mrs Ted Lawler’s death – convey my respects please.

Glad to hear that Thel is growing such a big girlie & that all at home are still OK. No, my old water-polo colors were dark & light blue.

Love to all at Home, all’s well with me
(Sat Sept 23rd, 16)

Harrie

[Page 205]
Miss Elsie Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia.

[Page 206]
"In the Field with
the "Anzacs
29.9.16

My Darling Mother,

This will serve as an acknowledgement for your two lovely letters of 9/7th & 27/7th which came with Thelma’s, last week. As tomorrow is my usual "Home letter day, I will just say that I am in the very best of health now, & was glad to hear the same of all at Home, in the letters under reply.

This part of the Front is comparatively quiet to the one we so recently left, but war is always in our ears night & day.

Thanks for Violets etc from the "Farm – very nice too! Also for "Artie Simonetti’s photo & partc’s re his trip to "Blighty.

Am hoping all is well with him now that he’s away from this hell.

Everything appears to be going well with the Allies & their grand cause, tho’ the cost is awful. The Huns at Home in Peace & Security, must be made to suffer for some of this strife. You only want to see some of the places here to realise what kind of a mess these swine would make of our lovely land, & cities in Aust., if once they set foot on it & met opposition – how fortunate Aust is so far!

Well my Dear Mother, I hope this short scribbled note, finds you still as I left you, also all at Home. All’s well (Fri. Sept 29th)

Much Love

Harrie XXX

In the Field

Somewhere in ??
3.10.16

To Elsie

My Dear Sister,

Another of your welcome regular letters reached me last week, for which I thank you. Was glad to learn that more of my letters, cards, etc reached home – it is nice to know. Tell me the numbers of all Post Cards that arrive – the ones with names & other particulars obliterated.

An order has been issued prohibiting us sending any more on, so I’ll just have to same ‘em up & live in hopes of being able to bring them back with me.

I may be back in the 1st Bn when I write again, as I applied to be transferred last week. The boys are once more in the "Line, near the historic city of - ? - ? - & feel as if I should be with them.

No thanks are needed for the letters Elsie, as it is only right that I should reply to all that reach me.

I will be pleased to hear that you are intending to take up swimming again. I s’pose the weather is now getting nice over your way!

Yes, I’m sorry to hear of Ms Nicholson’s serious illness, only hope he improves, also Mr "Jack Atkins.

Will look 4ward with pleasure 4 the photos you have just had taken. Les’ proofs came with your nice letter – thanks 4 them, they are very good of him.

Surprised to hear of Fred Hill’s marriage – any more joined the Bendricks?

Tho’ "out of office, you ought to still attend the Recha Meetings – someone must "carry on you know. – Remr me as usual to all kind enquiring friends – all’s well today (Tues even. Oct 3rd ’16) & I trust the same to you at Home.

Much Love to Mother, Dad, Lizzie & Thel

Loving Bro

Harrie

[Page 207]
Miss Elsie Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

Mrs H.E. Cave
109 Birchgrove Road
Balmain
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 208]
[Printed card]
Your letter-card is to hand on the 10 Nov 16 and the information it contained has been duly noted.

That portion of your letter-card dealing with mail has been handed to the Base Post Office, and your letters, papers and other mail matter will be forwarded to you immediately.

Do not neglect to send me another letter-card as soon as you change your address.

London.
10 Nov 16

R M Mc C Anderson, Col.,
Commandant, Administrative Headquarters
Australian Imperial Force.

No 47

Temporary only
Ward B6
No 3 London General Hospital
Wandsworth Common S.W.
Sat Nov 11th 1916

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters

This was originally intended to be have been Spasm 2 of 46, & to have been written one day the following week. Events that came along altered the whole programme. We had just come down to North France from near Ypres in Belgium, when I wrote that letter describing my mildly & [indecipherable] irritation, the trip per bike "down. It only proved to be stop on the way, as a day or two afterwards the real "trek began. Another "bike ride with all belongings aboard, took us to a near-by Railway Yard where we entrained for an (?) "unknown destination – everyone knew tho’; we’d been before. The barn was left (in a tiny village) at 2.30 one bitterly cold morning - & dark too. The wait in the open & on the icy ground was an experience I’m not looking for again. From 3 am till just after dawn, we all had partly frozen feet, & no amount of walking up & down would restore the circulation. How I wished for Aust & its beautiful climate! Even the "poilus with

[Page 209]
OHMS
Field Service Postcard
To B6
Rgtl. No: 3900 Rank: Sapper Name: Case H.J.
Unit: 1st Div. Signal Coy at Division A.I.F
Address: (Ward B6) 3rd London Gen Hosp
Wandsworth
[Reverse]
I am in receipt of your enquiry regarding No.: -
Rank: Pte Name: G McKenzie
Unit: 30th Batt’n

No casualty Report to Date

London
13 Nov 1916

V.C.M.Sellheim, Brigadier-General

Commandant, Administrative Headquarters,
Australian Imperial Forces.
[letter continues]
2.
us in the yard, felt the chill air, & they are natives of this stricken country. When the sun came up, we saw everywhere the white frost which caused all the inconvenience. I was allotted to an open vehicle-truck with the "bike, & when we got under way, knew all about it. Talk about cold! Gee it was awful! The rush of wind made it 10 times worse. Once I put my frozen fingers up to my ears, & they too were without feeling – it’s ‘no bon’ for us.

Saw some big towns (B? & C? – Fritz’s ambition) on the way, also glimpses of the channel & North Sea, which was quite calm. Several steamers were on it & I was wishing – even tho’ such a cruel sailor – that they were taking us Home. Saw a big airship-hanger too – same as we saw coming up in March last – but the ‘ship’ was not out. The journey ended at 4 pm that day, & we tumbled out, down near the "Region of Push.

Another bike ride in hilly country, brought us to a temporary Billet in an empty house in one of the villages. That night was a repetition of the previous morning for cold. It woke me up in the wee sma’ hours with frozen (almost) toes & fingers. I don’t think I’d ever get ‘em warm again - & I was not alone. They weren’t right when it was time to go on duty that night – was unlucky enough

3.
to catch all-night duty. How relieved we "night owls were when morn’ came! But it only landed us into more trouble, as word came that we were to move at once. I had no time for B’fast let alone a wash, so the bustle did not improve our tempers. I was supposed to ‘push’ the old "mangle again – as before – to our position near the Line, some 30 miles away & that’s where my present misfortune started. After getting all the gear ready, the "C.O. gave the ‘bike’ to one of the others who had not been on duty all night, & I had to get a "passage on a big 3 ton motor lorry which was carrying our kit & instruments. The only room we non-riders had, was round the tail-board & my "possy was on the edge facing the traffic that passed us – that was the real cause after all. Everything went happy & lively for a start off. Up hills, down dales, thro’ lots of cultivated country houses & villages. Everywhere the "eternal Tommy & his Kharki – yes, the war’s still on.

On the roads were lots of regiments with all their paraphernalia – "babbling brooks (cooks) in their greasy units & cookers with tucker still hot, ambulances, artillery (with their Allemagne Souvenirs Distributors – (guns) looking very business like, ASC Wagons, Ammun’n Wagons, Mach Guns in hand carts with rubber tyred wheels, Signal Sectns with their cable & instrument wagons & so on, the boys with the bayonets preceding the lot –

[Page 210]
OHMS
Field Service Postcard

To
Rgtl No: 3900 Rank: Sapper Name: Cave
Unit: 1st Div. Sig. Coy. A.I.F.
Address: 3rd London Gen Hosp
Wandsworth
S.W.

[Page 211]
4.
Some were going "in, others out to recuperate. One could not tell what terrors the latter had faced – they were tired & the mud on their clothes & equipment - ! You never saw anything like it! Nearer the ‘Line’ we saw some of the Hun prisoners at work on the roads, & on other odd jobs. Their "cages are nothing but a mass of barbed wire enclosing their tents. They looked pretty miserable in their field grey & squat caps. Some were very young, & none seemed to possess much "go, not like our youngsters.

Oh if only it was man to man! The Artillery is something terrific & hellish – our’s must be more so to Fritz. His is the only thing that stops a complete rout on that part of the Front & he knows it. All went well with me (& us) till just outside the now battered town of Albert (you ought to have some plan of that place, tho’ won’t know on a/c of the name being obliterated – enclosed is the list I kept of them). It came all of a sudden! The accident I mean. A heavy motor-lorry coming out of the Town, in order to pass us on the busy road, squeezed along side, and in its hurry very nearly took my legs as "souvenirs of a grand guerre. How lucky I was I did not realise till later. Nothing would have saved the inevitable if the legs had not swung under our tail board. As it was, the left got a good crush, tho’

5.
(lucky again) no bones were broken. I was taken into the Town & treated by one of the Canadian Dressing Stations. A ride in an ambulance as a "lying patient to another "Station. The "blighty happened at 1 pm (about) & by tea-time (dark on the "Contynon at 5.15 now) was on the way further back per another motor Amb. The shaking-up wasn’t too good, but that’s nothing at the Front. There’s lot more things 50 times as bad as that happening every minute of the day.

This time I was taken into one of the Field Hospitals where I saw my first Nurse. Leg was dressed & then another surprise – a British Red Cross Hospital Train & I was to be a passenger. It was fitted out beautifully – all the latest. About 8 pm it was full up, & away we went. Owing to the immense traffic on these lines near the Front, the trip was necessarily slow. Several coastal towns were mentioned by the orderlies (RAMC) [Royal Army Medical Corps] as our destination, but it was not till about 20 hours later – 4 pm next day – that we ‘lobbed’ at Rouen & were removed per Amb. through the city to No 6 Gen Hosp. some miles out.

From what one could see out of the rear of the wagon, it was "some town quite the largest I’d been in (except Marseilles) over this side. The river Seine runs thro’ part of it & two big bridges span

[Page 212]
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it. Shipping comes right up to these bridges, but they’re not the largest vessels. Little electric cars with lady drivers & conductors run right out over the hills surrounding the City.

We were a good way out near a Tommy Training Camp & range. One does not seem able to get away from the War. The trainees got plenty of practice in bomb trowing & the explosions were continuous all day.

There were nurses on the train & more in No 6. They gave us lots of good treatment, for which we are truelly thankful. I arr’d here on Oct 24th, & I left on Tues Nov 6th after a monotonous stay. Was awfully surprised when word came that I was to be ready to move to "Blighty – England. Was getting to be an old hand in the Ward, as there’s a continual stream coming & going, & they don’t move anyone unless they’re cured or fit to travel. I got a good send-off from the Tommy’s & Canadians there (I was the only Austn.) & the Sisters & nurses.

More Ambulance ride back to Railway Stn & back into a Red Cross Train (British). Like the last, this one was also "treis bon (very good). The river Seine must be very wide here, as it took us some time to pass the big spans (I was lying on a stretcher of course). There is a big tunnel also just outside the town – goes thro’ a yoing mountain. We must have

[Page 213]
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been 10 minutes or 1/4 hour in it & the fans had to be switched on to get rid of the smoke.

Arr’d at Le Havre, we were put aboard the "Formosa – one of the many fine Hosp Ships - & the voyage across the "pond commenced. I was right down below & it was very stuffy. There was a bit of a swell on, & as usual I went under to sea-sickness just before we reached port. No, I’ll never be a sailor. Arr’d Southampton at 10 pm, after a 14 hours trip – delayed waiting for a berth. Ladies met us with Chocs etc on the whf & beef tea was issued. There were only about 20 Aust’ns aboard – mostly suffering from "trench-feet, the result of the terrible condition of the Front Line, with the past fortnights continuous rain. Here we transferred to another long train & soon started for the Mecca of all Britishers – London - & the hope of every soldier; good old "Blighty.

At 2 am Wednesday – after a terribly fast trip – (she must have done her 60 in places) – we pulled up at Waterloo Stn. (heard of it?) Owing to the darkness & shaded lights nothing much could be seen of our surroundings. St John Amb men in neat navy-blue uni’s (what a welcome change from kharki!) gently took us per stretcher

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to waiting ambulances, each with a lady attendant. It was raining. Got a passing glimpse of the Thames & embankment, also the Law Courts, but owing as I said BEFORE, to the gloom, it was hard to distinguish much. Every lamp was shaded – you know what for. Reached this Ward at 3.20 on Wed morn 8th Nov & here I’ve been since.

Progressing A1 & will soon be out, quite alright again. Everything is great – it’s almost impossible to believe there’s a war on, only for the poor unfortunate lads being treated all round one.

We have gramo’s & visitors on Wednesdays & Sundays – everyone’s so kind! I have written to Frank "Bogey, who was staying with his cousin in Kentish Town. This morn I rec’d a letter from the cousing (Lily also) saying she had heard I was here & intended coming to see me with a chum tomorrow (Sunday) – treis bon!! I will visit Mrs Standerwick as soon as possible. Walworth is not far from here – just over the way. Clapham Junc is also very close. We are on the outskirts of the Metropolis.

Will write again soon. Do not worry over me. I am going strong & feeling very lucky. May see Xmas out in the "Old Dart – tho’ can’t say for sure.

Kindest regards to all neighbours & friends. Trust all is well at Home.

Till a little while, Ta Ta.

Loving Son & Brother

Harrie XXX.

[Page 215]
[Letterhead]
Australian Branch
Red Cross
B.R.C.S.

Ward B6
No 3 London Genl Hosp’l
Wandsworth, S.W.

Sat Morn Nov 25th ‘16

No 49

PS {Still no letters to hand (last rec’d dated Aug 13th) I’ve rec’d some from Melb of Sept 13 to 26th. Don’t worry tho’, I trust all’s well. Harrie}

My Dear Mother, Father, & Sisters,
Contrary to expectations, I am still a "bakshee boarder in above establishment – it will do me for a while longer. The "quack told me I ought to go back to bed, but he changed his mind, so I am still hobbling about, feeling "A1. The leg is not too bad – to me – only a deadness about the knee & a swelling. I don’t think I can see next Saturday out tho’ one can never tell. Southall is our new Convalescent Hosp. So I will very likely go there. It is on the other side of the "Big Smoke – so I’m told.

Since I wrote Saturday last, I’ve been lucky enough to strike some outings. Did I tell you about the little Country jaunt I had last Sunday? I think I did. Anyhow, in case I hav’nt, I’ll tell you now. Altho’ the elements were much against a trip outside on Sunday, some kind Gentelman & a lady, brought their private cars round to the Hosp in the morning, to take some of us who were fortunate enough to be up, for a "drive. I never refuse anything like that – oh no! I had a seat in a car with a gent & his wife, together with "Dick Welsh ( a one-legged Newfoundlander – wounded at Beaumont Hamel July [?] & a South African Scottish (wounded at Delville Woods).

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"Dick is a ward mate, & as lively as a cricket. We left the Hosp at 9.30 am, (6 cars altogether) & went thro’ Tooting, Sutton, Reigate (furthest point – 16 miles out) returning via Merstham, Norbury, Box Hill, Purley Oaks, Croydon, Streatham, & Wandsworth, altogether a delightful outing. The roads are remarkably smooth everywhere, nearly all being ashphalted. Some are not very wide. We felt the cold of the last few days, as the car flew along the Country lanes. On the sides of the Hills I saw real snow, & many of the wayside pools had an iced top.

Reigate is a favourite town for visitors, being on the main Southern road London to Brighton. Our guests very kindly supplied refreshments at a village on our way back (Merstham). We passed some great scenery – quite a contrast to France. I can’t understand how there’s so much land uncultivated in this country. – You’d never see anything like that waste in France. The mist spoilt a good deal of the view down the valleys, but one could not help enjoying the ride.

Box Hill & Croydon brought back happy memories – the former is a country town, & the latter a real big suburb of London. The double-decker electric trams were a novelty, as were the motor ‘buses. We went thro’ Sheatham where the Huns dropped a lot their bombs just

3.
lately. A good deal of damage was done, but few lives lost. I was sorry when the jaunt came to an end at Lunch time.

Being Visiting Day, lots of people arr’d during the afternoon & I was lucky enough to have some see me. Amongst them was Miss Lily Beaurepaire & hen chum (Doris). They have been very kind to me & I was sorry when time for leaving came. They may come again tomorrow. Frank put in an appearance on Wednesday midday. He looks extremely well & smart – says he’s A1. Today he’s off to "La Belle with the "Neutrals – that’s what the 3rd Divn are mis-called by those Divn’s at the Front. He reckons they’ll do great things when they get down the Somme. I fail to see it myself. No infantryman can do much in that Hell. All he does is crouch in a muddy trench & wait for – well anyhow, he’s lucky to be one of those "hopping over.

The shell-fire is something terrific & never lets up. They paste every inch of that awful region with whizz bangs, 7/7’s, 5.9’s, & 9 inches – it’s real terrifying. The Fritz infantry rehearse the "Mercy Kamerad [Comrade] act with hands up in the interval of waiting. They’ll fight as long as the old "rat-a-tat tat (Mach-gun) keeps going, but after that, they’ll come over in hundreds. I can’t forget our "hop over at Pozieres – it was awful when we saw the result at daylight. For 2 days BEFORE the charge, we were under this terrible Hun

[Page 217]
4.
shell-fire. Our first night in, was heralded with gas shells, which plonked into the trenches & parapets with monotonous frequency. One burst in a paradox just near where I was – the shuddering of the earth was sickening. Many lads took no notice of these shells till too late. Most were got out just in time.

Did you get my letter written in the captured German trench, enclosed in which was the Regt Nos R28 & post-card from Germany? The trench we were in was originally their artillery position guarding the front near Albert. It was occupied by Regiment No 28 – hence the Nos. The position, like all others on this front was never meant to have been evacuated or given up. I’ve already described the "possy to you.

When I get back I’ll give you a better idea of what Pozieres & its environs (La Borsselle, Ovillers etc) is like.

The charge I can never describe – too awful to think of. If this "wonderful 3rd Divn is going to push Fritz out past Bapaume or any other place, they’ll do something that’ll be worth talking about – we’ll wait & see!

The boys will be having a bad time in the Front line on the Somme now. The only trenches they have, are those that were hastily dug by the Huns in their continuous retreat. There’s no such ‘palaces’ as Dugouts – they’re got no time to make them. When it rained, the trenches flood – they are really only connected shell holes (which the whole region is now composed of). It had been raining for a fortnight when I left Albert - & cold! My goodness it was awful. I don’t know how

5.
we’ll fare in the Winter which is now nearly on us. I s’pose we’ll be nearly acclimatised by then, anyhow, if we get it bad, Fritz will be worse off. Do you know, I’m getting rosy cheeks already! A bit more & I’ll be taken for an Englishman.

We are well off for concerts in this Hosp. Nearly every 2nd night, some party or other turns up to give us some amusement – it is alright. Even the lying-down cases who can be moved & chair-patients attend. The sing-song generally starts just after tea (4.30_ & ends about 6.30 – quite dark then. We get some very good artists – Tenors, Violins, dancers. On Thurs afternoon last, Mr Seymour Hicks & Ellaline Terriss invited a party of us Australians to see them amuse the masses at the Prince’s Theatre (Shaftesbury Avenue, London) [now Shaftesbury Theatre] in the laughter maker "Broadway Jones. I laughed from start to finish, & was awfully sorry when it was over. We left the Hosp at 1 pm by 2 horse Brake – a happy party, tho’ some were "finish war. It was a fine afternoon for a wonder, & we had a good opportunity of seeing the sights as we went by.

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The streets are all clean & smooth, even out here in the Suburbs. They twist & turn in all directions tho’ & it would take a native to know his way about. Our direction was via Wandsworth, Battersea, Battersea Park (running along South-west side of the River Thames, which I saw for the first time) Chelsea Suspension Bridge to London West-end. This part of London, as you know, is the "flash district. It seemed to be alive with Taxis & private limousines, & the residences we fine – not like ours at Home tho’. We saw the Chelsea Military Barracks & the Flying Corps big Depot as we went along.

A little further on, was the rear of Buckingham Palace (heard of it?) with its high terraced wall & guard-rooms, then the Front came into view – a huge pile of building. Saw the ‘wonderful’ guards with their fixed bayonets, doing their beat at every entrance - & there were many. Geo Rex must have been ‘ome as the flag was up. Right in front of the Palace is the grand Queen’s Statue (-Victoria) – a fine work of art. The present Queen’s (or is it Queen Alexandra’s?) residence was also passed, as we neared Victoria Station & Trafalgar Square. Yes, couldn’t help seeing Nelson’s Column – it was "gorne’. Not far from there is another statue of note – the Cri-

7.
mean – showing Florence Nightingale. The historic "Strand was pointed out – I don’t think I could find it now without asking, the whole City seems to be one maze of streets (mostly very narrow like Sydney’s) which twist & turn like the "Wasseh of Cairo.

We reached the Theatre in nice time for the start of the Matinee. It was a splendid place, the latest of everything. Smoking was allowed & nearly all "lover of the weed took advantage of the opportunity. There was not one of us who were not sorry when Seymour Hicks & his party bowed themselves off.

I could stand a trip like that every day of the week – yes, for the duration. It was quite dark when we reached the street outside at 5 pm, appeared more so on a/c of the shaded lamps & shop fronts. Hundreds of shrill whistles rang out – or were screeching out, as we waited for our Brake. They were the whistles of the Theatre attendants, calling the taxis. It beats me how the traffic is regulated in this crowded city. All we could see as we went on, were the hundreds of headlights of cars dashing everywhere – marvellous. I expected to be in a collision at any minute, but our careful driver put us down intact at the Anzac Club & Buffet, where another joy awaited us – a good "bakshee feed. The Club must be a gen-

[Page 219]
eral favourite to all Colonials, as it was packed with Aussies & New Zealanders. Many of our fellows looked as if they had never been at the front with their flash uniforms (officer’s cut) & boots. It was enough to make a man sick. If anything gets on my nerves it’s these "Swanky Australians with the bird’s feathers & leggings. Most of them are on the staff at 130 Horseferry Rd., Westminster & have never seen France. I s’pose they were on the Pin[?] but that place (from all accounts) was a Home to France. Many originals with me in Pozieres, said that the "Lone Pine charge was a picnic to anything that takes place on the Somme, & they’re not afraid to "own up either.

The drive home was robbed of all interest on a/c of the darkened streets. We crossed the Thames again via the Battersea Bridge, & reached Home in time for bed, overjoyed at our grand outing & feeling very thankful to our kind hosts of the day (Mr & Mrs Seymour Hicks).

Now I must leave you, as there’s another outing for me in a few minutes – a tea party at Battersea – which I will tell you about next time I write.

Don’t worry about me at all, I’m doing A1 (can hardly do otherwise, etc). Tell Archie I feel ashamed for not writing to him more often than I do – I get less opportunity now than at the Front.

Rem’r me very kindly to all kind friends at home & Melb, hoping that Mother, Father, Els, Lizzie & Thel are all still in the pink.
Lots of Love & best wishes for New Year & Xmas.
Loving Son & Bro.
Harrie XXX
[Note at side of page]
Ps Will try & send home to you my 2 Diaries (kept daily since I left Sydney) as soon as I get out. I’ll register them so keep a look-out when I advise you.
[Envelope re-addressed]
Mr & Mrs H E Cave
Warrnambool
Bateman Rd
Gladesville
New South Wales
Australia
15.1.17

[Written on envelope – Horace Fagan Capt R.A.M.C. (T.F.)

[Page 220]
[Letterhead of ]
Australian Branch
Red Cross
B.R.C.S.
No 48

Temporary only
Ward B6
No 3 London Gen’l Hosp
Wandsworth Common, S.W

Sat morn. Nov 18th 1916

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,

Another week has gone. How they fly!! It’s hard to realise that I’ve been here 11 days already – 11 days of pleasure, for altho’ in a place where terrible sights abound everywhere, it’s grand to be away from France & Belguim, even for a short spell. In this ward, Aust’ns hold sway – there’s 17 of us. Q’landers, N. S. Welshmen, Vics, & west Aus. Some have finished all the war they’re likely to see, others have left "Souvenirs with the M.O’s in France & here, & with something to always remind them of the Hell over on the Continent.

In a little while I’m off out to the "Palladium to see the Pictures, with those able to get about, so am hurrying to get as much of this finished as possible – you see they look after us alright. It’s strange to be getting about as a "blue-bird (Hosp-blue clothes) after such a long time in Kharki – but it’s nice.

I 4got to tell you that I was allowed out

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of bed on Wednesday afternoon last, the first time since I caught the "Blighty. I was very weak & stiff for a while, but with the aid of a walking-stick got along alright. I’ve been up every day since. Morning starts with making up bed at 6.15, & helping in the tidying of the ward BEFORE the "day Sisters come on duty. We all do our little bit. There’s always tons of jobs doing – the nurses know where to dig ‘em up too! Cleaning the windows, polishing & sweeping the floors, washing lockers & tables, looking after the fire – we have to have artificial warmth now, as the elements are very bad – bitterly cold all day.

Even today sleet is falling in little white flakes – quite something new to we "Aussies over here for the first time. The window sills & door steps are now white & the little balls float into the ward thro’ the window-tops – Hullo, they’re ready to go to the Pictures, so I must leave you till tomorrow.

Sunday morn. (dull & wet again – cold too!)

Had a grand time yesterday afternoon. It was my first time out of the grounds. My only view of the outside surroundings was of the electric-trains & steam-trains that pass backwards & forwards all day long just in front of this Hospital’s big grounds. These elec. trains are some goers too! Quite a novelty to me. The main Southampton – London line (used mostly by the London – South-Western Railway Co) is the one we see so close.

Over the cutting & tunnel pass the London buses – motors of course. These were the first I saw over here. There are plenty in use on the Belgian & French fronts,

3.
but they look quite different in their dirty green paint, & windows boarded up – Yesterday afternoon we who were off to the pictures lined up – there were about 200 of us from all the colonies & Eng. Regiments - & marched in a shaggly fashion (There) were lots of sticks like myself, who could not keep up) to the special trams (electric) waiting at East Hill, ten minutes walk from here. The weather was on the wet side, but we were a happy family.

Saw lady conductors on the trams on this line. They seem to be quite at home in their new vocations. Could not see much of the scenery (this is the outskirts of London & is mostly suburbs with lots of shops & nice dwellings) owing to the murky weather.

Eventually reached our Picture Show – the "Palladium – in a suburb called Southwell (I think that’s the name) where we were given the best seats & made quite at home. Enjoyed the turn out A1: at half time the Ladies brought round sandwiches, tea & lots of cake, which we thoroughly relished – it was very kind of them. Hard luck when we had to leave for home.

The lighting regulations were realised as we came thro’ the almost (in places) pitch dark streets. Every lamp had a dark shade on top & the shops had their verandah shades down so that no light should be visible to the Zepps if they came again. I noticed there were no permanent verandahs on the shops as we have at home – I s’pose it must be on a/c of the snow – storms that rage here in the Winter (the weight on an iron roof might cause a collapse – it’s only my idea, I must find out later).

The trams are all double-deckers – the top part covered in - & they look terrible top-heavy, like the motor-buses. The streets we went thro’ were much

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4.
like Sydney’s for width, tho’ some in the [?] Residential quarters (near the Common at Wandsworth) were just nice. It is dark at 4.30 when the weather is wet, which is hard luck for me just now, as I want to see as much in daylight as possible BEFORE I return to France. The outing gave me a good appetite, & sleep was easy when I got back to the Ward.

----Hold hard a mo’ there’s something doing in the "trip line!! Yes, the Sister is asking us who wants to go for a drive, & I’m one you can bet, even tho’ it’s raining & very cold. Must leave you once more for a little while – we’ll be back for lunch.

Sunday Afternoon.

Another good morning full of interest to a stranger in England – me. Some kind lady & gentleman brought their cars round to the Hosp to give some of us a "joy ride – 5 cars altogether. I was in one with the lady & her hubby & "Dick Welsh (a one legged Newfoundlander) & a Sco[?] South African (bad hand) – quite a rep’ crew from the Colonies. Altho’ it was misty outside & cold, we had the pleasure of seeing a good deal of the outside of London – thro’ country-lanes, commons (vacant flats or park) up hills & down dales – a real grand trip of about 30 miles. (Some of the villages & towns I remember were Tooting (Suburb of London), Sutton, Reigate – (furthest point reached) return via Merstham, Purley, Purley Oaks, Croydon (large suburb) & Stretham (suburb).

Was sorry when the ride came to an end. These people are awfully good to go to so much trouble & expense over us – we can hardly repay them. They want to take me thro’ London next week, but I may be sent to the Convalescent Hosp at Southall by then – I can’t say for certain yet – one never knows what’s doing.

5.
Frank Beaurepaire may be in to see me in a few minutes as this is visiting day. I rec’d a photo of himself & advise of his visit during the week. Will enclose the photo (P/C) in another envelope, with a French Pictorial P/C.

Rec’d six letters yesterday (all re-directed from the Batt’n.) the first since leaving Belguim in middle of Aug. Amongst them were one from Aunt Maggie, Les Limond (P/C), Office, Els Brown & Mrs Tetley. If you see the latter, tell her that this is the only letter I’ve ever recd from her since I came away. She says it is the 2nd she’s sent. The other must have gone very much astray.

Am replying to all in their turn. Still have one from Mrs Whitnall & Bob to acknowledge.

When I first came here I enquired about Geo McKechnie (on special forms supplied by Austn HQ). Was much relieved to read the reply – "no casualty reported. Will ask about Jim in same way soon.

Aunt Maggie has told me some very bad news – the loss of Claude Kennett. It was the first I’d heard of him, altho’ had been asking everywhere for news – what terrible hard luck! All for King & Country; the only consolation. She also mentions Els being over in Melb with her "pot & pan on his "final. Her letter is dated Sept 18th so I’m wondering whether she’s been over again. The last letters I had from you were of date 13th Aug, so I am waiting for those that were to follow. P’raps they’re gone down on the "Arabia

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that was torpedoed in the Mediterranean some weeks ago – rather hard luck for us.

Here comes the Sunday visitors – I must leave you again!!!

Had another pleasant afternoon. Frank Bogey’s cousin Lily, & Doris (her friend) came again to see me – they are grand girls. Lily invited me to an evening at her place in Kentish Town (about an hours tram ride from here) on Tuesday next. It looks as tho’ I’ll have to miss it, as the rules don’t allow us out after 6.30 at night, & a pass is only good from 2 till 5. I must try & tell the Sister a tale – it may work. If unsuccessful I’ll pay her a visit when on furlough – 2 weeks I think we get after convalescent.

Frank is apparently still at Salisbury with the ---- Divn, as he had not arrd. at his cousin’s when she left. The weather is still very crook – it is raining still. I didn’t expect them to come along.

I’m sending in special envelope a gazette printed by this Hosp which you will find very interesting. Most of the work is done by patients. I hope it reaches you alright.

I still have Dad’s big tridget[?] of 13th Aug which I will answer now; It’s very gratifying to know that you’ve recd

7.
most of the Post Cards I sent prior to the prohibition order – am living in hopes of pointing out some of the places I’ve been in. You’ll note I’ve refrained from mentioning anything about the views when I’ve written on the cards. I did that so that there would be no trouble with the Censor.

Yours was the first advise I had of "Wally Schnider’s death at the Front – it was a big surprise to me, as I only talking to him near Sailly (Nord) just BEFORE we left for Pozières. The news of the other Balmain lads (Blinco, Watts & Cummins) was also a great shock. I think they were up at the other end of the Line – Armentieres way – when we were in the Somme.

The Conscription question result – as far as we’re heard – is a bit of a surprise (especially to the newspapers. I know very few who voted, yes over here.

Am anxious to learn how you’re getting along with the new home at Gladesville. The weather must be nice in Aust now – it’s no bon here. Too cold & dull, with lots of rain. Surprised to hear of Harry Gnose’s accident on the football field. He’s always in the "wars.

Do hope that Mrs Atkins is progressing favourably – it’s real hard luck. Re corresponding with so many, I really cannot receive letters & favors from my friends at Home, without in some way acknowledging their kindness – it would worry me more than not getting any. I can always

[Page 224]
8.
find time to scratch them a few words like to do so. Of course in the Line everything has to go – there’s more serious business on the other side of the parapet. No, tell Harry I’ll always ack his & anyone else’s favors – it’s only right.

Am waiting anxiously for the photos of the girls – have they gone down in the "Arabia? Wouldn’t be surprised if they had.

I hope you are not sending any newspapers along now. They’ll never reach me if you do, especially as I’m in England.

Expect to be able to look up Mother’s Aunt in Wandsworth very soon now – will advise you when I get out.

Hope Mother is still well, also Dad & the girls. Don’t worry whatever you do – all is still well. Give my kindest regards to all neighbours, friends & relations you see & write to.
Much Love to you all
Harrie XX

(Write to old Regt address – I may be back with them soon.)

[Envelope re-addressed]
Mr & Mrs H E Cave
Warrnambool
Bateman Rd
Gladesville
New South Wales
Australia
15.1.17

[Written on envelope – Horace Fagan Capt R.A.M.C. (T.F.)

[Page 225]
Wandsworth – 29 Nov ‘16

This is the Menu of the Tea party I went to last Saturday afternoon. Battersea is a working man’s suburb, South West of London – the River Thames separates it from the ‘Flash’ West End. We were tendered a welcome here that will be hard to beat for generosity, & good spirit.

Cigarettes were handed round, almost as soon as we "hit the Hall, then there were encores. A Dart throwing comp. was put on for us for 3 prizes. I was not lucky.

The tea in the Concert-room would be very hard to beat. Ladies were on us as soon as one dish was finished. During the fine Concert (on real stage with footlights & scenery) that followed, mineral waters, Cigars, Cigarettes & fruit came round at very frequent intervals. I kept my smokes for the lads still bed-ridden.

We won’t forget Battersea & its kind people of the Liberal League – Liberal by name as well as deeds.

Am off to a tea-party given by Lady Islington this afternoon. Will write soon.
Much Love
Harrie

[Page 226]
[Copy of Menu for the Tea & Entertainment}
[Written across bottom corner] In remembrance of a very happy afternoon in Battersea S.W. – Harrie – 26/11/16.

[Page 227]
No 50.
Ward B6 – No 3 L.G.H.
Wandsworth, SW
Sat morn Dec 2 ‘16

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,

Another interesting week has gone & I’m still a "bakshee boarder. I thought Monday last would have seen me bidding this Home goodbye, but there you are – one never can tell. The leg is getting right pretty fast, tho’ it must have been knocked during the week, as Sister reckoned I’d have to go back to be again – I didn’t.

The weather is still ‘finicky’ – wet one day, fine the next, cold & foggy & dull. Today is one of the latter; looks as tho’ it would like to pour, but can’t – it may do so yet, as it is not mid-day.

I must acknowledge right here, ere I forget, the receipt of many letters this week. Some have been chasing me from the Somme, Belgium & Northern France, but I am happy now that they have come, telling me that you are all so well & content at Home – that’s good news. I thought something may have happened, but it was only my impatience waiting for the inevitable delay over my removal to pass. The letters I have BEFORE me are :- Dad’s Sept 25th & Aug 27th, Mother’s 22/8 & 3/9, Elsie’s 29/8, 4/9, 17/9 & 16/10, Lizzie’s 8/9 & Thelma’s 28/8 & 21/9, also fancy-work P/C. Besides these, there were over 20 from other friends, which I will ack. in due course – Oh BEFORE I

2.
forget again! Your big parcel cont’g :- Balaklava, mits, 2 pr sox, 1 scarf, ginger & choc, duly arrived also, for which I am thankful. I think it was sent on Aug 10th – the date of Mother’s nice note inside. You can be sure nothing will be wasted.

Last Saturday afternoon a party of 70 from this Hosp were invited to a Tea party & entertainment by the Battersea Liberal Club (or Workingmen’s Institute) at Battersea & I was one of the fortunates to be able to go (I was telling you in No 49 of the invite, if I remr. alright). We left the grounds at 2 pm in London motor buses – a happy party – & were soon at our destination, as Battersea is only the other side of Clapham Junction from Wandsworth.

The reception we recd from the people on our way & from the Lady & Gent members was great. The latter overwhelmed us with kindness & attention. Cigarettes were issued in pkts almost as soon as we lobbed. Then a Dart throwing comp. was arranged for us for 3 prizes. I was not lucky as usual. The whole of the club premises were thrown open for our enjoyment, many taking advantage of the 3 fine billiard tables upstairs.

It seemed no time BEFORE dinner was announced, & we trooped into the spread in the Concert Hall. It was some feed too! Ladies attended on us & kept up a pace with different dishes that few of could follow. It was all "treis bob. Shortly after, the entertainment came on, & we heard some good music & songs. During the programme, cakes, sweets, fruit & mineral-waters were handed round, till we were so full that serious complications might have followed if they’d have kept up. Was sorry when time was up to "imshee back to Hosp. They gave us a right royal time & we app-

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reciated it to the full. I have sent the Menu card home, just as a reminder of our kind friends, many members of which are still over in France & Belgium.

On Sunday afternoon had the pleasure of a visit from Lily de B & Doris Marsh (her friend from Wandsworth) accompanied by one of "Bogey’s cobbers from Albert Park – "Bunny Roberts by name, of 2nd Div H.Q. They wanted me to go get a pass & go to Doris’ place for the afternoon, but I rec’d word too late. (A pass is only good from 2 till 4 pm – hardly worth while applying for). This is the 2nd invitation I’ve had to turn down from Lily & I felt sorry. Now again today, comes another offer from same quarter, which I am going to keep, even if I’ve got to climb the wall at the rear of these huts (I’ve already been out that way twice, so know something of my surroundings.) Today’s outing will be to the Wonderful and World famed London Zoo, so I will (or hope to) tell you all about it next week. The same girls (with "Bunny, who is on furlough from the Front) will look after me, I only hope this weather keeps dry, and that the military RAMC [Royal Army Medical Corps] Police do not catch me on my way over the wall.

I am now only waiting orders to leave for our Austn. Convalescent Hosp at Southall – the other side of the "Big Smoke somewhere; and expect to go at any moment as the papers for transfer are ready.

I had my first trip over the wall this week with a young Q’lander, and returned without being seen. We had a great afternoon in the "Big Smoke, which we reached

4.
from Clapham Junc., having walked from the Hosp. One of the big Motor ‘buses took us in – a fine ride. Saw the Thames, Big St Georges’ Hosp., Hyde and St James Parks and got out at Piccadilly Circus – a real hub of traffic (foot, motor, carts etc). It took us some time to cross the street – it’s a kind of Square with roads running out at all angles – which we did in spasms ( the first to centre of street, second to footpath) you’ve got no idea of the amount of traffic – King and Geo. Sts, Sydney is a wee baby alongside this and The Strand. Met a Lady on the ‘bus who very kindly gave us a ticket to see her act in "Lucky Jim (Comedy) at St James Theatre. It was very kind of her and we’ll go in at first opportunity. She evidently likes Austns.

Have not seen the Zeppelins yet. Some came over the Coast district during the week but failed miserably in their act of murder, two being brought down at Sea. A Hun aeroplane tho’ had some luck, reaching London itself and dropping a bomb – soon imshee’d when the guns got to it.

On Wednesday afternoon there was no need to use the wall, as one of the London elite – Lady Islington – Kindly invited a part of Colonials (25 from here, 5 from Springfield) to see the Revue "Piccadilly at the London Pavilion and I was once more a lucky one. A big motor char-a-banc took us via Wandsworth, Battersea, Chelsea Bridge (over the Thames), West End, St James Park, St Georges Hosp. and Piccadilly Square – it was good. Spent an enjoyable afternoon listening to Violet Lorraine and her favourites. As usual it was dark when we touched the

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pavement outside and taxis were dashing about in the gloom like glow-worms. From the Theatre, our char-a-banc threaded its way to her Ladyship’s London Residence, where we were welcomed and escorted to the magnificent Dining Room. Gee, it was a beaut! The roof was white and gold and fully 25 feet high. Butlers and maids waited on us and several Society ladies – amongst whom were Lady Cunard of shipping fame, Lady Arranmore, Lady Leslie, besides Lady Islington herself – spoke to us about experiences at the Front. They are much interested in we Austns, all of whom seemed not at all backwards. There were Canadians, Newfoundlanders and South Africans with us. While the Tea was in full swing, a distinguished visitor arrived – H.R.H. The Duke of Connaught, Cousin or Uncle to Geo Rex – who was introduced all round. He had just come over from Canada, where he was Govr or something. I ‘spose you’ve read about him in books before? Owing to our short leave we had to depart early much to the ladies regret.

I was terribly sorry for some of the Tommies from Springfield Hosp, (who also came with us) who were suffering terribly from shell-shock. Their nerves were absolutely gone, and they appeared to have no control over themselves – it was awful to watch them.

As Thurs. was a blank day for rides etc I once more took "French leave by way of the wall at the rear. Went to Clapham Junctn (one of the main Railway places here (change for Brighton, Southampton etc on South Coast) when I had my first ride in an electric train – 3rd Class fare 2d. to Victoria Stn, London. It seems very strange to have 3 classes on the Railway, but it’s

6.
the custom here. These trains travel some, and it was no time BEFORE we reached our destination. Took a ‘bus to Piccadilly Circus, where we (there were 4 of us this time) wandered about Old and New Bond Sts and Shaftesbury Avenue. Went into the Shaftesbury Cinema, which we found a free show to we in the Hospital-blue (I’m a "blue-belt you know – blue trousers (long) blue-("see more) coat, white-shirt and red tie, with our slouch hats – some boys!) It was a pleasant surprise and I felt full of gratitude to the management for their kindness. There were a good few London "Civvies there, which surprised me. Many seem to be still dodging their military obligations, but Khaki is seen everywhere. We had a nice afternoon Tea before we started on the return journey to Victoria Stn by Taxi, then electric train back to Clapham. It is half an hour’s walk to the rear of the Hosp across Wandsworth Common from the train, but we reached the wall "OK and got back to the Ward BEFORE "lights out. It was a ‘Circus’ getting our one-legged N. Foundlander over the wall, but we managed it fine despite barbed wire and broken glass on top.

In a few minutes I’m going to leave you, so that I can keep my appointment at Kings’ Cross with Lily de B, Doris Marsh and "Bunny, who are taking me to the London Zoo at Regents Park. I am leaving early because by going over the wall, I’ve got a long walk across the Common and into Clapham where I get a "77 bus.

I am wondering what let-

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ters from you have gone down in the "Arabia, as she brought (or was bringing I should say) mail between end of August and first week of Sept. I rec’d 13th Aug "OK in France, but the next lot were 29/8 and thereabouts and Sept 17th etc – there may be some missing. I will answer Dad’s grand budgets that are BEFORE me – Aug 27th and Sept 25 – which have interested and pleased me much, for the good news and length of details they contain.

As usual, I am delighted to learn of all my letters and cards reaching you alright. I don’t know what kind of a passage those from the "Sig Coy will get, but am hoping for the best, as the Censor there was no good. I wouldn’t put anything past him; no one seemed to care for him there.

You need not be afraid about mentioning anything of the War to me, especially news of any Balmain or other lads whose names are in the Lists. We learn very little of comrades here and are always enquiring of them – please go ahead. What you can tell us will be acceptable.

I’m glad you have stopped sending papers along – do the same with parcels as I require nothing.

Awfully pleased to hear about the progress of the Loan from the Govt and the arrangements with the builder for the new Home. You seem to be doing famous. I hope everything turns out favorable in the end. Don’t fail to get rid of the Chatswood block if stuck for money – it’s alright. No, I have no suggestions for a name. The one you have chosen, "Warrnambool is admiral – I could not better it.

The obliteration of names of villages etc in France on P/Cs was done by myself to facilitate dis-

8.
patch thro’ the Censor. They did not seem to Know what was required from one day to another. In the end, a prohibition order came out, stopping dispatch of any views was hard luck for me, as I had a few on hand to send on including a book of Ypres before and since the War and Poperinghe [Poperinge], not far away (which is still shelled). I hope you received the List of numbers, giving the names and other [?] – let me know if it comes along. The views of Ypres were in my "pack with some others when I met with the accident – they’ll do for someone who "rats it, crors[?].

Don’t worry about me corresponding with so many. I can manage it alright – not a bit of trouble, as I don’t frequent Estaminets (Café and beer-houses) so must do something to pass the time, anyhow I like it, especially the receiving part.

Ha ha!! Progressing in my French lessons! Oh no, they are only very common place remarks – you learn most by experience in the shops etc. A few mistakes soon brings one round.

Pleased awfully with the "paying-off terms of the Home. Do the Smiths know of your intentions. Bit of a shock when they do I guess.

How glad I am that you recd those Souvenirs from the captured artillery position at Pozieres – (the German Post Card and Regtl No R 28) I did not think they’d ever get away. I gave the "green one to one of the Clerks I was working with in Batt’n. H.Q. to post for me – glad he did so. I won’t forget that position awhile. There were all sorts of papers, books, parcel wrappings, equipment, revolver ammn. etc lying about but I had

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time or opportunity to run thro’ them. You never saw such a mess! Up above the dugouts were the 4 guns intact ("whizz bangs). Also stacks of ammn. – I can imagine Archie trying to interpret the Hun hieroglyphics – almost as bad as this. My word, that German Lieut was rather early wishing his wife a Happy New Year – or was he meaning the previous New Year? I wonder where he is now?

Oh dear No! Despatch riding is one of the softest jobs along the front. We of the "pushies are miles behind the Line, and the motor-cycles go no nearer than Brigade H.Q. – working from there to Div or further back to "Anzac Corps. It’s like this – in the very front line there’s the Coy H.Q., (not even a Dugout on the Somme in places). Anyone is likely to be detailed to take messages to the next step (Batt’n H.Q.) usually in the support line just to rear. From Batt’n to Brigade H.Q. is the next spasm which is traversed by these messengers – called "Runners. These ‘runners’ are only used when the ‘phone cmmn. Is cut between the different H.Q’s or when dispatches must be del’d by hand. During our time at Pozieres, the fire was so intense that ‘phone and runner commn was impossible. You’d think it almost impossible to break ‘phone wires, but for 2 days most of the messages were sent by Pigeons which were taken into the Front line. I saw the wire menders go out 3 times in an hour – some never returned – and then have to give up.

10.
The next spasm is Brigade H.Q’s to Divn H.Q. and that’s where the "Don R’s come in with their motor-cycles (these could not be used where we were in the Somme, owing to9 the mud and shell-holes – horses took their place with success). Divn H.Q. is usually a long way to the rear – a man’s terrible unlucky to get cracked there – but Corps is much further. I don’t think they can hear the sound of the guns from latter posn. Most of the present Despatch Riding (or "Don R’ing) is done between the two latter positions, (Divn and Corps) also Divn to the B’gdes out in Reserve or Support, so when you hear of anyone Despatch Riding you can be pretty certain they’ll see it thro’ – of course there’s always a risk anywhere in France or Belgium, a bomb from a ‘plane for instance. The INF stand alone for risks, together with a very few Engineers and Pioneers. "Sigs are attached to Coy Batt’n., Bde, Divn, and Corps, so when a chap says he’s a "Sig, ask him what branch and you know all about him. This new Unit – (the Engr – Pioneers) may take a lot of work from the lads in the line (INF) and it ought to be so a Batt’n. goes into the trenches, some are detailed to bring in Rations, others water carrying, others Ammn., others "Running, others fatigue, and so on till but a very few are left to man the trench – it’s no good at all. INF in the Somme are now

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only cannon-fodder on both sides. They define the "Line that’s about all. The rest of the time is spent waiting for a "Blighty or ---- well, it doesn’t matter much, very few of the lads expect to come out unscathed. "Fritz is in a terrible position and will not show fight – only behind a rat-a-tat-tat – as long as that spits death, he’ll stop there.

I hope the construction of "Warrnambool does not damage the garden you’ve got going, as you think might be the case. It must be grand to be able to get fresh vegetables and fruit grown there. Am still living in hope of seeing it soon.

I heard all about the terrible floods in Melb and Country – what a pity we have such uncertain weather in Aust. it’s all they can sling off at us, tho’ most parts of the World suffer the same. – There’s no doubt I’ll find a great difference in Balmain and Sydney generally when I return. Good to hear of the progress of the new tram line to the Grove – will it pay? Has anything been done re the Central Stn., and the underground, since the late resumptions we read about?

We are still awaiting the result of the Conscription Referenda with interest – somehow I think it will be a surprise. Sorry to hear of the split in the Labor party – they’re done so well up to now.

12.
I have taken a note of Les Calman’s regt address and will write to him at Salisbury Plains this week if I get a chance. He may go straight to the new Austn Base in Rouen (I believe that’s where it is). Thank Mother for visiting the White and Back families – they’re been most kind to me. I will send on my Diary as soon as I get out of Hosp; it may give you just as much information as I can in a letter, tho’ you’ll have a bit of a job to read some of it, as I’ve written pretty small. You’ll notice I kept a list of letters and papers recd and who from. I did it for my own convenience. Before you get this, you’ll have rec’d a cablegram for some money to get me thro’ my furlough. I can’t go far without it, and I may as well see as much as I can BEFORE I return to La Belle. It hurts me to ask but the amount still in credit in my Field Pay Book is not enough to cover all I want to visit. I can go to Scotland with the extra. I won’t be disappointed if it can’t be done, as I know and feel that you’ve got more than a handful with our new Farm. I always sit down with the intention of telling you all about my experiences in the Somme, but somehow I seem to wander right off the subject – it comes as you see in fits and starts. Well my Dearest Parents and Sisters, it’s time for me to be off, or I’ll missmy kind friends at Kings Cross. Expect to be [written on side of page] writing from Southall, Weymouth or some other Hosp next Saturday. Till then I will leave you, feeling A1 hoping and praying that you are all are the same.
Don’t worry
With much Love
Harrie XX

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[Envelope re-addressed]
Mr & Mrs H E Cave
To Warrnambool
Bateman Rd
Gladesville
NSW

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No 51
"Monte Video Camp
Weymouth (South Coast)
England

Sat eve Dec 9th ‘16
(Just "lobbed)

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters

As you see, I’m still "on the move, having left our temporary home at Southall this morning, arriving at Weymouth – a South of England "Watering town - at 2.15 pm, after a fast ride from Paddington Stn. (London). Southall (Aust Aux Hosp) was only a clearing Stn, so that a/cs for the short stay. I don’t think I’ll be here long BEFORE I get furlough, (14 days I believe) after that, will go into more training for the Front.

BEFORE I start my weekly skite, I must ack. With lots of thanks, the receipt of another batch of letters this morning, which I have just read, having had no time to do so at Southall. Amongst them were 3 from Dad, of 1/10, 8/10 and 17/10 – such beauties too! – and one from Thelma 3/10, and Elsie 2.10. Aunt Em’s also came along, so I will reply as soon as I can – No, that statement re me being the only one that came out of the Pozieres battle (from 1st Batt’n) unscatched, was hardly correct. It must have been Tiny Bolus 13th Bn (Recha Swing Club) who wrote to his Mother. I think they’re misunderstood him. He was outside his billet in Warley-Baillon (Somme) – where we left on the afternoon of July 9th, after Church Service in main street – when the remnants of the glorious First went thro’ on its’ way to the (?) Rest Camp at Vaden Court Wood (near Warley and Contay). I was amongst the fortun-

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-ates. It was "Teddy who first saw me in the ranks, marching past with tin-‘at and all equipment (or what we saved from the bother) I was terribly pleased to see him – overjoyed in fact – as they were only waiting their turn to relieve those who took over from us. (The 2nd Divn. 17 Bn) relieved us, and the 4th Divn of which the 13th Bn belongs – relieved them. I only had time to say a few words to him, as we were on the move at the time. (It may not have been "Teddy who wrote tho’ – do you know who it was?)

I have not yet rec’d the parcel contg cake, Pudding, Pencils etc – may come soon, tho’ it will have a lot of travelling to do sorry you go to so much expense and trouble.

The diary I will post on to you (registered) as soon as I get on furlough, so look out for it. Don’t know whether you’ll be able to make much of it, as I’ve written under difficulties and in queer places, so you must XQQ the hieroglyphics and the style. I hope it reaches you ‘OK’, as I’ve never missed one day since I left Sydney.

The 3rd Divn have only just left for "La Belle (about 3 weeks ago) but I don’t know whether "Jack Grose, "Col Shand etc of the Artillery went too. Frank Beaurepaire is now attachd to them and is over in France.

I often want to tell you all about my dangers etc in the Line, but somehow can’t get going on the subject. You’ll notice in previous letters, that I’ve told you one or two things and gone right off. Perhaps the Diary will convey as much as I can tell you. It’s written pretty fully. Roughly, we came to France landing at Marseilles, overland to Hazelbrouck (Nord), billeting in a near-by village (Wallon-Cappel) Marched to Outtersteene (near Bailluel) then thro’ Sally (Nord) – where "Bogey was – to the trenches in front of Laventie and Fromelles – (called Bois Grenier, or "VC – where O’Leary

got his decoration early in the War). We reld the "Bantams of Lancashire Fusiliers. A fortnight there and we worked out from Supports to Reserves. Later on returned to the Line at Fleurbaurt (near Convent Avenue, where the Crown Prince is said to have done such terrible deeds). Returned to Reserve Billets again, and left by rail from Bailleul for the Somme. Marched around that district from Village to Village for a fortnight – (Candas, Domant-in-Ponthier, Vignacourt, Allonville & Narley-Baillon; were some of the places we stopped in) before eventually entering the trenches in front of Pozieres on July 19th. We reld the 17th Durhams and 11th Northumberlands – I say this all from memory; the diary will correct me. The "Hop over was ordered for 12.30 am Sunday July 23rd and duly came along. Was "digging in for dear life all Sunday morn. Held on till reld by 17th Batt’n (NSW) – 2nd Divn – on Tues eve July 25th. Returned to camp at Vadencourt Wood, then marched to Pernoir near Canaples (Somme) – joined the "Sigs at latter place. That’s as rough as I can give it – the Diary says more.

BEFORE answering your fine letters, I must let you know how things have been going with me since I wrote last Saturday (from Wandsworth Hosp’). Oh yes, the Zoo! I remr saying in No 50 that I was going there. I told you that to get a pass was hardly worth while, (from 2 till 4 pm) so as I had to try and keep the appointment with Lily de B, Doris Marsh and Bunny Roberts (on furlough from 2nd Div Sigs) my best plan was to go over the brick wall at the rear of our huts, which I did with success, despite sore leg and stick, and returned same way of possible. From the wall there’s a spike fence to get over, (but that’s easy after the wall with its barbed-wire and broken glass top) then across Wandsworth Common to Clapham Junction. I had to get a "77 bus from here, which took me to King’s Cross (London) – opp Great Northern Rail Stn. Saw some interesting sights on the way – St Thomas Hosp on bank of Thames, Lambeth and Westminster Bges, Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey (some pile!!) Whitehall, Horse Guards in Front of Treasury, Admiralty, Trafalgar Square, Nelson Column, National Gallery, Strand, Hotels Cecil, Russel and Waldorf etc. The girls were waiting where the ‘bus pulled up – Kentish Town is only 5 mins walk from Kings X – so we caught an electric

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tram to near Regents Canal and Park – where the Zoo is. It was 3 pm when we got inside and it closes at 4 this time of the year, we only had time to see part of this great place. The Reptile, Monkey, Ape, Lion, Tiger and Leopard House. Great "Terrace with the Bears, dears, bears etc, were some of the things we saw – all very interesting. The feeding of the Seals was also a great sight, glad I did not miss it. Returned to Lily’s place in Kentish Town for tea, where I met Mother and brothers – all very nice and homely. As Miss March only lives 5 mins from Wandsworth Hosp, she came right home with me. I had my first trip in the Underground Railway – of which London is honeycombed – and it was fine. To get to the Stn below the street, you go down in a big lift and to come up, either go on moving staircase or lift. These Undergrounds go almost everywhere, and travel at a terrific pace. I was surprised! The air is rather hot and stuffy but you hardly notice it when travelling at full speed. These are all electric trains. I had to return via the wall into the Ward and managed it without being detected.

On Monday afternoon, a "driver saved me the trouble of on a more "pinching out. It was a trip by char-a-banc (motor) round some of the well known parts of London, which I thoroughly enjoyed. There were so many world renowned places passed that I’ve 4gotten most already. Those I recollect were ; Picadilly Circus, Strand, Guildhall, Law Courts, Old Bailey, St Pauls Cathedral, Mansion House, Bank of England, Cannon St, Fleet St, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall and back ‘ome treis bon and very interesting!!

On Tues. I applied for my first and only pass, so that I could go to HQ in Horseferry Rd (near Westminster Abbey) for some money to carry on with. So took opportunity of Wiring you for a "fiver. It hurt me to do this, but I thought it worth while, if I’m to go to Scotland when furlough comes along. I only hope it does not inconvenience you at this critical time, especially so, as there’s so much wanted for the new Home. From HQ I winded my way thro’ a maze of costers’ carts and lanes to St James Park, coming out in front of Buckingham Palace and the Q. Victoria Memorial. Hobbled along the Mall – a great roadway leading to the Palace and Parks

5.
absolutely alive with Taxis, limousines, motor buses, and private cars – I was looking for St James Theatre to see the Comedy, :Lucky Jim, and after a bit of wandering reached there "OK. This was the play that the actress (Miss Boninger) gave me a "backshee ticket for, a couple of weeks ago. It was terribly kind of her. I put in a fine afternoon and was sorry when it ended. From the Theatre I went to our great meeting place – the Anzac Club and Buffet, near Victoria Stn and had a nice tea. One wants for nothing here, and no money is asked for a feed. A voluntary contribution box is near the door, and is worth while patronising after the great attention the Austn ladies pay us. They are never still, and are very kind. I would go from any part of London to visit this fine place – a real boon to us and the Maorilanders. As my pass expired at 4 pm and it was 7 when I left Victoria Stn for Clapham, there was nothing else for it, but another go over the wall. Luck still in, not detected.

Wednesday morning saw a batch of us Austns saying goodbye to Wandsworth – was expecting it daily for over a week – which we left at 10.30 am by motor for the Austn Conv Depot at Southall (Middlesex) arriving at lunch-time. I had several surprises here as soon as I hit the ground. Met "Dick Smith (Sergt 56th Bn) of Ballast Pt R and Balmain. Seeing Club in the Dining Room. He had been ill at Birmingham, but was now "OK. Then an old Liverpool camp mate hove in sight, I hadn’t seen him since we were at Outtersteene on our way to the Somme via Bailleul. Was surprised to find him minus the right arm – very stiff luck. A little later, "Mal Omand (13th Bn) related to the Thorburns of Gore St B’main – also came along. I hadn’t seen him for some years after I left School having played football with him.

Southall is 10 miles from the "Bigsmoke, but I recd a pass good from 12 noon till 9 pm for the purpose of visiting Mrs and Lily de B. I went to Shepherds Bush by elec’ tram, then Underground to Tottenham Court Rd, London. Spent most of the afternoon "mooching about that part of the City and at the Pictures in Shaftesbury Avenue.

Havn’t had a chance to write to the Les’s yet, but will do so soon, when I settle down.

Weymouth (Dorset) England

I am in the class that are under Medical Observation, but don’t expect it will be very long BEFORE I get furlough, and marked fit for Active Service.

Les C sent me a telegram yesterday, saying that he could not get permission to visit me here. Wanted me to go to Rollestone Pk. I’m afraid there’s only one chance of me seeing him or Les N., and that is, arrange to meet at our Buffet in Victoria St (London) while I’m on furlough. It’s well over a hundred miles from here to the "Big Smoke, so I can’t go till I’m better.

42 – 16.9.16 – Reninghelst YMCA (Village near Ypres)
43 – 23.9.16 – Heoggraaf (near Poperinge, Belgium)
44 – 30.9.16 - " " " "
45 – 7.10.16 – Reninghelst ( " " "
46 – 15.10.16 – Tilques (near St Omer) Nord France
47 – 11.11.16 – No 3 London Genl Hosp Wandsworth
48 – 18.11.16 - " " " " "
49 – 25.11.16 - " " " " "
50 – 2.12.16 - " " " " "
51 – 9.12.16 – "Monte Video Camp, Weymouth (Dorset)
52 – 16.12.16 - " " " " "

Weymouth, Dorset, (Blighty)
Sat morn Dec 23rd 1916

No 54
Convalescing at "Monte Video Camp
Weymouth, Dorset
England
Sat morn
Dec 30th 1916

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,

Since I wrote last week, Yule-tide has come and gone, but the "Peace on earth, good will towards men is still unrealised. It is to be sincerely hoped that this will be the last Xmas of strife. God alone knows what is to be gone thro’ between now and the end, but we must trust in His judgment and goodness, and hope to be Home with you when our terrible work is complete.

Tho’ far away from loved ones, our Kind friends in England did not forget us, even tho’ most of them have sons, brothers, and relations to think about over the other side of the "Pond. Several concert parties put themselves out to come down here and amuse us who were unable to go out on the special 6 days leave, that was granted to those fit enough to travel. As my leg was not quite good enough to be trotting about on, I had to stay in, but I enjoyed myself "tries bon (tray bon).

I told you about the great Tea and Concert given us last Saturday afternoon by the Ladies of Weymouth – if my memory serves me right. On Sunday (Xmas Eve) the weather turned out good-O, sun shiny, but cold breeze from the Channel. The sight of the sun helped us to think of Xmas in Aust, and we hoped that, - tho’ a time of sad memories to many of our brave people – you would all make the best of it, and have all the enjoyment possible. For New Year, I can only wish that brighter and more peaceful prospects are ushered in, and that you all keep up your great spirits during the critical time to come – don’t worry, ‘what is to be, will be’.

The different denominations held Church Services during the morn and I went with the Presbyterians (Cong, Meths and others together).

2.
The afternoon was too good to spend loafing in the Camp, so I went for a ramble alone thro’ some of the Country lanes near by. The roads were all very nice, quite a contrast to our own. I went across a few open-fields towards the coast and found that none were under cultivation and only one or two with cows on them. The constant rain has made the whole place very damp, but the grass looks beautifully green, the many hedges bounding the different paddocks, making a pretty scene on the undulating countryside. I was disappointed with the hedges, being under the impression, - while seeing those in France, - that they were all well looked after. I did not find such the case down here, but I ‘spose one must allow for war times, lack of labor, and expense of keeping them up. I don’t doubt that there are many parts of England where they are all that they’re cracked up to be. The sight of the Channel so close was good, tho’ it brought back to me again, the fine sailor I’d make if on it in a blow. Portland (3 miles away or more) was my objective, which I reached alright. Can’t say whether it’s like Vic’s Portland, but it’s not so very big after all. Two big breakwaters enclosed an anchorage off the town, which contained lots of shipping. Further on was a big headland – the end of the promontory on which Portland stands – which looked very imposing from the big hill opposite Weymouth and Portland. I met an old 12th [indecipherable] mate on the road, who is booked for Home in the West. We refreshed our memories on the past – 12 months ago.

Christmas Day was spent with another nice day for this time of the year. There was none of that Christmas-‘Cardy’ appearance about it, as we in Aust. are always taught to think of the ‘Old Dart’ – snow and ice, with skating, and afterwards big puddings and big fires in the Dining-room. There may have been the two latter in many homes, but I’m sure it has been a miserable Festive Season for nearly everyone.

Another Church Service held by the different Padres, after which we were all presented with Xmas Boxes, given on behalf of the people of Aust

3.
by the Red Cross Society. Each box contained 5 pkts Cigarettes, 1 tin of "Captain Tobacco, 1 pkt of "Butterscotch, 1 pkt Playing Cards, 1 C’mas Greeting Card, Pipes, Writing-paper and envelopes – all most acceptable and for which we were trully thankful. Ladies gave the "Boxes out and said a few words of encouragement to each recipient. Our Xmas Dinner in the Hut was all that could be desired – Cold Ham and Turkey, spuds and turnips, Plum-pudding with Sauce, beer (for the "lovers of the mug), Fruit and Nuts. Enough and more, for the most finicky and hungry. In the afternoon, a pro Theatrical party from the "Jubilee in London, gave us 2 hours of side-splitting laughter – every item was a comic one, and needless to say well received. I think each artist rec’d 3 or more encores to each turn.

"Boxing Day passed without anyone being wiser for it. The elements also returned to make things uncomfortable for us, very few Austns being without severe colds – it has not improved yet, (being cold, misty and windy with rain).

Have attended several military funerals this week, one being a Capt of the A.A.M.C. These ceremonies are most impressive. We generally leave from the ‘Town Hosp’, pass over Weymouth Harbour and through the Town to Westham Cemetry. The Padre in his C of E robes (or R.C. as case may be) leads the way, followed by Firing party with reversed arms, Depot Band, gun-carriage and gun with Coffin on top, drawn by a squad of men, pall-bearers, Officers and men. The slow march is very trying to us in the ranks, especially those of us with bad legs. Keeping step with the drum beat is one of the not the easiest thing in the world of, at the rear of a column – or near it. The Volleys and "Last Post (bugle) is always something to remember when service is over.

I am delighted to say that another big mail of delayed letters (about 20) reached me, amongst which were Dad’s, (Sept 17th – evidently had a "rough passage), Lizzie’s 23/10, and Elsie’s 29/10, also Cards and letters from Grandmother, Aunts Maggie, Em, and Kate and the girls, Reg Edmonds, Arch and Pearl and several from different ones in the V.O. Co. Nearly all had been well

4.
Christened in the Somme mud – apparently been chasing me to the trenches, some of the envelopes were so caked that the address was hardly readable. I am enclosing Dad’s, just as a souvenir. You can see the many endorsements on it "Bgde HQ, "1st Div Sigs and "3rd London Genl Hosp, Wandsworth, so can understand what a lot of work there is in tracing a fellow once he leaves the Unit. Most letters I receive are pretty well the same for endorsements. Am very pleased that no C’mas or New Year Cards were sent by any of you at Home. I see you took advise. I only wish the others would do likewise, as I cannot possibly save them up.

The grand letter of Dad’s has come very much out of its turn, as I’ve already rec’d and answered 3 written in October. Nevertheless it is most interesting and acceptable. It is the one ack’g the receipt at your end of the numerals (R28 – Regiment 28), and Post Card etc, from the "Hun Artillery Dugouts on the ridge in front of Pozieres (facing La Boiselle, "Sausage Gully and Ovillers-la-Baselle). Nothing is more pleasing to hear. I don’t think they’d reach you. Gave the green envelope to one of the Batt’n Orderly Room Clerks ("Goldie Goldrick) as he was going back to Albert – 4 or 5 miles back – so am very thankful to him for getting it away. Glad that you also rec’d the Swimming Mag’s (given me by "Bogey) and note written at Warley-Baillon (6 miles from Albert) just BEFORE marching into the Line on July 19th. I have some more Swimming Magazines that "Bogey left with me when he came to Wandsworth Hosp. I will post them on too; they may be interesting to Harry Grose and other swimmers to look at, tho’ the news while the War is on, is mostly confined to doing of the ladies here. Keep them until I return.

I trust that you are now in possession of the new Home at the ‘Ville and settling down nicely to the change and new surroundings. Am anxious to know of Aunts Jean and Soph and Unc Tom went over to see you, also that G’ma arrd too – to spend her days with you. Let me know soon. (over)

[written at side of page]
PS Don’t forget to address all future mail to "First Battalian

5.
I am very sorry that I cabled for that ‘fiver’, after reading your letter re cost of shifting, new fittings and furniture etc. I hope it has not worried you as it has me. I would cable again cancelling only that it means more money out of my Field Pay Book to do so and we may cross in the cables. There’s a chance that the cable will not find you if you’re gone to Gladesville – I hope you have it don’t. I can manage, I believe, on what I have in Credit, only sent to you to be on the safe side. I must get your proper address at the very earliest, as these letters will be getting a rough passage and I don’t want that to happen, after the regular way they’re reached you so far. Will be pleased to know how "Ma Smith takes your "resignation and the key. She must have heard BEFORE this of what was being done.

I wish I could talk to those foolish Uncs on mine – they’d soon tumble to this game. Why it’s suicide and there’s no need for them to come at it.

I thought my stay in Camp at L’pool was pretty bad (just 4 mos) but Bert Tetley licks me hollow.

I wrote to Jack Grose and Mrs Standerwick during the week and am waiting for answers, I’m not quite sure whether Jack’s Artillery have gone over the "Pond or not, till I hear from him – they we still in training a few weeks ago, tho’ the "beetle crushers have been gone almost 5 weeks.

The parcel from Aunts Maggie and Soph has not put in an appearance yet. If it goes to the "Line, they may share it amongst the poor lads in the wet and cold – ugh!! (when I think of it) I won’t grumble if they do that, as long as the Staff don’t get at it. It is very gratifying for me to know that you didn’t go to the expense and trouble of sending one from Home. I’m just as satisfied.

The great number of fires amongst important buildings and crowded parts of the City is certainly serious. I hope they catch the offenders and publically hang them. The new trouble brewing amongst the "Wharf Mechanics in Sydney, for a 2 bob an hour wage, is another disheartening thing for all to know about. When’s it all goping to end? Other labour troubles on top of that, are not tending to help us in the terrific struggle on this side – there’s enough to worry about. (over)

6.
The advent of the Underground System in Sydney ought to lift her out of a big trouble. It’s perfect in London. No fog stops the running of any of the services. I’ll tell you more about it when furlough is over, anyhow I’m glad they’re made the first start towards one – commandeering the stations sites.

Thanks to Mother for her encouraging wishes and Good Luck and tell her not to worry, but keep well and young – likewise yourself.

Remember me to all Aunts, Uncles and Cousins when you write to Melbourne, also Grandmother. Best regards to the neighbours who have been so kind to me, to Mrs and Mr Sander, Mr and Mrs Sinclair, Mr and Mrs Moore, and other friends of ours.

May New Year bring in brighter prospects for a happier future.

Still keeping "in the pink as I hope you all are.

Till I write again,

Bonsoir!

Loving Son and Bro

Harrie XX

PS
Envelope enclosed – mud stained (the letter was nearly in the same condition). Photo from "Daily Sketch (1/2 pictorial article) showing a ward at Wandsworth at Xmas Time. These wards are really separate huts, connected with each other by sheltered corridors – all have latest conveniences. The Sisters wear red bordered capes and are nearlly all Territorials (Army). Sisters Johnson, Hockings and Thompson (night Sisters) were in charge of "B6, assisted by V.A.D.’s or St John Amb Nurses Key and Stephenson. All very nice and popular.

[Envelope addressed to]
Mr and Mrs H E Cave
Warrnambool
Batyemans Road
Gladesville
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 245]

Weymouth, Dorset, "Blighty.
Sat pm Jan’y 6th 1917

wonder what’s for dinner?, "Orderly! Wonder will there be any "pudden?, "Do you think there’ll be "strike-me-dead (bread) and "final flutter (butter) for tea? – we’re wondering?. – and so on; they’re got a great variety and the poor unfortunate "slushy gets no rest.

Now what do you think of one weeks surprises? The World’s not so big after all. Aunt Annie also wrote earlier in the week, in reply to my letter of introduction. (introducing myself.) She enclosed a Postal Note for 1/- so that I could "smoke her health for New Year. Very kind of her, but I wasn’t any where near "broke, and am not a "lover of the weed. Was very sorry she did it, but I’ll have to throw her a couple of "bob BEFORE I return to the Front to relieve my conscience. I’ve already replied, telling her about our allowances and my wishes. (She will have the note by now). It was Aunt Annie who told

Rec’d a letter from "Jack Grose (in reply to mine) written on the eve of his departure from the "Plains (Larkhill Camp) for the Front. He was then "in the pink and so were the boys with him from Balmain. (They left on Dec 29th).

I have had no word about going out on furlough yet. The leg is improving slowly, but is still being daily dressed. It makes me limp slightly, but that will disappear soon. I go for rambles about the "country-lanes near the Camp, when the sun comes out – not too often – and it does me the world of good. I must still complain about the terrible land wastage in these parts – what a sinful waste! The papers are just now starting to create interest in this now all-important economical question. Many London Councils have given over parts of their parks and domains to enterprising people, for the purpose of "spud and vegetable garden cultivation, but I cannot see what good that’s going to do – what about the thousands of acres attached to hundreds of Manors and Mansions owned by the elite only kept for the purpose of sporting. (Hunting fox and rabbits, pheasant and pigeon shooting), real scandalous! They want a real labor government here, like our’s at Home. Gee, what a spash they’d make!

[Page 251]
No 56
Still convalescing at "Monte Video Camp
Weymouth, (Dorset)
Sat eve! Jan’y 13th 1917
Address to First Battalion
(as before)

My Dear Mother, Father, and Sisters

There’s nothing much to talk about this week. As both Xmas and New Year have come and gone, we have settled down to the usual Camp routine, which, in the class I am in, amounts to eating, drinking, sleeping and now and again, a muster parade. This is the "observation class. Where one awaits the Doctor’s decision as to whether France, England or Australia will be your next move. I know there’s no chance of me being assigned to either of the two latter, so am really only waiting to be marked fit enough for the next class – "Remedial cases and Active Service.

As son as the leg wound has healed sufficiently, I will be put in that class and physical exercises will commence, with perhaps a bit of "fatigue thrown in, just to keep us out of mischief. There’s a chance that I’ll be drafted to the Wareham Camp or Perham Downs, where I’ll get my furlough, if not, I’ll get it from here. Anyhow, next week ought to decide one way or the other, tho’ as I so often add – one never can’t tell.

"Jack Goodsir and "Scotty Marr, (the latter my old Batt’n cobber) both having had their 14 days Hospital furlough, departed with a draft to Perham Downs on Monday morning last, to commence getting into "nick for France. They left in some "crook weather – cold, wet, and miserable – not a nice start

I have not been able to get my Diaries away yet, as Sapper Sherriff is still here. He may not get Home even now, as his leg is nearly right. I may have to post them Home after all, but will advise you later on, perhaps when on furlough.

I have not been out since last Saturday, as the elements are still unkind – not nice enough to ramble about. Today tho’ has been very nice and one could hardly stay in. The Sun has been out in a cloudless sky, but his heat is very weak. I had a long steady walk down to West Chickerell (just outside Weymouth), Wyke and to within a mile of Portland, - of Prison and Naval fame. Owing to the sun getting low, I had to return. I think I said BEFORE that Portland is only 3 miles from our Camp – it is nearer 6. The harbour and Smallmouth are about 3. I enjoyed the fine view of the low country and surrounding hills towards Dorchester and Weymouth as seen from the hill-top at Wyke, also the Harbour, Channel and Portland "Island. (It was an island once I believe, but is connected with the mainland by a kind of spit on which is a fine road and a railway line). The wonderful 18 mile Chesil Beach – formed by the swirling tides of years, which used to run between the Island and Mainland – is also very close. It comes right along the coast past our Camp, like a huge breakwater. I thought it was an artificial protection against the encroaching Channel eating away the Mainland, but was informed today that it was the result of the tides. One is certainly misled on first sighting this wonder, especially as the height is the same right thro’ – almost looks like as if a spirit-level was used to top it off. Most of the beaches here are of shingle – (small hard weather-worn stones). So can hardly compare with ours. Some of course have the finer stuff that we so much like to see.

Weymouth, Dorset, "Blighty

Now my Dear Parents and Sisters, I have said a lot more than I intended to, and a lot less than I wanted to, but I hope you’ll be able to make "head and tail out of it. There’s really nothing happening down here for me to make a letter out of, in fact, I rely solely on yours and others’ letters to "keep the pot boiling.

Weymouth, Dorset, "Blighty

For Men of H.M. Overseas Forces
Glasgow

As it was pitch dark when we left London, nothing in the scenery line was visible till daybreak next morning, not far out of Carlisle. Our express whipped along in good old style, but not as fast as before the War, as our French friend told us (He’s been over the journey many times). The sight of snow-covered hill-sides, and frozen pools and ponds, was not a good one to my idea of beauty, but I s’pose these unfortunate Islanders would go into raptures over it – they know of nothing better poor sould. There was little or no vegetation on most of the hills and it put me in mind of Aden, East Africa and Arabia. The few mountain sheep seen from the train amongst the snow, were relations alongside ours. Our train twisted round the valleys and hills, and up some pretty steep gradients. Carlisle is a big town and the junction between Edinburgh, Glasgow, etc. We did not stay long – 10 minutes. – Our carriages were hooked on to a Caledonian Railway engine and away we went again. In places the country was very rugged and an extra engine was added in rear to push. I still notice the uncultivated state of the country and am amazed to think that there should be so much waste.

My first day here was spent having a look round the City (arrived at the Caledonian Railway Co’s main station at 9.50 on Thur morn last – Feb 1st) which I find is much similar to London, as to narrow, twisting and legions of shops. One gets terribly lost in a few minutes, as sense of direction is lost almost at the first turn. The main thoroughfares all look very much alike, as electric double-decker cars run along each and the buildings are the same style. They say that Glasgow had the greatest tram service in the World – licks Sydney – and I am inclined to believe it. As far as fares go, it’s about the cheapest I’ve ever heard of. One can go for long rides for a 1/2 d and will almost buy the service. They are all run by the Glasgow Corporation, women conductors and a few women drivers being employed till(?) duration of war – may be for good and all. I saw the Municipal building and a few big Churches during the morning. The weather tho’ murky and dull, was not a bit cold or chilly, as I expected it would be so far North and seeing the snow and ice on the way up. London was in the throes of a cold wave when I left and it was awful. Met a "Jack Tar in the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Rest in West Nile St who took per tram (1/2d fare) to see the Glasgow Art Galleries and Museum – near the Royal National Infirmary’s big building. We spent a few interesting hours wandering round the Statutory, Art gallery, and other exhibits. I was very much interested in the splendid collection of beautiful models of well-known steamers, sailers, and warships etc. Amongst them I remember, were the HMS "Aboukir (4 funnelled cruiser) – sistership to the "Hogue and

Let us hope that this erratic tale finds you all hale and hearty, and living in fine comfort and prosperity at "Warrnambool.

Reverting to Scotland. My last to you was written from the YMCA at Sauchiehall (pro. "Soccy-hall) St. Glasgow, and I think if I remember right, that I said I would be returning to the "Big Smoke the day after – last Sunday. Well I went as far as going to the Caledonian Railway’s Central Stn, from a Concert in aid of Limbless Soldiers, but as it was too near starting time, and there was a big crowd of Scotties and others returning from furlough, I postponed it till Monday nights’ express, so that I could obtain a better seat by going earlier. Spent Monday round the wharves and

The habit and system of tipping is rotten amongst all classes apparently and our mad-heads in the A.I.F. have made things worse. You’ve only got to give the appearance of one looking for a place, and you can be sure some one has the glimmers on. Small boys will follow you about like a dog, and wait for the chance of giving you the desired direction – for cash. Taxi drivers are (or have been) very independent and often refuse fares for short distances, unless it be a Colonial who is the hirer. They know strangers and short run is made to produce many shillings. They’re been known to take fellows half round London – instead of

I enjoyed the walk up from Inversnaid to the Dam at the end of Loch Achray extremely. The Dam is part of Glasgow water supply system and put me much in mind of Prospect only

I paid a visit to the old Hospital at Wandsworth as soon as I landed, but only 2 of my old ‘ands remained (both "stumpies – a Millers Point lad and a West Austn.) Snow had fallen heavily in London and the environs, every park and street bright white with it. I hardly recognised the grounds under their mask. From Wandsworth I went to my London residence – The "Bull Dog Club – and found four letters awaiting me. One was from Miss Beaurepaire asking me to call and see them at Kentish Town, another from Rose Wollcott with same request, and one from Les N saying that he was up in London again and had taken some prisoners (Austns) back by the 5.40 that eve from Waterloo Stn. Miss Jones – one of the Ladies at the Club – told me that 3 young fellows had called and inquired for me just an hour before – 12 noon (it was 1 pm then) so it must have been Les. Hard luck I did not see him. More hardluck when I went by the Tube to Waterloo and then didn’t see him on the train or statn. Have written explaining.

They had me "boxed at times talking of Sophies (sometimes meant Grandmother, other times Aunt) but I soon got into the swing. Sophie told young "Vi to call me Uncle, but I told her I did not want to be an old man for a long while yet.

"Worgret Camp, Wareham
Dorset ("Blighty)
Sat pm Feby 17th ‘17
My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters

Have met many old mates and acquaintances since I arr’d here on Monday afternoon last. Yesterday morning I met at the YMCA, Percy Fillingham (late of the Mission, now Rockdale – 45th Bn.) and "Micky Druce (late 4th Bn, with Andy Pettgrin, now Motor transport Secn.). Both will be returning to France later on. This morning I was speaking to Young Whitford whom you were asking about some time back. I did not know him in Balmain by name, but had seen him many times. He is in next Hut to me (D36) and that’s where I saw him. Has a staff job in this Camp for 6 months, having rec’d a wound to his hand while with 14th Bde "Emma G’s (Mach guns) in France. A few minutes ago was speaking to a "Bluey Ferguson of Ruess St (late orig 18th, now 5th Bn. Victoria). He was sent home in June, but got away again and joined a 5th Bn. reinforcement. Used to live with the Gosber’s and is an old school boy from "Birchie. So you see you never know who is going to "pop up.

I am not feeling too bright on the prospect of this Country for the Workers after the War. It seems to be entirely "worked out and I am sorry for those who have got to live in it. My visit to Glasgow has opened my eyes a great deal, as I saw there conditions worse than any in our slums at Home. Women with their kids put in a lot of time in the Pubs, even tho’ they are not open all day. They live in poky flats, with a common back-yard, front door, passage, etc and seem to have no hope of ever bettering themselves.

Our long absence from Home is the cause of most of the pit falls on this side, and that is why lots of our boys are marrying. The danger and treats in France, followed by a long rest in England is safety, has turned many heads. ‘Tis said that over 3,000 have wedded out of the A.I.F. The barefaced and awful temptations that meet one at every turn in these big Cities, is more to be feared than all the dangers of the battlefields, and I cannot help but want to get away from it all, even if it’s to France and the Hell there. Never fear for me tho’, I’ve gone thro’ this life unblemished morally so far, and by the help of God I’ll come back so – if it’s His will. I think of the future daily, but cannot enlighten myself in regard to it. Looks as tho’ this world is finished – but I shouldn’t think that.

Arrived at London (Euston) on Fri week last. I think I told you of my doings in Letter 60, so will not repeat here, only to say that I posted the 2 war-worn diaries and some of the cards that were sent. Didn’t want to destroy them, tho they are really of no use to anyone now. Hope the Customs Officer at GPO Sydney lets the parcel go. I put a note in for him just in case it’s one of my old friends who does the examining. Have asked him to remb me to others of the staff. He’ll be a rotter (to my idea) if he confiscates them. In one of the Diaries (in the pocket-book) is a Testament which contains a 10/- note – a brand new Austn, which I have been carrying round since Jan 4th 1915 (my last pay on the Moollan coming to Egypt). You can do as you wish with it, as it’s no use on this side.

Rose Woollcott came along for us at 7.45 and we went by bus to Clapton Park via Tower Bridge. They live in the lower portion of a 2 story house and all are at work during the day. Rose is a dressmaker at present in military work and Annie is at a shop of some kind. Mr Woollcott does not appear to be very strong. He is a little man and earns a few bob by odd painting jobs.

Bateman’s Road
Gladesville
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia.

near Wool (Dorset)
"Blighty Sat eve
Feby 24th ‘17

Being put on a guard, is like being back in real Active Service, and I had that feeling last Saturday when I was writing to you in between the shifts. Came off the job at 11 am on Sunday, so was able to take a little ramble during the afternoon, tho’ the elements were not too clever for walking about, owing to the misty rain and dampness. Saw the old mill just below our part of the Camp (No 2) Group then and the mill-race where the old water-wheel used to churn – its’ gone now – also part olf the old town and surroundings.

This was the start of the subsequent serious

Strange thing is that leave is granted at all to Bournemouth (19 miles). The only means of visiting these places then is by motor car, - which is allowed. The cost of a single trip to B’mouth is 5/-, so by the time the return is over, there’s not much left out of a quid. I only learned this since the disturbance, as I’ve not been in Camp long enough to know.

Once more something daring was suggested – the sacking of the "dry canteens (groceries etc). Windows and doors were smashed and the contents of the whole canteen were emptied on to the floor, trampled and spoiled. Cigarettes were ‘napoo’ (finished) in no time. Pies, custards, sweets and soap, paper, envelopes, etc were mixed up in a terrible ‘mash’.

We were not hindered by the others, so were able to "frog-march our catch to the "boob. Several got out of there later on, after throwing basins, plates, etc at the guards, but are now safely in solitary cells in this place as I write.

"Worgret Camp, Wareham (Dorset)
Sat pm March 3rd, 1917

Wareham (Dorset)

"Worgret " Camp
Hut A1)
Wareham (Dorset) "Blighty

The letter was dated March 8th and was of course, censored. Left Rollestone Park Camp on Feby 26th, so by this ne’ll be up with the 17th Battn (same colors as First 0 black over green – only [diamond shape] shaped either in the Line or in Rest Billets at the rear. Can’t say exactly off-hand what part of the Somme or Ancre Front he’ll be on, but I fancy to left of le Transloy, as our old Battn was in front of theirs when in the Line last. Tells me he likes the scenery of "La Belle or what he’d seen of it where he wrote from. I presume it’s Etaples (pro E-taps) as he said the draft got off transport at Boulogne, which is north. I’ve been thro’ Etaples twice, while train-travelling, to remember the surrounding pretty well. The first time was while on our grand "tour-de-France in March ’15, from Marseille to Hazebrouck (via Lyon, Dijon, Versailles, Amiens, Abbeville, Wimereaux, Boulogne, Calais and St Omen) and the second while returning for 3rd time to the Somme from Ypres and Poperinghe (Belgium) entraining at St Omen, Watters, Audruico, etc, detraining at Pout Remy (the other side of Etaples and Abbeville) from where, with the "Divvy Sigs, I rode with all belongings on the old

His own people live very close to you in Gladesville (Mitchell Crescent – or some such name – at rear of waiting shed at G’ville Terminus). He sends per this letter his very best regards to you all. At present he is away convalescing – north I believe.

Enclosed in his letter, was a cutting from the Balmain "Observer which surprised me a great deal – an a/c or extracts from 3 of my letters to you at Home. I was very anxious to read it, as I was told in several letters from friends in the District about it being in print. It’s too late to express my sorrows now, but I trust people will not think by the tone of them, that I am the only one that was fighting in France. I would rather you did not put me in the "Limelight as it’s not fair to the lads with me, lots of whom have seen and done more than I. "Teddy was very kind to send it on. It was sent him by his people in Balmain. Remr him to any of the Swimming boys you see on your side – he’s "OK and still going strong.

"Worgret Camp
Wareham (Dorset)
With the "War babies’ Divn)

After Tea, - if we’re fortunate, - we have the evening free, if "stiff we catch a 24 hour’s guard, (I’ve just come off one last eve) or piquet in Towns, or perhaps some fatigue. It’s rather a "kick back, after our recent pretty easy spasm waiting to go to Perham Downs and France. I suppose we will soon settle down to the old order of things (we’ll have to) and wish for the time of departure from here. There’s no saying yet how long we’ll last in the "Old Dart – some reckon 3 months, others down to 3 weeks. We’ll just have to do the "Asquith Act – "Wait and see! – and be patient. The war may be over (The World) by then, but there’s no telling. God alone knows that – and the Kaiser.

We were taken for an early morn route-march (at the double in places) to a field close by, where our first "Action was fought with snow-balls. Needless to say we "bogged right in, and it was not long before we were all trying to restore animation to our numbed and almost frozen fingers.

I have had some more pleasant meetings and surprises during the week. The first to come into sight was "Dick Smith of Ballast Point Rd. (Sergt 56th Battn) whom I saw last at Southall. He will be in out new Brigade – very likely the 64th Battn. While going along "A Lines the other afternoon, I very nearly bumped into Fred Smale (8th Field Amb’ce, with John Moore, and "Jewy Handcock) who was coming round a corner. It was the greatest surprise to me ever, as he was the last fellow I expected to see on this side of the "Pond. We refreshed old memories during a promenade thro’ the Town and back, and I learnt that all was well with his mates when he left at end of Nov – near Flers (Somme). He is over here ill, and is marked for some months duty in "Blighty, with a slight chance of getting Home. Tells me that he asked all of Tas Vale’s old mates about his end in that fateful 19th July "hop over and Fleurbaix-Bois Grencer[?] Front.

Another old mate I met was "Jock Hawkes (1st Battn H.Q. Sigs) in this very Hut ("A1 – No 1 Platoon’s Home). It was a great surprise too, and I could not realise it at the mo! The last time I saw "Jock was in the Rue de Dunkirk, Poperinghe (Belgium) just after the Battn came out of the Ypres Salient for a "rest(?) While I was speaking to him, young "Mat Thorbarn and young Blue (1st A.F.A. of Rowntree St) passed and I had a few words with them. I see by an enquiry List of Missing men, that Mat’s name is amongst them – "wounded and missing Nov 5th). It was a great shock to me and I only hope for the best. I saw other familiar names amongst those from 1st Battn who are missing since that disastrous stunt against Fritz’s strong-point (or redoubt) somewhere near Flers and de Transloy on Nov 5th last.

Rec’d a letter from the 2 Les’ also during the week and was glad to learn that everything with them so far is "O.K. Les C as you know, left for France on Feby 26th, and on M’ch 18th was still at Etaples going through the "Bull Ring. Expects to move off to Battn at the Front any day with a draft. Hope he fares well. As usual, wishes me to trot along best regards to you at "W’bool, including a "heap-a-Luv to Lizzie – she’ll compre I s’pect.

I do trust your work at the "Island is lighter and steadier after the big rush and night shifts. Must be a big strain by time you get to and from Home.

I must draw this to a close now as it’s getting close to "Lights out! and we’ve got to get going early tomorrow morning brushing up for Church parade, which for us Protestants is held in the Town either at Wesleyan Church or Congregational (built 1670, improved 1762 – "some relic).

Bateman’s Road
Gladesville (Sydney)
New South Wales
Australia.

Wareham (Dorset)
"Blighty

[Page 295]
6.
direct opp in this rotten country – little sunshine, but plenty of cold and rain. But I s’pose if we got a lot of sun of the fierce kind while in our present acclimatized condition, we’d be praying for some cold, and so the world goes on, never satisfied, and always grumbling.

I guess the sudden change from a back-yard you could swing a cat round in, to one of plenty of room, must be great and to think of the lovely fruit, vegetables and flowers you are able to grow – gee it’s fine to read about!~ You’ll soon be able to set a big lead to our more fortunate relations in Melb, and I’d just love to be back (after the war only) to give a hand. Don’t forget to send along footage and depth of plot, also dimensions of rooms, numbers of them, etc when you write again. If you told me before, I’ve forgotten. I don’t doubt that your saving in fruit and vege’s must be considerable. You’ll soon be able to supply the shops nearby and help to reduce the Govt Loans. Glad to hear that Callan family, Cowan family and others are still OK. Kindest regards their way.

‘Tis nice to know that the Tarban Creek Baths are so handy. I didn’t know of them before.

Frank Bowles told me he was one who helped build the latter Baths at G’ville. I have never seen them there either. You’ll be in your element again, now that you’re found the water so handy for a Sunday morning "dip. Wish I could be there too, and hope it continues do, also that the girls are not sent away for compulsory "holidays too often. How do they go to work – boat or tram?

Sorry to hear that Mother is so much annoyed by flies and mosquitoes during the hot spells – guess they’ll eat me alive if ever I return with this thick English blood!

Nice to know that you’re immediate neighbors are so kind and liberal. Will all help to increase your happiness and break down that first inevitable strangeness.

I am uneasy when I learn of your spasm of "off color, but I hope it’s only temporary and that long ere this "lobs at "W’bool, you’ll be in the "pink again.

Please [?] very best love to Mother and the girls, hoping this finds you all still well, happy and prosperous. Best regards to all old friends and relatives.

All well here

Still remaining your loving Son and Bro
Harrie XX

[On side of page]
PS. Don’t forget! The New Address "A Coy 61st Battn etc will now find me. Send no papers, Cards or parcels and go to no expense whatever.
The old nib has seen better days: I am paying it off now.

[Page 296]
Mr and Mrs H E Cave
"Warrnambool
Bateman’s Road
Gladesville (Sydney)
New South Wales
Australia.

[Page 297]
No 68
[The six pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order as pages 291 to 294]
Still with the "Fragments from France Division
At "Worgret Camp Wareham,
Dorset, Blighty
Sat April 7th.17
(Easter Sat)

My Dear Mother, Father & sisters.
Easter the season of sorrow, & sad biblical traditions is with us – my second OAS but still the Armageddon rolls on. We wonder where we`ll be, or whether Peace will reign 12 months hence. He was a wonderful father who kept our senses in the dark as to foreseeing the future that is B4 us. We must trust on & hope for an early return, but God`s will must be done whatever it is to be.

Yesterday being Good Friday was a sacred day in this camp to all denominations, so it was kept up as a Sunday would be church Parades for R.C.s & Protestants were held in the Town in respective chapels, & as they were compulsory there were big attendances. I went with the C of Es, as the non-conformists had (Pres,Meth or Congs) no separate service. We marched to the ancient Stone, St.Mary`s Church near the South bridge & River Frome, It is a real old edifice right enough. Solid columns, windows with stained glass,Biblical pictures, massive fittings etc & several tombs forming part of the Isle floor were worth seeing. It`s services to civilians must be of the High Church order, judging by the holy water font near the door perhaps its contents were used on babes at christenings. Surrounding the church (or at least on 2 sides of it) outside is a grave-yard. The tomb stones of which are almost worn away with the weather

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of ages - I applied for the 29 hours leave granted to 25% of the
Battn. During the 4 days of Easter. I did not go to church in the evening. The leave started at 4.30pm on Friday, so we who left their were due back here at 9pm Sat (tonight). I thought it a good opportunity of paying a long hoped for visit to popular & "flash Bournemouth City, distant by rail 14 miles. The worst part of getting leave to nearby resorts & town is that no train travelling is allowed to those of the AIF Of course "special leave to places like London. Bristol, Scotland etc, does not come under the ban. It means that to get to & from Bournemouth the best part of 10/- is spent in motor car fare straight away, as the only other alternative – the one I took is to pad it to Poole (9 miles away) & take a train to Bournemouth.

It was nearly 5 pip emma B4 I got clear of the Camp after getting the pass fixed up by the Orderly Room & a pm (Aust Provost Marshal [indecipherable] ) but as the days are lengthening & weather (for once) good-o, the walk to Poole, via Hougham,Lynch Monster & Damsworthy was enjoyable. It was just dark as I crossed the 5 Toll bridge over Poole ;Harbour (7.20) so I could not see much of the ancient fisher-town. The streets I went thro were frightfully narrow crooked - so bad in places that one would soon get "bigged The tram starting (or ending place was at far end of the main thoroughfare – a narrow crooked street, as usual with most towns on [indecipherable] side, named "High St (the most common street name I`ve ever seen) The trams are up to date electrics, with uncovered top part accommodation, run by the Bournemouth Corporation. The fare to the "Square in the City of Residential apartments, Flash hotels & gardens is 4d & the view from the tram top very fine,( saw it all on way back, as it was pitch dark & all lamps in Jap black top shade as a Zepp precaution)

Arrd Bournemouth 8.15 pm & stayed over night at the YMCA – still doing a grand work. Was up & about early so that I could see as much of the place as possible. What struck me most was the absence of slums, even ordinary dwellings were not seen. Fine mod

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ern villas & big boarding establishments stand in pretty gardens with well kept lawns drives, hedges & paths. The many swell hotels, some also surrounded by extensive grounds were as nice as Iv`e seen yet. The tall spires of the many churches seems to add more to the City`s importance. The highest I think is St. Peter`s C of E near the park & square. St.Andrew`s Presbyterian is another holy Trinity C of E is a quaintly built church with novel clock tower. Some miles out – at Christchurch a 4d ride is the largest of the lot . I think it must be the cathedral.

The park that extends from the "Square to the promenade facing the grand ocean pier is a pleasant & well kept reserve. A little stream runs thro` its length, which is a favourite place for the Kiddies. A concrete path runs along both banks, just far enough from the running water to allow the children to sail their toy boats in comfort, It is a great idea. Of course the stream is very shallow – about 1 foot deep – so there`s not much danger of drowning. The gardens are in another part of the city & good-o . The greatest attractions tho` are the ocean-beach, pier, promenades & reserves. I had a long walk along the lower East & West promenades, on which are built many cafes, & little one-roomed rest houses; the latter apparently belonging to or hired by the elite, who have comfortable lounges cushions, tables etc inside.

Something new & convenient are the & electric lifts, or rather 2 pairs of them, that convey passengers up or down the cliff face – one on Eastcliff & the other on Westcliff (east or west of the big pier) The fare is 1d, and I guess there`s lots of trade doing during the summer season, especially amongst those too old or too tired to use the steps that are provided at intervals along the beach front. The lifts do not drop perpendiculary, but run on rails that slope with shape of cliff-face, something near go.

Bathing boxes & rowboats as usual dot a good deal of the sand, but there`s not much business in aquatic s just yet, especially the former (bathing) – ugh!!! The pier is a beaut & costs 2d to go on. There are many "glass-house shelters on it & with a nice band on a lovely night you can bet it’s the attraction for the swells. There is double

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story from 1/2 way to end of pier & channel, coastal & other passenger steamers call & leave from here – also in season. Besides the promenade that follows a great deal of the beach on each side of the Pier, there`s another that follows the cliff-tops, which rises gradually east & west of the pier also. The highest points are reached where the electric lifts are. I was fortunate in having a perfect day for my sight-seeing, or else I would not have liked the place so well. There`s nothing like the great sun – so elusive here – to brighten one up.

The shops in the main street are up to-date & can`t be far behind "The Big Smoke`s Bond & Oxford Sts for latest Paris & other fashions. They certainly wouldn`t need to be judging by the elaborate dwellings, beautiful limousines & other cars & number of flash folk one sees about. The old & infirm of [indecipherable] make this their health resort, & invalid chair vehicles are here in their hundreds to carry them about in. sun & sea –air.

Bournemouth must run renowned Brighton very close for popularity among South coast cities & resorts . The streets of the former (I hav`nt been to the latter of course) are not laid out as in Melb., but tho` very narrow are mostly perfect as far as surface goes. Needless to say, bicycles are owned by all & sundry & are the most common things in the street being pedalled by men, women, "Kids etc

Poole is quite a contrast I saw more of the latter ancient town on return to Camp, via a laid out suburbs in fine thoroughfare nearly 4 miles in length. From top of the elec` car on Constitution Hill a grand view of Poole. Poole Harbour (or Inlet) & ridges towards Wareham & Swanage is seen. A fine sight too. Ancient Corfe Castle standing ruined & alone on the hill-top between the main ridge, can also be distinguished as we get nearer the Town. Poole cannot be compared with Bournemouth in anything – only opposites. As I said B4, the streets are very narrow & erratic. A dirty gas works & several foundries , ship building (small craft) yard, Naval stores etc, do not tend to improve its appearance. There are 2 nice parks a little out of the town which are very popular. The quay side is lined by stores & old buildings. Trawlers & cargo boats load & unload direct on railway trucks. While I was there yesterday, I had a good opportunity of seeing the old trawlers – Nav H.M.Drifters ( or mine-sweepers) at close quarters along the Quay-side. My sympathy is with the tars

5.
& jacks who man these craft of the "mosquito fleet now under the white ensign & belonging to our "silent Navy. Their only means of defense is the 6 pounder gun mounted forehead, (the foremast is removed) which would not be of much use against the modern "U boat . The trawlers are only a few hundred tons burthen no doubt , but a shot or two on the mark & away they go. There were also a large number of petrol scout-launches, very fast & business like to look at, who also belong to the navy.

Hamsworthy is a suburb of Poole & is one across the Harbour neck, which is spanned by a swing bridge. A toll of 1/2d is collected from each foot & other passenger who crosses .I have some Post Cards of Bournemouth & Poole which I will send on from time to time. They don`t give you much of an idea of the places, but still may be interesting later on.

The walk back to camp of 8 miles (or more) was commenced during yesterday afternoon & was completed sooner than I hope for as an American gentleman with his wife in a big touring car, gave me a lift to the 4 mile post . They were on their way to Swanage (51/2 miles) from Corfe Castle & 10 from Wareham, & I gladly accepted the offer which was so kindly given. Gee & didn’t he let her out! I thought we`d be smashed to pieces at times, but he evidently knew the power of the car he drove, as we pulled up at Warehem Post Office ok

Saw Fred Smale as I was returning to Camp, but he did not see me. The -&& The usual others are still here that I told you of B4 & alls well with them & I. Have had no further word from the Les; Bert Edmonds, Aunt Annie, etc During the week, but hope they are all O.K.

Had a long walk last Sunday afternoon to the top of the long ridge that separates us from the sea or Channel. The sight from the highest point – near Cruchborough Mtn. – was fine . The little village of Tyneham in the valley looked like dolls ` houses & the fields with their bushy hedges stretching up towards the Coast ridge were very pretty. Walked along the ridge-top to Corfe Castle and went thro the ancient town of mud & stone houses & thatch roof.
Return was along the main Swanage Rd & camp was reached at "Cook-house (4.30 pm) Needless to say I had worked up a pretty healthy appetite which could not be satisfied with the scanty military issue.

The weather during the past week has not been

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too brilliant as usual. Rain fell several days & also some sleet after a cold snap. The days are perceptibly lengthening & will appear more so now as at 2am tomorrow (Sunday) the clocks in England are to be put back one hour.

On Tuesday we start again in real earnest to get into better nick for the bother over in "La Belle or Belgium (or elsewhere) B4 breakfast there`ll be "physical jerks of an hour to get the sleep out of our eyes. Drill & route marches will come later on. It gets very monotonous after such a long time of it & one can`t keep but wish to get to the Front where life is a little freer. Of course there`s drill to do there when your`e in Billets & at? "La but its all taken in the course of a day`s life.l

One thing noticed on the way back from Bournemouth & Poole, was the large number of men working on what were vacant allotments. This must be the result of the Premier`s appeal to the people to defeat the "Uboats at home, by putting every available plot under cultivation. It seems laughable to me to think that it was not done B4 instead of locking the land up for no purpose whatever all these years. The old Adam & Eve methodis being used in this part of 20th Century England – the man power spade. Ploughs must be uncommon implements, or else its so long since the ground was scratched by one that the demand from manufacturers now is more than they can cope with. I am still astonished at the vast allotments still growing nothing more important than bracken, furze & weeds,through which Lords,dooks & others of the idle rich hunt the rabbit, partridge, quail etc. Perhaps the soil is too poor to grow "spuds so as I am no [indecipherable] on soil classing I`ll let it stand at that. I don’t think the few acres I saw being turned over by those putting their Easter holidays in "on the land will augment the "tight little Isle`s " supply to any great extent, but every acre was scratched & it may help a little more than relying on neutral & overseas countries. The land wastage in this country was the first thing I noticed as soon as I got out of London`s mark in Nov. last – B4 the now general outcry of home potato growing cropped up.

Now my dear Parents, Iv`e done enough skite for one night so will "ring off as "Lights out will soon be blowing. As usual I trust alls well with you at "Warrnambool
Best love to Mother, Father & girls & all kind friends
Still remaining Your loving son & Brother
Harrie X X

Ps Don`t 4get new address 61st Battn (A cpy) etc. Nothing required

[envelope marked with YMCA logo addressed as follows:-]
Mr. & Mars. H.E.Cave
"Warrnambool, Bateman`s Road.
Gladesville,
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

Still with the "Fragments from France Division
Sat. pm. April 14th 17

This is said to be the months of showers, which clear the troubled & overcast English sky & pave the way for lovely Spring – May & June; I guess were getting the showers at night, but it’s the cold icy wind, sleet, & lack of decent sunshine , which we feel most. We smile when you "down under talk of your heat waves, while we are going through the severest winter for 22 years & coldest April for 60 year. The folk here are always talking about it, The lads over in "La Belle must indeed be having a terrible time with the intense cold, & the continued rain with it`s mud & slush.

"Bogie always asks kindly after you at [indecipherable]& sends best regards & wishes. Hopes to see us all back by Xmas – doubtful. He has tried for some time to transfer to a combatant unit of the A.I.F., but so far his applications have not met with approval by the uthorities. Had inclination for the "up & down life, (air service) but finds his present avoirdupois rather over the limit – about 11 stone I think. Does not mention the cabling "wife whom I believe is shortly – if not already – coming London-wards, accompanied by Sister Lily – perhaps.

So [indecipherable] McLaren is a 2nd engineer on the "Darlina (late NOL cargo "Griefswald) ? He`ll get lots of "fun in the trade he`s on no doubt - especially white Hun the Mediterranean and Channel . Spose he

Glad Archie Murdock has had his choice of units gratified, and that he joins the "Whizz bangs to commence training for Service Abroad. He has undoubtedly had a long wait for a vacancy: but he will not be too late for the finish of hostilities – only wish he was

I have your interesting "Chin: clipping re the Vac "Loyalty gratuity granted to employees throughout Australasia during last Xmas. Very handy for those already being well paid for their services which they are giving in a free country, antipodes to the Worlds` upheaval, and in peace bought with the price of grand Aussi men and lads on the "Peninsh , in Egypt, in France, in Belgiums and the seas. Its to be seen after the war how they treat those who helped to keep them prosperous at the risk of their all – life and all it holds dear. Perhaps the entry of America into the confict will make it good for us who have left safe positions in their commercial houses to do our "bit – we`ll see.

Gladesville
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia.

The Brigade work we had to do was all guard, piquet, escorts & fatigues for the camp,& I got my share of them. While we were carrying on with the good work, the other Battns recd their rifles, bayonets & equipments, & had lots of drill from early morning till tea-time, just to get them into "nick for the coming business over in "La Belle. We will commence in real earnest on Monday I expect, so there`s something to look forward to. One good thing about it is that the spring weather promised us by the people here for April, is about to eventuate judging by the past two or three yearly perfect days. Life seems worth living when the dear old sun throws out its lovely warmth & everything looks at its best. One even hardly imagines the terrible armag-

Our blood must now be of same thickness as the people on this side of the troubled globe, as we can feel the sun when it warms up, as we never felt it but some are still keeping the Mesopotamia & India rumours going in this camp, but I`m quite prepared for the Western Front which I reckon is our destination. Guess the terrible sun of the near East would tickle us up if we were sent on service there now, The cry & wail would be to send us to France or Belgium almost B4 we reached the scene of bother, I don`t envy the "Tommy regiments & Indians who are chasing "Johnny Bourke (the Turk) out of the once Garden of Eden of Biblical times or the Russians doing likewise in Persia. I believe our Light Horse & Camel Corps are doing good work south of Jerusalem & will help in the expulsion of the Turk, now in retreat near Samarra.

I see by the list of members that constitute the "Labor party of N.S.W. that Jack Storey of Balmain is on the side of the I.W.W, pro germhuns, & Pacifists etc. Is that right? Albert Lane I note is up against Mahoney for Dalley in the Senate on the side of "Billy Hughes. Good Luck Albert! You can enlighten me better from your point of view & from the scene of operations: It`s to be hoped that the old Lab-Libs if they are successful, will improve the Democracy & conditions now ruling in "Aussi, instead of keeping up the strife & bickerings that have held sway in the State & Senate governments. The "Win the war policy will do us fine, also the promised repatriation & other schemes for soldiers & sailors after `la guerre`. The "opposition can`t be up to much if they have atheists & red-raggers at their head, & count the notorious Ramsay McDonald as an ideal leader. He has a very bad name here, & if all is true that appears in print against him in Blighty`s " sassiety papers, - well bad luck to him for [indecipherable]
I still have Dad`s splendid budget of Feby 4th (acknowledged in No 69) & am delighted to note from it that all goes well with you at "Warrnambool, tho` his serious ear complaint is rather unfortunate & painful. Am trusting that long ere this he has fully recovered & is his old self again. The heavy work at the "Island too, especially the night-shift – is rather rough & the heat wave ruling over your way would not improve the conditions. Hope it has steadied down by now &

Must have been like real old times to have had such a nice table-full of visitors. Glad they have not all 4gotten you in the new suburb & home. Remember me very kindly to Mr & Mrs "Herb: Smith, Mrs Tetley & Gladys, Mr & Mrs Callan, "Pearlie, Mrs "Whit, Mrs Thompson & Nellie, & other friends who come your way. Best regards to them, The severe thunder and rain storms that came over must have been a

Was very pleased to learn of Lily`s visit with Mrs.Sandford, & that you were all able to act as host & hostess & "put them up: for a night while on their way up North. They were both very kind to me in Melbourne when I was on my "Final, & have continued so during the 16 months absence OAS. Hope they enjoyed their stay, as short as it was. I have not yet recd the letter you mention Lily as having written from "Warnnambool, but it`ll turn up later on. The rough trip along the coast would not help Lily to keep in good "nick for the champs – it`d kill me .

Gladesville.
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

Hut A5 "Worgret Camp
Wareham, Dorset, England
Sat eve April 28th 17

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
Australia

Wareham
"Be-I
"Blighty
Sat eve May 5th 17

[Page 315]
[The six pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order as pages 315 to 320]
No.73

Theyr`e still coo-ee-ing to
Hut A2
"Worgret Camp
Wareham, Dorset,
"Blighty
Sat pm. May 12th. 17

My Dear Mother, Father, & sisters.
Spring is still reigning in this part of "Blighty. & it looks as tho` we`ve said good bye to those terrible wintry spasms till next October at least. Goodness only knows where we`ll be then, but all hope & trust that we`ll be either Home or on the way. Great things will have been done by then,& the Empires destiny known, Victories & defeats must be looked for, both on land & sea, but the final victory will surely come to us & our Allies. The present Russian crisis is very critical, but its to be hoped they stick to it & win their freedom & with us & our allies, otherwise things will look very bad for all.

There`s still nothing definite through yet re our movements. The Palestine rumour keeps popping up, despite all signs that convince one that the Western Front & no other is our "lay suit The "Aussies are right in the thick of things there, according to the daily news that we read. Roun & Bullecourt (or its remains really) the fighting is terrific, as the Huns are "all out to impede the advance. Our lads did some great work there, but luck has been against them apparently & they have been unable to get through yet. I do not know what Division is in action, so can`t say whether Les. C`s Battalion is there or not. Trust he is doing well. I have had no reply to my last letter, but should not expect one too soon, as he will have his work cut out looking after folk at home with correspondence, & carrying on too.
Guess Les N is still on this side of the pond as

2.
he would have let me know by now if otherwise.

"Bogies last letter (May 5th) says alls well with him at Armentieres, & that he expects to come over to England for a few days. He had some close shaves with shells in the now doomed town, two of his cousins being knocked by direct hits, tho` fortunately the shells turned out "duds. Gen. Monash (commanding the Divn he is attached to gave him permission to visit the Somme & Artois regions in a car some weeks back & his knowledge has been further extended. It was only a flying visit to the other Aust Divns down there, but he saw a great deal of country immediately behind the "Push region & as far back as the city of Amiens (On the Somme) Tell me he was fortunate to meet a cousin of his in the "Whizz bangs & a cousin of his wife`s while on the jaunt. The weather was beautiful & fields looking grand after the long & terrible winter. The best news he gave me is that the Austns down "south (that`ll be in Cambrai – St Quentin sector) are about to commence a month`s "dinkum rest – well earned too . Don`t know where his "dinkum die came from, but it seems doubtful to me that all the boys could come out for a rest together. The "Rest we generally get out in the Billets , was lots of marching, physical jerks, rifle exercises & fatigues, so its to to 1 that’s what they get for the well earned rest.

Frank might be able to see me if he comes over, so he`ll be able to tell me all the news. Tho he censores his own letters. He never yet has transgressed, rules & refs in correspondence to me. I know where he is because I asked him several questions to which he answered "yes or "no – enough for me One of his English cousins at the Front has been seriously wounded he tells me – one from Balham. The boys in Kentish Town are all too young, including the eldest (Frank) to go to the Front, Instead their father (Franks`s uncle) has gone & is over at the Front now. Young Frank served some months with the Royal Field Artillery in action, but was recalled on a/c of being under age. Oh I 4got there`s an older brother an officer in the British army, I did not meet him when I visited as he was in another part of England

[Following newspaper article attached]
CROWDS IN TEA-ROOMS.
GAY WAR-TIME SCENES AT BOURNEMOUTH
From our Special Correspondent.
BOURNEMOUTH, Tuesday Evening.

The Sunshine express to Bournemouth this morning was packed, Bournemouth itself was a blaze of glory this afternoon. The town and the beautiful sea front were out enjoying themselves in the sparkling air.

Strolling from the sands through the beautiful gardens to the centre of the town I found ten restaurants, mostly run in combination with big drapery establishments and stores. Here they make a show of "specialite teas with music, express lifts to the roof gardens, pretty waitresses in swift attendance, and all kinds of dainties to be had for the asking. When the hour for confectionary and bun consumption arrived the scene was gaiety in excelsis. Pretty girls by the score, romantically sunburnt hurried in early so that they could get the pick of the basket of quite unnecessary "sweeties and gallant young officer danced in attendance.

A pretty close watch was kept to see that the afternoon-tea limit was not overstepped, but there was nothing to prevent the early door habitués from having an exhilarating snack at half-past three at one roof garden as a sort of appetiser and returning, say, to the Arcade at 5.30 to demolish more buns.

I saw a remarkable display in the shop windows in and around the Arcade. Bournemouth people are complaining of the difficulty of getting sugar for their household necessities. After having admired the luxurious and abundant show of cakes in one window in the Arcade I turned to the next and found it stuffed with beautiful boxes of chocolates and dishes of sweets.

I tore myself away to seek fresh air in the lovely gardens . Here I met a little old lady leading five fat collie dogs out for an evening walk. A few steps farther on I encountered more packs of pet poodles, and in the post office while I am writing this message half a dozen more, all the cherished property of one woman, are fussing about my legs. Bournemouth in wartime is a wonderful place.

3.
training for an officer – Hope "Jim McKechnie is progressing & the wound was not a serious one. "Bogie was surprised to learn about him. They met in July last, after that terrible stunt near Armentieres – Fleubaix. "Bogie sends very best regards to you all at Warrnambool as usual & hopes like myself, that alls well.
a
Our past week has been spent with lots of tons of training daily to help fit us again for the task & duty ahead. The "Bull Ring has proved very interesting , & not the things as dreaded over at Etaples by the reinforcements & details.(latter are men returning to different Battns., Engrs, etc after recovering from wounds & sicknessl.) Bayonet fighting & musketry instruction have been main items on the menu. Tho` jerks, gas lectures, rifle exercise etc are sandwiched in to break the monotony. We practise charging with the bayonet on to dummy Fritzs in the trenches & hanging on frames. The lads put lots of "go into their actions, so it`ll be a rough time for the Huns when they meet, especially as most of those with me have either killed with the steel previously or have been in charges.

On Thursday mom, the whole box & dice of the Compy had to turn out in full marching order (pack, rifle, & all equipment) for a days outing into the countryside. Our drum & fife band lead the way & all the officers were mounted (our Colonel is late of 19th Battn – W.K.Q. Mckenzie, D.S.O.& a favourite. "A Coy`s O.C. is Capt Pryor, late 36th Battn, 3rd Divn, & brother to my old 1st Battn. Platoon commander, who was so seriously wounded in the 1st Brigade raid last June in front of Fleurbaix – now in the Pay Branch at Horseferry Rd. The "cookers, limbers, maltese wagon, ambulance & transport followed in our rear. The "packs got heavy after the first few miles & brought back memories of France & Belgium, but we soon settled down & thoroughly enjoyed it. The beauties of spring were seen as we went along & made one feel glad to be alive. We were fortunate in having a fine day, as it looked very threatening when we started off, in fact rain did fall, but instead of spoiling the march it laid the dust & freshened the hedges & trees. Our route lay thro` the town & towards the big ridge which forms our background towards the coast. I was on it last Saturday, returning by the road we followed from here

4.
the scenery was nothing new to me. What I did enjoy was passing the shady "country lanes & smelling the wild scents of the different flowering shrubs & bushes in the hedges, which are now blooming at their best. What were bare shrubs & tress some weeks back are now lovely leafy & pretty green foliage – good to look upon. We passed thro` the big manor grounds I was talking about last week & saw at close quarters how much land the idle rich have locked up for thir own pleasure – seemed a shame to me. I believe one man owns & rules pretty well every acre in this district – a Lord Eldon - & it was his grounds that we passed thro . Big squarking peacocks, swish their long pretty tail feathers perched in the trees, took our eyes & our imitators got busy with Kookooburra, "maggies rooster, cows, pigs & other well know calls, which brought out the "slavies from the house in wonderment.

By the way, every night at "lights out in the Hut we get the Farm-yard going – cows, pigs, chooks, jackass, maggie, sheep, nanny-goat & everything that can make a noise in the animal kingdom is imitated – the noise is terrible, tho` the effect is life-like. Dogs in the neighbourhood take up the bark when one of our fellows gives the sheep dog`s snap while some are imitating the sheep. In the morning theyr`e all too tired to get up. & it takes the sergeant all his time to get us out for early parade. – Lunch was had on the Heath at foot of the ridge in good old campaign style, & the march was resumed soon afterwards. Our boys were all in good heart so whistling & singing was indulged in to the full. Every song & tune must have been rendered B4 we got back to camp – in time for tea.

The joy of the march was taken away when I had to go on main Battns guard the same afternoon – a terrible strain. The lads were going "all crook but wouldn`t have been so bad at the Front, but here jars on one`s nerves, especially when you realise it`s not the real stuff.

Met an old Balmain football mate here last week – Dave Strahan. Dave is a mate of Roy & Jacky Jackson & knows most of our Richo boys. He played soccer

5.
with "Balmain Kia-ora & was late of the 17th Battn (Les C`s unit) He is in "A Cpy No 4 Platoon of this Battn (61st ) & I see him daily. Please remember him to all acquaintances in Balmain. He`s now O.K. No other Balmain lads have hove into sight since I wrote last. "Wal Abotomey of the 1st Battn (an old pal) who used to play Austn Rules with Easts or Paddo is back here again from our camp hospital, so will now be one of the original 61st. Its nice to be an "original tho` we`ll get a "hoo-ray when we lob in France. I`ve been an "original 2nd Warwick (Warwick Farm Aug 9th 15) Original 11th Reserve L`Pool, Original 12th of the 1st. Original 1st Battn (France contingent) & now this unit – "some originals eh? Lt Finlay the Dr. son (late 17th Bn has returned to this company. He must have been on a short leave or at a "school.

I have not had a chance of visiting Bournemouth again yet, but would like to see it if possible B4 going over to "La Belle . By the way I`ve got a cutting here re the "joy-life in the swank city & seaside resort - & there`s a war on too! The Arcade mentioned is not far from the Square &
St.Peters big C of E. It is a favourite meeting place & rendezvous, reminding me very much of the Arcades in Geo, King & Pitt Sts Sydney in that respect. The officers range from Generals to subalterns (2nd Lieuts) & are everywhere. Our own officers go there in swarms from this camp & Weymouth & as the spring weather continues the place will become more popular especially the Gardens, pier & ocean promenade, also the surf.

Now my dear Parent & Sisters, as time is fleeting "Lights out will soon be blowing I must reluctantly leave you for another little while, hoping & trusting that this erratic letter finds you all still in the best of spirit, work plentiful & constant & still smiling. My best respect & regards as usual to all kind friends & relatives. Best love & wishes to you
I am still your loving Harrie XX

PS
Don’t 4get 61st Battn address. Theres no word of us gong to our old unit yet tho its possible.
Endorse under my name in brackets.(late 1st Battn) Enclosed is one of the old Battn colours. (black on green – bars. I`ll send you one of these I`m now? B4 we go over . The 61 colors or shape not out yet some say it`ll be "black green half football) & others 1/2 1st Divn & 1/2 2nd Div. shape.

To enter any part of his vast private domain of sinful waste land, which is used to "go to hounds on, shoot the partridge or pheasant etc, would be enough to have one shot or summoned for trespass – oh what a life of servitude !! God granted Australia never comes to that, as it would mean "napoo democracy. The various "sassiety papers that are foistered on these unfortunate

[Page 323]
[Drawings and titles of A.I.F. colour flashes – not transcribed]

[Page 325]
No. 76
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales.
Australia

[Page 327]
[The 9 pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order as pages 327 to 335]
No.77

Still with
"Fragments from France
Hut A2, "Worgret Camp,
Wareham, Dorset
Sat eve. June 9th 17

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,

Spring, (like Worgret Camp) is still with us, but quickly advancing toward summer. Lots of things will have happened ere the latter ends, especially in connection with the World War, which is now so fierce all along the Western Front. Our future movements are still more or less under a shadow, but rumours are becoming very frequent, all of course said to be from a "very good & reliable source. The "favourite is that the whole of the 16th Inf. Brigade (61st to 64th Battns - 69th rep`s the latter here) are to commence a trek to a place called Fovent – up Salisbury Plains way – moving off on Wednesday next. `Tis said the march will take the best part of 3 days to accomplish, as Fovent is nearly 40 miles by road from Wareham. Those that know tell us that we`ll be sorry we ever left this ancient town, as the new Camp is far from any town or village & can not be compared with the scenes in Dorset. None will be very much surprised if the extent of the trek turns out to be as far as Wareham Railway Stn, & train to destination –tho` one never knows. Then again rumour hath it that we are off to France or Belgium -:dinkum oil too ! – via Southampton & the "Pond to join in with our lads now amongst the "slather & whack between that Armentieres, Wytschaete,("whitesheet) Messines & Ploegsteert ("Plug Street) Sectors. You have of course heard all about the greatest mine-explosion of the War, which was fired by the British on Thursday morning last. The London Dailies & picture papers are full of eye-witness accounts & give minute descriptions of the awe-inspiring sight & terrific concussion. Over 450- tons sent into space

2.
Historic "Hill 60 (just outside South Ypres) & the villages of Messines & Wytschaete – all in Belgium & close to the border. Messines has also a place in history thro` the glorious fighting of the London-Scottish Regiment in October 1914, when the place was won & lost 3 or more times during the advance of the Huns. I do not know yet what Divisions of ours are in this new push, so cannot say whether Les C. is amongst it. I did not get an answer to my last, so am really very much in the dark as to how he fared at Bullecourt (Artois) or whether he was there. Do hope & trust that all is well with him, I`ll write again as soon as I get a chance. – Is it true that Alick Young of Les Battn (7th) has fallen in action? How terrible if it is so ?!

If the above mentioned rumour or rumours are correct I`ll be writing you from a new region next week end. I forgot to say in addition, that (tis said) the new American Infantry Regiments are to take over from us in this Camp. Already the General & his staff are in England, having arrd secretly a day or two ago. They`ll be in tons o time for lots of terrible work, tho` we can`t expect them over at the Front much b4 the Winter or next spring – we`ll see ! Many say that they are to assis our "pals in arms, - the Poilus.

The past week as far as duties go, has been an interesting one. Trench-digging filled in a few days & was thoroughly enjoyed by our lads as it is a free & easy, besides healthy workj. The scene of the "bango & "mad mick war was the Heath about 2 miles from the Camp. Fine spring weather, with a sun in cloudlesssky, favored ouor ope air operations & it was not long B4 the boys caught the sun fever. Shirt sleeves were removed altogether from the shoulder seam & slouch hats were put aside to better enjoy the freedom & coolness. Competition was keen amongst the various squads, & in less than no time our part of the Wash heath (sinful waste of good land) was transformed. The days toil passed quickly, as monotony is not introduced into these labours, like heart breaking drills & guard. The boys tell lots of yarns, sing songs

3.
in between shovel-swings & swishes of the pick. Our nice officer O.C.Capt Pryor, late 36th Bn, 3rd Divn.& Lt Bailey late 3rd Bn also did a turn & enjoyed the exercise. Even our Protestant Padre (Presbyterian Capt Chaplain ) came along & helped to make the hours more pleasant.

Our Battn "Cookers (horse drawn) – one to each company of infantry – always come out with us on these all day "jobs & hot `stoo` is always awaiting us at lunch time. They are really grand & could hardly be done without. Each cooker contains 5 large "dixies (a boiler) which is one for each of the 4 platoons that constituted the company, & an extra one in case of need (one of four platoons consists of between 50 & 60 men) The lads call them the "anti-air-crafts: owing to the little funnel or chimney on each cooker. I began to get a little bit of the old "Gippo color back again during the entrenching operations, so as the sun is still keeping us happy with its lovely warmth & light, it will not be long ere we are all nut brown again. The little river below the Camp & over the railway line, is now a favourite "possy after a hot days labor or march for the lovers of natation. I have been in for a dip every day for some time now & will miss it if we move off. The stream is a very narrow one – about 15 feet across - & not too deep. It varies from waist high to a little over one`s head & the current is strong toward its outlet.- Poole or Wareham Harbour. All round are the river-flats, now covered in buttercups, daisies, water-flowers in blues & yellows & lovely green grass. The sight is "magnesia !

I`ve watched & listened to the lark (sky lark) high above its nest somewhere in the long grass, whistling some beautiful songs as if for its joy of being alive. Some trills could be likened to a canary`s soprano – it seems to have no end of variety . Wandering across the river flat the other day I was pulled up by the wailings of several plover flying just above my head. They were evidently very much annoyed at my intrusion, so I gleaned that their efforts to draw me off were for some purpose or other, Advancing a little further, I noticed that the birds became more daring, in fact one of the spur-wings swooped down to within a foot of my head & may have struck me had I not "ducked Looking down I found that I`d trodden unexpectedly on a young plover which

4.
had apparently very recently hatched. I was sorry afterwards but of course it was too late. – The spirit of spring is everywhere & in everything. The May flower is still blooming profusely, the country lanes being bordered by its` whiteness. I believe it is known as the Hawthorn bush in England. Our mess table is now looking very pretty with its vases of beautiful blue flowers & green leaves. I do not know what the plant is called, but it has a leaf & formation something similar to our Waratah.

We used to play a kick a football about on our parade ground of an evening a few weeks ago, but lately it has been put aside for the cricket bat & ball. The evenings are only such in name now, as the summer-time is operating , which makes us an hour later than winter time. The lovely sun is shining fully till nearly 8.30 pm, & it is quite daylight till opng after 9 pm.

Some of our fellows have taken a new course of amusement since the "footer died out - Poaching. You know of course that this country is the home of the idle rich, squires, gentry, & other useless people that go to make up society – "high class society of course. Well, in peace times its` an absolute crime to even walk across any part of their vast idle & unproductive estates. But to shoot their game – pheasants, plover, duck, & "bunnies etc, - would almost mean death to the culprit. Our lads, many of them from the big spaces out back, know no such elite made laws as trespassing etc, & for some time have set out in the cool of the evening, armed with short Lee-Enfield mark 111 Service rifle & several rounds of .303 ball ammunition that they have brought from the rifle-range. They `mooch` round our near by field & pine-woods, which of course are all privately owned, & many "bunnies’ received the permanent "K.O. The gentry have complained about the breaking of the "law. So now it is "taboo by the "heads

As soon as a stop was put to poaching game they cast round for something else to worry the gentry about . Spears were fashioned & to the river they `hiked` Now these "rivers – really creeks they`d be at home – like the land they run through are all owned privately , & its as big a crime to cast a cotton line with pin hook into their running waters as it is to trespass & poach, but the "Aussies never let trifles like that break into their night`s sleep. Salmon, roach , perch & trout abound in these streams, so when the gentry saw their favourite water

5.
fishing ground being "tickled – violated I s`pose they call it – there was more crying to the authorities. Before the prohibition order came out some of my hut-mates pinched a net which they set across the river, Their success was short lived, as a "gentry caught sight of them while he was out on his estate after game & chased them armed with the shot-gun. The net was confiscated. Such is life to a commoner in the "country parts of this "joint called England – what a life ! ! Wouldn’t be surprised if the river is made out of bounds to all troops for swimming in B4 we go – on Wednesday or Friday next – tho` there`ll be some bother if it is ,

One of the R.C. padres hasn`t missed a day there for over a month. He is in the boons with all the boys, no matter what denomination. He often "lobs in this hut while "two-up & card games for money are in progress, likewise when the atmosphere is sultry with awful blasphemies & filthy languade, but he takes no notice well knowing the futility of preaching to war-weary Aussies & devil-may-cares.

Talking of Padre`s reminds one of the "Daddy of the lot in the A.I.F. "Mac – "good old Mac !! I have a newspaper cutting which I`ll enclose telling all about him, & giving you a better idea than I could in writing, His name, manner, & fearlessness will go down in out war-history whenever the First Brigade is mention, & many a lad will talk of him with pride, He`s attached to the 4th Battn (1st.Brigade – on traffic inland canal) where he was stationed with the 1st Brigade when they evacuated from Gallipoli. He conducted the first Protestant Service on the desert when we of the 10th, 12th & 14th reinforcements joined the First Battn. Originally a Salvation Army adherent, he came away with the A.I.F. early in the war as a Capt-Chaplain & went on to the "Peninsh with the boys . The latter who took part in that terrible "Lone Pine charge speak of "Mac with great pride & reverence, for his daring & fearlessness in taking a lead to the enemy with entrenching-tool-handle in one hand & Bible in the other, I have heard the tale recounted so often by different lads that there is hardly any cause to misbelieve it. He came to "La Belle with us in March 1916 & was in amongst the bother at Pozieres ( Somme) in July till ordered back to Albert to safety

6.
Tis said that he wanted to repeat his "Lone Pine’ deed there when the "over the top with the best of luck `hop over` commenced, but the "heads had more use for him elsewhere so he was sent back.

Our 1st Battn Padre (Capt Chaplain Ashley (Browne) C of England stayed with us & saw him several times carrying out wounded across that shell deluged space that was B4 the attack "No Man`s ) I believe he is up at Dartford (Middlesex) now. The last time I saw "good old Mac (McKenzie is his proper name) was while we were in battered shattered Belgium. I was pushing one of the "Divvy Sigs old bone-shakers from Poperinghe to our billet & H.Qrs. at Hooggraaf (a `Cabinet` or small Hamlet) in October last, when I saw a steel-helmet covered head, in dusty uniforn approaching on a military `bike`. Not till his cheery "good day! had rung out and passed did I recognise him. I believe he is a Colonel-Chaplain now with several well earned field decorations, but what`s more, a name that will not die only with the A.I.F. He is somewhere on this side of the "pond carrying on with the good work. The clipping is of great interest to we who know him, it will give you some idea of his undying popularity.

The company is now split up into sections of details, so that each one has to be a "specialist I am told off as a Rifle-grenadier, others as light machine gunners, bombers, "runners & bayonet men. Stretcher-bearers acting who were on that "job with their old Battns. I do not know yet when I`ll be able to transfer to them, but I should like to. The rifle-grenade as its name implies, is fired by a rifle. I`ve seen them at work in the trenches at the Front, expecially on the Bois-Grenier & Fleurbaix sectors, & their peculiar whistle as they went on their way still occurs to me. The grenade used is No.5 Mill`s hand bomb with a tail piece attached which gives directions. We have had no practise with them yet, so there`s no saying if we will actually carry on at that. The rifle-grenadiers follow close up to the advancing wave of attack & create an infantry barrage as they near the enemy position.

Beside trench-digging of last week, we had more practice on the big rifle range at shooting & marking. Snap-shooting at 200 to 400 yds & firing on disappearing silhouette target representing a man`s head head & shoulders, besides slow firing were the "dishes on the menu/ The time allowed to hit the disappearing targets was 5 seconds. I hit twice out of 5 shots, but many got "wash-outs – no hits. We of No 1 Platoon were marking yesterday morning & there was, some splendid shooting. In one rapid-fire practise, a chap shooting at my target got "bulls, 4 inners & 1 maggies ouot of 15 shots.1 shot either not fired in the time or else a wash out. (did not hit the target) The distance was the 400 yds range Guess he`ll make a Fritz feel pretty uncomfortable if he got on to him. And he hit my silhouette 3 out of 5 shots – very good !.

As Saturday afternoon is free from drill or duties (unless the company or Battn are "duty`2 units) & it was 1 pm when we finished there was lots of bustiling to get the targets, discs & flags stored away & start for home. The distance by the road-route we have to [indecipherable] is just on 4 miles, but as we are all now wiry & in good "nick the return journey was no task

7.
pace was supplied by the details whom we`d been marking for. They had about 300 yards start of us, so lots of ginger was put into the step. The sun was very hot, as it was midday, but with sleeves rolled up & neck of tunic unbuttoned we began to reduce the gap. Our pacers saw the effort & the Lieut being a sport (Lt Bailey) them the encouragement to try & shake us off. It was not till near 2 miles had been put behind that we caught their rear-fours, sweat simply pouring out of us & dust making us look like farm labours. We completed the 4 miles in nearly record time for an armed party – just over ¾ of an hour. It was after 2pm B4 we had dinner & didn`t we make it laugh not arf

Our Battn commences on Brigade duties from tomorrow morning when it has to provide all camp guards, escort, piquets & fatigues. As usual we will get our fair share of all that going. No leave is granted under any excuse till next Saturday, but if all goes as rumour has it, we`ll be "home & dried in the new Camp up Fovent way by then, I am already detailed for Railway Piquet for tomorrow afternoon – a good start.

The mention or Railway reminds me of the difference between the system in dear old Aussie & that ruling here. Like everything else in decadent England, the few fortunately born of the community owned & run such an important & National asset as a railway . Aust has learned a lesson, but it`s gauges of different sizes has "put the acid on our progress in that direction for a long while to come. It`s a great pity that the stakes can not agree. B4 Federation, to have a uniform guage of the 4`81/2 (NSW & WA ) or 5`3, (Vic & SA) but of course its too late now. I guess that the Cm`wealth have decided on 4`81/2 & are building the Adelaide. Perth section to that, but it will still mean two changes for one to be able to traverse the Continental from Perth to Brisbane. The 4`81/2 will extend from the West to Adelaide, the 5`3from Adelaide to Albury, 4`81/2 to Wallengarra (Q`lander) & 3`6 to Brisband – what a terrible pity! !

I do not know what the universal gauge is here, but I fancy 4`81/2 which I think must also conform to the French system, as a great amount of rolling stock belonging to the British Army in the Field is being used on these lines. The Engines are very pretty in their deep black & polished brass bands round the funnel & boilers etc. They are all branded with big letters "R.O.D. (Railway Ordnance Dept I believe it stands for ) & mostly work round about North France, St.Omer, Hazebrouck, Calais & Boulogne-sur-mer) & up in Belgium. Our British Red Cross hospital trains are one of the prides of the B.E.F. & justly so. They are as perfectly balanced & fitted out as possible to make them . I think one was supplied by Princess Christian. I came from [indecipherable] Field Hosp to Rouen in one of them last October (via Amiens) & had no complaints whatever to make as far as comfort & steadiness went (the journed was tiresome, but the conjested state of the busy line with army trains of great length caused the

8.
There is no doubt that the Railways here did great work during the outbreak of war in transporting the British "contemptible little army but could they have done otherwise when their own directors lives & future depended on it? No ! You understand of course, that the Railway systems here are owned entirely by private concerns . The main London – Bournemouth – Dorchester - & Weymouth line runs through Wareham outskirts & past this Camp, I often watch the long goods trains as they pass backwards & 4wards with pine logs, coal, firewood, agricultural implements, line-stock, refrigerating cars, etc etc. One sees lots of different markings or initials (permanent of course) on the sides of the trucks which designate the ownership, even tho` this line is owned by the L & W.R.(London and South Western Railway Coy) There seems to be a common agreement amongst all the Coy`s to respect to use of lines & engines for passage of goods. An LSWR goods engine (something after the style of "Noo Souths`s famous Melbourne express – the "N.N.) is often seen showing the following marked trucks – L.N.W.R., G.N., M.R., C.R., N.B., L.Y., G.W., G.l.,SK &C., L.B.&S.C.R., G.C.,H.G.L., & various privately owned coal & other trucks mixed. There are hundreds of other lines but the above are the most familiar I`ve seen this way. Respectively the initials stand for – London & North Western Rlyo Coy

[Then follows ten lines of names of British transport companies - not transcribed]
Ihope I have not wearied you with the above complex & wearying descriptions etc. I only wanted tp point out the difference between our Railroad systems. I am positively certain that we have nothing to learn from the "Old Dart in regard to carriage furnishings & comfort. Their 1st class is not as good as Vic`s 2nd. There are 1st, 2nd & 3rd classes here – puts us in mind of Gipps land trains & trams. I`ve seen some very big engines in the yard near Victoria & Paddo Stns. But I don`t think I`d change for Victoria`s pretty & business like "A2 – named after this [indecipherable] (of course – not)

Before I forget, I must let you know that I recd another letter from Great Aunt Annie yesterday of date 7th June in answer to a card I sent some weeks back. She says nerves upset lately with expected Hun air raids, Wants [indecipherable] to finish; wants me to call B4 I go over the "Pond (can`t be did I`m sorry to say "no leave can [indecipherable])Has not yet heard from Mother & Grandmother in answer to her last of 6 months ago, Lieutent

9.
"Tom Kennett,(my Uncle Jack`s wifes bro as she tells me) thinks a great deal . Has not come across any of the Woolcotts for some time; recd another letter from "mystic Bert written at the Front – he`s still "O.K. She sends per their letter best wishes & regards to her nieces, nephews etc down under, also to Grandma. please send them on when writing to any in Melbourne. I`ll reply as soon as I can. No word from either of the Les`s yet. I replied to Les N. last week, the next may be written from the Front – there`s no telling –

I learn from Balmain that Holly Dodd was to be married in March – some surprise to me. Congrats if you meet him please. I`ve seen or heard nothing of his brother "Joe who came away as a "reinstoushementto the Engineers – don`t know what Field Company.

The cabled news from America of "Les D`Arcy`s (the champ pro` pugilist sudden & totally unexpected death created a great stir amongst the "fans in this Camp for some days afterwards, but his name is never, or rarely mentioned now – such is fame. The arguments for & against him while he was still skulking in Yankee land, were at times very bitter & fights in consequence were easily "bought’. Few I think could look on his cowardly action as anything but cold feet or fear, even tho` he unsuccessfully attempted after failures to arrange matches, to get into the American Flying Corps seems as tho` the old maxim, he who fights & runs away, will live to fight another day has come smash & fate has over taken him in the hey day of his youth. It has kind of an impression did his death cause in [indecipherable], even if Baker taboo`d him for ever from his stadiums?

Hullo! There goes "lights out !I shall really have the wind up now my dear parents and sister, as we must get to bed & make the best of our few hours of darkness, & so be as fresh as possible for the duties of the morrow

Let me first of all convey the hope & wish that all goes well with you at Warrnambool – health, happiness, spirit, constant steady work & prosperity. Trust that Father`s heavy spasm of rush & night work has given way to something more bearable & he has got over his painful ear trouble. Mother I hope is not worrying or working too hard, but in best of health. The girls ought to be nothing else but "in the pink now that theyr`e away from murky, dirty & dusty Balmain & amongst pleasant & enjoyable surroundings.

My best regards & wishes as usual to all enquiring friends & neighbours also to relatives in "Vic
Very best regards & lots of love to you my Dear Mother ,Father, & Sisters, &God bless you
Still your loving Son & Brother
Harrie XX

[ PS. References to colours of Light Horse. – not transcribed.]

Perhaps long B4 you receive this letter, the "Fragments Battalions will be in action once more, & the July "smash up looks like our job, I am still hoping & trusting for the best, so you must not worry over the future, I shouldn`t like to return to Australia till the War is finished. To go home with the lads will do me fine.

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[Page 330]
[The 11 pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order as pages 330 to 340]
No 79.

Camp No 1.
Fovant,via Dinton
Salisbury, Wilts
"Blighty
Saty. Noon, June 23rd.1917

My Dear Mother, Father and Sister
You see that the rumour I mentioned some week`s ago has at last been confirmed, and we have crossed the "border – Dorset into Wiltshire.

The trek commenced last Wednesday morning, the previous day being occupied by us in getting our packs and equipment ready for the 40 odd miles journey per "shanks pony. We slept in our clothes during the Eve but departure in real campaigning fashion, so as to be ready for the early move. Reveille ("get out o`bed !!) blew at 3.30am, and a hurried B`fast was had at 4 am. At 6am the whole of the Btns at Worgret Camp . 61st,62nd,63rd and 69th – with their kitchens, water carts, GS wagons, limbers, officer`s mess – cart Maltese fashion etc, followed by transport and 16th Field Ambulance, passed thro` the main street (North of sleepy, ancient Wareham. At that early hour few people were aboaut, tho` the sun was up and the morning fine, The rattle of the side Kettle drums and the strains from the 69th Battn (Q`land and Tas) brass band soon woke up the population , who flocked to doors and windows in all sorts of undress to bid us a last good bye. Some of the girls looked heavy eyed, but whether from the want of the morning ablution or the thoughts of the near past, it would be hard to say – we`ll leave it at the former.

The boys were all in good heart, as the fine weather was very enjoyable and the day`s prospect good. Our marches are made much easier and lighter by the songs that the lads "beef out in time with the steps, and

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Favourite band pieces and marches they whistle in chorus. The officers are on their horses are often amused at the songs and jokes they hear from the ranks. Some of the favourites are

(to tune of well know hymn "The church is one foundation)
"We are a rag-time-army,
The A.-N-Z A-Cs are we
We cannot shoot
We won`t salute,
What blessed use are we?
And when we get to Berlin
The Kaiser He will say
Hooch! Hock! Mein Gott!
What a wonderful lot
Are the A-N-Z-A-Cs!

The words are selected in accordance with our proximity to villages or towns – they`re much stronger out back.

(To tune of hymn)
"Only one more marching order,
Only one more Church Parade
Only one more Kit-inspection
Then we`re marching home again.
When this awful war is over
Oh how happy we will be,
When we get our Civvy clothes on
No more soldiering for me

Some of the words above are also changed or tamed down when near dwelling in towns.

"If the sergeant drinks yer rum
Never mind,
If the sergeant drinks yer rum
Never mind.
He`s entitled to a tot
But not the blessed lot,
If the Sergeant drinks your rum
Never mind

"I want to go ome,
I want to go ome,
I don`t want to go to the trenches no more
Where "Whizz bangs and "Jack Johnson`s whistle galore
Take me over the sea
Where the Allemagnes can`t get at me,
Oh my, I don`t want to die,.
I want to go ome.

To tune Hymn – "Whiter than the snow

"Whiter than the whitewash on the wall,
Whiter than the whitewash on the wall,
Wash me in the water that you washed yer dixies in,
And I will be whiter than the white wash on the wall

"At the halt on the right form platoon
At the halt on the right form platoon
If the odd numbers don`t mark time two paces.
How the H-- can the men form platoon??

"Inky Pinky parlez-vous is an old 1st Battn march song. I can`t remr the words just now.

The well known songs we murder are –

"Take me back to dear old Blighty
If you were the only girl in the world
My home in Tennessee
Dixie Land
Are you from Dixie? My time
We`ll all have a holiday in the sun
Yacka hoolah tricky –doolah
I want to be somebody`s baby.
Sons of Briton , we are proud of you.
Boys of the Dardanelles
Advance Aust. Fair
Marveillouse, and etc, etc.

There are lots

more of comic and other songs too numerous to mention. We also have a war cry which causes much wonder and laughter from spectators along our route, especially when a half compay of men "beef it out together. Our brass band which we all helped to buy by a 7/- contribution, - is not yet in order owing to the move, but the instruments are ready for use. We`ll have lots of music then, tho` it looks as if we`ll be at the Front B4 then judging by the preparations round us for early departure abroad. The boys won`t listen to the drums and fifes on the march, but like to make their own tunes in songs and whistling, which is encouraged by the officers, who join in at times.

Our route lay along the main Bournemouth-Wimborne Road for a little distance, when we struck off through a less frequent thoroughfare, past mile after mile of absolute idle land, and along pretty bordered "country lanes, Dwelling and villages were rare and far apart, those we passed through being small and apparently very ancient. The old French rural style of thatched roofs and mud walls was met everywhere, Tho` out of date they appear homely and comfortable. Perhaps the thatch is much warmer for the awful shivery stuff that rages over this

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side of the Globe during the winter months – Nov till April. It appear. The few fields we saw were not what you`d call clever alongside our`s, but they looked beautifully green and fresh in the summer sun. (it`s summer now I believe) Most seemed to be in clover and grass, but the cattle could be counted on the two hands. Our "bush whackers say that most of the paddocks and fields here would make good back yards for a Sydney suburban villa – and I almost believe them.

Parts of the country lanes were delightful to march through, with overhanging ancient beech, oak and other spreading trees making a lovely shade, and the pretty wayside plants and flowers to take our thoughts off the heavy pack and equipment on our back,. Many hills and valleys were traversed, but the splendid road made marching a joy –oh for good roads in Aussie! From the summits of some rises we could see for a mile back, the long cavalcade of men, horse and vehicles which went to make up the 16th infantry Brigade – there must have been close on 5,000 riflemen and others on foot. The Brigadier – Genl (Antill) rode in a big motor car, and the Brigade-Major (Harrison) a "Sunbeam motor cycle. All the Battn Cos and Company OCs had horses, but the platoon officers "humped like we had to.

The people of the little villages greeted us as we went through and it made us happy. "all thoughts of the terrible war was obliterated in these rural districts, where everything seemed so quiet and peaceful, yet the Rolls of Honour placed in conspicuous positions in the main part, told of the sacrifice and duty done and being done by the young and able men. The latter were almost non entities along the whole 40 mile route, those still civvies being mostly on indispensible jobs – apparently nearly every village or hamlet (communes the French call them, has its "Red Lion, "Rearing Horse, "Cricketers Arms the Inn or tavern , where lots of tales and scandal must be related by the old yokels in the long shivering winter months and summer evenings. One can guess that very little happens in those communities without the whole district knowing about it - with more added.

The Brigade was reviewed as we passed thro` the quiet and pretty village of Iwerna Minster, and a rousing reception given us by the country folk. The village seemed to be solely dependant on the trade of some Lord, "Dook or other gentry who apparently owned and ruled the District judging by the pretty mansion

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of stone which stod amidst trees and flowers in a vast idle estate. The roads thereabouts were almost perfect, shaded as they were by magnificent trees in thick green foliage . The estate, was grass-covered everywhere and manicured trees stood like hand painted bushes. Grand and stately amidst the level greens. The hills that belonged to the estate, had beautiful grassy slopes and helped to magnify the lovliness. Old men were at work "manicuring or trimming the trees, and removing the unsightly or mis-shapen limbs – what an Eldorado !!.

The business part of the estate was seen further on – the grazing cattle, a handful of sheep: a few fields of oats, wheat or rye; the haystacks and the piggery. We were greeted by women land –workers (Volunteers from the cities and elsewhere) who looked natty and smart in khaki coat, breeches and leather leggings. They are to carry on till the war is over. Most of the rural villages seemed to have their idle-rich over Lord, with Manor house or Mansion of stone, and the old C of E Chapel surrounded by trees and its little graveyard.

Passing through Spettisbury we were "hoo-rayed by the "Father, Nuns and kiddies of a Convent who came outside with "Union Jacks, Irish and Italian Flags – we returned the honor. The Priest savoured of the `steak-a-da-orpit` (or Diego, or Italian) but he was enthusiastic for our grand cause. Another kind of reception came our way as we went through the one main throughfare of a village called Charlton Marshall.(What strange names!) Ladies and girls marched alongside us with buckets of water and glasses. And were kept very busy for a long while handing round the "aqua. Further on, Strawberries, gooseberries, and flowers were thrown amongst the files, but few were successful in getting any owing to the small quantity. It all helped to lighten our loads and made us forget sore and tired feet.

The only big town we went through was Blandford – on the River Stowe which was the terminus of our first day`s trek. 17 miles from Wareham. (not too bad for a whole Brigade) The town approach from the SW was really very fine and we saw it at its very best –early summer. From the Bridge over the Stowe a pretty scene or many opened - to us. Parks in lovely green grass, and trees and shrubs, the thick woods containing trees of many kinds making a wonderful background to the river and an impenetrable screen. I could never describe the woods and the scenery if I was to write all day and night – It`s

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only from memory I tell you now. The town itself is large and important and is built on a hillside, or amongst the hills. Our photo was snapped as we entered the main street, and was that same afternoon on show in the studio windows. The streets (like those in every old town here) were narrow and crooked , many of the houses bordering them being busy apparently handed down from the time of Ethelred 11 – nearly. Nevertheless it was a pleasant place and put u in mind somewhat of several French towns we`d been in.

Our march terminated in a big park apparently privately owned, perhaps part of the extensive ground of some Lord or other, as usual which was divided by the River and where our nights bivouac was to be . When all the Bde arrived there was a lively scene – infantry, transport and medical men busy preparing their "possies for their night`s repose. We had to all sleep in the open on the grass – the infantry alongside their `piled` rifles. We`d no sooner lobbed than down came the rain, in heavy drips at first, then a downpour – gee, the bustle !! it was hard luck for us after the long hard march, covered in sweat and tired as we were but it`s nothing to the bother at the Front. You`d have smiled to see the tiny lean-toos or shelters that were hurriedly put up – made out of the waterporoof sheets – with hardly room to turn in once you wriggled inside. (a common sight at the front when bivouacking) The river came in very handy for us lovers of natation as permission was given for swimming in it. A weir ran down to where we were bivouacked, so there was plenty of water for us all. The boys wasted no time stripping and getting in – the dip made us feel fresh and comfortable .

As the town had been strictly put "out of bounds to the troops, the thirsty and rebellious ones amongst us thought that it`d be much better if they put it "in bounds so hundreds made for the main gateway, and without worrying , hopped the fence where the military police were blocking the way. That settled the embargo, and it was not long B4 the whole camp were out and about the town – they took it by storm. They`re very determined in things like that and especially when it’s the MPs who are up against them. The police (tho` doing their duty) are treated by the inf and other combatants as something lower than worms, and no effort is wasted that will remind them of what a enviable job they are carrying on in lieu of going over the "Pond to do a bit in the line. Big hefty fellows they are too

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After the swim I too had a walk into the Town, which was then full of our boys who were far from being boisterous or objectionable. The out of "bounds this, that and the other place is a big insult to our boys, who are one and all absolute volunteers and have come 13,000 odd miles perhaps to remain on this side for ever. Of course, we all know that a certain section amongst us have no honor, no principles or no breeding – they`re wasters and skunks, pure and simple – but why we wonder should should the whole A.I.F. be penalised. The whole of the town was laughing over the way the "first and second waves went over the top and the boys still talk about it. At 8.30pm they returned to Bivouac happy and orderly, and gave no trouble. It all goes to show that with a fair deal, the `heads` will get a `fair go`.

Our first night` bivouac – not a novelty to us – passed without incident and B4 next morning we were up preparing for Breakfast and departure, We had a new cooker (or kitchen on wheels) with our Battn, which prepared meals for all in the one arrangement, as against one from each company in the old style cookers. The new idea is a patent of an Aust "civvy who accompanied us on the 2 days trek just to demonstrate its capabilities under active service conditions – it was a success as far as we know –

The rain of the previous eve cleared the air for our morning`s departure and once more all were light hearted when we moved off at 6 am. Near the road outside the Park, was a Hun prisoners compound, but few of our enemy were up and about. The scenes of the previous day were out done for beauty as we went along the valley of the Stour, and I cannot describe them here. I always look for cultivation and signs of agricultural activity while in these rural parts, but I look in vain mostly ldle spaces of manor ground etc. – Round about the village of Rothmell Magna (another strange name) the road scenery was good-o, especially a carriage drive near a Manor or Mansion, which was really beautiful. It`s whole length was shadowed by magnificent high trees, and the road had a perfect surface. It wound in hairpin and other bends which enhanced the beauty.

Rain fell heavily while we were halted at the latter village and we got wet some what. The day`s march was a short one – of 9 miles – so we pulled up early (10am) at Compton Abbas ( how d`yer like the fancy names?) A little "Commune

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amongst the rolling hills of Dorset. Our bivouac was in a vacant field a quarter of a mile from the village and at the foot of a high grassy sloped ridge, which is a prominent mark in the landscape. I had a walk to it`s summit and had a great view of the surroundings. The bivouac of the Brigade seemed a tiny spot and the boys looked like ants from the great height. Their voices and laughter could be heard very distinctly especially the bad language. Pretty fields of wheat and other cereal looked very nice, and the country lanes could be followed over hills and down vales by their hedge bordered sides and white surface roads -

The boys held little sports meeting at the foot of the ridge for the benefit of the Kiddies of the village during the afternoon and great excitement prevailed flat races, 3 legged races, races for girls under 10 and those over 10, were some that were run off. The prizes were collected from money contributions gathered round the ring, & a few pounds must have filled the coffer. The ladies & girls were highly amused and delighted at the actions of our fellows,

We woke up next morning at 4 am (reveille) feeling pretty cold owing to the frost of the night & the mist which covered everything. We slept in the open field with one blanket great-coat & waterproof sheet - [indecipherable] morning (Friday) we commenced our last spasm of the trek – 14 miles. Bivouac was left at 6am & the way was hilly –weather fine. The big town of Shaftesbury was entered & passed at its outer edge & the county of Dorset left soon afterward. Many pretty spots on the main Salisbury and Sarum roads were passed including a nice scene in a valley where we halted at 10 for dinner (of stoo) . Ferns , hawthorn, buttercups, daisies, tulips & hedge-flowers made a pleasant smell & one thought of peace and home. –

The extensive camp sites of our destination – Fovant (Wilts) was reached at 12 noon [indecipherable] the half hour we had been again reviewed and settled in the new "residence where I now pen these lines. I havn`t had a chance of seeing much the surrounding yet, as I met "Tom Hailey ) (of Balmain & 1st Pioneer Battn near the Camp – YMCA yesterday afternoon & had a long talk of things & people. You might remember him to any of the boys you see down your way. He knows & writes to Amelia Grose & Effie Smith, also "comprees Bob Whit-- folk "Tom is after a HQ job when he left – last Decr I think. – This morning was occupied entirely by a review, two miles along the Salisbury Road where we had to march with full-pack, & tired & sore feet, just to be seen by one of the "Pommy Nobs – Lord Darby (the War Minister). The boys of the Bde were not in a very good humour on the review-ground, tho` during the march the favourite songs were whistled & warbled as if all was well. Lord Derby would not be flattered by the remarks passed against his visit or of his person if he`d heard them. The most general remark was at his colleages (Lord Devonports) Food restrictions, which they say has not [indecipherable] followed by Derby, judging by his healthy, robust (almost corpulent) [indecipherable] good, old food restrictions !!! (specially moulded for the rich, the [indecipherable] & bleeders of the unfortunate poor etc). They havn`t much time for these gentry , or royalty either

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This afternoon is free, tho` it`s possible I`ll be grabbed for a "Quarter Guard for tonight – good old guard !! (I don`t think!)

I`ll tell you more about the big camp later when I am able to get around a bit, there seems to be plenty of pleasant `promenades` handy. I got a glimpse of Alick Morrison (55th Battn. (part of 19th & old 3rd Bn) on a "G.S. (general stores wagon) this morning – I`m nearly sure it was him! – It`s likely that I`ll meet other old pals as time goes on.

I don`t sicken of reading your letters, & Dad`s 4th & 26th March are still B4 me. You tell me that Thelma is practising Daily on the piano & taking interest in it – that`s good !! Hope she sticks at it – there`s nothing like piano music in the home – You`ll soon have a lengthy list of callers, ex-neighbours & friends if any more come your way glad that Les Ns married [indecipherable] paid "W`bool a visit. So they are making Sydney their home? There ought to be plenty of work in the moulding trade. How did the Union fare after their late serious strike? – It must be nice fo the girls to spend a week down at Freshwater with Mrs Tetley & Gladys – theyr`e very kind to extend [indecipherable] an invite - hope that all goes well now with our next state & commonwealth Governments. Pity that "Jack Storey was not beaten by the "Dr: for his sympathy with a party who have apparently no time for soldiers, who are helping to keep him & Australia the Home of Democracy & the free, There must have been something very wrong with the Labor [indecipherable] oppositionish) when they refused to have anything to do with a Nationalist Party who have the interests of you & us at stake. So we are led to believe .I`m glad I voted "Nationalist like yourselves. Was sorry to learn that Mr McGowan was beaten for Redfern by Mc Kell. – hard luck! (Fancy both of them ex boilermakers ?!.) I got the news from a Miss Whitford of this. Who is a daughter-in-law of the ex-Premier – she writes to me like others of the staff.

Glad that all were well in Melbourne when Aunts [indecipherable] Jean wrote. The mention of "Tom Kennett reminds me again that he called on Great Aunt Annies a few weeks ago. How long has he been at the Front. I do not "compree the 250 miles either, that Aunt Ciss says that "Tom travelled to see Claudes last resting place in "La Belle. She may have meant metres (about 150 miles) but even that is a long way along the Front, counting that the British Front, Ypres to Albert was 90 miles & the new sectors near Peronne made it about 120 ( I thnk theyre the figures) The wattle blossom from Claude`s grave would very likely be the something similar to the mimosa which is sold in London`s thorough fares as our `one & only` . I reckon its` far too cold in France to grow – it`s possible of course

Fancy Aunt jean having no word of Jim or Geo.- Can`t understand [indecipherable] there`s a chance then that Jim has not been wounded? I`ll be anxious to know . Saw an A. Nelson`s name in a "British-Australian " paper the other day – in the casualty list. Do you know anything?

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I know a "Dick White who used to live down Short St. way. Is it [indecipherable] Birchgrove Rd who is leaving for abroad? The one I know also had a brother Jim – a bit of a "pug – & worked on the clerical staff at the "Dock Good luck to him!

So theres`s a bit of a deadlock in the recruiting line? It beats me that any eligible men left. Are there many still [indecipherable] round? Who are some you know. Exceedingly sorry to learn of mothers indisposition, caused by the annoying skin complaint, but I can only hope that all`s welll now. Trust your "soft Job lasted & the island & that you`re still on it. Has the Government decided to go on with the ship-building programme? I saw something about it coming up for discussion in the Senate at a later date.

Glad that you, Mother and the girls are contented and happy in the new Home and don`t want any more of places like the Main. Your surroundings must indeed be very pleasant & pretty. Did not know B4 that your view from the rear could not be obliterated by buildings. I am really in the dark about the situation of Batemans`s Road & the House. My idea is that the road runs at a right angle to the tram line – does it? Could you make a rough sketch showing the main road, "Lane Cove Rd (running from the Cong Church at [indecipherable] & the road that passes St Joseph`s, in relation to "W bool? good! Your many pages of the garden, or land, lawns & surroundings has also made great reading to me & I never tire. I am looking 4ward to my receipt of the house-plan which you said you sent in a later letter, so that I can get an idea of the rooms etc. & their size. Don`t be afraid telling me the things that may seem simple or of no importance to you seems ages since I was Home – You deserve the greatest credit &[indecipherable] for making such a wonderful improvement in so short a time. The pretty house in Bateman`s Road – wow !! That’s some going !!

Your later `communiqué` - as usual "some master piece – tells good news about receipt of more mail from this side – good, very good !!! The receipt by you of mail of so late date being recd. Before those of earlier date experienced by me also. I can`t understand it at all – Glad you passed the Swimming Mags to Harry Grose – they may in interest him – Am waiting for further news about "Jacky Grose. Has he been wounded, or is his admission to Hosp the result of illness when he first crossed the Pond – Dec. 29th 16?

Thanks for the news you give of Balmain boys. I have wondered how young "Codger Ferguson was progressing since I saw him last "trench feet is a bad complaint & malady, & one that will recur at any time of [indecipherable]. Hope Geo Mc Kechnie, Roy Magnussen & "Codger recover completely – it`s no bon pour la soldat !! – The stunning news of the death of "Rolly Perston is in hard to realise – poor "Rolly !! My deepest sympathy to his people if you see them. What a short spasm in the "Line – 2 days – Yours is the first news I`ve had of "Ossie Watson since I left Home. He was then in the [indecipherable]
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branch of the A.I.F. which I think must be a Home Service Unit. Oh that he`ll see the war out, & so will lots of others in "cushy safe jobs. There ought to be a big distinction between combatant & non-combatant uniforms. It be fairer to those who have "done their bit & may cause a lot of trouble afterwards if not adopted. Ribbons, medals & chevrons can be bought when in town – theyr`e a kind of farce. Remr me to "Ossie if ;you meet him again. Best of luck & all that sort of stuff –

Yes, I suppose I should see some changes in the Old suburb if I was to return. Guess the tram to the "Grove will be nearly running by now. Do you think it`ll be a "white elephant? I fancy the main Darling St being ashphalted from Elliot St to Rozelle – good! It must look well now, & be a bit safer for cycles than it was. The changes in Rozelle must make a difference there must be lots of "fooluce (money) about if Harry Clay`s Dramatic Coy. Can put up such a modern show-house. Its good to know that there is prosperity. It`s marvellous how all the "theatres are going to make a profit on their outlay on new buildings. The new Palace must be some improvement to the main road The appearance of the "National will be spoilt if the Rowntree St. Corner is to be removed for the new tram-line. Is it still a "Movie theatre & is it making good?

Glad that "Billy Fountain & family paid a visit to our "Country seat & that he said he`d take some "snaps of the House & ground. Would dearly prize such a "snap so hope he keeps his word. Am very sorry and disappointed that I could not find time to visit any of his relatives on this side – Cambden Town, Aldershot, SnowHill, Brighton etc. May yet have a chance of doing so but I cross the "Pond [indecipherable] if there`s any leave knocking about. Rembr me kindly to "Billy and his wife if you see them again and convey best regards – thanks!

Suppose you will have got over Easter holidays and the Aunt`s visit long ere this, and will be settling down for the winter. I believe that the R.A.Show was a record attendance and the "best ever Is the population increasing ? It says a great deal for prosperity in the `outback`districts when such crowds can find time and money to visit the "Big Smoke Guess the spiders and "rooks made hauls from the yokels. – It`s a pity that Grandma could see fit to make the trip over your way with the Aunts ;and "Georgie at Easter. I`m afraid she`ll wait a long while if she delays the journey till we come home. That time of joy lies still apparently as far off as ever, tho` of course one never knows – Sorry to learn that young cousin "Willie is not in the pink. He ought to be kicking people to death at his age. It`s a pity. Hope Aunt Maggie has [indecipherable] since she went to Camberwell. She writes to me often, and such [indecipherable] interesting letters too. Thanks for the news of the "Vac`s improvements to the Pulpit Print. It`s interesting and fresh news to me. Are they building another Pier

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parallel to the old one? I was wondering, because there was a big sand bank on the north side and the harbour pilots would never take a loaded sail to that side. It was only deep enough for half loaded vessels at ordinary tide tho` at flood all was well. The firm must be doing an enormous trade, [indecipherable] will have more difficulty with replenishing stocks now that the "stakes are `all in` with us and the Allies – Good enough for "Ma and her house that we bought in B`Grove Rd. !! She`ll some day realise perhaps , that her action to us was really mean and despicable. Have any of her "brilliant [indecipherable] thought it worth while to lend a hand for Australias freedom and their peoples protection yet?

So two old maids live in Miss Thompson`s late residence? What a mansion! You might remr me to Mrs. T and Nellie when you see them again please. Hope alls well with them – While on rememberances there`s Grandmother, our many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and friends in Melbourne, friends, neighbours and acquaintances in Sydney and metropolis, whom you meet please convey regards and wishes. Hope all are still prosperous and in the best of health.

I`ll have to "switch off now my Dear Aunts and Sisters, as time is fleeting , & I have already imposed great suffering on you through the above erratic lines. There`s no saying how long w`ell be here, in fact nothing will surprise us now. Rumours are already in the air re a new move back to what was to be our original camp at Swanage (Dorset) on the coast any how, we ought to be still here next Saturday – we`ll see.

In the meantime, let me hope and trust that all goes well with you all at "Warrnambool that work is steady, constant and prosperous, and that you are not worrying, but remaining content and happy.
My best regards, wishes and love to you all
Remaining Still
Your affectionate son and Brother
Harrie X God bless you all

Don’t` worry!
Don`t send parcels!
And
Don’t lose hope.!

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
Australia.

During the week , after the day`s parade. I found time to take a little promenade to the surroundings of the Camp B4 lights out – 10.15 pm (Still daylight at this time of the year – Summer time now) and to get my bearings for future excursions. Our nearest villages are Hurdcott, one and a half miles East, and town of Tisbury (5 miles West). The town of Wilton is the largest in our neighbourhood but is rather far to be convenient – 8 miles East via Dinton and seven miles via Hurdcott and Compton. – Hullo! Here goes "Late in!! so I must leave this till this afternoon, or a more favourable opportunity.

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
Australia

Hut No.1. Camp No
Fovant via Dinton
Salisbury. Wilts.
Sat Afternoon, July 7th 17.

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales.
"Aussie.

Sat.pm. July 14th. 17

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales.
Australia

What a memory! Aye, and a sad one now. The halt on the main Bapaume road, alongside the old British reserve lines and "CTs (communication trenches ) the march of the eternal Tommy (A good show, but a worked to death one) with rifles and bayonets ,picks and shovels, rations etc and the passing of the remnants of relieved Regiments from that melting pot between Thiepval, Mouquet (moo cow) Farm and Pozieres cannot be told without a tear in the eye. French artillerymen were still busy near by. (as Albert was then their extreme left flank) our big monster howitzers Field guns and "antes were spitting fire and death in turns and we waited on the road side for darkness (or dusk) and the word to advance thro the shell swept zone to our position in front of Pozieres. Our way led

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales,
Australia.

Hut 1,Camp 1.
Fovant (via Dinton)
Salisbury, Wilts
England.
Sat eve. July 28th. 17.

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales.
Australia

Big things as you are now reading, are taking place on the Western fortress-front, & bigger actions are expected ere the Dirty Hun is finally sent back to the Rhine. We daily expect to be sent across to give a hand, but as usual, nothing definite is known as to our immediate or future movements. I guess that B4 ya receive this letter we`ll be in France or Belgium – but then again, well, you never can`t tell.

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales.
Australia.

The 4th year of "La Grande guerre (The Great War) is now well on it`s way & we think of the tip of Kitchener`s that most people scorned at 3 years ago. We wonder how many more are to pass ere the joy Bells ring throughout the troubled world, but one & all hope & trust that, by God`s will, our arms with those of our allies, will triumph & that out of the turmoil will evolve a truer democracy all over the World. It`s a lot to hope for, but the dreadful 3 years past has opened people`s eyes – or ought to have done so.

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"Aussie

Sat. pm.Augus 18th 17.

Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"Aussie.

Nothing has transpired during the week to enlighten us in any way, but of course we always have "Dame summer with us, so there`s something to keep us expectant, no matter how wild the suggestions may be. As to other items of interest during that spasm, I have none to relate. The weather last week end did not promise too well, & as Dinton is out of bounds owing to measles amongst the civvies, I did not venture out on any rambles – we get enough running about in drill hours to do us.

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales,
Australia

I told you in my last of my intention to break the monotony of camp existence by going on a little tour to the well known City of the West. Well, after being disappointed (kicked back we`d say) on Wednesday, permission was granted for the leave to commence from Thurs (nex day) at noon, so I was a bit more at ease when the necessary document was handed to me, together with a railway warrant which relieves one of a great deal of expense in fares. I had been ` going easy` with my daily allotment pay for a few weeks so that I should have enough to see me through. Bristol is about 53 miles from here (north-West) & the 3rd class return ticket cost 4/5 – a big saving with a warrant. The finicky weather which has ruled for the past month or 3 weeks showed no sign of improvement when I set out on thurs. morn at 9 (the pass Didn`t commence till noon, so I had 3 hours start, "baksheesh – very goood, very nice!!) but it didn`t deter me or damp my happy spirits. The fact of getting away from monotonous heart breaking and rotten life in and about the camp was in itself a reviver as one gets

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales,
Australia.

The `boy` looks in the pink & seems to have filled out a great deal, since I last saw him – some months B4 he left for Q`land. He presented quite a contrast to me, as he was dressed in the best of good fitting tunic etc, while I was just the opposite - `knock about` tunic with many tears, much dirty, & out of shape, putties all ragged and torn etc, but any old thing is good enough for running about here in especially when one has to bustle about amongs gorze, bramble & wire, mud etc, During the course of training. I don`t know when I`ll be able to run up to Codford as things are so unsettled, & leave even of a few hours is so hard to obtain. You might trot along his best regards to all friends down your way & accept his best wishes, which he sends per this.

1.Bab-el Hadid – This place in Central Cairo is one of the best known & most dreaded by soldiers, as it is a military Barracks & "boob (or "clink). The boys know it as "Babbla-did, & many stories of ill-treatment at the hands of the "Tommy ‘Red Caps’ (military Police) are told.

[Page 355]
90
Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
Australia.

The day luckily turned out nice & sunny so we could not grumble or blame rain for our defeat, The Tug-o-War, relay races, obstacle race, 3 legged race, mile & 100 yds. champ, pillow fight on slippery pole, hurdle race,, Lewis gun team competition, stripping Lewis gun & rebuilding same blindfolded, hurdle jumping for mounted officers ,

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales.
Australia

Hut No. 1.
Camp No.1
Fovant.
Wilts
Sat Eve. Sept 22nd. 17

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales

I am sending on to you in a little cigar box, the Diary I kept daily since the completion of No.2 (since furlough) and a book (in diary) of the P and O Coy which was given to me at Warwick Farm by Billy Preitzler of "Paddo (17th Battn) on Aug. 15th.15.(about)

Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales,
"Aussie.

I have had a long stay in safety on this side of the "Herring Pond so it`s about time I gave another hand to the boys of the Line (AIF) now harrying our "Hun Kultured enemy along the Belgian Front. There`s no saying how long yet it will be ere I`m in the trenches, (or shell-holes) in fact we may be standing by here for weeks waiting for that order. Please do no worry about me my Dear Parents & Sisters – there would be no us in that – but accept as the will of our Heavenly Father, the future that is set down for me. Keep up a brave heart & believe in the righteousness of our grand cause – our arms & those of our Alliees will win thro in God`s time.

61st. Battn – now R`G.I.P.

[Page 365]
5th Row (Continued)
Cpl..J ("Fatty) C.Gill.3740 (1st.) – B.
2060. Pte. Patou. P. "anzac (wearing cap)

805. Pte. H. Barnby (Anzac – 1st)
4593. Cpl. Hosking. F. (4th)

6th Row.
2700. Pte. "Clarrie L. Kay. B. (3rd)
701. Pte.A ("Andy) Anderson. (33rd and 3rd) L.G.
6062. Pte. Oliver. (4th) B.
1407. Pte. Mulcahy, J.G. (4th)
3438. [details missing]
5351. Pte. J. Perry. (54th)
1864. Pte. J. Stuart. ("anzac- 2nd) B.
2188. Pte. Frank Clancy. (20th) R.G.
982. Pte. H.T. ("Bob) Newell. (33rd and 3rd)
4133. ? :Bluey ? – don (17
5279. Pte. G.E. Aldous. (1st)
No. 13 in row. cook.
No. 14 in row. No entry.

Front Row.
3892. Pte. Reeves. N. (4th)
3714. L/C. Newlands, H. 3714. (3rd) L.G.l
3673. Pte. J ("Jim) A. Fitzgerald. (Strathfield) 3rd.) L.G.
1705. Pte. J. Bartlett. (England –Gallipoli -3rd) L.G.
5170. Pte Oli-- (2nd)
? 4258. Pte. Watterson G.A. (17th)
2664. Pte. J. Hennings (30th)
790. Pte. "Humpty E.G. Humphries. (2nd)
4478. Pte. E.J.Damen (Eng) (4th) R.
3305. Pte. J. Jordan. (England) (3rd)
No. 11 in row, no entry.
5722. Pte. McGlynn. C. (2nd) R.
3462. Bandsman. E. ("Ted) Dunbar. (1st.) Trombone.
1353. Cpl. Les. Ellison. (Rozelle and Leichhardt.) (Anzac. -3rd) B.

Key.

S.B. = Stretcher bearer.
R.G. or G. = Rifle Grenadier.
B. = Bomber.
L.G. = Lewis gunner.
R. = Rifleman

There are many absentees. Some I remember are :- 1st Battn; 2928. E.Walker; 204 R.S. –Christiansen (D Coy); 1012 E. Ted. Grenfell L/C; 476 W.L.("Bluey), Herbert; 5730 P.J. Lines; 2177 A. Mullins

[Page 366]
94
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warnambool,
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"Aussie

[Page 368]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.95.
A halt on the way
Hut 1.Camp 5
Fovant, (Salisbury)
Wiltshire.
Sat morn. Oct.13th. 17

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
You`ll be thinking it very strange after reading my two previous letters to find that another week has gone & I`m still in Blighty. Well, I can only say in explanation that unusual circumstances have delayed me (& us of 1st.Brigade draft) at the 11th hour & now we hardly know what is to happen.

Last Saturday was my first day of surprises for I was struck off the first draft, with a score or so of other, on a/c of it being "overstrength & because they required my services in the old orderly –room. Despite my weelping & wailing I was unable to be included again & tho` I put myself on & handed all my spare gear into the store with the others, it was of no avail – so here I am now.

Saturday eve was spent on Lees Norman`s Company as he was amongst those booked for departure. We spent to eve at one of the camp shows nearby, & as his draft were off at Rise on Sunday I had to bid him au revoir because I had removed to the above camp would not have had time to see him away. Guess ere this, he is well over in La Belle, tho` we did hear a rumour that the draft had been held up at the coast through certain causes not explained – we`ve got a good idea of course.

We`ve had lots of work since their departure cleaning up the old camps in preparation for more of our boys & I`m glad that it`s all finished. Kit inspections have been almost

2.
daily affairs lately, but are to be expected when it`s the eve of our departure. Our already back-breaking load has been further increased by the addition of a heavy sheep-skin vest which we`ll have to hump every time we move. It`s a good omen for the dreadful winter which is so quickly coming - & we`ll be well in it, if we last long enough at the Front. i do not know how we`re going to manage all the extras in & about our pack, after the S.A.A. (120 rounds) 2 gas protectors, rifle & bayonet, "tin at, & other odds and ends have been loaded on, especially if we`ve got to "pad the hoof along some of those muddy & worn French & Belgian roads. Yes, there`s no doubt, its no "ordinary war

On Thursday last we were re-warned to stand-by to depart on Friday morn & all the boys seemed glad that they`d catch up with those who went last Sunday. Later in the day the unexpected happened & instead of departure we`re now prisoners in this hut. One of our 1st Battn corporals took suddenly ill & the "quack diagnosed his complaint as dyptheria – result, isolattion for all 1st Brigade men in this & no. 8 hut; & that`s how I come to be still here. You`ll see how circumstances right from furlough (last Feb) have kept me on this side (Blighty). There`s no telling now just when we`ll go, but none will be surprised to find us up at 3 am. on Monday moving off with all our goods to Le Havre (via Dinton & Southampton) – we`ll soon see.

Some say that as we`ve missed the draft, we`ll be sent to our training Battn to await another draft across to the Front. The T.B. is said to be now at Sutton-Venee – or some name like that – which is not far from Warminster Bath or Bristol. I`d like to see Bristol again B4 I go over the Pond, but it`s a lot to hope for that we`ll go near there instead of the Front, seeing that we aare all fully equipped for Winter overseas, & all we have now in clothing are the regulation articles allowed in our pack. My young lady acquaintance of Bristol still writes regularly & it`s taking me all the headwork I know to retain her as a friend only. She wants to see me some more B4 I go over, but I`ve already said good bye

3.
3 or 4 times in the past fortnight & still I`m here. She wants to know all about dear old Aussie, but I do not believe in boosting our "Eldorado to folk on this side because I do not think it etiquette – everyone for their own country. Anyhow, it`s nice to have a correspondent who can interest one from Blighty, so with Miss Bristol & Rose Woollcott, I will be kept with the nose well on the grindstone of correspondence, here & at the Front.

Bert Edmonds sent me another letter (France 23/9 – a really Belgium for he wrote from DB which I interpret as Dickebusch – near Ypres) to say that tho he`s had lots of narrow escapes with Fritz`s flying "iron mongery they can`t get him, & that "A1 explains his present health. As usual you can accept his best regards LUV - & all that sort o` stuff. He has been up in the line with my old Battn & others of 1st Bde, & has expected to find me there having heard the new that we "Fragments are to re-join. Jacky Jackson still writes to me most regularly – he`s a grand pal & one of the whitest of lads - & his last of Oct 2nd. from Belgium says that he too is still in the "pink but dearly long for home & Aussie – so do we all. Please accept this best regards & remr him to all our pals over your way. May be seeing Jack & lots of the others soon.

No further news has come from our London relatives, so as the Hun`s Gothas have not come over with their "permanent sleep-draughts since I last wrote, you can take it that all goes well.

Havn`t had any later news of the two Les`s, so trust that they are stillOK – one at Larkhill (or now perhaps, Sutton Venee) & the other either up the line with the 17th or still at Le Havere (the base)

The receipt of Elsie`s P/C photograph (registered) during the week was good for me . I think it a nice photo – the "best ever of her - & will put it amongst the others of my picture gallery in the pocket wallet. I think I advised you of the receipt of Father`s 2 big amp; ever interesting letters of Aug 6th & 12th (Thel`s enclosed in 6/8 in last week`s communique, so as news of local interest is just about

4.
napoo, let me add a few comments & ask a few questions on them Look out! Duck yer nut!! – The encouraging newsof the receipt of mail at your end is as good as knowing that all goes well. I thank you for telling me at such length of the letters etc, that arrive. Have any of the letters ever been opened that I`ve posted & stamped from this side? I believe that they are all still liable to be censored. Am pleased that you recd the 2 [indecipherable] war maps of the Front which I sent which I sent from Wareham & that you like them. They were only sent on "spec as I had an idea that they could be had in Sydney . There are 4 maps altogether of the British Front of same size. [indecipherable] send on the other two if I can purchase them, tho at the moment I can recollect what two I sent you as my diary has now been posted away. I think you recd nos 1 & 2 - am I right? Three & 4 will be those extending down to near Qt. Quentin (Artois) Sorry that letters 74 & 75 have not turned up yet. Guess the funny –tribe`ll know all about them. Awfully surprised to know that the P & O "Moolltan has gone beneath the ever-restless sea - it`s news to me. Hard luck for us that she too had mail to be delivered.

Glad the little group snapped at Wareham reached you alright. Have I changed so much that you couldn`t pick me? I posted to you the "Colonials [indecipherable] to London last week it ought to arrive with this & other letters as [indecipherable] that the only boat going is taking everything up to the 15th inst. Yes, the list of A.I.F. colours of units may yet be interesting to you . There are a few almost unknown branches of our force which will be missing from the list.

It must be great for you to have such a large no. of visitors - & nearly every week-end too. Your country residence is evidently in the boom & I`m not really surprised after reading so many glowing a/cs of it.. If what you state about the cause of your recent dreadful Railway strike is correct, well `I`m not so very much surprised to learn of the unions kicking against such a rotten system as "speeding up. The stop watch & time card-night work well enough amongst such a race as the Yankees – mixed as they are with the scum of Europe –

but an Aussie`s spirit is of different stuff. What makes it worse is that a Govt supposed to be doing the best for its citizens during this awful turmoil and strife, should be the means of fomenting an internal upheaval which bids fair to upset the whole course of the democracy for which we all live to see in working order after the war. I`m still inclined to believe that the National Govt. took their drastic step, not so much to eliminate labor, but to try & put a stop to the scandalous loafing which all the world seems to know of as being in vogue in the Railway workshops. Of course I only guess from heresay & being so far removed from the scene of bother it`s hard fo rme to understand very fully your arguments for the strike and against the Govt. – wasn`t there any other course but an employees lock out? We have seen nothing about the trouble in our cables here lately so take it that the strike has been settled - & in the

5.
union`s favor.. There must have been some very amusing occurrences with the few trams and trains that ran the gauntlet. It`d be quite a new experience for some of the flash folk to have to walk everywhere they wished to go – especially some of those much painted & powdered girls who work as typists etc, but give one the impression that theyr`e independent.. I can well imagine the great rushes for the ferries – It`s their turn at last. I hope that your fears of the strike extending across the borders to Q`land & Vic, are not turning out correct – that`d be just about the end of the sections as it would then be a Commonwealth matter, & I`m sure the latter must have more than enough to look after with the A.I.F. at home & abroad.

Fancy young Thelma being 12 years of age – gee! I was under the impression that she had 2 more to go B4 she reached the dozen. It`s far too late for me to wish her the usual greetings, but I`ll be in top time for her next. It`s good to know that she`s so useful about the house & otherwise helping Mother. She need not fear that I`ll give her any extra work when I return, as I am quite proficient now at making beds (especially when it`s with one "service blanket & water-proof sheet) washing shirts (in icy cold hard water, with a nail-brush & lots –a-soap) towels etc., mending rips in breeches or tunics – wouldn`t say that I`d have confidence enought to enter a sewing competition – sewing on buttons (very good at putting on the "batchelor kind) & lots of other odd domestic jobs. There`s no place like the army for learning the monotonous duties of a house-wife – my sympathies are now with them. The only thing that I`m afraid of when we once more enter a civilized home, is that our army styles of grabbing at the "dodger (bread) or "uncle Ned, dipping our plates of "Uncle Sam (jam with spoons, in the hurry to get a taste ere it all disappears; one eye on a plate of "cocky`s joy syrup & the other watching one`s mess-tin of? tea, will make you think that we`ve lost all sense of table –manners. I wish I could transfer you (only in spirit)to one of our mess-huts at meal times so that you could see how we live from meal to meal. The food is never above suspicion, but I s`pose it`s quite good enough for the rank & file & it would never do to give us enough to feel satisfied – we may not work if they did. Oh it`s a "luvly life!!

Pleased that Lizzie (alias Lily) is (or was) getting in some full weeks at work after such a long spasm of half time & trust that both she & Elsie have constant emplyment now.

Hope and trust that dear Mother and yourself are enjoying all the best of health. Do not say that both are getting old. why. You`ve got a long long way to go yet B4 you reach those 4 score & ten year – a mortal`s span here below – so cheer up, all is not lost yet

6.
Ah! I get you now about Fred Heming being a bombardier – he`s in the "Tock-emma-beers (T.M.B. – trench mortar battery). We infantry know that arm as the "Suicide Club (a misnomer) but now it`s the "shoot & scoot mob. We had reason to remr the stoke`s mortars behind our breastworks at Fleurbain because they`d send over a volley of their souvenirs to Fritz`s trenches & he`d lose no time in getting his "whiz- bangs & "minnies (minenwerfa) on to the late battery spot or on to our boys. Of course the T.M. crew weere by then at some other part of the line – hence the "shoot & scoot.

Roy Jackson, Frank Bowker & young McNamara are some I recollect from our neighborhood carryin on with that arm – also Jack Kemp of the origl (1st Battn) . I wish Fred of course best of fortune etc. He ought to have a good time at the Seymour Camp. The only reason that I that I return your letter is that I do not like destroying them, when it`s possible for me to send them back on completion of my ackgts. You can please yourself what you do with them, but they may make interesting reading apres la guerre..

It`s so interesting to me to read your vivid a/cs of progress in the garden & orchard at "W,bool , & I`m very pleased that you are so enthusiastic & able to do so much lone handed. May be able to help you later on – God willing. Gee, what a variety of fruit trees you must have! I long to get back to see that delightful place. Guess the strawberry patch will be a big magnet for all & sundry when that delicious fruit is ripe - & I shouldn`t wonder. The nearest I`ve had since O.A.S. to s`berries and cream was pears (preserved Californian) & Nestle`s milk (not the condensed) I thought it wonderfully rich after plain bread and jam - & other army fare.

I am sincerely trusting that you were not called out on strike for the "Island during that critical spasm. I cannot help thinking of the bad position it may put you in as regards the new Home & the payments . Hope that long ere this , peacefulness & prosperity, also best of health & happiness reigns in your midst. Best regards etc. to dear Grandmother (hope she`s now OK) & all oour relatives and friends. Best of love to you all at Home, & best wishes for Xmas & New year (make them as enjoyable as you can)

I still remain
your ever loving son
Harrie XX

ps my address ought to now be:-
No 3900
!st Battalion
1st Austn Division – abroad
give it a try

[Page 369]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 96
Another halt on the way –
No12. (Sandhill) Camp
Hut 3
Longbridge Deverill
(Near Warminster)
England
Sat eve. Oct.20th.17

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters
As i`ve stated above, this is just a halt on the way to les tranchie, even tho` the shift has taken us a little further from the coast. I really expected to be well over in "La Belle B4 this, but it`s more than likely that No.97 will be penned from the other side of the Pond, as this is a drafting Camp & from what we`ve learned one does not stay here long as a rule. Of course, as I`ve always said when referring to our movements, one does not know how one stands from one minute to the next in the army.

Last week was a very easy one for us as we were practically prisoners in the hut owing to the diptheria contracted by the 1st Battn. corporal. The embargo was lifted last thursday when we were reieved of the sheep skin-vest, blanket, water proof-sheet & other winter-issue things. We were in a quandary as to what the next move was to be till the order came along that a little 15 mile march was on the menu for next day - & this camp (still in Wilts) is the result.

We remnants of the "Fragments bid good bye to Fovant on Friday morn at 8 when we moved off per shanks with full infantry kit aboard. The day luckily turned out nice & sunny so we were in good spirits, despite the heavy pack. Our route

2.
lay through a great deal of the nearby villages & Downs that we knew so well during our hard training in the 61st. Battn. Teffont, with its Manor; 500 year old Norman style C of E; the little gutter, little streams, old fashioned thatched roofed pokey dwellings; & the scraggy orchard of ancient looking trees etc. was passed thro` B4 we reached the Downs. Dinner of dry bread & salmon helped to keep the wolf from the door & to strengthen us for the ramainder of the journey.

Codford Camp where Frank Grose is now officiating, was seen from the hill-top on the Downs as we went along. Tis said here that a most serious riot took place there last week with serious consequences, but it`s only heresay. Boyton Camp (near Haytesbury) where "Eggar Bill was in training was also seen below one of the heights we crossed. The march was very pleasant till we reached the little village of Sutton Veny (No.1 Austn. Command Depot) when we had a mud bath from there on to this place along a rough & torn back lane. Anyhow we`re here now & from all signs & appearances our stay will be short –very short.

Warminster an ancient historical town of Roman times – is 3 miles distant from along the Shaftesbury Road. I paid it a flying visit this afternoon & found it not much different to most of the other towns and villages in decadent Engladn – narrow erratic & hilly street, small shops, pokey dwellings, etc. Thousands of Aussies were there, representing all branches of ou
r Force & it was hard to move for them in the narrow throughfares. Some pretty scenes surround Warminster – the big hills, the Downs, lanes etc. all help to make it pleasant.

The Great Western Railway runs thro it on the way to Bristol, Cardiff, Swansea etc. & the Avon River – a small stream here – also graces the town & makes it important. Owing to our short time in this place, I`ve had no opportunities of going further afield, nor do I think there`ll be many more chances ere we

3.
cross the Pond. I have over a dozen Warminster views with me now which I`ll post "holus bolus to you if there`s no opportunity to fill them in.

The weather is getting colder every day & we see less & less of the glorious sun. The days are finished at 5.30 pm now, so we`ll soon be in the midst of the shivery stuff. It`s getting almost too cold to wash in the mornings, especially if a heavy frost has fallen overnight. No further word has come from Aunt Annie or Woollcott family, so I must still presume that all goes good-o with them. Bert was still ok on Sept.13th when he last wrote from Dickebusch. I`ll enclose his letter with Rosie`s & so save a lot of explanation. I have had him "biting over the merits of the tunnelllers in this great War and those of the infantry. You`ll see his remarks and how he has taken my remarks (made in fun) to heart. My reply ought to reassure him somewhat...

I don`t think there is anything more of interest to you occurring on this side that I can relate. Oh yes – my English or Bristol, yound lady friend of 2 hours actual acquaintance still writes to me, & her last contains the request for your address so that she could correspond with one of the girls. I did not know whether to comply or not, because I really know next to nothing about her & less about her folk, but to please her I sent it on, so that you can look for something from Bristol in a strange hand writing soon after this reaches you. I might mention by the way, that there`s nothing but ordinary friendship between us & my few hours acquaintance could hardly have made it more than "ordinary. I might also mention, that judging by her letter-writing & phrasing, her education was not a University one, or else thro` lack of literary opportunity in pre-war days, she has got out of practise. I beleive, from the remarks of our boys that it seems to be an almost general failing with the girls and folk here that they are illiterate or only half educated. Any how, the young lady Bristolian may be able to tell you, in

4.
her peculiar way, something about life in & about the big chocolate & tobacco city, & of other things about Gloucestershire & Somerset. I hope you will not mind me passing on the address my Dear Parents & I hope you`ll understand why I did so...

Dad`s great budget of Aug 12th is still B4 me so I`ll refer to it again now ... As no further cables have come to hand telling us about that terrible strike in Sydney, I will believe that it has ended. We are so far away from your turmoils and troubles that we cannot realise their seriousness & by the time news reaches us lots of things may have happend. I will await your further advices with patience & interest, but in the meantime will trust that all is once more OK. I did not think that Tarbon Creek wharf was so close to W`Bool – is handly. Don`t doubt that the Ferries made up some leeway, as far as profits went, during the strike. I did read where the [indecipherable] N F Coy. was to make the trip to their wharves 3d each way & that the Sydney Ferries were increasing some of the casual fares – good old [indecipherable]
Only for your reassurances, & the position so ably put forward by you, I should certainly have passed a harsh judgment on the perpetrators of such a terrible upheaval in your midst, especially as it has occurred during the absence of the A.I.F. & at such a critical period in the Empire`s history. We really could do noting else but blame the I.W.W. & Hun sympathisers for the trouble & till your explanation came along I could accuse no one else. Never thought for a moment that the National Govt, for which we voted heart & soul could precipitate such a struggle. I am pleased to learn that law and order did not go to the skies during the crisis and that the unions picketed the "pubs – a very heady move indeed... Would like to read your defense Committee pamphlet telling me the position from their point of view, so we wait for the letter you have enclosed it in..

No, you have guessed wrongly again. I was not in the big Flanders Battle at the time you wrote, but in a week or so will be once more a "starter in that Empire Handicap. We have learned some terrible stories of the fighting there from first hand information, but one had to put a lot of them down to excitement & the dreadfulness of it all. (it`ll be a Hell on Earth right up till the moment of the first peal of "Joy Bells)

Will be no use worrying , my Dear Parents, it`s God`s will whatever is B4 us & we mortals must bow it it... It`s incouraging to learn that Grandmother is getting stronger. a pity that

5.
the old Dorcas St. Home had to be discontinued & broken up, but of course it had to be .. Trust that when she goes to Aunt Kate`s to live that she will be her oldself again. My best love to her please.

Sorry to learn that Cousin Gladys has not been up to the mark with health, but like all others in same position "Down Under can only trust that all is well now ... Thanks to aunt Em for her kind enquiries & wishes. Same to her please. I recd. the 2 blue socks OK & they are well stoved in the old pack ready for use Les Tranchee, during the coming 7 months shivering spasm. ... Sorry indeed that Dear Mother is having ups and downs with health, despite the new life & residence in the country. Trust that she now in the very pink ... It`s real nice to know that the girls are such fine helps in the house – they`d take a big weight from Mother ...

Gee. Thelma must be coming on! Wonder will I know her when I come back? I`m glad that she is gettting along so famoulsy at School & that she is so useful. Tell her that she can write letters better than most of the young ladies of the British Isles. I`m not surprised that you have not been able to continue her music studies, but perhaps later on she`ll be able to carry on again – I hope so anyhow. I still like to read your grand descriptions of work & progress in and around lovely Warrnambool & to know that you have been able to cary on lone handed. All the commendations I could write would not convey the thoughts I have of the great work that you have accomplished. I can only live on & trust that some day I`ll be able to see it`s lovliness with my own eyes, instead of painting, in my mind, fantastic pictures from descriptions supplied so regularly by you.

Good old strawberries and cream!! What fortunate folk you are! All your own grown too – good!. Couldn`t fancy anything like that growing in "Ma`s manor at 109. I thought my tip that every available inch of W`Bool allotment was under cultivation – thats good! Does old Alfred interfere with the garden at all? I often wonder how you are managaing with the paying-off process & what remains to be squared up yet. Of course I know that it will take many many years to make it our own – unless of course some sympathetic "rich uncle springs – but it would be interesting to know ... How are land values in and around Sydney now? I should think that there`d be a slump during these terrible times & especially since the strike. Don`t forget that if the Chatswood block will help you in any way it`s at your disposal.

6.
I am not surprised, after learning from outside souces, that passers-by stop to look at the Eldorado that you have created on that block. It`s good to know!!

The home-grown vegetables must be a great help & boom to you, besides making a big saving in the week`s necessities bill ..Guess you`ll be enjoying some lovely weather now & that the garden & the fruit will be at their very best. How nice !

By the feeling underfoot tonight I guess we`re in for a freeze – a heavy frost. It seems a prelude to something more severe coming along in a week or two. Oh well, it`s no ordinary war and there`s still lots to be done , & so we must grin & bear the discomforts that will be ours.

Oh well, my Dear Parents & Sisters, as it is getting late & I have a lot of writing & other jobs to do in case we are bundled off at a minute`s notice, I must conclude this by once more hoping & trusting that you are all still enjoying the best of health & spirits, & that happiness & prosperity still reign..My best wishes as usual to all relatives and friends - & while I think of it the best of Xmas & New Year greetings to you & they. Keep smiling & that silver liningf will reappear. Best wishes also from "Bert,Jacky Jackson, & the Les`s.
Till I write again, Best of Love to you and God`s blessing .
I am ever your loving son & Bro. Harrie XX

my address will now be (or ought to be) :-
No 3900 !st Battn. 1st Austn. Division. Abroad

[Page 370]
96
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warnambool,
Bateman’s Road.
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 372]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No 97.
1st A.D.B.D.
France.
Sat morn. Oct 27th.17

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters.
At last, after much "backing and filling we remnants of the "Fragments have reached "La Belle again & are now about to move up the line to the old Battn where some of our old & recent pals now are. Our last few hours in Blighty were full of hurry & bustle,& it was some relief to be on the move, even thought every step of it brought us nearer the lands of sorrow & bother.

We left our recent camp near Warminster (Wilts) on Wednesday morning last & had a 3 mile march with full kit along pretty roads to the town & railway. The depot band churned out some sweet music & took our minds off the eternal pack. The country scenes along the route were delightful, especially round about the Wylye River, which flows below the camp & later joins the Avon (on which are Bristol & Bath) Warminster`s main streets were traversed en-route to the station, & tho` the elements were anything but enticing or pleasant, we had a good send off by the ancient roman Town`s citizens who were out and about. Third class carriages ("bon pour soldats) were provided to take us to the port of embarkation, which we reached in a few hours. Rain was falling merrily as we de-trained - a fitting send off from the land of murk, mist & rain but it can be expected now, as Autumn is well on it`s wasy to bid another European winter. "Bonjour ! " - ughh!!!

We had a few hours yarn with rep`s of our newest

2.
Allies infantry, H.Q.C. & Engineers, & gleaned something of their wonderful homeland – the land of big expectations. They seem very decent lads & of good physique & anxious to try their weight againt the Allemagne, Their "broncho Billy " hats put us in mind of our pals, - the other Anzacs – but the old twang so common in Balmain some years ago as the language of the boat long-coated & squire – hatted corner mob – did not need any query as to Nationality. Some of them came across the Pond with us & helped to supply "burley for conger-eels & others of the finny-tribe who dodge up & down the "gutter or channel (we, neither to say, could not look on & laugh at their wild "dives to the rails, as we were starters too in the "U- roope stakes)

Our little steamer pulled out of the big docks (wharf) on Wednesday at 4.45pm in misty rain & a biting, heavy westerly, "unheralded & unsung (our only well-wishers being the "coalies & laborers). Owing to the veil of mist, little could be seen of the bay or surroundings, but during the spasms, the green of the countryside could be discerned. As big and important as the port is , it could not be compared with dear old Sydney or Melboutne for extent, tho` the loading and unloading appliances on the great docks were cause for wonder, because we have (or had not 21/2 years ago ) nothing like them at home. We passed qute close to the Cunard Coy`s latest magnificent trans Atlantic liner, & I was pleased that I had had the opportunity of gazing on her vastness.

Once into the channek & the bother commenced. A few moments of see-saw & "yer umble had mal de mer very bad, so badly that I had to retire down below, - & there I stayed till the duration. It was an awful trip & trip & all aboard were glad when we stepped ashore on this side of the "Herring Pond Even in the protected, breakwaters & inner-harbour, the boats alongside the docks were straining on their springs & rope-hawsers, & spray drenched the roadways. Our greeting, as far as elements were, was not of the best as rain & wind made things most unpleasant, especially as we had to "pad the hoof to this place. Ah well, she`s no ordianry war , & grumbling, howling, & wailing will not help to end it – that` a "cert

3.
The march to this camp – another halt on the way , for us – was in consequence not what you`d call a promenade , or an "outing, in fact I , for one, never felt weaker. The severe sea-sickness & lack of food, continued with the elements then ruling, made me more fit for "shut-eye, but of course it`s all in this game, - "some game, "some life!! The way–side scenes are pretty well the same as I saw on this side during my last spasm as un soldat in other parts of La Belle – the towns and villages with their narrow, erratic streets, the ancient shops & dwellings, the French syle of architecure; peculiar beer barrel carts etcc. The artificial woods passed here and there – out from the city – reminded me of those we knew so well down in the Somme region last year. Some day dear old Aussie will adopt the cultivation of woods & forests – its a great and necessary asset her & in Blighty. The big trees that border the "National (cobbled) roads are now bare of foliage & others in the forests will soon follow suit, as this is the advent of the shivery spasm – good old Winter! (but not for now)

A little bit of sunshine has now greeted us, so it`s "down tents! & air the possy of our temporary home. I am writing this letter in consequence under great difficulties, or inconvenience, - no form, table, or protection from the wind & with pad on my knees – or I`d ask you, my Dear Parents, to bear a little with me if you find it hard to "compree. I do not think that I have in any way transgressed the commandements of our friend-in-arms, "Mr Censor If I have, well I hope he won`t be hard on you & I wish his scissors & reprimands, Let me conclude now, by wishing you all as Happy a Xmas as possible, with a brighter future on the turn of the New Year. & the hopes that this hurriedly –toute-de-suite- scrawled letter finds happiness, best of health & prosperity reigning in our new Home (O, that I could see it)

My Love & best regards to all our relatives and acquaintances.
Till I write again, accept my best love and regards.

I am.. Your ever loving son and brother
Harrie XX

Ps. old orig. address will now find me

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
Australia.

[Page 374]
No. 98
Somewhere in "La Belle.
Sat. a’noon, Nov. 3rd 17

My Dear Mother, Father, & Sisters,
Though it is yet afternoon, darkness has been over us for an hour or two, making everything appear so miserable & giving one the inclination only for "shut-eye, despite the early hour. I hardly know what I am to talk to you about this week-end, because no letters have come my way from "Aussie since prior to leaving the 61st. for Warminster, & besides, "Mr. Censor – tho’ a pal to us – has many orders to be observed by we would-be scribes & correspondents.

Had a long train ride after leaving our first halting-place on this side of the "Pond – a ride of 2 spasms of altogether about 20 hours – & through parts of this country very familiar to we who came from the Land of Bleary-eyes & Baksheesh last year. The terrible shaking-up received on the old "Viper was felt by nearly all of us long after leaving her at the Docks, in fact I still feel the mal-de-mer even here. The ride in the crowded horse-boxes did not improve the feeling & we were glad when at last we were emptied out here.

The elements are not what you could call "kind. One or two short sunny days have greeted us, but misty, murky rain has held the monopoly till now the whole countryside seems to be eternal mud – & what mud!! We seem to be doing nothing else but scraping the "stick-phast from boots, [indecipherable] & clothes all day long & walking, when off the cobbled or made roads, is a great difficulty. Still it’s no "ordin-

Away in the North I can see the flicker of continuous gun-flashes & the reflection from star-shells, & other illuminants. In the South at intervals, by reflections tell of the wide-awake sentinels guarding the approaches to the "Big Smokes by way of the air & sky. (They must be very powerful searchlights.) Again in the North as I try to write (the bandsmen round about do not encourage one in his endeavor, neither does the flickering

Have had no news of Les Norman, or any of the Balmain boys yet, but I had another unexpected & very pleasant re-union with old pal Roy Jackson who is camped just a little way from here. Roy was over visiting another pal & I met him as he was returning for Tea. He is still in the "pink & came thro. the big stunt up in the mud "ok – the "shoot & scoots is his limit. Please remr. him & his bro. Jack to all our old pals at Home, also "Bob. Pout, who is in this Tent with me waiting for the word to re-join the old Battn. up near the "Line.

Sergt. of the Line.

Gladesville,
Sydney, N.S. Wales
Australia

We duly arrived at -. (the perhaps most noted of cities in this terrible war) where we found the old battn waiting to go into the bother again. I was in the same place during Sept and Oct 16 and marvelled at the awful destruction there, - it is worse now. It did not take long to feel "at home amongst the "old ands and they made us welcome. Next morning (Mon,Nov 5th) we were off again, this time to once more do our little bit up the line. "Jock Hawke (Battn. H.Q.Sigs recently returned from the "Fragments – I met him too. I would dearly love to write in detail, descriptions of the desolation and effects of this dreadful war as seen on all sides by us as we marched thro` - and it`s environs. The positions recently held by the Hun B4 this barrier to all his dreams of world domination beggar description for awfulness, and it beats me why he did not succeed in getting further than he did, Of course it`s history now that tells us why – the bull-doggedness of

[Page 380]
99
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales,
Australia.

B4 leaving "Eapps we had a lively half an hour with enemy flying ironmongery & it beats me how we got out of that battered and historic city scathless – the escapes wwere marvellous! We knew when we commenced our

Gladesville,
Sydney,
N. S. Wales
Australia.

[Page 383]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.101.

Somewhere in "Somewhere
Sat. a`noon, Nov 24th. 17
(420)

My dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
A week of murk and mist has just gone, & wish it, events of the battle-front which will add to that vast record. book of the future in relation to this great conflict. Though we were not in the "Push down below of last week, our interest has been held & our congratulations go to the pals-in-arms who did so well. It is only faintly now that we hear the rumble of the great batteries along the front & then it`s only "Mum, "Grannie, & others of the monsters that "cough loud enough for the sound to carry as far as this.

There`s nothing exciting in the war line at all happening down in this region, so you must XQS the lack of news in consequence. We see an aeroplane or two now & again, but unless they give us bakshee exhibitions in mid-air cork-screwing, sensational banking, nose-diving, looping–the–loop etc, we are not much interested in watching them just gliding in and out of cloud banks or sailing in the blue. Other than the planes there`s little else – except ourselves – to remind us that the Great War still rolls on. Of course on the main roads, expecially the French National, there`s always lots of military traffic; convoys of big motor-lorries , motor ambulances, speedy cars whizzing generals & staff men to the "bother region; motor-cycles ridden by despatch carriers passing everything in front of them in their hurry; long lines of transports (horse drawn); cavalry etc. etc. besides troops on the march, sights of which we have long since become accustomed.

Our present,Home – Billets they call `em in the military – is a mud-walled

2.
ricketty, ancient barn near the top of a high ridge - one of many hereabouts – which seems to have been much neglected in the past. Our floor has for it`s oilcloth (or carpet) straw commandeered from near by. The portion that "protects our platoon (No.1) from the erratic elements is a bit more modern than other parts as it possesses a skylight in the rood & so allows us a few minutes natural light at the day`s end. The skylight seems to have been forced on the barn rather than by intent, judging by the tiles seen smashed on the ground below the scene. Of course the hole is useful in other ways besides as a skylight. When one hankers after astronomy there`s no need to go outside to study the sky, there`s all convenience at hand again at night, especially if it was pay-day, the thick atmosphere created by the "lovers of the pint (or many pints) must find some outlet or else suffocate us – the skylight serves that purpose, the outlet.

The only disconcerting thing about it is that during rain, when one always makes for the old bar for shelter, only to find that sou-westers & sea-boot are necessary B4 one can settle down, Still, these modern innovations are all that makes life worth while here, as without them we`d be kidding ourselves that we were really at home – but not in Aussie! There are about 25 of us in this barn, & when we are all stretched out for shut-eye for the night, there`s no room left even for the rats to promenade. In the mud-walls are numerous ventilators & windows but like the skylight, the designer & builder did not intend them to adorn this "mansion. The course of ages & it`s severe elements has been the means of supplying the architect`s short comings, but we have revolted against the pure air fad & now bits of bags, tin, etc. have further decorated the interior, besides closing up the holes & aforesaid cracks.

For nearly a whole week the glorious sunshine has not greeted us. Every morning at reveille has found an impenetrable murky, misty rain veiling everything in our neighborhood & the mud and dampness outside makes one feel most miserable. Of course we are now sup

3.
posed to be in the first throes of another European Winter so must expect something different to beautiful spring & summer which has bid us au revoir ! till next season.

As we are "resting now our day`s routine is made easy for us, but the little bit of daylight remaining expecially while this horrible murk prevails, leaves us no light for writing, & with candles at a premium we have to make the best of a bad deal. Shut eye in consequence is our only pastime and that is resorted to – other than pay-days & it`s immediate followers – at a very early hour (as hours go) I think the hour of day in now 3pm, but the light is so bad, despite the aforementioned sky light, that I can hardly see where and what I am writing. These difficultires are added to by the sprawling card fiends & their gambling dens. the noise they make; the coldness – a beastly westerly from the channel is chilling us who reside on this Ridge.Top, & the lack of accomodation. You`ll have to XCS the terrible writing, besides the dryness and the erratic stuff I`m letting loose on you because of these things, but I know you now compree our troubles OK. so my would-be troubled mind is at rest.

A little drill with plenty of games & exercises, comprise our mornings work here – they keep us fit. The afternoon is given over to light duties, & for a certain percentage daily, 6 hours leave of absence to visit the large & important city of B--- which is distant about 15 kilometres West of here, (about 9 English miles) Les Norman & I chose yesterday as our visiting day & it turned out the luckiest of choices as God`s Lovely Sun smiled on the countryside for the first time since we pulled up in these parts. We could have guessed the usual dull & threatening, or murky, misty , rainy day as our lot, but it was a pleasant surprise to find such lovely weather ruling for our petit promenade. As we are over 9 miles away amongst the hills, the old Batttn. provided a big 3 sou wagon to take us in, which meant to us a big saving in boot-leather, physical-exertion & above all, money. We could have gone to a small town 4 kilos (21/2 miles) away along the main B--- road & taken the "choo

4.
choo only that they run so infrequently that obtaining the leave wold be hardly worth while, especially at this time of the year when the days are as night. Anyhow we set out in good spirit & with nice sunshine to show us the way & the environs. From our high ridge we could obtain a grand sight, the surroundingh hills – looking nearly bare after the ploughing just completed - & dales breaking what would be a drab monotony if the district was like part of Belgium where we were a fortnight ago. Below us, nestling amongst the trees (most now almost devoid of foliage) could be seen the several villages or hamlets in our region, They look peaceful & comfy enough from that height & distance, but I must pity the folk who have to live, toil, marry & die in this part of the world. The more I see of these towns & villages the greater is my love for dear Aussie & the new World – America, Canada & Colonies. Even in peace time life here must have been terribly monotonous. The mud & lath walls of the dwellings; their earthen or stone floors, the poky rooms, lack of conveniences; the absence of flowers or gardens – ugh!! I could say lots more but it`ll only make me home sick, especially after reading your gran a/cs of Warnambool. & it`s lovliness – an Utopia in comparison to anything here.

The National Raod with it`s avenue of tall-trees could be followed with the eye as it wround round the base of the ridge and it`s spurs & over the smaller hills. A few fields still remain with crop not garnered & they please the eye with the pretty green (s`pose it`s green) but ploughin, in readiness for season 1918, seems to have been completed every where & the new hay—ricks dot the landscape (of all shapes & sizes) The ride in the wagon was a rough one as rides go, but we are quite used to the unconventional & would just as gladly hang on to any old conveyance were we allowed – you know we`re supposed to be soldiers now..

Part of our route lay through one of the Govt.Forests where we saw the stacks of faggots waiting for removal for Winter firewood. Other sizes for military & other purposes. Girls and women were employed there also a few men-folk. The main road was a very hilly one & our old bus did many sensational slips on the greasy-surface in her efforts to

5.
beat the speed limit or to whizz round hair-pin bends on the two near-side wheels. With all the thrills, "she landed safely near the main railway station of B---- & from there Les and I commenced our little tour. The River, bridges, & the tram (driven & conducted by women) took our interest as we went along. A light lunch in the "Sailor`s and Soldier`s Home fitted us the more physically for the few hours rush. English women looked after the catering there, and it was quite nice to speak to them in our own lingo – parlez-vousing gets monotonous and trying ---

At the Quay side at the inner-harbour we spent a few interesting moments watching the unloading of the quaint French fishing smacks. Either the tide was exceptionally low or else the quay wall is very high, but the little boats semed a long way below. Girls and women assisted the sailors in handing up the baskets of haddock, herring and other North Sea fish and in selecting them for the market just opposite… Speedy looking cross-channel steamers and business-like men-o-war were there too, and further out behind the extensive breakwater, the larger ocean-going vessels rode at anchor and in safety.

Further on we passed the Casino – now one of the many big hospitals used by the British Army – and came out on to the ocean front and esplanade – a favourite place no doubt in peace times. Several statues and a band rotunda grace the reserve, but good old Aussie could show em all the way (as young as she is) in these things. Our minds wandered those thousand and thousands of leagues of land and sea to you dear one`s down under as we watched the departure of the smacks (towed some miles out and dropped) to their fishing grounds and the arrival of one of the many slate grey steamers working in the Empire`s cause made us dream sweet dreams of a time that - God willing - may yet be our happy lot to experience – the arrival Home après la guerre.

From the dirty looking beach, we made for the heights overlooking the city, from which a grand panorama of the sea and land surroundings was had. Away below us clanged the electric-trams bound out towards W----- and the boat traffic in the inner harbour was seen at its best. Unknowingly we meandered thro` the "Low quarter – a dirty,stinking, disgraceful region which we likened to places to the noted Wasseh of Cairo – and in comparison of the two civilisations, this place cannot boast much more enlightenment. I must add that many of our boys - and other Regts of the BEF were there bent on an errand of the dreadfulness of which you can well guess. Goodness, I do fear for out future generation and the girls who will get "for better of worse some of these reckless lads. It`s no wonder you or I shutting our eyes to the problem that is going to mean so much when this war ends. It is as serious as

6.
The great war`s destiny itself…

The wonderful big Cathedral, (Notre Dame) perched on the hill and surrounded by it`s centuries old walls and battlements was our next objective, but it took us some time to find the main entrance owing to the edifice being almost entirely lost amongst buildings and lanes. There was nothing of the cheeriness or beauty in this place as we saw in the cathedrals of Blighty – not that there`s cheeriness in them either for that matter – but this one`s interior seemed disappointing to us after seeing it`s imposing exterior. I had gazed on it several times during our journeys per train up and down the main-line from the windows as we approached the city and could not help (after I`d seen London`s pride) likening it to to magnificent St.Paul`s. (The train enters a tunnel through the little site on which it stands)

Near by is the N-Rly. Stn. And some scenes were seen from the bridge overlooking it – the departure of Poilus belonging to the city back to their units from leave or furloughts , the last hand shake, and all that sort o`thing usually connected with leave takings where relatives etc. are concerned. As darkness fell shortly after 4pm. the waning light did not allow us much tiome to see the main business portion of the City, but we saw enough to satisfy us that Sydney with all it`s narrow and erratic thoroughfares is a King alongside B---- for cleanliness and appearances. The streets were dreadfully narrow and the shop-fronts not at all inviting. Of course it`s a very ancient place and has played it`s part in the history of La Belle. The progress of ages has prevented the widening of the streets the same as in London and other large cities. Being not so very far away from the "region of bother it`s guiding lights and other illuminants are heavily screened and this fact makes it appear dead in our eyes.

Our little leave did not take long to evaporate, and B4 we knew it time for return (8pm) was up and the return per "bone shaking motor wagon commenced. We may be able to pay it another visit ere our present rest expires and the trek back to les tranche e commences, so I`ll perhaps be able with the knowledge I now possess to see a little more ot the big sea port so till then let me switch off on to the acknowledgment and comment of more of your grand and most encouraging favors which seem to be rolling in unceasingly … Since the century letter was despatched, (2/10.. 100) a dozen or more additional favors have reached me and I have learned from your pen of dear Grandmother`s crossing of the Great Divide on Sept.15th last after her long painful illness borne with such fortitude and silence – wonderful silence. Ah well, it was Our Heavenly Father`s Will that she should preced us and we must bow our

7.
Heads to that omnipotent will and trust that we`ll all meet in the promised kingdom in the sweet-by-and bye.

The letters I have B4 me from dear Warnambool are :- Father`s 26/8, 6/9 and 16/9. Mother`s 19/9 (and the letter written her by Aunt Maggie) Elsie`s 16/9, 23/9, Lily 12/9, Thel`s 20/8, besides a parcel from one of the young ladies at the "Vac, and another from "the Girls of the Congregation, Balmain. C.meth.Missn. It`s again most needless to say how pleased I was to get them and how thankful I feel. Cannot express them in mere words.

The sad news of dear Grandmother`s death caused me much deep thought it did not come as an entire surprise, because you warned me of her low and critical state of health, and again, Great Annie`s advice apparently (from via yourselves) reached me early last week while we were on trek and so prepared me for your fuller a/c. now here. I can only express from this great distance the heartfelt feelings that her loss means to us. The ever smiling and happy face, her pleasant ways and her charitable God loving life. Our loss, but again in Heaven above. Lets trust that in God`s time we shall all meet her there.

Now let me further comment on Father`s 4/9th, which came some weeks back and B4 those I`ve mentioned above . Your further a/cs of the Great Strike from the mens` side of the bother had provided me with interesting reading and has certainly opened my eyes a great deal. I was no doubt previously very heartened and biased when the news first came thro and when I read the the early a/c in the "British-
Australasian, but you have made the position much clearer and I thank you. Of course the whole affair at this time in the Country`s history is most unfortunate and appalling especially as transports, with reinforcements, foodstuffs ,comforts, letters etc. for us up here are held up and even if it ends in Sept will now mean that the Winter we`ve now got to face on the West Front will be made the harder and more so for the men of the Line, (the infantry) whose position in the Front Line trenches, mud flooded shell-holes etc will not bear talking or writing about. We still wonder and argue how it is that a win-the-war Govt. could not come to some compromise with the men B4 plunging a community into indescribable chaos, - as it must have when the strike was at it`s worst. Let us hope that the trouble (or disaster really) has entirely disappeared long B4 this and that the old time prosperity and happiness once more reigns supreme amongst you. Will wait your following advices with patience and interest.

Best of luck to Fred Brooks (the cyclist) doing his term for Empire. Egypt is a pretty safe place, but it`s "no

8.
Bon for the white race (too much disease and filth … Pleased to learn that Mr. and Mrs. Harry Garden and their little family are all well in health. Thanks to them for their nice wishes and regards - same their way please…. Sorry that the nasty strong westerlies were playingup with W`Bool`s lovely garden. Looks tho` you`ll have to erect a break-wind across the 14`6 stretch in the shape of a trellis or hedge.

Of course you cannot do everything all at once, especially as You`re working lone-handed – it beats me how you`ve managed as you have – and I suppose you`ve considered or thought out some scheme for the future. Hope the elements, as severe as they were, did not spoil more and flowers that you have growing and have recently planted.

Can you tell me what vegetables and fruit-trees you have not a representative of at W`bool? You ought to be able to soon supply some retail shops with goods at a reasonable rate and further add to the depleted bank a/c. Guess from all a/cs some of the flowers would bring a good price from the florists, especially when the season is warming… The girls will be able to brew you some Chili-wine when the plants you`ve recently planted commence to produce the necessary … So the "Romeo and Juliets are causing havoc amongst the peas – that’s` no bon eh? Is our "Alfred an offender? You ought to have him pretty well educated (or frightened) in that direction.

Thanks for the detailed advice of mail recd. From me. It`s very encouraging to know which of those despatched survived the journey home, and to know also that none of you were disapp;inted. I try to serve the girls alike, but they must understand that I am not always in a position to send cards, and writing a separate letter to each when I have so many others down under to look after … Am fully sorry that you have gone to needless expense, trouble and worry in despatching to me another parcel, because I really require nothing, being loaded up with lots of infantry impedimenta in the shape of equipment, ammunition, gas helmets, "tin-ats, rifle and extras in the pack etc – an elephant`s load on the back of an ant (in comparison) anyhow, as you have sent it I cannot refuse receiving it when it was prompted by your anxiety to do something… now my dear Parents and sisters, as I am down to the bottom of the page and the old candle is just about "na poo (tho, the eve is yet early) let me wish you all good night and hope that you are all still in the very best of health and that prosperity once more reigns in the iron-trade and with the girls.

Best of love to all our relatives and best wishes to all kind friends in Syd and Melb.
I am your loving son and Bro Harrie XX

[Page 384]
9.12.17
Mrs. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool
Bateman’s Road
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
Australia.

2.
Ful articles which will soon be put to the best use. The elements are becoming more inauspicious as the days progress. The "sox especially will be sorely tried as this is a terrible country for rain and slough.. Let me here make some kind of an excuse for the terrible writing and the stuff I expect to turn out B4 I sign off, by saying that everything about me is most disheartening for such a thing as letter writing. First of all I have again a sore thumb top on the right hand – ripped by a safety pin. Now picture to your self a bleak icy westerly with misty rain, an old Farm house on top of a high ridge, open field across which the wind has free play, come closer to the house (via much stinking mud on the road, and puddles) The entrance to the usual yard (surrounded on 3 sides by dwelling, cow and horse compartments, pig-stye, and barns) is most uninviting, for the stinking liquid cow and horse manure makes a "barrage thro which one must wade to reach the gate.

Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 387]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.103.
In the land of Mud, & mystery , snow & sloughl
Somewher near B---
"La Belle
Mon morn.Decr 10th 17
(4n)

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters
We are staying at a farm, (to borrow a well known phrase of Capt. Bruce Bairnsfather) & having a.1.? glorious time . Arranged the horses, cows,crows, mice, lice and other insects. Our part of this draughty, lousy barn is alongside the pig-stye, the effluvia from which makes us feel quite at `ome`, especially at meal times. (We must eat inside in the dark, as it`s usually to wet, muddy , & cold to venture out near the manure heaps. The cows and horses are also next door, and we often "bless the garcons (boys) during these cold mornings when they commence to get busy on the milking and feeding. It is usually napoo sleep then, because they kick up enough row to wake the dead & long B4 daylight we roll and toss on our "down bed till Reveille when of course the inclination is for the usual

2.
last 40 winks. The garcons did not compre our execrations for a long while, as we are the first Aussies who have ever billeted here, but they are gradually, by experience, learning our "out-on-it`s- own lingo. These poor folk have to toil terrible hard, & it makes me think of the life at home when I see boys, women & girls doing work that only the toughest of our farm hands would have to do.

Every morning at 5.30 (such very dark-pitch dark too!) the "boss comes into the cow-house next door to awake the boys, who sleep in a bed there, For a quarter of an hour we hear " faire con! garcon!! Louis! Louis!, but not a move or a sound from them till he gets busy on the French for – well, I couldn`t exactly say, but it has it`s effect. Then the bother for us commences. They talk to those cows and chevaux as they would to a human, The milk flows next for the best part of an hour; then the

garcons break into our "doss and make a terrible noise getting out the fodder and stuff for the feeding up. It`s then that out fellows initiate the poor Froggies into the mysteries of out terrible wartime language.

Next on the scene is Marie the madamoiselle – who gets busy cleaning out the manure from the stables, cutting up mangawurzle, white but, & carrot for the pigs & cows, assisting in the milking, butter-making, house

3.
work & lots of other odd jobs, goodness, what a life for a girl!! I don`t think any of them have time for a wash, because they gaze on us (who are up early enough B4 B`fast) as we venture out into a neighbouring field for our morning ablution. I might add that to next obtain that luxury it is necessary to traverse thro` mud up to the boot-tops & then on arrival find an inch of dinkum ice covering the top of the pond or dam – brhh!!! – ughh!!! Still, it is worth the shivers & benumbed fingers, nose & ears to get the heaviness out of one`s eyes (I don`t know how the Froggies get on at all) , especially as the night`s broken sleep makes one feel very much out-o-sorts- why? Well, not only the early rising and noise of les garcons, but there`s our old eternal ? pals (the chats) who fill up night and day with out life`s best, (Yes, the red stuff which courses through ou bodies) & give us no end of itch & mysery. We suffer badly with hallucinations during the scratching which follows the bite of the louse. (You`ll get a bite in one place & B4 you "rock yourself off to shut eye will have scratched every inch of your –self that`s hallucination for you!) As if our night hours were not hideous enough, there is now added hundreds of hungry, hoary, mice, which without fear or favor, make short cuts to our days & dry rations (bread, cheese, margarine, fat, etc) via

4.
our head, faces & any other handy part of recumbent form. They keep one awake for hours nibbling at iron rations (biscuits, bully, tea and sugar) in our packs, (used as a pillow) or fighting one another for some tasty, morsel thieved from someones haversack. We have to suspend the said haversack (or other food-holder) from the stone-mud wall, or beams so as to deflect the ambitions of these nocturnal pests, but they must either be experts in the acrobatic art, or else take some terrible risks in doing air springs, for more often than not we find by holes in the pain (bread-propang) & cheese & other damage, to contents Oh it`s some life!! We are pretty well "broken in (or `broken up`,) now,& it takes more than the long Reveille to wake us properly.

The past week has been crammed full of drill, exercises, games, & sports for we of the "Glorious First, which despite the inclement weather have provided us with good pastime. Besides those things, I have had lots of splendid & most welcome mail from Aussie & Angleterre ( ongletaire our parlez-vouing pals-in-arms know old England as) in fact, so many letters that I dare not look at them in their separate bundles ("home, "others, "Eng,) I think the No delivered within the past 3 days have totalled nearly 40 – 25 in one batch) so I`ll have lots a work. (a pleasure when time & conveniences are with me) for some time to come & we

5.
may be up in les tranche? by this time next week – Oh gibbit!!

Let me mark time here & tell you who those are recd from W`bool. First of all came Dad`s grand sketch of the new homes position and environs, which has dispelled some false notions formed in my disordered brain, & for which I must tender sincere thanks, Do you know that with all your previous writings & explanations, I, really believed Bateman`s Road to commence where you`ve sketched Junction Street never dreaming that it`d be below Wharf Rd. Then again, nothing else in the world could disassociate my mind that "W`bool was not on the Eastern side of Bateman`s Rd ( the opp side, to which you have shown) I now compree that it`s pretty frontage folls the morning sun – glorious sunshine!) & you can admire God`s wonderful sunsets from the back verandah. I could discourse for some pages yet on other ideas I`ve formed of the neighborhood & inspirations that have come to me, but I`ll have to pass on now as times –flies (& all that sort o`thng) by once more thanking you sincerely for the great pains & trouble you went to in satisfying my whim.

The other favors to hand are – Dad`s (3) 11/10, 14/10. & 30/9. Elsie`s (4) 3/10, 13/10, (& xmas cards) 7/10, 9/9, "Lily (2) 7/10, 9/10, Thel (xmas card,27/9, Besides those, letters came from Aunts Sophie (at Albury) Aunt Maggie, & Aunt Em (the letter enclosing her photo). There were many other also from old friends in the main, at the "Vac & elsewhere which all helped to keep me in touch with dear old Aussie & take my mind off the bother (or Hell on earth), on the brink of which we seem to be continually.

I cannot help, despite our hopes and fears at the Front, worrying over the dreadful stress, strife & turmoil still in your midst – It` a bigger worry than that which we as "stoush merchants are up against. The future`s prospects seem to be, judging by the various ages I read from you & others, also the casual "Aussie " papers, "up the pole, to use a vulgarism, & our fair land, with it`s grand ideals

6.
of Democracy seems to be in the Melting pot of continual strife. What the end of it is going to be I can`t guess, but it seems more than [indecipherable] to me that the Revelations in the Great Book are hourly being fulfilled & nothing we can do will impede our Heavenly Fathers`s Will. We must not harden our hearts even tho` everything looks so black & forlorn in our midst.

The Battn. Sports (between the 4 Coys. A,B,C,& D) took place in cold, bleak, damp weather on Fri. & Sat. last on a French cockeys muddy field, about 2 miles from this billet. The various contests were to decide which coy. was to be considered the Champios for the next year. "A Coy has nearly always previously carried off the honors & Wal Abotomey`s efforts mainly attributed to that success. but the final result will not be know till all the events have been decided, then the aggregate will decide the winner. I qualified for the 440 yds champ representation some weeks back & in the heat on Fri. ran third thus qualifying for the final.

Friday was a busy day as I had a go at nearly everything just for the sport. After the 440 Fred Fowler (Aunt Em`s & the Misses Ross friend) now a subaltern (2nd Lieut.) & Tom Brownlee (also a ditto) pushed me into the 100 yds champ, but as I had done no training of any kind could get no nearer than a dead-heat for third in the eliminating heat. Kicking the football was spoilt by the heavy bleak, wind but some good kicks were registered. I had a go but was signalled a "wash out – dash the wind!. Running was a real task on that muddy field, but I turned up for the 3 legged race, pairing with one of the Lance Jacks - we qualified for the final. The sack-race provided lots of fun & I had a cut at it but did not break any record.

Next day Satur

7.
day was reserved for the main events & finals & these were lots of exciting finishes. The boys of the different Coy`s represented in the finals barracked all they knew because the Silver Bugle for the premier Coy. was worth winning. My first "canter was the obstacle Race & I reckon on it harder than the champs. The course must have measured well over 500 yds. but it was a difficult one. A sprint of 50 yds. across a ploughed muddy field to a low beam under which we crawled was the first spasm, more ploughed field; through a hedge (I 4got to say that we had to run barefooted on a/c of the slippery ground - & cold! gee`!!) across a little creek; round the slimy edge of a pond (originally intended that we should skate over ice but the ice expected did not eventuate) under a spreaded tarpaulin; a run of 150 yds. to a high beam over which we had to vault through a sack on the ground, the inside of which was smothered in flour; run to a bucket of water in which were apples; hands behind back bite an apple & finish with it in mouth. Gee!! but you ought to have just seen us after negotiating the flour-sack! The onlookers were laughing for hours afterwards as we looked like field bakers or chalk-miners. What made us worse was the mud we gathered on trousers & cardigan, to which the flour struck like glue. Anyhow I finished third, but do not know whether it`s worth a prize or no.

The obstacle race had hardly finished – half a mo! till I "imshee one of these domesticated cows out of our "ome they`re a blessed nuisance

8.
tread all over our blankets & rations (We don`t get too much of the latter}. Now to continue. I hadn`t "got my wind ere the final of the 440 was announced, but I had the line against the fresh ones & gave `em` a go. The pace was an awful "cracker and the track something terrible for slimy mud, especially getting round the corners. two dropped out B4 the last lap, but Yours etc. sailed on and finished 4th.

Our bare feet were without feeling for the coldness of the ground, & remained so till the end. Brrhh!!! My next appearance was in the final of the 3 legged race with the Lance_Corp & we pulled off 2nd place. Soon after came the race of the day – the "Flag Race (or Company Relay). A and D Coys. were pegging very close in points up till then, & this race was an important one for the dishing of the Bugle Honor. I was one of A s team & I`m going to say that victory was ours amidst great excitement – we had a comfortable win.

Vic Fowler is back with the old Battn. again & floats the single pip of a Lieut. He has unfortunately not come back to "A

Coy but we see him often. (He has charge of No. 16 Platoon – D Coy) I`ll tell Aunt Em when I ack`ge her favors what I`ve learned from Vic,. He is still as popular as of yore with the "old ands

Les Norman is still in No 4.P. and still A1 tho` our billets are half a mile apart I see him pretty often. I introduced him per letter to my young lady acquaint

9.
ance`s friend in Bristol, so between us we get lots of letters & "Luv & are assured of a glorious time if ever we get over to Bristol again. I don`t think you need be afraid of us letting dear old Aussie down, tho for my self there`s no one down your way in the fiancee line who would be annoyed in any way if I was to join the "Benedicks over here.

Do you know of anyone, my Dear Parents & Sisters ? My hardest task is to prevent this friend from sending parcels etc to me, she is like yourselves, wants to do something despite our warnings. She tells me that she has written to the girls, but what news she has given them I do not know. You can tell when it arrives.

One of my old pals who has just rejoined us from Blighty, tells me that while at the base (i) he was stopped by Les C. & asked where I was. It was not till arriving here that the former found me & he broke the news I was very much surprised then to learn that Les C`s revisit for to the base, was caused by a recent wound rec. up in the region which I have just left. Bill Beck was the pal (one of the few remaining of our Origl No. 4 P`toon which came to the West Front.)

Les C. has apparaently some news for me re someone down your way who is said to be much concerned about me according to Bill`s vague a/c of a converation he had . I am in a quandary as to who it can be, as I`ve recd no letter from you re the person in question about the matter. I can only tip that "Litz (Lizzie) has had a letter from Lily de B asking some quesrtions, so I must just say again

10.
that I was never a starter with her affections. Let`s know what you know don`t be afraid because I`ll find out sooner or later. I am waiting for a reply to my last to Les C so will let you know what news he has when that comes along. in the meantime hoping of course that he has not had to rejoin his Battn. & is once more "good-o-the –good-o:

There`s hardly anything else worth writing about as happening here just now but I think the next letter, or the one following will be scrawled from, or close to the trenches ( we don`t know what part of the line yet.) The hard-toiling French folk hereabouts are still bustling about & taking advantage of the late winter to plough their much cultivated plots in readiness for the coming of glorious spring – only 5 months off – ughh!! They are still thrashing in their barns last season`s crop by the aid of their heavy chevaus, ("chev-voh-horses) which walk for hours and hours without advancing a yard. How? Well there`s an inclined platform with a moving floor like those staircases at Mark Foys, the underground in London etc. on which the poor old horse stands, hemmed in by railings. When a lever is released, the platform (on endless chain revolves and the horse must move with it. The animal`s motion causes the business to continue & thus drives the thrasher. It seems pretty cruel on the animal but htey seem to be used to it and it`s a general thing on these farms.

As no word has come from Les N since I reached this side I know noth

11.
ing of his movements. Hope all`s well.

Do not know how I`m to ever comment on all the home letters now B4 me, especially with such rotten conditions ruling - rain, cold, darkness ,lack of conveniences as we have daily now. It is usually too cold for us to hold the pencil and the feet get painful with it. Neverthless I must run through Father`s great budgets again – they`re a pleasure to read. Goodness what a walk! Fancy Mother tackling Gladesville to the `main & back. There`s no need to say that she was "beaucoup fatigue " after it. Is it really necessary for you to go all that way for my army pay? Is not there a Govt. Post office at G`ville & havn`t you advised Victoria Barracks of the new address.

Glad to learn that you are all so well in health, but the stories of the strike and it`s far reaching consequences has left most of us in a quandary as to what the future is going to bring. It makes me feel at times that it would be better never to return from this war than to be greeted with the prospects of another internal upheaval. Often seems to me as if the workman has reached an apex with wages & that the downward path has commenced. I don`t think we can depend much on the weak-kneed Dago, Russian, Hun & others up here for participation in an International Worker`s League after the War, that is, judging by their present behaviour, & real democracy seems to be undergoing a severe trial. Let`s hope that the ideals we so much desire & under which we have lived so happily will continue despite the terrible effort of the Capitalists to introduce slave systems & subdue the masses.

Yes "W`bool must be in a lovely

12.
Position and amongst pretty surroundings. I would just love to read the many a/cs you give. I do not wonder at you all being in such good heart and spirit. Some day, if it`s God`s will, I may be back to see the beauties and the neatness of our little El Dorado, and above all, see you all again – what a day !!

You talk of fruit and flavers and make all sorts of ideas course thro` my troubled mind. Flowers here might be said to be napoo. The poor old rural Frenchies apparently havn`t time or inclination to cultivate wonderful nature, or to beautify their drab, dismal domiciles – and they are really dreary and uninviting to look at. Thanks to Mr and Mrs. Herb Smith, Mr.and Mrs.Gus Cowan and Gus, Mrs.Tetley and Gladys and those other enquiring friends.

Glad that the fruit trees are promising so well for the coming season. Fruit is now an absolute luxury and the greatest we can get to it is the preserved kinds – and we pay dearly for it too! You must have a rip of all Aussie fruit-trees in that wonderful garden, tho` I don`t remember you mentioning a pear or cherry. Thanks for you’re a/c of the veges and flowers still growing and expected. It makes grand reading … Good old strawberries.

So you got in on Thel for the first of the seasons caught her napping eh? Glad that the fowls are proving their worth and usefulness. A new laid egg for B`fast would go very nicely every morning. How nice !!! Grand to know that Thel is such a big girl and is progressing so well at school. That`s the stuff – keep it up !! She must be some athlete and favorite too to win her race at school and to be chosen as rep and tree-planter. Very very good!

Oh well, I must really KO now as I have lots of writing to do and cannot see much chance of clearing it while this dark-dismal damp weather lasts. Let me trust that this finds you all still hale, hearty and prosperous and that peace in your midst reigns again. My best wishes to all relatives and friends – you know the rest. Sincerest love to you all.
I am, your Loving Son and Bro Harrie XX

Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
N. S. Wales
"Aussie.

[Page 389]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.104.

End of the "Rest
Once more in the region of mud, muck, and bother
Mon. eve. Dec/ 17th 17. (47n)
My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters.
We have only a few moments ago arrived here – somewhere in the 4ward area – after nearly 4 days continuous travel per boot and train (mostly the former tho`) This is the first opportunity that I have had of writing you since Saturday, and I can tell you it`s a great task for me to settle down now, as the cold is still intense, and (tho` in one of the new style bow-roofed huts ) added to which we are all much fatigued after the little sleep obtained for nearly a week and "shut-eye is the only thing we are fit for. Nevertheless, I must try and tell you something of the past week`s doings and also by writing now keep our link of communication intact.

As I write, the continuous bang of many batteries quite close to us shakes the ground and remind us once more of the fact that the great War is still "on tap – very much on. And battered villages through which we passed bore the marks of the Hun`s violence and not a shed even remains untouched. Poor Belgium! And there`s no end in sight yet.

A few of our planes amidst the white puffs of Fritz`s bursting "Archies (shrapnel) just a little way east, tells us that the Front Line is not far off – 5 miles they say – and that it`ll soon perhaps be our home – and for Xmas. On our way to this hutment camp we passed alongside one of our new style "sausage "batteries which had just previously been pulled down by the winch, after an hour or two`s observation of the Hun lines. It`s not till one gets so close that it`s great size is realised – some balloon believe me

Our hard earned rest ended last Friday

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Morning when we had orders to pack up and prepare for this trek. The day previous I took another run into the city of B----- (9 miles or so distant) to break the monotony of the life round the mean village and the stinking farm house where we were "boarded.

B---- is a busy city and of course the shipping makes it most important. The good old YMCA is there to provide us visitors with amusement and comfort, as is also the Salv. Army, Catholic Womens` Club and Soldiers and Sailors Club. At the YMCA a free cinema is provided for us so I took advantage of it and spent a pleasant hour or two. The days are so short now that it was almost dark when the "choo-choo¨arrived at the station, the Paris-Calais, Dunkirk express) tho` the time of day was but 3.30 pm. Promenading therefore along the darkened narrow streets was no bon, as one was continually dodging people and vehicles, and trams, especially at the cross roads.

The journey back in the "Paree express was a slow one, but I s`pose it`s the usual thing during these bad times. A heavy mist added to the pitch blackness of the night when we reached our station – about 3 miles from the Billet – so that the walk back did not promise too pleasant, and so it proved, as a chap I was with said he knew the short cut very well having used it nearly every night, so along that "cut we hiked. It lay up to the top of the high ridge (at the foot of which was the main road) and across some ploughed fields. All went well up to the top, but the mist proved impenetrable and we soon didn`t know where we were. For nearly 2 hours we plodded blindly along muddy ruts and furrows into pools of water and mud – Oh it was `good-o`. My companion in trouble was inclined to lie down and sleep, but that was nobon because we were to move off early in the morning ( and it was that morning) Eventaully we stumbled across a familiar track and reached the old Barn in plenty of time for Reveille and B`fast. Our route lay through recently ploughed fields, and up and down numerous hills and dales. The villages and hamlets passed thro` were those usually seen in La Belle – mean, dirty and out of date.

The day we reached here was the "corker as it commenced at 3am Reveille and we were on the go from 4 till a few hours ago. The first spasm was a march of 7 miles in the dark and cold (snow falling) and along wet roads. It was no joke, especially with the old pack up, besides the usual paraphernalia. We passed thro several large villages and a town, but it was too dark even at 6pm to see what places they were . Our next spasm was a ride in a train which took us thro` some well know towns and places very familiar to us since we first came to Frqance. Spasm 3 was the 3 mile march to this camp thro` part of Belgium where the Hun guns have done plenty of damage.

It is now so cold that snow feels imminent – brrh!! It`s awful. I am not in the humor for writing at all, the cold hands and feet taking all pleasure out of everything but sleep - and even that`s not as comfy as it might be. Ah well I s`pose its` no use grumbling; the War is continuing and we are still starters. Perhaps next Sat, if the elements are kinder and we are not in the line, I`ll be able to write a more pleasant leter, so till then I`ll switch off and finish up commenting on your many favors still B4 me. There are so many letters on hand now (nearly 30) that I do not know which way to turn, so if anyone waIts to know that`s happened to me just say that opportunities and conditions are absolutely no bon for letter writing and I am doing my best.

I think I ackgd previously the receipt of Father`s splendid map of Warnambool`s environs, (dated 6/9th) anyhow if I did not, let me say here that it is now B4 me and has enlightened me a great deal; as regards certain wrong notions that I`d somehow stored up in my troubled brain, I must add genuine thanks for the map and for the great trouble and pains that it must have taken him to get it

3.
out so minutely and clearly. I can now understand that the new house is in a grand position both as regards convenience and outlook. Previousl I had been building up all my imaginations stored up from your vivid and clear eyes the house facing West (viz towards Ryde) but now I can see how far out I was. The front lawns and gardens must receive the first kiss of day and the first warmth and light of God`s wonderful Sun.

I will now be able to draw a more accurate mind-picture - thanks to the map. Well, me once more refer to your grand favors which are still B4 me. I know that I`ll never be able to do them justice now because so many have accumulated, thery`re so big, and conditions and opportunities are dead against me. Your big budget of 6/9th is another masterpiece for which many thanks, You say it is just a continuatin letter to the one penned on the 4th and was meant to ackge my large mail. I think that it is a young book and hardly know what to do with it when finished.

It`s real encouraging to learn that most of the regular letters and so many post cards for you all, including those of the defunct 6th, Divvy marching thro Blandford have reached you ok and that you like them so much. Let`s hope that those posted later also arrive safely. Thanks for telling me what the other card represented. It is a good guide to me and thanks awfully for your full a/cs of improvements in and around Balmain and Sydney which I asked of you in a previous communiqué.. From all a/cs many improvements have been effected which show most clearly that there must be prosperity (or was prior to the Great Strike) in your midst. Balmain and Rozelle ought not to be short of indoor amusements now and there should be little need to go to the "Big Smoke in order to fill in a night.

Glad to know also that the first spasm of the projected underground Railway system is a reality and not a myth. The reservations are the first step in the right direction, so some day perhaps the real start will be made (It`ll have to come sooner or later if the city expands as it has done for the past quarter of a century of more) Yes, I know the block you refer to opp. Macquarie Terrace and the school. Fancy the owner putting up 10 cottages on it - gee! Guess the yards will run --- very close for --- place as suburban model allotments.

Thanks for your detailed a/cs of the great alterations that have taken place in and around Balmain and Sydney especially with the new tram-lines and railway yard in the vicinity of Glebe Island and thereabouts. Didn`t know previously that a long jetty had been built out into White Bay from the "Island We will have our eyes opened right enough if ever it`s our fortune to get back to you which we keep trusting will soon be reality… I know the plot of ground at cnr of Grosvenor and George Sts belonging to the Union Coy. Gee!. a quarter of a million to be the cost of the new offices to be erected - what next? Has the contract been accepted yet? Hows` their proposed new workings and wharves getting along at Ball`s Head and Kerosene Bay

4.
Archie is certainly having lots of send offs at home. Good luck to him! I`d like to learn of him staying there till duration.. Please rembr me very kindly to his and Pearlie`s folk. Hope theyr`e all in the pink and all that sort o thing. Am pleased that you appreciate my crude efforts to interest you in my writings of scenes about the camp on the "Plain. One gets very much disinterested in all sorts of things on a/c of the rotten environment in which we live, and so we can not do justice to the letter or the scenes.. Good luck to Elsie in her efforts to improve her position. What do you think of her choice. It would be very handy right enough and the saving in fares would help considerably.

Your big letter of Oct.11th (one of the several still B4 me – answered is just as its forerunners – a beaut.. It surprised me to learn that you had rcd several returned letters. Were they sent back from the Base Post Office or were they sent by me? If the latter I cannot rembr returning Mother`s written fromIslington "or "Bogies. So you have recd a phot of Dear Grandmother`s last resting place at Port Fairy - good!

… I hope you understand now how it was that we up here only had the newspapers to enlighten us about the Great Strike when it first occurred. Our feelings naturally were much aroused when we thought of out own positions as soldiers helping in the Empires cause, while down in our lovely homeland a terrible turmoil was in full swing which was to interfere with our reinforcements, our food stuffs, (and goodness knows we want both them bad enough) our comforts and other necessities most needful for not only ourselves, but for the starving and suffering millions in the British Isles and the Continent. It seemed at that time that such a calamity in the Democratic community as a strike was very unjustified, but we did not think that it was the Govts dirty work – We know now of course. Ah well, it`s all finished now (for a time at any rate) so let us hope that prosperity once more reigns supreme. I will hold over commentary further on your grand letter as it is getting late and the cold is still intense.

Let me now bid you good night and hope that Dear Mother, yourself and the girls are still A1 in health and spirit, and that you are once more back at steady employment. Remr me very kindly to all relatives and friends in Aussie and accept best love to your dear selves
I am ever your loving son and Bro.
Harrie XX

My address is "A of the 1st
You know the rest

[Page 390]
No.105
Somewhere in Belgium. (47n)
Sat eve.Decr.22nd 17

(Still the old Regtl. Address – please pass it on to old pals etc.)

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters
Time is surely fleeting and it does not seem almost a week since No 105 was put on the stocks and launched on it`s way to you.
[Previous letter was No.104. ]
Nevertheless such is the case, so I must again endeavour to convey to you the sparse news of the week`s doings at my disposal. I would like to say lots of things about places as I see them in this sorrowful, battered, and violated country, but being in what is know as the "Forward Area , I must reserve that new and so keeping Mr. Censor`s favour. I shouldn`t like to incur his displeasure.

Since coming to this part of the Front we have had some very severe wintry elements and also the first fall of snow - brrh!! It has been so cold that we`ve been almost frozen all the week. Our bow –roofed huts are almost

The Belgians battered dwellings and sheds near-by were severally "tickled by the different parties, and their sorry plight was made worse by the time beams and las—had been removed. Still, the job was necessary because one blanket in a draughty hut at this time of the year is not sufficient for an animal let alone cold mortals like we humans. Our first night (Monday Decr 17th) here despite the fire in the early hours of "shut-eye was a corker for the shivery stuff – bffh!! Which was let loose on us and very few lasted the sleep out till next morning . Reveille in consequence Cold! – not arf`n all! Heavy frost greeted us outside when we turned out of bed ("Down bed of course – Yes, well down too!) and any thought of the morning ablution brought on the shivers, because it meant a walk over the frozen grass and ruts to a pond near-by, which needless to say was frozen also. Being pretty well broken in to those things now, I could not forego the habit lived so well at home in "civvy life, so never fail to B4 breakfast when it`s possible.

We of No.1 platoon had a march of a couple of miles toward the line, passed over part of the scene of the June advance, to one of several enormous mine-craters which did so much to insure that victorious "Hop over Bert told me in one of his letters that his unit was responsible for the final preparation in the sending to eternity the now famous Hill 60 (near Ypres) – some kilos from us – so I can well imagine what a splash it must have made when Mr Lloyd George listened to the explosion the other side of the "Gutter – and heard it plainly too. The one near here is also a "beaut, and must have sent to "glory hundreds of the cause of all our present sorrow and troubles.(The Hun) when the anxiously awaited moment came,

I told you in a previous letter all abouat the late Battn Sports held near B--- Well during the past week we place-winners were paid our prize-money (by the O.C. of this Coy. And Capt McGregor MC) which was very acceptable, seeing that it cost us nothing to enter the various events – the Battn officers finding the "fooluce I did not think I was entitled to any, but it was a pleasant surprise to be handed 121/2 francs (about 10/6) for my share of the winnings (2nd in 3 legged arce – 5 francs between us, 3rd in obstacle race = 5 francs and being one of the relay team which won the honor had a cut out of the --- francs – receiving as my divvy 5 francs. The winning helped me to further economise on my Daily allotment. The credit in my book now totalling over £7 which will be very handy if ever I reach Blighty again, will save me cabling to you for an advance (a thing I should not like to have to do again)

Glad indeed that the girls` wages were of some use in helping "W`bool` to carry on. During the biggest part of the crisis. Do not worry about using any cash that is to my credit either in bank or from the military, but just go ahead – it` your`s for disposal. I only wished that I was drawing a bit more, but up

Sorry that Bert Tetley has had such a rough time with his wound, but trust that he`ll get back to dear Aussie,napoo war. Best regards to Gladys and Mrs Tetley when they visit you again. .. Glad to learn that Fred Brooks the cyclist is also a TT & non-smoker – good luck to him . Guess he`s doing exceedingly well as a soldier if £3 per week is his wages. Wonder why the "sloush marshalls are not paid in proportion? good old army!!!

The terrible suffeirngs of the poor with starvation, at a time when the country was enjoying such bountiful prosperity makes sad reading & I must express absolute sympathy with those families who had to bare the brunt of it. Their troubles are just reflexes of what is happening in the UK & Europe & has been for over 3 years. Certainly seems as tho the whole globe is to suffer, not only the combatants, but the "civvies women and children & others – as well. You cannot wonder that the discouraging news

[The "Port Kembla was sunk off Cape Farewell in 1917 by a mine laid by a German Raider – SMS Wolf]
What kind folk are Mr & Mrs Herb Smith! Goodness it seems as tho` they cannot do enough for us. My best respects, regards & best wishes to them please & the hopes that good health & prosperity is still reigning .

Gladesville,
Sydney,
N. S. Wales
Australia

[Page 399]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.106.

Somewhere in Belgium. (47n)
Sat. morn. Decr 29th 17

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters.
Another week-end has come & we are still in the "4ward area, in the region where "bother brews night and day.

The wintry elements are pretty severe; as much snow and sleet, with bitter icy winds, have been ruling ever since we came here. Murk, mist and slough have added to the XQQ the "shell-hole - shivery stuff & made us long for Peace & home. The landscape around us has reminded me somewhat of those Arctic pictures of Dr.Mawson`s, tho` further back out of the fire-zone those pictures or paintings in our art galleries , of Europe in winter or snow scenes on the "Conty-nong etc. came back to my troubled mind. These so called "prettysnow and ice scenes are all very well on canvas but it is absolutely no bon to we OAS in reality

2.
All the trees are now quite bare of foliage (hundreds of them also devoid of everything but a stump through hostile shell fire) & stand black & gaunt amidst the snow-whiteness of the ground. If the snow fall has been without wind, the branches, twigs, & shrubs become covered with snowy fluff, the telephone wires likewise. Barbed wire entanglements of which there is a great deal hereabouts, also presents a changed appearance under the mantle. Oh yes, it`s all very pretty, unique, & out of the ordinary, but that all disappears with us because we`ve got to put up with the shivery part of it - & that`s "pas bon in doors & out of doors.

The hard metalled & cobbled roads are positively dangerous after the very heavy frosts both for foot-soldiers and all beasts because the surface becomes as glass & foot holes are almost impossible. I`ve seen some nasty falls during the week & one never knows the second when he himself is to come a cropper. Marching with pack and equipment under those conditions is as much hard work as any fatigue – no boomin bon.

When the snow begins to melt it will give

3.
way to the terrible mud & slush & then we`ll be wishing for the former conditions as the best out of a bad deal. The evenings and nights are clear, with a brilliant moon, especially after a heavy fall of snow & the light reflected on the whiteness makes it almost as day. The clear night sky generally means lots of aerial activity on both sides, especially by our airmen, as you`ll read in your morning papers. Fritz with his big "Gothas does not look on, you can depend as well we know it, for the dull hum and buzz of his engines is clearly heard when near-by. Lying on our "Doun beds we can hear the banging of his "eggs as he gets on to some land mark & I can assure you it does not make sweet music. Our antis can rarely pick them up against the stars and blue skies so he usually gets a smooth passage.

Only this afternoon, while a very heavy mist was over us, a big Gotha apparently lost as to directions, came down below the haze to see where he was and found himself a few hundred feet above our huts. We "Mag-gunners

4.
dashed in for a lewis-gun, but he had imshee`d at the "toute suite by the time we got outside, after several shells burst almost on him (over us). It was exciting while it lasted & we almost began to allot ourselves souvenirs from the plane, so close was it.

I think I told you last week that I met young Arthur Johns of Balmain near here, or at least it was he who met me. It was good to know that he was till good-0 after such a long spasm on this side of the Pond. He tells me that Jim Duke and Jack Atkins (Anzac now a lance Jack were both in the 1st Field Coy. Engineers with him & were A1. I have not seem him since, nor have I the others. Please Remr them to all acquaintances your way.

You`ll be pleased to know that at last I`ve met "Mystic Bert in this region & found him A1. It was a big surprise meeting to em because he was not at that time on my mind & was the last person I`d expect to have seen . Anyhow, it was last Sunday (Decr 23rd) morning. Les Norman & I were returning to the Hut when who should step out but Bert himself. It appears that he had met one of our 1st Battn lads in the YM near his Tunnellers camp (about 4 Kilometres from here - 21/2 miles) & asked about me,

5.
luckily met a lad who knew me well (Geo Golden original Anzac) so was able to be directed right to this hut. As I was at Church he waited outside for me & it happened that Les & I waited for the Communion Service. When the first lot came out Bert thought that his long walk here was in vain, but luckily held on a little longer & thus the meeting came about. I knew him in a moment, despite the soldier`s uniform, & it took very few minutes B4 I learned all about his doings. His unit has been on this part of the Front ever since they commenced operations, Bert know his way about like a native. I obtained permission to go with him to his Camp & enroute we climbed to the highest point on our side of the line (Mt.K) where Sir Douglas Haig & the D.of W. observed the "sending to glory of Hill 60 & other places round about.

The large towns of L-, Y-, & A-, I believe are clearly discernible on a clear day, but as it was the usual misty one we could not see far. Bert pointed out the hole made by a hun "dud which lobbed only a few yards from the party of lookers on – it was very close. On the summit also, lives the furthest advance of Belgian civvies – Julia, her Ma & Pa – who are hanging on to their mud-lath house & farm, despite the great & ever present at that time - danger.

As Bert & his unit were camped in there (the Belgians) Yard near-by, all last summer it was natural that he was known by them. We

6.
enjoyed a cup of cafe-au-lait (coffee & milk) & a little talk with them, They speak English very well too. Bert acting as guide also showed me where he & his pals were camped in tents & dugouts & from there we joy rided per army motor wagons to the new camp some miles away.

I met there Bert`s close pal, (Bill ? an Englishman who came away with him & who has been with him right through . This Bill visited Aunt Jeans with Bert; She`ll know who he is & be glad to learn that both are still OK. Remr them please ... I cannot add muh more to our meeting, only that he learned from Aunt Soph of dear Grandmother`s death but made no comment thereon to me . I don`t know whether it affected him or not. Oh! he also told me that he had just recently been to Blighty on leave, & managed, after visiting Bill`s folk & others up North, (Newcastle, Sheffield,York, way to call on Great Aunt Annie , who he found good-0 I`m glad to add. It happened that Rose Woollcott was paying a visit at same time, he has seen her too.

Talking of Rose, reminds me that she and Annie sent me a nice parcel for Xmas, contg a pudding, sponge cake, & chocolate for which I feel most grateful. I haven`t a chance to ackge yet & don`t expect I will for a while yet, as we go up into the line on Monday (the Front Line) & there will be no opportunities there

7.
Despite all efforts to prevent it, my Bristol young lady friend has gone to the expense of also sending a parcel on, so I seem to be getting right into the "fair one`s net, with little or no hope of escape. It`s all very kind of them & it seems as tho they, like your dear selves, cannot do enough for we over here.

Bert had a pleasant leave & made a big hole in the 20 quid sent him by Aunt Soph (out of his own money I think he assured me) he referred to the tiff you had with him while he was at Moore Park, & in explanation, said that the imminent sailing arrangements of that time prevented him visiting you at Ma Smith`s palatial mansion, or of advicing you of his expected movements. I did not press him further in regard to that unpleasant memory, but he sends on to you all, the best of wishes and love.

I of course , I have never had any hasty words with him yet, so there is no need for me to be anything but the "nephew I am supposed to be. You compree, I hope? Anyhow I left him in best of spirit, with the hope that I`d see him after we did our turn in the front line trenches, if we remain in this district. He is working up at memorable W –Ridge inshift, & returns to Camp for a bath & rest, tonight or tomorrow night - I won`t be able to see him for a fortnight or more – God willing then ... so much for Bert.

Our season of Yuletide, with it`s holy connections & teachings has come & gone, so another day of all days has been added to those spent O.A.S. Xmas Day 1917 is my 3rd (the gallant,Anzacs, 4th) spent away from you , my dear parents and sisters & it brought , as you can guess, pleasant memories of the past, & a terrible longing to be amongst you once more as a peaceful civilian. Our Heavenly Father alone knows what the future holds and I will still trust in his great judgment & mercy, believe that in his time this dreadful world calamity, & strife will end.

Tues. was the day but it was little different to others for us, & duties had to go on just the same. "the same Sunday was the same Monday " The elements did not tend to make us rejoice, as a bitterly cold wind blew up dark clouds & made the day

8.
the reverse of pleasant. Of course we couldn`t grumble even if it rains & snowed because the "Vics were in the Line & were worse off than we – much worse.

I attended the church services & communions on that Holy Day & was glad of the opportunity. The good Old Aussie YM gave us each one of the nicest Xmas presents . I think possibly considering the great No of lads OAS, on that day – a neat leather pocket-wallet, containing pouches, a miniature writing pad (the outer cover bearing the endorsement " Write home first) & a pencil . The front bears the map of Aussie outline and triangle, all in gold-leaf, (considering the whole thing being very neat, compact & most useful.

Many of the lads obeyed the out-staring injunction & wrote home (or elsewhere) & some are still busy on it. Our Xmas meals were the usual , with the addition of "dough (duff), hash ,& for the "slaves or disciples of Mr [indecipherable] several tots of rum. We all voted the menu "the best ever for the army, & so it was. None went away hungry, but rather very full down below after the duff. The "dry canteens everywhere did a roaring trade in cakes, bisquits, tinned sausages, fruit & fish, as the boys formed little "messes of their own and made the best of the absence from you.

Boxing day was not spent as many of you down under did, but the Army`s business had to be carried out and we fell in for a [indecipherable] march along slippery frozen roads with a pick & shovel job at the [indecipherable] of it with stones as the material to be jiggled. We had to hump our equipment and rifle with us , so were not in much humor for celebrating the occasion, by the time we reached camp.

Next day saw us on another stunt like that, up to near the newLine,(since the advamce) through the most desolate looking country ( thro shell fire, [indecipherable] that I ever saw (as bad as that round Y---)

We saw the now historic remains of the little village of M--- & the many shattered "[indecipherable] which the Hun erects there & on other parts of the great ridge. I could not in writing, or words explain the sight I beheld, but the wreckage was so complete that only parts of a few walls remain of some dwellings ( I s`pose were) the rest being flattened & jumbled worse thatn anything I could dream of. If there was a main street or square there, you could not pick it out from a back-alley or a yard. Iron beams were twisted & broken like paper, & everywhere was signs of the Hell let loose there on the (to the Hun) dreadful day. The sight from the Ridge there back to the British late line was an extensive one and I marvel now that Fritz was ever dislodged because he could see every movement made on our side.

Some day perhaps, with the aid of photos and books I`ll be able to explain things more fully, so till then I will pass on to you grand favors still on hand. B4 I do, let me add that next week’s

9.
letter No 107 may have to be held over as we will be in the trenches & it`ll be too cold to sleep,let alone write letters

Father`s great favors & masterpieces with me, all of date Oct 11th (part commented on previously) & 14th for which again please accept lots of merci-beaucoups. Thanks for your further enlightenment on the whys and wherefores of the recent Great Strike. You will easily understand how it was that we up here could only look on the strikers as sheep led by the P.L.L. & I.W.W. – we only had the Govt. side of it -- also how disheartened we were to learn that such calamity should happen at this terrible time & while so many of the lads were away & in the trenches.

It seems to me now that the National Govt. is in much disfavor throughout the Com`wealth, especially as they `ve been hit so hard by the conscription issue, the unexpected result of which is just coming through. Goodness I thought that it was a "moral for a win by "yes. I might say that this time I voted for the Govts. "longsuit not because of them, but because the exemptions as declared by them were so liberal that only the "deep-thinker and "cold feet, with very few exceptions were to be brought in & then only enough to keep up the required quota of reinforcements.

While on this ticklish theme, I might add that the Huns in front of us today has the full strength of the result & is quite [indecipherable] over it, judging by the pamphlets said to have been dropped by his planes in our area, congratulating us on the Govts. defeat & the (to them) all important result. Tis said that they have made an offer to give us a "quiet time while in this sector, providing that we
reciprocate.

As I have seen nothing in writing to verify those statements you can accept them as they are & as I heard them. I believe tho that they are attempting to fraternise, using that course to their own ends if it succeeds.
It is real disheartening to know that there has been so much poverty, suffering, and starvations amongst the class who could ill aford to lose even one week`s meagre wages. I can only hope

10.
now that long B4 the Festive Season & the New Year the old prosperity has returned to you all.. I thank you for the further enlightenment contained in the N. paper cutttings, "When the Boys come home, & for that regarding Dear Grandmother`s death.

Trust my dear Father, that you have been able to obtain regular & prosperous employment again. It is real bad news to know that you are idle that our future stands in jeopardy. Of course if the worst comes to the worst you will not stop at using every penny coming to me from the military or of selling up the Chatswood block. Do not worry about me if I ever get to England again, because the [indecipherable] it is still mounting in my Field Pay Book (over £7 at the moment) & even if I go heavy from now on, there`ll be enough left to see me through without craving the temporary help of the A.I.F. .

It`s really a great blessing that you had pretty "W`bool& the garden etc. to employ your enforced spare time & to take your mind off the all important crisis, also at the same time to help feed yourselves over the bad spasm, Home vegetable growing there.

Thanks for your off to welcome "Bogey if he visits W`bool . I suppose that he is well "home and dried long ere this. It seems if there was no truer saying than "To him that hath shall be given when referring to the numerous presents of flowing plants, ferns, etc. given you by Mr & Mrs. C.Smith & other kind friends. How very kind they all are!! Would dearly love to see your grand display of roses & other plants. Fancy that old rose from the `Main` coming on so wonderfully as it has. Marvellous!

It beats me how you can recollect so many of the flower specimens by their latin or other names. I`ll require many regular lessons B4 I`ll ever be proficent even in the most common of blooms. It`s real grand to know that the new old fuit trees are doing such wonders under your careful tending & supervision. How I long to give you a hand ... My!! what great friends & neigbouors the Farley family be. I couldn`t now imagine the smell and beatifulness of the roses they gave you. How kind of them! Guess I`ll want an intro when that happy day of the future comes along - God willing of course.

Good luck to Bert if he can keep his Blighty job till duration. Rembes to him and his folk please & thanks for Mrs [indecipherable] kind wishes. Am waiting patiently for the snaps of Thel & Lottie P. They`ll be sure welcome . It`s real grand to learn all the good things you say about Thel`s progress at home & school & about Els, Lizzie, Mother & yourself as regards health & spirits. Those happy conditions (God`s blessing) offset some what the dreadful economic turmoil...

Well my dear Parents and sisters, I`ve got to the end of this badly scrawled letter (can`t help it) so will still hope that all goes well with health, happiness and prosperity ....Goodnight, God bless you.
I am Your loving son and Bro.
Harrie XX

[Written sideways in margin is reference to some photo he had found in the snow showing some scene in an English prisoner of war camp – not transcribed]

[Page 400]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.107.
"In the Field – still in the "4ward area, somewhere in
Belgium. (47n)
Sat Eve, Jany. 5th. 17

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters.
Unexpected often happen, & so it is with me at this moment, as I really did not think during the week that I`d be writing, this letter at all, let alone from the same place as last week`s No.106.

I think I advised you in that letter that the old Battn was to go into the Front Line, well they did, & that`s where they are now, but I recd unexpected orders the night B4 last while up where "bother brews to pack up and report to a "school of instruction " just near where "Mystic Bert and his unit are encamped, so you can now "compree why I am once more up to time-table with the weekly communique

This letter is being penned from our late camp (about 5 miles from the Line) under a flickering candle light, (tho it is but 5 pm & with an almost choking barrage of smoke from our Hut braziers (the usual oil-drums perforated with holes, per agency of a bayonet) caused by the boys putting on green-twigs and boughs in their efforts to keep the home fires burning. & old John Frost in his place – outside.

The elements are still pas bon (no good) for we Australians – or for any human for that matter – but we`ve got to adapt ouselves to the ruling conditions & make the very best of a bad deal - & she`s some bad – brhh!! Snow still falls regularly & adds to the already frozen state of the ground, pools, ponds, etc. also reminding us

2.
that Winter holds sway and that spring is only about 4 months off. It makes me wonder what`s worth fighting for on this side of the troubled globe, with it`s long winter months & the short spasm of Summer, when there`s dear old Aussie away from most of the bother, & enjoying, for the biggest part of the year, God`s glorious sunshine & mild conditions. Ah, well, perhaps some day the poor ignorant folk up here will wake up fully & realise what they`re missing by staying on this side.

Of course we all realise that we`re here to help stop the greasy Hun, in his mad rush thro` the World & that the Battle-Front with it`s network of trenches & fortifications , is protecting dear old Aussie; & you from the modern ravages, as much as England, France & other Allies. Yes, the terrible trenches & out-posts, only so few miles from where I write, now manned by Aussies & others, are the stumbling blocks to the agus men of Europe [indecipherable]-humans who`se ambitions knew no bounds under civilised laws & compacts. Let`s trust that the "Square`eds get no nearer you than this & that ere another year rolls by, Peace, sweet peace, will reign once more throughout the World.

Last Monday (Decr 31st –New Year`s Eve) saw us leave this "possy for `les tranche?, so we started 1918 well – eh, what?!. The march there with all our gear, along roads frozen & like polished marble, & duck boards ditto, was no joke for us – it was no blooming bon! I could`nt in 10 letters describe the scenes of utter desolation through which we had to pass en-route, or the thoughts that occurred to us as we beheld the heart breaking spoiling of wonderful nature by mere man & especially when we tried to picture Aussie in such a like sad state. The march along what seemed interminable miles of slippery frozen duck boards, twisting and winding in

3.
all directions as they bordered hundreds of shell-holes (now frozen), was by no mans a pleasant one, especially as darkness was on us & lights were of course taboo. Many of us had involuntary "Gaby glides into the shell holes alongside, as the boards were frozen & our iron heels were as skates, but we were fortunate that the said holes were not full of water instead of ice, or there would have been some very uncomfortable hours for us during the term in the Front outposts. As it was, the weights of lewis gun paniers of ammunition & (8 each containing 47 bullets) in addition to our other indispensble gear had us pretty well frazzled by the time we reached the post in front of the Hun. Yes, somewhere in Flanders.

I will not say much about the experiences had there during the long night hours – 4.30 pm till 7am during the sleet & snow etc. but will reserve them till that happy day of the future – I`ll just add that it was a great relief to get into the Pill-Boxes & dugouts near by for the few hours spell which the Front Line men get in turn, The outlook (from the outpost ) on to our surroundings would bring tears almost to a crocodile for absolute utter desolation reigns . It`s only when daylight lifts the veil & allows us to sneak a peep towards Fritz (or Jerry as our Tunnellers call him) that we get any idea of the dreadful work of modern man in his efforts to gain objectives or beat back opposition.

It occurs to me that God`s lovely nature is cruelly obliterated in this terrible region, & I (& we) must feel thankful to Him that it`s not our lovely land that we gaze on & also feel sorrowful for the poor folk who once tilled the now shell-pocked ground in times of peace. Not a single sign of a living being can be seen during the hours of daylight, except just as dawn is lifting when we may get a glimpse of some enemy infantry dashing from their outpost position to the nearby battered pill box. (we are also using some of the latter on our side of No Man`s Land which were recently occupied by the common enemy)

The hill side & ground round us

4.
are absolutely devoid of vegetation under the marble of snow and no tree in sight, especially those that once line a "National Road, the signs of the effects of shell fire. some seem to be holding out appealing broken arms and all have a pitiful appearance. Now and again a monster rat will dash across the parapet and disappear into the [indecipherable] & that`s all we see of life here abouts.

Up above,the planes of both when the weather is favorable, are always busy. Some hover above like birds in the blue & it`s easily guessed that their errand is photography. Others flying backwards & 4wards are "spotting for the artillery batteries to which they belong, while many find jobs at the rear of the line (on both sides) & must have lots of excitement amongst the white puffs of "Archies & the swish of machine gun bullets .

Fighting in the air does not seem to be as common as it was [indecipherable] & again you`ll hear the rattle of mach guns up above as a good opportunity for the observer presents itself. Near where we were at the outpost is the remains of two big planes – a tale of the advance I s`pose.

Our New Year`s Eve & the dawn of 1918 was viewed from the little trench & we couldn`t help remarking on the prospects for the future - & what a prospect from there, gee!!! The old snow –clad waste watching intently for any dark object out of the folds of the ground that might offer a target for the Lewis gun [indecipherable] proved to be hostile. None came however, Les Norman had the cold job of patrolling between the "posts with another lad & I saw him regularly as he called on us during his "promenade amongst the snow and shell holes. It was some New Year for him too.

At the time, the Peace terms of both sides careered madly backwards and 4wards overhead in the shape of shells and not egg-shells [indecipherable] & their music was the reverse of sweet. Ah well, God alone knows what the end of it all will be. We`ll just keep on trusting . I can`t say more about this place now, my Dear Parents – it does not make for pleasant thoughts, but rather brings on pessimism when there`s no need for it. (We`re still winning on Land and Sea.)

I`ll be leaving for the "school tomorrow morning (about [indecipherable] miles away) so will look out for Bert & give you some more news in next weeks letter, as his camp is near-by. Do not know how long it will last, but No 108 has a good chance of being written from there. We`ll see... The winter so far is proving quite a contrast to the record one of last year

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not for the severity of the cold so much as for the rain, for very little of the latter as fallen yet to add to our already showery lot. In place of rain, we are having lots of snow, sleet, & icy winds & they`re quite bad enough to make one pray fervently for Peace, & the dear old Home-land - & you. God grant it will soon be with us. The only conso. (at the Front is that what we have to put up with is also the lot of our enemy, & he is sometimes much worse off, tho` of course the push backs only send him to prepared pill-boxes & leave us the batttered ones, or to worse [indecipherable]. It`s all in the game tho` & we`ve got to carry on ...

I think that Bert is still on the big job up on W—Ridge (about [indecipherable] miles Nor`West of here) but as he is back this way every 4 days for a wash & rest I may be fortunate in again meeting him and hi pal "Bill Gaston when I call. Talking to some of the Bt. Pioneers at memorable & historic AC – (on the Ridge ) the other day I learned that Les. N. had not up till then joined the Battn. to their knowledge. Some of the boys I spoke to came over in his reinforcements so knew him well. Good luck to him if he can hang on in Blighty. Will keep a look out amongst his unit as I see them. Oh, Geo. Burns of Balmain is still with the 1st Pioneers. I saw and spoke to him a few weeks back while we were on trek from the rear (near to this Front. He is still A1 & has had a long & lucky "spin So may his fortune continue...

No further news has come from Les C nor do I expect one as his last letter is still B4 me, dated "France 12/12/17 I gather that he wrote from our Base after having been at Wimereaux hospital. He expects to rejoin his old unit at any time and by now may be there. There is no other news that I convey to you in this letter that you do not already know of.

Tis said (or rumoured) here that another of our onward-bound mail boats has gone to Davy Jones taking with her "Bo-coo parcels and letters despatched from your end about the end of Oct. As the information is not confirmed we can only hope that such is not the casse. I do know tho` that no Xmas parcels to us from the Red Cross or Comforts Funds as of yore, so we just had to go without the long looked for luxuries and put our hard luck down to the Great Strike, which we believe was the cause of the oversea transports being held up at your end . Is that so?

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Until I receive your late Oct or early Nov letters I`ll not know whether Father has managed to return to his [indecipherable] job at the Island. The Harries critical financial position during these black days has worried me considerabley & I am helpless to assist you, especially from this great distance. Tho` I keep trusting for the best, something tells me that the workers outlook for the future under the "Win-the-War & "break –the-People Govt. is the reverse of pleasant. What is the strength of the tremendous conscription Referenda defeat throughout the Commmonwealth? We (or most of us) cannot understand why it turned out so, but I have an idea that the Govt is in general misfavor over the late strike; or else there`s something else that we do not know of. Well "Billy Hughes and his crew have to resign, & & will another election be necessary?

The Hun in front of us (Saxons) I believe were quite jubilant over the defeat of the Russians & tis said that we`re in for a "cushy term if we do as they wish us – Keep low and quiet. The Aussie volunteers reply with bo-coo whizz bangs, Heavies and machine gun fire night and day fast and the Tommies tell us that there have not been so much noise and bother there since the June advance. If this is true, you can guess for yourselves how much the Hun [indecipherable] us and our politics, and how, as the past always shows, he`ll take advantage of our listlessness and make us rue the day we were ever bluffed by his soothing words. Of course our boys are a full wake up to the Hun & he hasn`t a chance when it comes to the stuff that he set the military world alight with - & well he knows it..

Oh well, my Dear Parents and sistors, I`ll up now & hike away to bed – such as it is – hoping that this will find you all smiling with best of health and prosperity once more holding sway amongst you. Best of love and wishes to all Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins in Melbourne, best regards and wishes to all many friends there and in Sydney, to whom please convey remers.
Best of love to you , My dear Mother, Father, Else,Lizzie and Thelma & lots-a "wire entanglements (XXX)
I am ever
Your living son and Bro.
Harrie XXX

(Address is still the same A of !st,)

[Page 401]
107-8
Mrs. & Mr. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool,
Bateman’s Road
Gladesville
Sydney
New South Wales
"Aussie

[Page 402]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.108.

In the field
in the 4ward Area in Belgium
Sat eve. Jany 12th. 18 (47N0

My dear Mother, Father, & Sisters.
Once more the day I reserve specially for you has come round, & I am very thankful to be able to say that all is still well, despite the bitterness of the shivery spasm, known as winter, which is with us still and makes us at times wish that such a place as Europe did not exist.

As I told you in No.107, I was unexpectedly withdrawn from the Front Line & ordered to hump the old pack and blanket to the rear and report to the 1st Bgde.School. That`s where you get me tonight. The journey out here in the daylight, along the mile or more of twisting, turning ice-frozen duck boards; past late Hun strong holds- Pill boxes, suncken & otherwise deep up to date dugouts, trenches etc, - many battered to pieces, & overturned by our terrible shell fire; past the remains of what were once small woods, (petit bois) hedges and farms; the sorrowful looking heaps of bricks and wood, representing some village, only now known on the maps; odd graves of Tommies & Fritzs. saw a little cemetry of theirs near now historic W--- , of more killed in Sept 15, some bearing the inscriptions of the "iron cross1st and 2nd class. A few of their elaborate wooden crosses have been hit by shell pieces. W--- itself , once a peaceful village, is now raised completely and there`s hardly one brick upon another. We pass it now en-route to the line

Other sights of the devastation of modern war were seen as I continued the journey which could not be noticed in the dark. The roads were frozen hard so that walking on them with Service-boots was almost dangerous as side-slips, back-slips & Gaby slides, especially with the top heavy pack

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aboard; were more the rule than otherwise. Near the late Hun Front Line, or at least under part of it, is a lovely "souvenir in the shape of a 100 foot deep x 120 ft. wide mine-crater, the photo of which (if I had one) I should like to send you just to give you some idea of what scenes abound. Guess the crater will make a garbage tip for many years to come for the municipal council who rules the new town hereabouts.

Fritz`s birdmen, in one of their Gothas, paid our region a visit B4 reveille next morning, his bukshee souvenirs were heard as they plonked on something (or near by) spotted in the mist & gloom. I listened to the dull hum for the best part of an hour , & at times the plane must have been very close – too close for comfort. These nocturnal visits by planes are the rule now, especially by our side. We often count the "flocks returning overhead in the early mornings, after their trip to enemy territory where they venture every time that the elements allow.

This school is only half a mile from Bert`s unit`s camp (where I first went to with him after we met) so I hiked myself there as soon as I had settled down. Luckily I found both he and his pal (Bill Easton –an anglo-aussie) in their Hut, so I was rather fortunate especially as they were both returning to B--- Ridge (near Y---) next morning early. I`m glad to say that all was well with them as regards health. Bert had recd Xmas and New Years Cards from Aunt Sophie &Uncle Alf, & others from Aussie & Blighty, so he is not entirely 4gotten or neglected – far from it. He wishes me to send to you all his very best regards, respects and wishes, & he hopes that you are A1 as regards health etc.

The 3 of us met again last eve & went to the cinema show in the village where we spent a pleasant few hours. The worst of these shows,they make one feel so discontented afterwards & that`s how I felt last night as we wended our way back to billets along the pitch blackness of the muddy streets – such churlessness.

This past week has provided us with many hours of shiver as blizzards have blown along icy sleet & made us detest everything belonging to this side of the world.After the sleet, settled the snow. The whole countryside was just marked in its snowy whiteness & in places was over a foot in depth. Oh what a country! You couldn`t tell fields to back yards. I s`pose it was a pretty scene, but for mine, I`d have enjoyed it far better had I been gazing at it as depicted on a canvas in one of the Art galleries. The hill on the summit of which Sir D Haig and the Inf W. watched the June advance from, is between us & the Front, & it was one mass of snow. The old fashioned windmill on top (with its broken arms _ shell fire you can bet) presented a sorry appearance amongst it all, the missing part of arms exemplifying it!..

The thaw (or melting process) has now set in, so in place of the frozen road surface, we are now to have just the reverse – mud, mud, mud & feet of it! To get inside or outside this billet we have now to wade thro` slimy mud over ankle deep & it

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makes a lovely mess of boots, puttees & clothes. We trample it up to our living-quarters & it sticks to everything coming in contact with it ... You`d laugh to see the lads walking along the road sides making [indecipherable] for nearby trees, or other cover, as they endeavor to get out of range of the mud splashed by passing motors, especially the big 3-ton wagons as they lumber and lurch into all holes on the surface. Bert & I are now adept at the "diving stunt having learnt from practical and bitter experiences (eyes full of liquid mud) that it does not pay to ignore fast passing motors on these roads.

TheTunnelers are fortunate in the mattter of camps, as theirs` is practically fixed & they rarely leave this sector. Electric light is laid on to some of the quarters & they have a dining & Concert Hall (or hut) & other conveniences that we only saw in the Blighty camps. They sleep in gable huts & each is fitted with a Brazier stove – a real one. The braziers we inf. had at the camp on the other side of K--- Mount (just near her - 21/2 miles east) are made out of oil drums & tins, holes punched in with bayonet or entrenching tool, so they are home made. Fuel for ours is not supplied by the army, so it means that when we arrive at a hutment camp, wood scouters leave to get early on the job. You see boys dragging "home loads heavy enough for draught horses. Trees are soon felled & everything is burned , despite the smoke barrage which results from green leaves, saplings & twigs. Wood is becoming scarce away from the Line (There`s plenty there – old houses & battered copses etc. so first come first serves all the time. The barrages in the Bow Huts are so bad at times that we cannot distinguish one another at arm`s length & the Box respirator is almost necessary to enable one to carry on with breathing. Still it`s warmer than being out in the bitter cold. Brrh!

I 4got to previously mention that Bert (since I told him of our Manchester descent) has got into touch with a "Jim Cave there and is obtaining from him particulars of his relatives. Something may come of it & the information will not come amiss. He also told me that he offered to bring Aunt Amie out to Aussie with him after the war but the death of dear Grandmother, & Aunt`s old age, has practically made it not worth the while...

My present home is again explained in that humorous drawing of Capt. Bairnsfather`s "We are staying at a farm In our case, the farm is a real "live one instead of a heap of battered brick-works picked so cleverly by the artist. The farm is one of the closest to this part of the Front Line & is still occupied by it`s Belgian owners.

We of the "School are as usual using the barn & its loft as our home – good old one & I am writing in the loft, lying prone on my blanket, with a candle in a bisquit tin for an illuminate & a drop of ink in a bottle can hardly damp the nib with. On all sides of fire, lads (of the 4 Battns of the Brigade) are making lots of noise in their laughter and chatter,

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below us are the pigs – snorting & squeaking as usual – fowls & cows, All down below in the "square (formed by dwelling & barns) is the usual stinking manure-heaps. where the fertilizer for the fields outside is obtained. On the opposite side of our square is another barn where is housed [indecipherable] chevaux (chev-vo- horses) & more cows. We saw the fields for first time yesterday after the snow had thawed – some contrast.

Just B4 I commenced this rambling, erratic letter, a big Aussie mail was handed me & occupied the best part of an hour in reading. Can`t say in words just how pleased and grateful I felt for receipt of so many favors, (22 letters) , tho`, I might add lots of the favors contained most sorrowful & astounding news. Those from W`bool & for which I owe you very many sincere thanks, as usual are Father`s 28/10, Mother`s 15/10 (card & 21/10; Elsie`s (2) 21/10 & 29/10; Thelmas`s (2) [indecipherable] also 2 most welcome snaps & pansy & 28/10, amongst the others were letters & cards from Aunts Maggie (also Billy) & Alice, & Uncle Alf. [indecipherable] Fullerton of Albury, & Gus Cowan Jnr. also favored me, so I`ll answer all as opportunity comes along. You can hardly guess how nice it is to be remembered by so many old friends so far away. I only wished I had lots of time and good conditions and no censorshop, to answer them. I would dearly like to..

The confirmation of my dear old pal`s (Jacky Jackson) death , together with another, that of Jimmy McLaughlan (my first intimation) was contained in several letters & I do not feel like carrying on with this in consequence. Goodness its` awful! [indecipherable][indecipherable] also young Dave Borthwick, (& others) will more than likely now be resting in their last place on this earth within 10 miles of where I pen this tonight. I know the terrible, God forsaken region of now utter desolation as we were in the Front Line near there during early November when I first rejoined the old Battn. Yes, the Menin Road. Ah well such is the price of our victories , & its` God`s Holy Will which works it`s mysterious way – we can only bow to it. God have mercy on our souls``.

The state of things left behind by your Great & terrible general strike, is worrying me more than the rotteness of the life in the army & the uncertainty of our own immediate future, If I was only sure that everthing in regard to your welfare, as regards the living & the upkeep of the new Home, was alright, then I should feel more at ease, As it is, I cannot see how things are going at all with you, despite your reassurances that there`s no need for worry on my part. I can only then, keep trusting that God will take care of you all and that work at the "Island will soon recommence. Guess the Xmas just passed will be a memorable one in Aussie`s young history for the prevailing anguish & sufferings of the poor who could so ill afford such a calamity. I can`t understand how such a blemish could come amongst a democratic community, with a democratic Govt & at such a ciritical time in its` history! S`pose it had to be as most other nations & countries (over to new sheet

5.
(I ran out of writing paper when I commenced this letter so you must XQ the dirty looking stuff comprising pages 1 to 4. This sheet was was included in a letter from one of the girls at the "Vac. the reason that I am out of paper is the lack of "fooluce (money) . I have been going very steady with my pay so that if ever I reach the "Old Dart again I`ll have something to carry on with and see me through. my credit balance is nearly £7 – seven of the best)

Now to continue on ...ries throughout the troubled world are undergoing serious trials & Christianity is likewise being sorely tested. I don`t know whether we have many Atheists in our little army but judging by the terrible blasphemies heard on all sides, and the awful misuse of the revered name of Jesus Christ I should almost say that that abnormal sect were in the majority. Perhaps the lads have 4gotten their early teachings, or else, its make believe their "devil may care spirit amongst their listeners, they use it to emphasise that spirit. Yet we wonder why the war goes on. It`s terrible tho` & I fear for us.

Now my Dear Father, let me turn once more to your grand newsy letter which has – like it` s forerunners – enlightened me on may subjects of which I only had vague notions, mostly built on heresy or gathered from unreliable sources. (Oct 28 is the date) Like yourselves, we too are having spasmodic deliveries of mail, but we`ve become used to all those things now so take it as granted when big gulfs occur between deliveries ... I`m glad that you are so rarely disappointed when the postman come with over seas letter to find at least one from me. I find it extremely hard at times to keep to that self-imposed weekly Time-table, but so far, as you will see I have managed it. The difficulty also is that I hardly know how to give you fresh news, especially while in this Forward Area, as the censorship takes some "comprr-ing despite it`s supposed "friendship to us. I could write lots of things that would be interesting to you, but there you are – I hardly know where I stand ... It is rather discoraging to learn that up till the end of Oct you were still out of employment, with no sign of a start yet, but I can only keep on trusting that every letter will bring better news. I thank you nevertheless, for telling me so plainly how the position is. I see it all now ..No, I did not know B4 that the VOA had been the means of de-registering the Wharfie`s Union or at least the members of that social-militant body employed by them.

I feel no sorrow for the wharfies, because it is thro pigheaded, get rich quick associations such as they that most of the strife is now on you and other law abiding unions. Had they waited their turns B4 the ages boards of the Arbitration (as incompetent and short sighted as it may have been) instead of holding crippling coastal and overseas trade in pre-war days. I feel sure that a strike had it come, would not have been so disasterous. The climax to have been reached now that so many unions are down and out & I like to make myself believe that another calamity after the war is imminent – It seems the only possible thing to me. Of course I am a long way away from you, but that`s my opinion. I am extremely [indecipherable] to learn that the great principles of unionism have for the time being gone overboard, and that trades and craftsmen have to accept menial, & [indecipherable] labours so as to keep body, soul and homes together. It`s terrible!

6.
The biggest revelation of all is that of the Govt`s action (in conjunction with the Military) in preventing men from your union (& others of the [indecipherable] tradenI presume from enlisting for Active War Service; for the making of munitions in England; or from obtaining employment in the Govt Yards. I can see and understand, without any head scratching that their method is the [indecipherable] of starvation, to obtain submission to their win-the-war policy of [indecipherable] as a means to saving the Public Funds, & at the same time obtain twice as much work in the 8 hours. It beats me tho how staunch labor men in the Nationalist Govt. could sanction such a degrading system as piecework, & look on at the debacle they created amongst their fellow citizens, while the latter trusted them so emphatically.

Why in the name of Goodness could not the bloated and ill-earned salary of "Wooper gunum (or whatever it is) be cut down first, if their sincerity was for the good of the community? You can not wonder, I do not think, that we up here , away from the trend of politics voted for the Party who said & swore that they were standing by us. The Repatriation, and other schemes for the boys after the war looked so enticing & genuine to us, that the oppositions` cant about personalities, etc. looked much of the Pro-Hun & IWW to us. Hence our vote, like yours a big "M
Now that Billy Hughes "long-suit has come the proverbial, will his Govt still carry on, or what will happen? ...

Fancy Dave Lawler [indecipherable] kero and cased oil at the "Val – gee!! I`m not surprised that he was earning £4 per week (some weeks) because many wharfies were paid that much in my time... If the worst came to the worst you could by visiting the Oacs town office ((251 George St opp Bridge St) & seeing either my old co-worker, (Billy Burton of the Shipping Dept, Mr. Chars "Blumer, my old :boss (if he is there – he travels Australia now) or Mr. Ferd Sekright at Pulpit Point, tell them who you are, show them part of the letter, & they would I am sure, see you ensconced in some job up river. Of course I` d rather learn that you had commenced again at the island under the old conditions, so I`ll keep the old pecker up and patient [indecipherable] the letters, which will convey to me the glad tidings . In the meantime, just up any money to my credit that remains with you, even to the Chatswood block. Let me sincerely trust that nothing occurs to pull from your grasp the lovely home created after such hard graft by you, & which is our big hope of the future, & your comfort. God be with you through all these troublous times. Do not lose faith in Him whatever you do.

Now my Dear Mother, Father, Els, Liz, & Thel., as it is now well after lights out I must conclude with my usual sincere wishes, that Gods great blessing of good health still remains with you; that happiness (such as it is at this bad time) & prosperity are also yours. Best regards and LUV to all our relatives & best wishes to all pals friends and neighbors who come your way.

Do not worry
Do not send parcels
Do not send papers.

Good cheer!
Good Fortune.
I am ever your loving son and brother HarrieXX

[Footnote gives address instructions – not transcribed]

[Page 403]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.109

Our little wet Home in the Trench.
somewhere in Belgium
Sat morn.Jany19th.18.(4-N)

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters.
Bonjour! comment ca va? (Yes, good morning, or good day! how are you?) It`s a strange salutation & a strange quesion to ask you from this great distance & from such a place as this, but I cannot help but wonder how you are faring during these days of strike, stress & turmoil. Of course you keep on telling me that all goes well, & I must accept that as "fake but some times everything appears so "out of fear with things & happenings Down Under. Oh well, we can only keep on hoping and trusting for the best, & in God`s own time & way, all will yet come right. Let us not lose faith.

This morning is a mild one, considering that Winter is still with us, & I am writing this in the trench outside our little "Dug-out:, taking adavantage of the few spare hours B4 the day`s fatigues commence, & also of those left prior to the old company once more going into the Front outposts in No Man`s Land.l The day is dull, but fine & mild. Up above me are 6 Hun planes in battle formation, besides many of ours scattered about & busy on their separate jobs – scouting, photography, ranging for artilley & fighting or working. Fritz is wildly firing his "Archibalds and the sky is in places pocked with black and white puffs. Our batteries to rear, also the "emmas gees machine guns send their souvenirs over head in spasms so we cannot help but believe that "la –grande-guerre is still on .

The outlook over our parapet is not a pleasant one, O least, i couldn`t liken the scene to say, the South Coast,Harbour, Hawkesbury, National Park etc. Perhaps in the "piping times of Peace (what a thought now) this region was pretty enough, especially from an agricultural tourist`s point of view, but now- ughh! The re

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mains of those pre-war days can be seen on all sides, especially when the snow has thawed & uncovered the ground from it`s snowy drapery. I can see what was once a plot of turnips or mangel-wurzels, a bit of a hedge, the kind so peculiar to La Belle & Belgium. Just a little way off is the stumps of trees that once constituted a copse, spinney or Wood a pitiful sight of desolation now. Every few yards are the eternal shell holes now full of water & surrounded in mud. Here & there are the battered and now sorrowful looking Pill boxes, which our wonderful artillery (last June) made such havoc with (some withstood the test wonderfully tho`) & which the Hun never intended to leave.

Some are as large inside as an ordinary house, & are fitted up (like the "Palace dug-outs of the somme) with nearly all conveniences stoves, brziers, electric light, cook house, bunk beds, tables - & so forth – evidently pillaged or ? loaned from Belgian towns and villages near by. The cement with which these pill boxes are made is supposed to have come from England, via Holland, as you will have read in your daily papers, but of course we do not know for certain whether or not that is so. Like every thing else of prominence on a landscape in this war, camouflage plays a big part as aeroplane-photography has been brought to such a high pitch of perfection that very little can be screened from their prying eyes. Thus pill boxes, batteries, trenches, etc. are covered in screens which are meant to "bamboozle the birdmen. Oh it`s a funny game alright! We are becoming more like the rabbit, mole, & the noturnal animals, daily to getting right down into Mother Earth.

Away at the rear we see the old sausage balloons swinging in mid-air, apparently unsuspended and beneath one end the little dot (to us from here) which represents the observers basket. One or two triplanes (monsters) are now over head bound towards "Fritz & he he already commenced with his antics. A swerve & a dive, & they are out of focus - & so the game goes on. We marvel at their deeds & wonder if perfection has not already been reached as there seems to be little they cannot do in the air.

Tonight we will prepare for once more going into the Front "possy (only half a mile from where I write) to do our little bit in watching the greasy

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Hun & keeping them from joining those world domination ambitions which are the cause of all our bother today. This is a "quiet part of the front, so there`s not much to worry about, as long as the rain & icy blasts hold off. Fritz is not too anxious to promenade at night across no man` land in the gluey mud, pitch dark, & amongst the water-logged shell holes – neither would any human be.

I left the Brigade School at D---- yesterday morning as the course was only a 10 day one. & ended on Friday. B4 leaving, I looked up Bert in the Tunneller`s Camp near-by just to see that all was well with him, that was on Thurs.night. He & Bill Easton were to go up to B--- Ridge (near R---) on Saturday morning early, so I left them to enjoy their rest. Bert I 4got to mention previously, is an assistant storeman (still a Sapper or private) so has a pretty cushy job. He & Bill tho` both use the wonderful listening instrument when their unit is mining & can tell lots of tales about their thrills with "Jerry: (as the Hun is called) & the things they`ve heard. The instrument is so delicately toned that foot-steps sound like hammer blows, even if padded, so that a whisper, if near a wall is conveyed as clearly as if spoken. Bert sends to you his very best wishes & regards & the hopes that all goes well. Remr him to all Aunts & Uncs. etc. please...

The result of the exam were given out just as we leaving & I obtained 9 our of the 10 possible points – the grade know as "VG very good – so that`s not so bad considering that it was my first school & that I was up with N.C.O.s.

Last Sunday I had several most unexpected, but very pleasant meetings of old acquaintances while in the village (D---) The first to heave into sight was Geo? I can`t for the life of me remr his surname, but he & his bro. Jack lived with the senior Allens at Longnose Point & were great pals of the Dodds) Anyhow I was first struck by the familiar face when I passed him, but could not quite recollect who he was or where I`d seen him till he passed me & then nodded

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All at once my mind wandered to a wet Sunday afternoon in Jany 1916 at the foot of the largest pyramid (Cheops) at Mena in Egypt & then I remembered our unexpected & strange meeting. This Geo is well know to the Porter, Dodd, & B---k families & is in the 1st Artillery Divl Ammn.Column doing "A1 I was surprised to learn from him that Mr Harry Allen (who once lived in Cameron St.) had lost his wife recently. He also informed me that Joe Dodd was an air-mechanic of the Austr Flying Corps & was stationed only 3 miles (or less) away from where we were (at B---- a plaee I know well as we billeted near there when first in North France)

While talking to Geo near the village church, young Nesbit Irwin (a sergt in the –rd machine gun Co.3rd Div) passed by in his coy from church parade returning to their camp opp. Bert`s so I went along to see him. It was a big surprise for me to find him O.A.S. as I often used to read about his club`s results in the sailing races held in Snails Bay while in the trenches over here, It never dawned on me that he`d be here, but there you are – one never knows. He has not been long at the Front and the unit he belongs to is only a new one hence his 3 chevrons. The strange thing about these 2 meetings is that both lads in civil life lived opp each other –Geo at Allens & Young Irwin in that big house next to Dampney`s with the high brick wall round it – compree? As Ted Bolus` battery had just arrd from the C--- Front & were camped a little further along we both promenaded thence & were most fortunate in finding Ted at home. He has just rccently arrd back from Blighty leave & looks A1 – as big as several houses.

Soon after leaving Ted we passed another Balmain lad from Longnose Pt – Alan Cansdell. As he was marching along with the 13th brass band at the time he could not stop to speak – our hard luck. Anyhow all those I`ve mentioned are doing fine & sent you their best wishes and regards to all acquaintances. I can`t rembr at the moment if there are any others you know who I met

5.
last week, so I’ll just pass on

The elements - always so important at this season of the year – as still pretty kind to us when we compare with those ruling last year. Snow, sleet, & icy blasts, with rain, mist & murk come in spasms tho as I said B4 today is mild. Some very thick fogs came our way & it was hard to penetrate by sight for more than 20 yards at midday. The nights are particularly dark – pitch black – before moon rise & seeing one`s feet is a task. Vic Fowler occurs to me when I mention darkness, as I left him at the old camp yesterday afternoon while enroute to this place. He is going to another school but somewhere in France, & was telling me that he came from the Front line leaving at 11pm & taking 41/2 hours to do the 6 miles or less owing to the pitch blackness. One of his eyes and his nose bears a nasty knock cause through striking a post when he lost the duck-boards. Besides falln from them he had several swims in neighboring shell holes, over which the greater part of the duck board track is built.Neverthless Vic looks A1 & is still his old, happy self again, beloved of the boys and others .

Please tell Aunt Em when you write that he wishes remembrance & sends best regrds... Les Norman was the first one I met on arriving back here, he having just then returned from near the Line from some fatigue or other. You can please let his sister know that he is still OK and like everyone else only lives for the day of returning to come along.

On Sunday another welcome mail reached me, amongst which were the following form Warrnambool :- Father`s 3/11, Elsie`s 3/11 & Lily`s 31/10, enclosing Xmas & New Year`s greeting card, for all of which, as usual, you have my most sincere thanks. On Wednesday another most welcome favor arrived in the shape of your kind Xmas parcel which contained (intact) Father`s letter of 2/11, 2 balaklava caps, 1 washer, 1 sweat rag, 1 pot of "Rex

6.
cheese, & the tin of Arnott`s bisquits
I can only once more in my crude way say how thankful I am for your kindness & thought. & add that the boys with me did full justice to all that was eatable & I helped them. You`ll perhaps be relieved to know that the parcel arrived at it`s rightful destination & it is a relief for me to be able to advise you. I would rather (as I`ve said so often) that you did not go to the expense & bother of 4warding anything but letters to me. I know exactly how you feel about it, but you need not be afraid that I`ll think any the worse of you (forbid it) for witholding comforts & cards – ah no!

Let me now continue on with your grand letter of 28/10 which is still B4 me . The Boilermakers Union ( & others) is certainly up against it as regards the knuckling down to the "Win-the-war Govts.piece-worksystem & I will not be surprised to learn in your later letters that they`ve been starved into accepting the sweating terms. Guess ther`ll be lots of bother if that system is still ruling when the boy`s come home. It`s a certainty that they will not be in a humor to argue the toss after all they`ve gone through & sacrificed these past 3 years or more. We`ll see anyhow how you fare with your negotiations. Let`s hope that the old conditions of wacontinue, if only for real peace to last when the boys return.

How long will it take once work commences to complete the cruiser Adelaide? I know that is a big question, but you may have an idea after working for so long on the Brisbane. Cockatoo will indeed be a busy place if all those important maritime works are to be continued, but what a pity they were ever impeded. The most serious position that the ironworkers unions are in is exemplified by the refusal; of the Govt or military people in preventing any of the mem

7.
bers enlisting for service abroad in the A.I.F.. I can see through it all easily enough, & that makes me so anxious for the future. I can only keep on hoping & trusting that "out of evil will come good and that long ere my letters reach you, all will be a past memory. The sufferings & trials of the very poor class has made me wonder what the end of it all would be, & it certainly appears as tho` the [indecipherable] is being fulfilled & refers to our time...

It`s real encouraging news, after that of the aftermath of the strike, to learn that you are all so well in health and spirit – that`s real good! Yes I have been really wondering how you`ve been faring with money for the household after such a long spasm of idleness which was still unbroken at time of despatching your 5/11th.. It`s grand to know that through it all you have been able to "keep your end up & pay all debts – what a [indecipherable] am pleased that you made use of the money that was coming to me, & that with the amount earned by the girls it was sufficient to see you through. It`s hard when all the rates, insurances & other house payments are due together but I`m glad that you got along good-o...

Yes what a god send is the garden & orchard to you without it I`m sure the predicament would have been a bad one, as there`s no doubt but that the saving in fruit & vegetables has been a big one.. Good old poulty!! So you`ve made the fowl run bigger & the hen is setting – good! Hope you have bo-coo success with the hatching process. & will keep Miss Pouteress (Thel) busy more so than ever now. Would dearly love to "pop in & have a gaze on the grand scene – the [indecipherable] blossoming fruit trees, the veges. & flowers. Oh how we`ll enjoy the lovely flowers after such a long absence from them – for there`s none to talk about now in La Belle.. Pity that the in

8.
sect pest played such havoc with the nectarines, such a sweet fruit too! Perhaps you`ll have better fortune with it next season. The mention of Strawberries & cream makes one feel really badly of, but our time will come soon let`s hope...

Yes, it`s real sorrowful to learn the loss of dear old pals OAS & the news of [indecipherable] old Jackie Jackson was a hard blow to me. It is only by this mail that I learn of Jimmy McLenaghan`s death also. They must have both fallen, also you Dave Borthwick & Charley Cox, in that dreadful Menin Road Battle – so few miles from where I write today (less than 10) I was up there with the old Battn as soon as I rejoined in early Nov.last. Ah well I keep repeating, it is God`s will that they should precede us to the judgment and we can only bow to it.

Please convey to any of their folk you meet, my sincere sympathy for a pal and comrade. God have mercy on their souls! I don`t doubt that the many losses of local lads affects you in spirit but do not get down hearted and don`t worry. They are the fortunate ones who are reaching home wound, or at least we think so, but some day there`ll be another home coming – that of the A.I.F. which let us hope will be soon.

Rumours of "Gippo & the Holy Land are in the air again & many reckon that they`ve got the "Dinkum Oil in regard to it and us. We`ll wait & see. Gee! 300 girls from the :Old Dart arrived at your end, when !! What are our Aussie girls saying to that . Guess it`ll make a deep impression on some ot them now, especially those who "cut the original Anzacs & early reinforcements out of

9.
correspondence & thoughts - & I know of many such cases (Have a mo Fritz is putting some heavy stuff rather close & the splashes of dirt & lobbing here . No bon eh!? [indecipherable]
He is still going strong but I must get this finished as the shades of evening are nearly over drawn - & it`s only 4.15pm. & I want to [indecipherable] the letter B4 we go into the outpost... liked your Chatswood promenade per book & the glowing a/c you give of the block of land there. It looks as tho` in a little while it will be of some value as an investment – I hope so, at any rate. Glad to learn that such big progress has been made in all directions of the block & that the residences are such nice ones good!! That fact ought to enhance it`s value.

Now let me turn to your most welcome budget of Nov 3rd which has given me very pleasant & instructive reading ... Good old link of communr!! You are managing very well my dear Father to keep it intact & at the same time continue to transform W`bool into an El Dorado. Good o! The mails are certainly arriving very erratically at your end for small mercies . It`s good for me to know tho` that you still receive mine. Hope Nos 88 & 89 reach W`bool OK. Glad that you have recd the Bristol P/card the Fragments photos, not that they are any thing of out the way, but just for record. You are glad that I met Frank Grose, but I have not seen or him of him since the visit he paid Fovant Camp in quest of his cousin (Eric Glanz) 4th Sept. Glad that Frank found time to visit you B4 he left..

Rembr me to [indecipherable] Grose please & his sisters if you meet them. Thanks for the advice

10.
re the receipt of my last letter to the Lodge.

Good olde Spring time!! Goodness how we envy you & long to get this awful job over... Surprised to know that more big floods have occurred on & about the Murray and that Albury has had a rough handling. Trouble seems to be every where [indecipherable] Hope Aunt Alice on her little section at Merrity is doing OK. By the way I wrote in reply to her last week.

I have no doubt that the War situation has appeared so --- dash the nib!! gloomy, but we must keep trusting on & expect victories to be mixed with defeats seeing how we entered the war that the Huns have been engineering for 40 years..We know as much or rather less – than yourselves about how long it`ll last & when we are actually in the line we know less still as news does not come as far as that – not quickly at any rate.

I get you re conscription & the Govt`s. promise but this time I backed the wrong horse in opposition to your vote. The defeat was a very big surprise for me as I expected a certain win for "Yes Of course I see it clearly now & have a good idea how it came about... Oh well I am glad that it has been again put to the people as the issue is now clear.

Now in conclusion My dear Parents and Sisters let me say that this pen is Pas bon & that we are moving off at 3 in the morning so I must snatch a sleep in full marching order (all clothes on) as there`ll be very little obtained in the front possy, nor till we get back – God willing. Let me thank you all for kind Xmas & New Year greetings & for the parcel etc. Till I write again good night, God bless you

I am ever your loving soon Harrie XXX

[Page 404]
109
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool
Bateman’s Rd
Gladesville
Sydney
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 405]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.110
In the Field
somewhere in petit Belgique
Sat. apres midi
January 26th 18
47n

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters.
Today is to you dear folk Down Under, Anniversary Day (by date of course) but to us it is, as so many others are just an ordinary kind of day which has nearly gone by to the unrecallable past, bringing us a little nearer to the end of the war & of all things. S`pose Monday next will be reserved as a holiday in and around Sydney but by all a/cs it will not be a very happy one, what with the continuation of this strife and the aftermath of your recent calamitous strike,. Still I hope that you find some enjoyment despite all these troubles & stress. Some day, in God`s good time, we`ll be back with you & then those happy times will be enjoyed the more. Things with us in the Region of Bother are still going along merrily, even tho` Fritz is only a few minutes walk along the Duck-board track & his souvenirs still lob round about.

The demands for this time of the year have been most kind to us, in fact it seems as tho` we are living the "lull-B4-the-storm , so mild is it. Except for lots of snow, sleet & ice at and B4 Xmas & during New Year with a bit of shivery stuff, it cannot be compared with the awful conditions which reigned during last Winter – 1917 (the record ice in severity for nearly 30 years) The lads who braved it in the terrible trenches of the Somme talk of their terrible experiences amongst awful conditions with loathing for this side of the World.

Of course this month has not gone by yet, & there`s still plenty of time B4 Spring comes in which the crook spasm can fit. Let`s hope that it loses itself up amongst the ice-floes & drifts of the North Pole anyhow till we lovers of sunshine get well out of this bad business. I think it must be the mildness of the winter which is making the boys so light hearted for on all sides happiness & content seems to reign even

2.
tho` longing to be home is always uppermost.

The happy state has set loose lots of rumours said to be Dinkum Oils & they are doing their rounds without ceasing, gathering many disciples or "jerm carriers in their train. Someone in a joke will commence the ball rolling by saying that Fritz`s quietness means that he & his square headed mob are packing up for "Home; that Peace is now at hand because "Big Willie has had another row with his lop-eared heir & Lloyd George is only waiting for the word – good old word!

Then they`ll launch out in another direction. Someone reckons that our transport wagons are being painted sand color, that shorts and cork hats are soon to be issued (last year`s rumour over again) & that this is our last time in the line prior to boarding for the Holy Land. Some of the lads are so convinced that we are bound for Palestine or Egypt that they`re betting their pay on it`s truth. Like myself, some of them have recd news in letters from pals now on the way that they are bound for the Land of the Pharaos & this news makes them more sanguine. I refer to rec`g Archies Nov 23r letter which was written at sea, & in which he says that he was bound to the same place as I arrd at from Aussie – Egypt he means I take it. Anyhow I will keep on believing that this Front will be our "long suit till the Joy Bells ring. We`ll do the "Asquith Act in the meantime "wait & see.

The talk of Peace is very persistent, so much so that one is almost carried away with the joy of it`s prospect. The coming Spring & Summer, in my idea will decide pretty well how long it`s going to last as our new pals-in-arms will very likely be putting in some of their accumulating weight good old Sammies! Hope they tickle the Hun as never B4 since this business started anyhow they`ve got the dearly bought experience of the Allies of nearly 31/2 years to work on. God grant that the minds of the Hun heads will be confounded & that we`ll soon be seeing you all again.

Just after I`d written last weeks "general communique to you from the trench outside our dugout entrance – not far from here one of our big "sausage balloons broke away from it`s cable, just to rear of us (anchored near N--- E---) & the wind being in our direction & that of our greasy enemy, away she went merrily. The observor luckily descended in his parachute from the little basket beneath, so his released weight sent the gas-bag higher. Our Archies (antis) pelted away at it for long time in the hope of fetching

3.
it down on our side of No Man`s Land & tho` most of the shrapnel burst close the balloon only went higher & nearer us & Fritz.

Several of our dandy planes went after it as soon as the antis had had their fling, but they let it go also. The shrapnel from the archies zipped & swished down near out little possy & too close to be pleasant believe me. Falling hunks of ironmongery from that great eight is as unpleasant to one``s keen ear-"sight as are the shells from Fritz – they`re all pas bon! We bid good bye to the balloon when she was well over the Hun Lines at a dizzy height (the enemy didn`t attempt to bring it earthwards, tho` the dirty square-edded dachunds must have been jubilant at our misfortune which is all in the game.

Next day (a Sunday as usual) long before dawn we went into our lonely outposts on the fringe of No Man`s Land via bocoo duckboards & in the pitch blackness of the wee small hours. It was so dark that we could hardly see a finger`s length ahead & it was no joke feeling one`s way foot by foot with a full pack up besides rifle and rations. One or two were unfortunate enough to fall right into waterlogged shell holes, over which the biggest part of the duck boards go, as this region is pitted and pocked as by an earthquake – or many such.

The petit promenade must have taken us nearly 3 hours to accomplish, whereas under ordinary conditions we`d have done it in half an hour. XQQ me for a little while as the "smoke barrage in this dugout is unbearable – can`t breathe or see through it. Here we are again after a long wait for the awful smoke to blow out – it no bon ...I was saying that we eventually manned the Front Line after a hard & tedious trip in the dark. Fritz 200 yards away in his Pill boxes did not show any displeasure at us mounting guard over him, leastways his rat-a-tat-tats did not catch us in the open as we were coming in, so we must put his quietness down to bad judgment.

Afterwards one of them gave s an exhibition of what "Home-sweet-home in variations sounds like when played with lead across the parapet top. It`s no "ordinary war is this, & it`s the best I`ve ever been in...
As dawn broke, I could see from where I was on duty the intact church-towers of the big Town of C--- also house & a little further a small village. Everything on Fritz`s side looked good o tho` signs were not lacking of the terribleness of modern war – broken trees, shell holes, & desolation in places. The Pill Boxes stand out pretty conspicous in the landscape, but the blue-grey uniformed inmates "lie low’ in daylight . Like ourselves & most animals, they are nocturnal, not by choice, but because modern warfare de

4.
mands that they shoudl be for their own safety. As light came over the scene along the front, our wonderful airmen in their no less wonderful "buses started work over the lines. Some busy aloft just to rear of us (almost floating still) were spotting for our whiz bangs & heavies which would in spasms send over the new year`s Peace terms in the form of ironmongery, I was watching the bursts of the "big stuff as they lobbed on, just close to something in the region of C – a large column of white smoke and flame signified that some dump or other had been hit – what a sight! It made up for the loss of our gas bag.

Away over the town, & other parts of the enemy lines, were other planes simply monpolising God`s free sky hereabouts, not a Hun in sight. Fritz`s antis had great opposition of testing their shooting capabilities, & they did but out boys were far too clever, or fortunate for not one out of the several squadrons came to grief & they took some terrible risks only a few hundred feet above ground. You`d have watched open mouthed at the capers. tactics, and antics of our flyers, as they wriggled, twisted,dived or swerved out of range of the "archibalds.

The sky was pocked with the black splotches of his shrapnel, & down below rattled & clanged the cumbersome, tho` effective, Emma-gees (m.g. machine guns) fired from Pill boxes or from far behind his lines. the corkscrew squirmed, nose-dives (feigning to do side-slips, steep bankng & volplaning were good to look at & our admiration went to those up there in their frail planes hoping that they`d return OK.

Several droves of big bombing planes returned in the grey of dawn & were given a parting salvo from Fritz. Just above us hummed for an hour or two, a squadron of scouts (all biplanes of course) & they often came within the stream of lead from Fritz`s machine guns in the course of duty. A message to a battery (per morse) on to the scene of the emma gee with a resultant hail of whizz bangs soon sent the greasy Hun into the deepest part of his Pill Box where he and his crew had to sit tight & - well, I s`pose they swear too. We had several like days in that possy, some of them being spent in mizzly rain & cold but I am thankful to say that so far all had turned out "jake (Good) with us. God`s will of course.

I now write from just a few minutes "duck board promenade from where I penned /09 & from the Front Line itself. Near by we have numerous big & small guns for neighbors & the music they churn out, punctuated often by the K-r-u-p-p!! or C-r-u-m-p- of made- in- germ- hun souvenirs is not what I`d wish to listen to in say Warnambool, visitors room, frinstance. His stinking perfume (like his greasy, black,

5.
sauerkraut eating self) also comes our way, but we are a "full wake up to his gas in that line now, thanks to our good old S.B.R. (small box respirator)

I do not know when we are to leave this 4ward area for the usual "Rest but the sooner the quicker and better. I will have a look for Bert and his camp when I get out, God willing – that`s of course if we are to go to the late camp. Talking of the latter reminds me that I spent a pleasant & profitable half hour or so with old warrior & hers, Vic Fowler, after I`d left the Brigade musketry school en route back to the company . Vic had just previoulsy come out of the Front Line & was going to another school – but on this side of the Pond.

His march out along the long twisting line of duck boards & bad roads in the pitch blackness was a memorable one to him & I don`t wonder after the experience we had. He bears a bruise across the nose & one under his left eye as a souvenir of the journey, having had several slips into water filled shell holes and come to grief against a post or two alongside. You`ve got no idea how bad it is when you`ve got to "feel your way all that distance (some miles) foot by foot.

The profitable part of my visit was the gift from Vic of a plum cake sent all the way from Aussie, also a tin of cocoa & milk, both good lasting about 6 months after they`d hit the dugout. I don`t think!! It was very kind of Vic & I tried to thank him. Of course he is an officer now (2nd Lieut or subaltern) but that has not altered him in the least . & he treats all his old friends & pals like welcome guests.

Remember him to aunt Em & the Misses Ross when you write to Capel St. Merci!!! Oh, talking of parcels remind me that I have done remarkably well these past few days (The boys want to know how I do it) as since yours came to hand, two others reached me very close to the Line - & at a time when "breadless & area these days were reigning , & we weren`t feeling very fit after the long days in the Line & the fatigues which have to be done here.

The first parcel – a veritable "grocer`s shop – came from my kind 2 hour (actual) acquaintance and friend of Bristol, who would not heed my words re my wishes of no parcells. I told her distinctly that I reqd nothing, but like your dear selves, she took it upon herself to go to worry, expense & trouble. Anyhow, the parcel arrd intact & contained some such luxuries for soldiers – fresh fruit, oranges and apples cake, bisquits, jubes, choco, etc which we did full justice to, especially as it was "breadless day when it lobbed. The kind girl also sent her photograph endorsed "LUV, (or some other hand of ? soap) so I`ll send it on to you for perusal & comment. Of course you won`t be hard in your remarks, or at least I hope you shan`t, because she`s a nice friend to me & helps, like yourself, to keep

6.
my "pecker up & to make me hope that later on I may go to Blighty again on leave & have somewhere to go instead of "gay par-ee. You know long ere this that I have never yet seen her in daylight, & a 2 hour`s fleeting promenade was hardly sufficient to allow me to learn more about her & her ways. Correspondence of course eventuated and that`s all I`ve had to depend on since, as no other opportunities came my way to visit Bristol "sum-more Let`s know what she wrote to Lily in the letter she sent if you rec it of course. Everything`s free & above board with me so you need not fear that I will not do the best for dear old Aussie ---

Today, the 2nd big parcel of luxuries arrd and it was a beaut. Aunt Ciss and uncle Tom sent it, and I must say that like the one from Bristol and your own could not have arrd at a better time . It was packed by the "Mutual Stores (opp. Flinders St) and contained 2 tins butter, 1 tin bisquits, 1 tin plum cake, 1 tin Camp Pie, 1 tin Nestles milk, 1 tin sardines, 1 tin best tobacco, 2 tins best cigarettes, tin butterscotch, 1 pkt Cadburys choc. and a card, so you see that it would be hardly possible to cram more into the regulation weight. I therefore owe Aunt and Uncle most sincere thanks which I`ll convey as soon as I possibly can. Will you do the same if writing to Ewemond and thanks.

Needless to say not a crumb will go to waste with us (we eat the crumbs with a spoon) and we`ll mutter thanks with every tooth full… All the same my Dear Parents and sisters I would rather that you did not go to any expense like that for me, because I do A1 and my many friends still rembr me, even tho it is now 2 years since I bid them good bye or au revoir! Advice of several parcels still on the way, so there you are…

I must have another go at trying to prevent Miss Bristol or really Miss Peggie Shoplans from going to "Tight little Isle and the queues (is that right) are absolutely pas bon, besides I`ll be getting enmeshed in that matrimonial net if I don`t watch out despite the careful way that I am wending in my letters to her. Of course I have no .. to claim me as to worry over my return (outside the family-circle) in Aussie so that`s a big advantage I have over lots of boys lads, or men in the A.I.F. and theres no need for me to worry about things like that.

Let`s switch off on to Father`s budgets, several of which are still with me, including his Nov 24th which arrd here on Tues last making me happy.
Sincere thanks for it and for the wishes etc so ably conveyed therein, and which I acknowledged on a PC as usual

7.

My last comment extended to part of your big Nov.3rd letter - let`s "box on further with It - Oh yes once more the heated argument of concription or not . Ah well, the question has beeen set tled now with a negative result, but I`m sure if that dirty Govt hadn`t turned dog on the people they represented, and especially after their loud mouthed assurances at election time, conscription would have been a fact today if I am nay judge or "punter.

Don`t know how we up here are to fare but I don`t think that lack of "stoushments will prevent us being in amongst the grand pushes that are to come. We`ll see! In the meantime Gipplo land looms large and strong as a rumour here - a "wash out, you can bet…

Didn`t think by Les Cs letters, to me that he was so very crook but I wouldn`t be surprised if he got back home . Good luck to him!..so you recd. the tattered and torn map of Cairo – good! Maybe able some day to point out where I`ve been there…Yes Archie Mursock has had a long stay in camp but his letter-card now in front of me says that he`s well on the way to an unknown destination. Having up till then had a great trip across. Good luck be with him!

Hows Perlie taking her temporary loss? I can understand exactly how hard it is for you to keep telling me all about the lovely garden in a different way each time, but never mind it`s all tres bon news. Would like to learn some more about the interior and it`s fittings and prospective additions but don`t go to any bother. There`s no doubt but that the garden has been a God send to you during the bad days and weeks just passed, and that had you been depending on crabby Ma Smith for living under a roof You`d have made another inmate to the "Rat house tho` hardly that.

The booze of course in my idea would be far worse, but I know that you`d hardly fall to that depth. I owe to you Dear Mother all the virtues (if I may so say) and principles that I am trying so hard to live up to in this corruptable and rotten life. O that I was finished with it!! You`ve got no idea what we have

8.
to listen to in the way of blasphemies and gutter talk day and night from our so-called pals – and there`ss no booze here in the 4ward area, You`d think that the nearness to the hereafter would make some of them pause B4 they used our God`s and Christ`s Holy names as a "handle or preliminary to most of their filthy sentences. No just dreadful! That`s why I still like to be my own comrade and live my life, tho` I keep "in the boom just the same. I know we should live for one another and love our neighbor as ourselves – it`s "some contrast here I cannot find any new phrases when passing compliments or referring to the great work you`ve done in that lovely garden so will just say again that I simply long and live to see it and you. God grant it will be soon, tho` His will be donel…

Thanks again for the great a/c of vegetables growing and flowers in bloom. I couldn`t remr one of the varieties 5 minutees after reading yhour letter. It beats me how you know them off pat as you do. S`pose it`s just use, like we "box on in our knowledge of the Service Rifle, it`s cleaning and use; the Mills No. 5 hand grenade , automatic gun; the bayonet; the sounds of some shells and their calibre; whether they high explosive, shrap, whizz bangs (77) shells , or "coal boxes "minnies and so on.

Pleased that Mr Gus Cowan– finds time to visit you so often likewise s- and Gladys, Mrs Thompson and Nellie, Mr and Mrs Herb Smith etc. etc. and that you are always able to up with lovely flowers and useful fresh veg.

Now my Dear Parents and sisters, the end of another letter spasms, so will leave till later on as we will be on duty very early in the morning and it`s bed time (down bed ) now . all my best love and the hopes that A1 health, prosperity and spirit are still with each one of you. Till again, goodnight God bless you.

I am ever your loving son and Bro Harrie XXX – & ditto

[Page 406]
O.A.S.
110
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales,
Australia

[Page 407]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.111
At "Risk
somewhere in "La Belle
18th
Sat eve/ February 2nd 18

My Dear Mother, Father and Sisters,
At last we have left the Forward Area where there`s always bother, and noise of battle, and have come to Froggie Land, near the towns and villages we knew so well in April and June 16. Tis said that we are now to partake of the usual few weeks "Rest B4 boxing on `sum mor` with the greasy Sauerkrauters when the spring comes, so we`ve got something to look forward to in that future, which everyone in looking for, now that the "Sammies have joined the Allies.

Our spasm up amongst the scenes of desolation ended successfully for us as the Huns was pretty kind, the reason perhaps being lack of observation owing to the almost daily heavy mists. anyhow, his "bakshee ironmongery didn`t annoy us much , tho` of course its not the most pleasant "moo sique in the World, especially when coming close handy not as nice to

2.
listen to as f`rinstance , Pearlie`s nice pieces on the piano, in a cosy, homely, drawing room.

Last weeks` letter was written from just behind the firing line, somewhere in poor petite Belgique, where we were stationed, in readiness for any emergency. Every day found us working with pick, shove, wheel-barrow, or carrying "duck boards, "A frames, iron-pickets,cork screws, etc. some job just behind the line, or No-Man`s Land.

Owing to the mists, there was not so much activity in the air with planes as there was the week previous. Neverthless during breaks in the veil both sides got busy aloft, and the artillery in consequence got in some practise with their guns. We witnessed an exciting combat over our lines one day, when 2 Fokkers came over for information - photography, spotting for dumps, strong-points, batteries etc. They must have done pretty well, despite the bo-coo anti-air-craft shells (Archies) and machne gun bullets sent up to them, for one of the twain bacame pretty brazen and descended a little closer. He could not have noticed one of our (bird) coming at him till it was too late. it was an exciting few moments to we on lookers as ours`s drew closer and the Fritz commenced to ascend. Several bursts of machine gun bullets from our plane as he got into range and the Hun`s air career commenced to wane. First, a flash of flames, then the pilot`s vain endeavors to head for home, (or at least, the temporary home that they still hang on to.) and last of all , the last downward dive denoting "na poo plane ,Pilot and observor – all Hun, and gone to the only place fit for them and their kind – out of this World of present stress, strife and turnoil of their dear "engineering and machination;

The anti-air craft crew near our dugout couldn`t keep a loud

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"hurrah!!! in chorus which could have been either to signify their applause at out planes victory or their relief at the loss of another object which gives so much work, night and day. Our own lads joined in the outburst also…

Big Willy`s birthday came last week, I believe, and something big by his ghoulish, stinking mob was expected some where. The expectation did not come our way, tho` we were in readiness for any eventuality guess his infantry would have got some "hurry up if they`d attempted any "hop over along the Aussie`s part of the front…

Did I tell you previously that I`d met young Rob Wade? I think I did anyhow, I`ll encore the news in case I 4got. He belongs to the 1st pip beers (Pioneer Battn.) the same unit as Geo. Burns (who is still jake) and of Les N (when he rejoins up and was on road making not far from our dugout (near now na pood W----e) When I passed I had only time for a very few words of converation, but learned that he`d met Les. C. up near Y---s a month or so since, (as the latter told me in his letter) and that his bro. Sid had gone back to Aussie. Please rembr him to any old acquaintances…

Several civvies from either Angleterre (England) or Aussie, were on the road further back, having motored up during the lovely winter`s afternoon for the purpose of viewing the region of desolation and immense mine-craters which still stand as momentoes of that terrible, but marvellous "Push of the Ridges on June 7th last . It seemed so out of place to see non-combatants or anyone wearing tweed collars, long trousers, etc. or anything but khaki, up in that regions and we couldn`t help a second look.

They were intereested apparently in the little puffs of white and black shrapnel bursts which were all round one of our planes – aimed of course by Fritz`s antis - a long way over near the enemy lines.

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The said "Civvies looked to us most peculiar in the "Tin ‘at which each one was wearing as a protection from shrapnell – if any reached so far back. Over their heads was one of our big "Sausage balloons (captive) in which one or two of the civvies had ascended with an R.F.C.observer for the purpose of seeing what the enemy captured, or occupied, territory looked like. The day was well suited for observation, the air was calm and mild – quite a surprise for a Mid Winter day.

The balloon, I might add was held by a cable on a drum, which was offered to a special motor-wagon. This wagon drove the balloon along the road nearer the Line and took it back the same way to it`s allotted "bed somewhere out of sight of prying enemy planes observors.

Just B4 I saw the civvies another little scene was enacted which I can relate here, and that was, the return to their once prosperous and comfortable homestead and farm of the Belgian owner and his wife – the first sight they`d had of it since the hurried departure to safer regions in 1914. We noticed the wife first (as she was the only woman we`d seen so far advanced) She was at the time looking with sorrow over part of what was once the pretty field, now covered in shell holes and with the trunks of big trees much battered.

A road had been cut right through the property, along which lots of military traffic – big motor wagons, limbers,GS wagons, motor cycles,etc. was at the time passing. We couldn`t help a pitying word pass the thought that it might have been a like sad scene in Aussie.

Further along the Road we saw the husband (civvy of course) who had been to examine ther further parts of his farm

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He must have been sorrowful, as our salutation; "bonjour monsieur!! was followed by his comment (after bonjouor-ing us) "Alas pas bon, monsiours. Allemagnes pas bon!! with a wave of his hand round his property.

Still, he was much more fortunate than other "cockies as his farm house and barns built on the usual "square system, with dung pit in centre of the enclosed open space were still standing, despite beaucoup (bo coo) holes and cavities in the brick walls, and most of the tiles and thatch off the roofs. His furniture and other fittings may have been removed by him B4 the Fritzs came, but the latter might have dragged them back to their line they made after their retreat from the Marne in 1914. and used them in the big dugouts or pill boxes.

Further along the road toward the Line, every other sign of house or shed is washed out by shell fire of those intervening years. I might add that the aforesaid Belgian`s farm house is at present being used by us as a canteen and cinema house, (used by the different divisions as they "take over this sector of front) it`ll be some time yet ere the civvies can return – p`raps after the next "Big Push You see.

The winter still continues "mild tho` since our arrival here in this part of La Belle we`ve had some terribly bitter cold elements. Today especially, following last night`s heavy biting frost, was particularly severe. The bare trees, shrubs and hedges were not merely covered with snowy fluff, but in its` further advanced state icicles which under this afternoon`s load, thawed and fell to earth like hail-stones.

Our feet suffered more than our hands and face, and all

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our running about in the organised games (part of our training when at Rest) – "twos and 3s, "leap-frog "crows and cranes; relay-races or "flagcock fights; hopping race, "shut-eye and strap – did not bring back animation. Guess they can`t have made good "butter cooler tho I couldn`t vouch for the buerre (butter-"burr) not "turned

The sun this afternoon was real fine (Tres bon) not very warm, but the fact of it being over us was a consolation. I have only a little while since returned from a Soccer match (A and C versus B and D Coys. of our battn) in which I was playing, (right half back) so do not feel too clever for anything but a bit of a sleep and rest, after being so much out of practise. The match ended in a draw – 2 goals per each – so there`ll be some more to come apres.

The officers and NCOs of the battn also play a match (rugby league rules) and it was a willing go from the jump. One "pip was put out of action with a twisted ankle and there were numerous swollen eyes and faces on both sides. The NCOs won by 11 to 8. Our officers at present with us are the "best ever; all go in for sport and encourage it with the good old "fooluce on the sports day out of the line. (I won 121/2 Francs at the last one – held near B----l)

We are only a little way from the town (B----) where part of our Flying men are stationed – a town we know very well being billeted very close by in April 16 just B4 going into the Bois Grenier trenches and learned from Gnr. Geo? (whom I met near the Brigade School at O---) that Joey Dodd was in one of our Aerodromes there

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as an air mechanic. As soon as I can obtain leave I`ll have a look for him and at the same time see some of the grand planes at closer quarters. Perhaps Snowey Stopford and Wally Preston are there also, that`s if they`ve finished their course of training in Blighty.

Don`t think there`s anything elso of local interest that I can write you at the moment, or at least my mind cannot bring any B4 me, being, as it is, full up with all sorts of thoughts of things to do, things to come , things left undone,etc. so I`ll just continue referring and commenting on Father`s great budgets which still arrive regularly and enlighten me on tall subjects of interest occurring in your midst

B4 carrying on, let me halt, or mark time rather to advise you of the receipt of more most welcome "W`bool, and other mail since No. 110 left the stocks. Yours` are :- Fathers 15/11, Mother`s 29/11; Els`(3) 13/11,25/11,and 28/11; Lizzie (alias "Lily) 16/11 for all of which I give you the usual most sincere thanks.

A letter also came from Archie Murdock, written from Heytesbury Camp, which is only a few steps away from where I was prior to bidding Angleterre au-revoir last October – to Sutton Veny (Sandhill Camp). Eggar Bell was at Boyton when he came to see me, and Boyton is next to Heytesbury. Archies ` was not a long letter but I learn that he reached camp on Jan 5th after a long, but pleasant voyage. He also wrote a letter-card from "at sea on Nov. 23rd to say that he was expecting to land in the "Land of the Pharaohs 3 days afterwards – some hot rumour apparently. It came here at a time when "Dame Rumour was firing her hardest amongst us; The Dinkum Oil being that after leaving the line we were off to the Holy Land to "box onwith "Jonno Burke – that`s why we are still

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here Archie mentioned that he`d been in dear old Melb. for about 8 hours (or less) and on that long sojourn judged it pas bon. I could only reply that it`d always do for me and that I`d be as much at home there as in Sydney. That`s all one can do with biased Sydney ites anyhow, we won`t be silly enough to bicker over such an argument, so I`ll just await his further advices as to movements and look 4ward and pleasure to meeting him on this or the other side of the "Gutier

Now for it! (my hardest task in correspondence – to comment on your great communiques) …Thanks so much for continued full a/cs of your wonderful progress in and aboaut the pretty garden Beats me how you rembr the names of the various blooms of flowers different kind of veges, and fruit. Even the girls are getting into the swing tho` the names of some plants have beaten them as far as the latin spelling goes.. Guess but that Gladiola must be "some flower. Your prefix "magnesia your own and a contraption of "magnificent? Anyhow it must be almost as valuable as some orchids if worth 5/- to 7/- per bulb.

Don`t know what we`ll do if ever we return amongst such blooms. You so wonderfully describe, especially after being here where domestic gardens are practically unknown. I think the dung pit at the back door of most of the farm houses is the nearest . These hard working agriculturists get to --- as regards a garden. It`s a certainty that with the guard of the mastiffs (whose home is usually in a barrel on the manure) small boys would never attempt their capers of "stolen fruit etc.

The elements are so severe during the 5 months or so of Winter that I suppose

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delicate and beautifully tinted flowers could only be produced in a hot house and they are not found in every chateau here.. Yes I would without doubt enjoy helping to cultivate such wonderful beauties of nature. I always did, but opportunities were never ours while at Cove St. or Birchgrove Rd. Let`s trust that nothing occurs to tear W`bool from your grasp now. The thought of such a calamity is unbearable…

The saving in money on vegetables must be considerable to you and the freshness must give them a different taste to those hawked around and handled so much by John Chinaman or the `Bottle-ohs..` Guess you`ll be able to open a greengrocer`s business with so many spuds etc. to spare. Vegetable here are very scarce, and all kinds bring fancy prices. The lads generally whip the spuds to leg if they catch sight of any in these barns. You`ll hear the frizzle of the chipped variety from all directions as they fry them over the smoky braziers .

On our last march out from B--- Ridge (near P--) to near B--- the boys got very hungry after the day`s long and heavy march on muddy and cut up roads and they started to forage around as soon as the pack and equipment were discarded. Some of them one eve. had baked spuds and fowl for tea. Don`t know where they obtained the "cock-a-lorum from, but tis said that a blood stained putty knife was found in a hedge after the villain had flown. That little party was not the only one on that night and I`m sure that the roll call at many of the farm-houses found a few missing members from the pens.

On the march back again to the Front we`ve just left for this "Rest, We couldn`t smother our appetites especially as the elements were such that lots of bodily heat was necessary and that was not to be obtained from our meagre army ration. The night B4 we entrained (after a hard days march) we found ourselves feeling fit for a feed but pay day had not come and every one was "stiff. Nevertheless in the barn at out billet (an estaminet) one of the lads found some stuff which appeared as if it might have been oatmeal. We didn`t wait to

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argue the toss but preparations were straight away made to transform the "mystery into porridge. While the amateur cooks got busy with the soaking and salting process, two of us hunted over the joint, into all the Boulangeries, Ecuriers etc in sight in the old village, and into the town of L---s, some 2 kilometres away, for the purpose of buying a tin of condensed milk. (this commodity is becoming dearer and scarcer every day here). We must have promenaded easily 3 miles in that quest B4 we lobbed back. The chaps waiting anxiously, as the "burgoo had been done for some time, so our hoaving into sight was a relief. Well, we made short work of the burgoo and evaluated it tres bon pour les soldats.

That finished the hunger made all full. Next morning at 3, in the pitch blackness and in a snow storm we commenced our march to the station, & then one of the "chefs (an ex farmer) told us that the "oatmeal that made our evening meal was really pigs feed. Gee! you "orter heard the laughter from the boys.! "Who pinched the pigs feed?!!! and other nasty slurs were hurled about but hunger had vanished and that was the main thing. Yes, it`s some life right enough and theres lots-a-fun at times.

Now my dear Parents and Sister, I must really end up as it`s getting late & my old hand is crying out for shut eye. Please accept my very sincere thanks for your grand wishes & encouragements. Trust that this finds you all still A1 and that prosperity once more reigns at W`bool. Very best love to you all and to relatives and friends.
Goodnight God bless you.
I am your ever loving son and brother
Harrie XXX

[Page 408]
111-2
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
Australia

[Page 409]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.112
The "Rest in the Field
(somewhere in La Belle France) (8n)
Sat. apres midi – Feb.9th..18

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
We are still staying at a farm-yard & a real live one too! & enjoying the quietness of country-life, also the rural scenes & activities of the civvies carrying on in the absence of boys and young men. (who still face the despicable greasy Huns at the "back door of this once peaceful country)

The noises that greet us now are far more pleasant to the ear than those which make day and nights hidious and hellish up in the "Region of lather & whack, from whence we so recently trekked. The grunt of pigs, the growl of mastiffs, the bark of the `petit chien`(little dog) & the cackle of the cock-a-lorums cannot be compared in any way to the grunt, rasp, bark, ear-splitting snap, rumble, & concussion of the many calibre (18pdrs to 18 inch, ironmongery-distributors which hostile Fritz from behind our line, or the K-R-U-PPP!!! & C-R-U-M-PPP!!! of the stuff he sends us in retaliation.

We can`t even imagine the cackle of the poultry as senders of those leaden-hails which are the nervous Hun infantry`s "long suit when the slightest opportunity or disturbance occurs especially during the long hours of darkness. Some of his "Mong-gunners (mach.gun) can still play "Home-sweet-Home, or "What is Home without a Mother etc. in variations on to our parapets and duck boards, but our Vickers can generally reply, "You`d be far better off in a `ome, We are the Rag time Army etc, or Keep it up too! We often smiled at the pranks of our "Mug gunners when des

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patching greetings to Fritz, over our heads and trenches. They`d rattle out a little tune to which Fritz from his Pill Box slit would reply erratically or nervously, & no wonder, for our "rat-a-tat-tats were only kidding to him, or "drawing him out, so that others of ours near-by could supply the accompinament & what a noise, gee!! The swish and cracks of the bullets as they sped over head didn`t sound as pleasant as a summer`s eve-breeze, but it`d all serve to put the wind up the Kaisers and Little Willies dupes, and make we holding the little outposts in No Mans`s Land feel a bit more at ease.

The Farm we are now boarding at is half way between the Towns of B--- ,& M--- & just off the main National Road connecting the two, & leading thro the former to the big city of L---- (now a slice occupied by the common enemy) & A---- (on our side, & where "Bogie was for such a long while last year) Both the former towns can be seen from this billet so we are not entirely out in the cold, or away from civilisatin.

My "drawing room is shared by half "A coy, & owing to the rush of visitors we have to eat sleep and generally live in it. The said "drawing roomis a palatial apartment or portion of one of the barns & we live amongst the straws & --- well, Live stock. Yes, in other words, the "chats. Ventilation is supplied by many breaks in the thatch-roof, likewise good old rain but still it`s not so very bad when those trenches & patrols into mysty No Man`s Land are thought of in comparison.

Just outside our Hall entrance we have the usual lovely perfumed garden as seen in everyone of these French and Belgian Farm house "squares, Yes the dung pit. I don`t think it would be possible to have such filth at one`s bedroom window, or back door, if this country had anything like the hot weather we get in Aussie during Spring and Summer.

The same thing applies to the dead on this side, a Madamoiselle "passed Westfrom theTown (M---) last week, but she was not buried till well into this week. The French custom differs widely from ours in that matter - apparently. Over the dwelling`s front door is hung a big black curtain with silvery colored edge, & cross of same, or at least, in mam`selle`s case thats what I saw. There may be different designs for others.

On the day of burial we noticed girls and folk from round about wearing long white veils and trains, and the old church bell began to toll. (The church L`eglise I might mention by the way was built in 1699-70) Like most of the other graves in the nearby full church-yard, this one was graced with a wooden cross & the name only printed (or painted, rather) on it. The thing that struck me most tho was the silk scarf (as worn by girls) which was tied round the cross apparently a relic of deceased. Other graves near by were draped similarly some white, blue or black scarafs & I couldn`t help a little halt on my way to look at them.

The grave-yard here cannot be compard to ours in any way. I think Aussie stands

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out on her own for pleasant resting places for the departed (if any cemetary can be called pleasant.)

As I write, there`s lots of noise beneath our straw & bean-stack covered floor which is eminating from 9 little suckers born yesterday mornng under one of the quaint old 3 wheeled carts in the shed. Guess the new additions to the farm inhabitants will bring in a good price to the owners here taken to market. Like many other farm houses here abouts the one that we are alongside is also acting as an Estaminet – or "boozer and "eating up joint as our lads call em – so Froggie is further augmenting his Bank a/c and making hay while the sun shines. There`s very few private dwellings anywhere on this side of the "Pond that are not taking advantage of the influx of "stoush merchants by which to catch a few pence, or centimes or Francs. There`s make shift estaminets, cafes, tea-rooms, Eggs & chips shops, fancy goods – and other like businesses like shave and hair-cut, curios, tailors etc. – all doing their best to haul in to the coffers what spare cash we have to waste.

The winter up till now has proved a bit of a surprise, as most us expected a repetition of the 1916-17 severe elements – blizzards, endless rain , eternal mud, all mixed with sleet, snow & biting winds, Certainly there`s been lots of shivery stuff Brhh!! - along with lots of snow and ice, With the dreadful rain (that brings so much misery to les soldats is les tranchu, or those out in the advanced posts amongst the shell holes in the Region of the Summer advances) has held off a great deal tho not entirely. That`s why the folk back home have been able to do so much out door work during the season that is usually too severe for anything but the old fire-side or brazier-stove.

Many farmers are busy ploughing in readiness for next season and those who own hop-fields are fixing the long poles and stays, also the wires on which the valuable plant climbs – some 20 feet or more; Of course it all looks very bare now as there`s no sign of plant life, but after the manure (taken from the Farm house "square or dung pit where it has been "ripening – pooh!!) has been ploughed in between the lines of poles all will be ready for the plant that produces the "goods which helps to produce the "sting in the "stagga-juice.

Even the little sunshine which has come recently has brought what might be "the kiss of spring to the grassy fields, for they look very pleasing to the eye now that the thick white veil of snow has disappeared. Of course, winter is still "on tap, & there`s several weeks left yet in which to be overwhelmed in it`s awful depths.

No sign of the new life has yet returned to the quaint dwarf willow (which line the edges of farm house dams or ond, or the water courses along the hedges in the low lying country) to the high trees which act as break-winds or as a source of remuneration for the valuable timber; the ornamental tree lining

4.
the National (cobbled) roads; or to the scraggy hedges belonging to the farmer, and which act as break-winds & fences. All this flora is cultivated, for it produces valuable and indispensable material for these folk and the Government. From the trees during Autumn, or when the sap has weakened (or thinned) they cut off all the little branches which have grown during the spring and summer on the trunk. These are tied into faggots (or little bundles) & sold as fuel for use during the long winter months. The same routine applies to the hedges, (the branches and twigs being tied up into bundles etc.)

There is reason & method in all the (to us) quaint saws & customs noticed here. For centuries the same old out-of-date ploughs, harrows, rollers, etc. have been handed down from father to son . Some of the more modern places have installed engine-driven winnowers, & other machinery used in agriculture, but the usual run of farms are only a few points ahead of the decadent "Gippos: in labor saving devices. Of course, the "estates cannot be compared in any way to ours as regards extent. They are only domestic vegetable gardens in comparison & there`s no trouble for the "cocky to see every part of his field from le maison or the house..

The dirty big sows, like the domesticated sheep, fowls, calves, horses and pigeons are all part of the happy family. I was only gazing at a quaint scene yesterday afternoon. Two of the cows were lying on the manure heap, chewing the old cud as usual, while the 2 big sheep stood alongside contented & also chewing awayThe stinking big sow, after waddling up to their billets in the smelling soakage of manure & supping up the filth thereon also sidled up to the recumbent cows who just took the presence as a matter of fact & commenced licking the porkers lovely perfumed noses.

The fowls were also quite at home they had no fear in finding feed amongst the hair on the cows. None of these animals will run away , even from us, so it `s really not surprising that the chevaux (horses) can compree the order to "geeup, go right, left or ahead given them by a member of the family. One single length of rope only is necessary to drive a pair in plough, hay-wagon, 3 wheeled cart etc.

The 2 mam`selles here do the work that their brothers, or the laborers did in pre-war days. They are hard at it by reveille (6.30) feeding the animals & cleaning out the stables etc. After breakfast you see them harnessing up the comical & cumbersome drays to commence work in the fields – if the elements are favorable. Their Pa is a cranky man & he keeps them going from morn till night, which we think is a bit of a shame – but I s`pose they`re used to it... The pigs , cows, calves, and sheep follow them about like faithful dogs at meal times.

5.
and they compree when it`s feeding-up time bet yet! You`d hardly recognise these girls as the same persons on sundays when they put aside their old work-a-day clothes for the "pretties so much loved by young ladies and their fiancees. Despite bocoo mud on all the main & by-roads that lead to l`eglise (church) –pro lay-glise they brave it all with their polished "daisy-roots (boots) and nice dresses. Some are real old women in ways, looks, & appearances (thro their style of dress) long B4 they are out of their teens, & we smile when we compare memories of those we knew at home. The prevailing religion is still R.C. in fact I`ve seen no other denominational church in any of their towns or villages. Don`t see so very many Nuns about, or their orphanages, tho. I think the communal schools (or Ecole) are all swayed by the clerics.

You know, of cours, that the French moral code differs very widely from ours. I`ll have lots to tell you in the "sweet-bye & bye of things I`ve marvelled at on this side, as regards that matter – God willing. Will only say that the looseness in their code is contributing a great deal to the downfall in the social and moral scale of some of our Empire`s lads, & especially the "youngsters. Lets try to say that our "mock modesty shows inferiority to the French and Belgians, but I think sincerely that the former is far preferable in a community to this European way – it`s "pas bon.. I don`t know what their life is in peace time but even allowing a big margin for the stress, strife & sorrows of this dreadful war & the absence of the men in the Firing line, I don`t think it can be too "clever ...

The towns and villages are all filthy, besides being hundreds of years old & out of date in all ideas of cleanliness. The rues (streets) are so narrow that passing vehicles splash the mud all over the wall, windows and doors. Sewage systems are still unknown up in these parts, likewise other municipal matters that we are so used to seeing performed by our suburban councils, so Aussie can teach these folk many things that they still lack knowledge of.

Even allowing for this being the "country (or "out back) of part of La Belle, there`s been lots of time to shake off the yoke of precedence or hereditary ideas. Anyhow towns, cities, village and hamlets in the Region of utter desolation is to have a new and clear start when the war ends. so ther`ll be no excuse if they fail to make "model places out of the complete ruins that now comprise most of them. Post cards generally give you an idea that every view shows a delightful scene, but when one actually gets to the spot he finds the enviorons anything but "clever. Yes the photos are genuine enough, but somehow we can`t grasp the pretty part of the site or of the old villages that cannot convey anything but what the places, are ancient , out-o-date & dreary, decadent clusters of badly built dwelling and shops or both combined, also narrow erratic street with spaces called "squares

6.
Let`s now switch off on to your many favors.(list I 4got which have arrd during last week and helped to make my lot a little more bearable & happy ... From Warrnambool I have to ackgle very sincere thanks, the receipt of :- Mothers (2) 11/11, & 16/12, Elsies (3) 19/11, ,10/12 & 16/12 (the latter enclosing snap of Lizzie and Thel in the garden, by Pearlie) & Thel`s 16/12 – all most acceptabel letters, for which, I am as usual, very grateful ... I learn for the first time from Elsie`s latest, that you`ve recd the letter written by my Bristol friend. Tell Elsie that I did not expect to be "blown sky high,or even "blown up at all, for that matter, and that , tho` her (Miss Bristol) was strange and perhaps out of order somewhat, there was no need to be unkind, or [indecipherable] because there`s not one australian girl of my acquaintance who has treated me as she has.

Tho` the acquaintance was of but 2 or 3 hours actually, she had great trust in me, & I treated her, as I would any lady or sister with the utmost respect. As for bringing home a Pommy wife, well, I`m quite undecided, even if I am to return from this Hell-on –earth with God`s will that I`ll plunge into matrimony at all. The call of the "bike the bush and the lone life often overwhelms me in my musings, when all is quiet and peaceful, but I may change. You`ll XQQ me writing thus, but in a [indecipherable] of my kind acquaintance you`ll allow that I am justified in retaliation . In the meantime, I`ll continue the correspondence to Bristol, just in case I do happen to reach murky Albion, either on leave or --- Yes, that`s if.

In the "green invelope that carries this to you, I`ll enclose the Bristolian`s photograph, & you`ll have seen as much of her almost as I have. I was pleased that Mother was not so "caustic in her criticism - showed good judgment. It wouldn`t do for me to criticise the girl`s perhaps [indecipherable] "lesser 1/2s, or to say anything in detriment to them, would it? yes. thats the only way I can convey my feelings on the matter - & you have much less evidence than I have in comparison...

Now Father, I`ll continue commenting on your big budget of Nov 16th which is still most newsy and instructive... Thanks sincerely for the most lengthy and minute a/c of the vege`s planted and growing in the wonderfuol garden. It`s grand to know that you save so much money in having the many varieties of veges , herbs and fruit at your door to draw on. No wonder you are all so content – fresh veges and fruit, gee!

living is becoming recarious on this side. If things keep going as they are, it won`t be long ere we are living on grass or the roots of trees & small insects. You are really very 4tunate down under to be able to produce such necessaries ... I`ll be able to keep in my "wooden-ed the n ames of the many varieties of things you enumerate, but it`s all so interesting and I`m thankful for the pains & thought you`ve gone to in your efforts to enlighten me ... Relieved to know that the illustrated books, "Aust, in the Great War are still coming to hand, I think that there are 8 books in the first volume or set, so let`s hope you get them all. On the way there ought to be another Book from the pen of our War

7.
correspondent – C.E.W.Bean – so I`ll await your future advices with expectancy...

Yes. I guess there is much sorrow in the old Main [Balmain] now. The loss in action of our old pals: Jack Jackson, Jim McLenaghan, Dave Borthwick, Forbes Smith, young Millar, May, Jack Fraser etc, all leave a big gap in some circle or other. Goodness it`s dreadful! They must have all "gone west in the big Messines Ridge & Menin Road, Ypres battles & Pushes – near & at both of which sites we were recently & what scenes of desolation, gee! ...

Tom Kennett en-route to Down Under eh? What`s wrong & how long has he been away at this war? Sorry to hear that Aunt Sophie is still having ups & downs with health & that she had to hike herself away to Albury for a change. can only keep on hoping now that all`s on a more A1 ...

Would be a pity to see pretty Warnambool change over to strange folk, but it seems as tho` there`s no other remedy. It`s most unfortunate if it has to be done ... did Aunt manage to spend Xmas at W`bool with you? Pleased that young Les likes the rural life now being experienced at the Longeronong Ag. College at Dooen (Vic) He has recently written to me and explained what they have to do. Not surprised to learn that Reg is not too keen on miling cows or looking after horses, pigs, poultry etc. Perhaps he misses Dad`s mo`car & the young lady. Anyhow its a chance that every lad in the world doesn`t get on leaving school..

Yes. Aunt Maggie had given me a detailed and graphic a/c in her nice way of dear Grandmother`s death & I have long since replied.. Fancy that Sydney Ferries buying out the B.N.F. Co. & all the latters`s interest in the big plesure grounds gee! They`ll have a real monopoly of "Air `Arber if they over the Watson`s Bay fleet & interests. Can`t understand why the Govt. didn`t have something to say about such important transatctions. Perhaps some of those overpaid and indispensable "gas bags are interested in the progress of the Ferry octopus? Yes, they are making it red hot with fares. Seems to be no end of increases even on the very short trips. It must reach an apex or climax sooner or later ... It`s real fresh news to elarn that the Q.V.Markets are being altered - & at a time like this! I understood that money was not available for any new works at Home. What`s the joke? What are they going to make out of that City "White elephant – an underground station?

Your Nov 15th "library came some weeks after that of Nov.24th, but was none the less welcome, instructive, or "newsy Merci beaucoup! Can`t understand the erratic way in which my mail is arriving at W`bool, but I s`pose there is such an accumulation of AIF abroad mail on this side, & the boats leaving so infrequently as they do that the letters left from the previous clerance are put in the bottoms of new bags, being covered up by the later mail as it comes in anyhow so long as everything eventually reaches you, that`ll do me, Thanks for the advice you give me of what has successfully survived the home-

8.
ward journey & for your kind remarks re my letter on Bristol. You know of course that I went there for education & experience & there was very little of interest missed in those few fleeting hours. I also found a little enjoyment, or at least I spent a few pleasant hours out of my usual sphere of seclusion. The set of Bristol cards I thought tres bon as they were out of the ordinary run or style. Glad you liked them also...

Yes I think Horatio Bottomley, editor of "John Bull one of the cleverest men in decadent Angleterre. He alone seems to be able to 4see that the vast army of Tommies in the field are going to demand their say in the Govt of the land. They have bled for when this hell on earth had finished. He is apparently the only friend that the "muck have, & he champions their cause on every little point, often writing accusations and ridicules against the Hats that almost amounts to what would be in Hun Land as "Lese majeste If statements were not true he would be doing "time long B4 this, but there you are - he`s as large as life today.

"Bott is the most optimistic man on the allies side today, as he has been all thro, the piece, - many say that he is too much so - & there`s no doubt but that every one of his articles contain wonderful phrases & ideas that all originate from his active & fast seeing vision & which appeal most strongly to the masses – the folk who have to stand the bigest of this war`s miseries, hardships etc. ..

Your very clear a/c of the engineering of the Great Strike by our over-paid "gas bag traitors makes stirring reading and has opened my eyes a great deal. I read extracts from this Nov 15th letter to the lads of 7 AI Gen & others near by, especially those relating to the strike, the de-registrations of law-abiding unions; the expected introduction of sweating system (owing to the defeat by starvation of the workers) & the cruel, hearless & scandalous treatment of those returned men who applied to the Lord Major & others only to be insulted & kicked back.

Every one of the boys expressed anger, disgust & absolute surprise at the rotten & totally unexpected treatment & thanklessness for their sacrifices for the very people they`re helping to keep where they are today. The lads are of many occupations – clerks, mechanics, blacksmith, carter, farmer etc. & there`ll be civil war or something worse if things don`t alter B4 they get back. I couldn`t write in English some of the expressions they used to emphasise their feelings on this matter.

I shall have to finish up now my dear Parents as it`s getting late & I`m commencing to become erratic with this worn out scratchy nib. Let me continue to hope and trust that much prosperity & the best of good health (God`s grand blessing) rests with you, and friends on your side.
Best of wishes & Love to you all.
God bless you.
Goodnight!!
I am ever your loving son and brother
Harrie XXX

Same addr. still holds good
(theImmortal First etc.)

[Page 410]
112
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool,
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales.

[Page 411]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 113,

At (?) "Rest
(somewhere in France. (8N)
Sat eve. Feby.16th. 18

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
This letter is being penned in our make-shift Battn Guard-Room, in the Town of H----, where I am one of those who have to spend the week-end on duty. It`s not that the week-end is much better than the ordinary days, but somehow `I like to be free o`nights so that I can "box-on with my accumulated correspondence, & especially to write the usual one to you. Anyhow, I just have to make the best of the few hours spell-in-between shifts & would ask your indulgence on my feeble efforts to "rake up news, in consequence.

War news from this Front is Na poo as far as we are concerned, because some miles separate us from the Region of Bother & agricultural, peaceful scenes abound here. The advantage of it to prepare the field for the new season`s crops of cereals, hops vegetable, etc. The heavy artillery also seem to be making the best of the nice, tho tres froid,(very cold) conditions, as for the past week there has been a growing activity on their part, & especially at night.

As I write the constant bark of the big guns reminds us that in a few weeks the might of the opposing forces will be pitted against each other,& there`ll be lots doing for all arms of the Service – especially the infantry . Kaiser Bill says that his hordes of dupes must "box on to show the World that they have already won the war – ha ha !! So our side

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have all in readiness for his surprise.

Yesterday while in this town near our farm house barn billet, I had a most surprising, tho` very pleasant, meeting with young Arthur ("Codger) Ferguson (B of 2nd) who had just recently returned from leave to "gay Paree. Was also surprised to see that he was a Lance Jack of Sigs & had been decorated with the M.M. Good lad!!. He is looking real well after his happy stay in Paris & says that he has had a good "spin on this side. Please remr him to all acquaintances over there. Merci ! As he is billeted only a little way from us I`ll very likely see more of him, that`s if we do not shift yet.

Had some good excitement this morning while practising manoeuvres in a near by field. The day has been real fine, with a clear sky & good sun, tho the air has been very chilly - & still is – after a very heavy overnight frost. As usual with nice calm days the planes of both sides get very busy aloft, spying out and photographing the land on the opposing rear areas. Several Fokkers and Gothas have eluded the 4ward "antis & reached this region, but one a little gamer than the others came down a bit too far just B4 lunch, & above where we were going tho our practises.

We had been watching his antics for some minutes when all of a sudden one of our Aussie biplanes swooped down towards the Fritzer & emptied a magazine or two into him. At the same time our Lewis and Vickers "emma-gees opened up, so between the lot he was cut off, & to escape destruction came down our way at a terrific pace followed by our own plane just above him. We thought it was a ruse at first on Fritzs` part, or else believed we`d made a mistake in thinking the plane was an enemy one, but there was no mistake when we saw the black iron –crosses on his under wings & rear body as he just cleared the tops of a row of tall trees lining one side of out field.

It was then seen that the plane had been hit by bullets which had accounted for his decision to alight. Anyhow he had to manoeuvre hurriedly when close to the ground to miss hitting several hop fields & trees lining the National Road between B--- & M---- & in alighting at a swift pace in a recently ploughed field hit nose on, smashing his radiator & one propellor blade and overturning. It proved to be a single seater biplane scout and the Hun occupant was most fortunate in springing out B4 the backward move & in being unhurt.

He was captured by one of our "A coy. officers, & I believe some of our souvenir hunters made a good haul from him. We were ordered to load up & surround the overturned plane in case he should fight with his rat-a-tat-tat!! but by the time we`d doubled over several ploughed fields & thro some thorny hedges the prisoner was on his way to head.quarters. The victory must have made our aviators very light hearted for lots of planes from the aerodrome where Joe

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Dodd is said to be (as an air-mechanic) came over & hovered about the overturned Hun. They were so low down that you could almost feel the suction of their big propellors, & the muffled "Aussie aviators (pilot & observer) were plainly seen peering over the side of their "buses. In less time than it takes to tell, hundreds of Aussies ,Tommies, & French civvies arrd on the scene of disaster, & it was a very pleased throng . The souvenir hunters who came late were prevented by a guard from young "codger`s Battn from satisfying their craving for some kind of momento of the thrilling affair, & soon after the air-mechanics, with their motor-lorry, commenced the removal of the damaged machine to the near-by aerodrome where they`d have a better chance of looking for anything new in the way of plane fittings etc.

This afternoon, B4 coming up here to commence the guard duty, one of our big planes (Aussie) gave us a grand thrilling exhibition of what can be done in the air. Our pet football-team (unbeaten in the Brigade) was playing against the "Banana Landers(9th) near the billet at the time, and there was a big crowd round the touch-lines. Nose dives, dangerous looking banks, (almost on to back) volplanes, & corkscrews, were given "baksheesh above the admiring football barrackers, & the aviators were well repaid by the hand-wavings from below. I think it must have been the lovely sunny day that accounted for the happy spirit of the airmen and of we land lubbers. Sunlight is our joy, & it`s a luxury here.

Don`t know when we are returning to the "Region of Stoush but I s`pose it`ll soon come round again, unless the War ends soon. In a month we`ll be pretty well entering into the 1918 Spring so there`ll be lots of doing in the way of battles by then. Everything points to decisive actions this time, but there`s no telling what`s going to happen. We thought that the Somme "Push of July 1st 16 was to be the beginning of the end - perhaps it was – but we`re still boxin on, & there`s every possibility of continuing so for some weeks or months yet, tho`God grant that it will soon finish & that we Aussies will return B4 another year dawns.

Have not seen "Bert since we came down here to La Belle, nor have I had a chance of travelling the 6 or more miles than separate us, but I hope his spasms with his pal

4.
"Bill Easton up near P---- have been successful ones. Will keep a sharp look out for the purple T, with affixed figure one, of brass, next time I`m in B---- for that`s where most get leave to from this part of France & Belgium (the largest town nearest the Fronts) This little bit of surplus "gas just about ends the local news (XQQ the insult to the word) so as duty prevents me thinking of anything else I must let it go at that & now turn to the grand budgets which still arrive so frequently from you dear folk down under.

During the week I`ve got to ackge with many thanks receiving letters from the following from Warnambool :- Father`s 15/12 "Young book (enclosing 3 most welcome snaps by Pearlie of W`bool & yourselves with which I am well pleased & to Elsie`s also most welcome letter of 3/12 a bit later than her previous ones, but none the less interesting, Pearlie`s letter came also with others from kind friends.

Each one of us recd our Xmas parcel from the Austr. people & they were voted the "best ever. Tho` they arrd a bit late, the contents were nevertheless most acceptable, especially the eatables. Those that we recd were send by the Lady Mayoress of Melbourne`s Fund & were apparently meant for the Vics. Each one contained practically the same things. Mine included :- 1 tin bisquits, 1 tin tomato sauce, 1 tin raisins, 1 tin cigarettes (1) 1 tin butterscotch, & 1 pkt chewing gum. Some condensed milk, honey, or writing pad & playing cards in place of one of the other items.

The lads were most thankful for the kind gifts, the eatables of course being 1st favorite as such things as come from Aussie in that line are real luxuries now. The longer this business lasts, the scarcer will become sweets & food stuffs, in fact the choc. we buy here from the Belgian refuges & Froggie pedlars is terrible inferior muck – teeth rot. The position with sucre (sugar) in Angleterre is critical, & sweets and jam manufacturers are rationed I believe. Those who go on leave obtain a sugar-card as soon as they arrive on the other side of the "Pond, but of course it`s a necessary precaution now.

A letter from Rosie says that the people are to be rationed properly from the 20th inst, in the interim, the food hoarders have been given to a certain date to surrender secretly to the Food Boards their, unlawful stocks., which are passed on to the Civilian Hospitals after half the value has been returned to the hoarder. Up till now, the usual system of Govt. has prevailed for the populace – one law for the rich & another for their more unfortuante brothers & sisters in the social scale, so it`s to be seen what will happen now...

Let`s now 4get the troubles and strife which exist up here by referring to Father`s lovely big letter of Nov 24th which has provided me with some great reading as usual ... Good old "Movie night It`s nice to know that Dear Mother and the girls find some enjoyment during these bad days It`s their only way of 4getting, if temporarily, the trouble that exists here... trust that the abnormal rain fall during end of Nov. has not spoilt the garden and orchard which you have worked

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so hard in to being to perfection... The news of the receipt of such big mail from me is real encouraging & I must thank you for giving me so much detail as to what survived the long journey home. We have just learned from Battn orders that some mail from us over here, written in Jany. went to Davy Jones locker in a boat which went about the 2nd ulto. I have records in my diary . Let`s hope that my fortune is in & that if anything has gone, it`s not very important ...

I "get ye now re Miss Nellie Craig. I had an idea that she was
Eliza`s sister, but thought it may have been another family. Please remr me very kindly to both please if you see them in the `Main` or elsewhere & thank the former for the card and her nice wishes... We learned of the question in the "House re the [indecipherable] & noted the lying remarks of certain responsible members of course they may have been misinformed or else it was a wilful lie ... I fully understand your views of the conscription Ref. & coincide, even tho` my vote was against yours this time. The action of the new Govt. in disenfranchising so many workers is something I did not know of B4...

Hope you have recd the cigar-box parcel sent from the Fovant Camp "civvy post office ere now, not that anything contained in it is very valuable, far from it, but Les Norman`s watch is included & I`d like that to reach you. Will await your further devices... Sorry to learn of poor Mr Tom Lewis` low state of health, Hope all`s well now. Best regards to Mr. & Mrs please. Pleased that Aunt Maggie`s friends (Mrs Burns & niece) pay W`bool a visit and that you had lots of flowers etc. to give them to take home. It`s nice to learn of the visits paid you by all our old neighbors and friends. They must take all lonliness from you and make things happier. Thanks to them all for nice wishes and regards. Same to them... Can`t compree Bill Whitford`s eagerness to get back here, but I s`pose he knows best. Good luck be with him...

So the New Grove Tram is running? Wonder if it`ll be another Govt. white elepant. If the through fare remains at 3d I can see the ferries being hard hit by the casual travellers. Thanks for the diagram showing the new color-sign on the tram. It`ll be strange for awhile I expect ... The "Amusu Movie Theatre must be "some place Guess it`ll open the other shows to greater efforts or "break them altogether..

I can well understand how you have got out of going for the usual Sunday swim I s`pose you`ll not miss it at all soon. Would like to sample the Tarbon Creek baths some day... Hav`nt had a swim since leaving Wareham with the "Fragments (June last I think) so must be pretty much "off now .... Yes. it is real good news to know that at last you have retd to work at the Island [Cockatoo Island] after such a long, heartbreaking spasm of idleness. Let`s trust that nothing will occur to break the run of prosperity. Pleased that the work on the H.M.A.S Adelaide is being carried on – a most necessary work too. She`ll make a grand addition to our petit, but handy fleet of warships.

I have notd with interest your eye-opening remarks re the shuffle by the Govt. over the wheat-ship building programme. Can`t understand how a clever man like Billy Hughes tries to hoodwink and twist

6.
as equally clever men from the class who gave him his start in the political world of "Limelight. Looks as tho he`s fast drifting towards the other side, if he`s not already there... Your straight out remarks about the ruling system in the "Land of our Forefathers & your opinion of it`s uselessness, coincides with mine exactly. It does not need more than a lifetimes` residence on that side of the Pond to compree how things have been going for many years, decadence is written everywhere, tho of course as far as manufactures etc. go the foundries and ship yards (etc) have had to go their hardest to keep ahead of Fritz & Sammis in the great commercial war precedes to this terrible aftermath.

Can`t help envying you the lovely peaches, plums, persimmons, apricots which you are (or have been) obtaining from your trees. Fruit such as those are an impossibility on this side – or it seems so. Delicacies of that kind are only the rich now. Pleased at the great success you`ve had with spuds & other veges. How nice to be independent of the middle man. There`s no doubt but that the garden & orchard solve a big and important problem for you during those 14 weeks of worry & distress. Wouldn`t like to guess what would have happened to you if you`d be dependent on the Smiths. The continued encouraging news that all is still well with you as regards health I hope will remain so. You told me that Mother was having lots of ups & downs but I can only keep on hoping that she is her happy self once more.

Your guess re we Aussies being sent to "Stak-da-Oyst is so far not correct. Lots of rumours have been doing the rounds for some months now, but the most persistent is the Holy Land – which is still favorite – tho anything`s possible of course.

I`m real pleased to know that you did so well during the strike spasm as regards the monetary part & that nothing is due to anyone. That`s tres bon & more than I hoped for. At times I dreamt of you appealing to some of our more 4tunate relatives in the Southern State but I realised that things would have to be extremely critical for you to go to such a length.

Ah well, My Dear Parents and Sister. I`ll finish this up now as the old nib is about fit for a pension & time is fleeting . Let me continue to trust that you are all still enjoying God`s great blessing (good health) & that happiness & presperity is your grand lot. Please convey to all old pals, acquaintances & relatives my best wishes & regards & accept sincerest of Love and Wishes from
Your devoted Son & Bro.
Harrie XX
(PS. Same address as B4)

[Page 412]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 114

At ? "Rest in the Field
(Somewhere in "La Belle France) (8N)
Sat morn. Feby. 23rd. 1918

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters
You`ll perceive by above address that we are still out of the Line and enjoying a little spell after the recent long spasm in the region where bother brews.

There`s no saying how much longer we`ll last back here – not so very far from les tranchee – but we are hoping for a few more weeks of absence from the Forward Area, tho` wouldn`t be surprised if moving orders came along at any old minute.

The battle-front hereabouts has been rudely awakened these past few weeks by lots of intense artillery bombardments by our many guns. The continual roar during the night, or just just B4 dawn can be likened to very heavy thunder (for we are to rear of the guns) which develops into what the Hun calls "Drum –fire in his communiques. It all points to big things in the "stoush Dept. when the time is ripe, so we`ve got something to keep us on the qui-vive and to look forward to.

Old King Winter is stil very kind to us as the elements still remain what you`d call "mild. Some very heavy frosts during the moonlight and calm nights gave us the shiver at Rev. in the mornings as we left the warm blanket for the usual ablution in the Farm-pond The ground freezes hard after these frost, and a white mantle, like snow, remains on it til the sun in as

2.
weak as it usually is - makes it thaw. Tis needless to add that the Pond also freezes and we`ve got to actually break the ice-covered top to obtain the wash. Still, snow and ice is far more pleasant than rain and mud to live and work in, tho, none of it is as nice as our lovely Aussie sunshine and the mild elements.

Our wonderful planes are still ruling the roost on this part of the long front and those belonging to the big aerodrome close by this Farm-house barn billet are up aloft during all sorts of weathers. This morning has turned out dull, threatening, and cold, but as I write (sitting in Froggy`s quaint and lumbersome cart) a score or so of biplane scouts are humming ,whirring , and buzzing up above. One second they`re lost in the high mist and the next you see them volplaning or nose diving earthward at a terrific pace, only to right themselves as graceful as any bird when the required altitude has been reached.

Being a Lewis-gunner, I am one pf am aeroplane guard which is continuously (in reliefs) by the wonderful little gun watching for daring Fokkers, Albatross`s or Gothas, which may risk getting into range in their anxiety to obtain informationn for der Faderland. I am off duty till 2 pm so could not help taking advantage of the relief to pen this weekly communique.

It is very interesting to watch the manoeuvres of our pretty planes thro, the field glasses (which we use for picking up Fritz) I spent my 2 hours of duty thus, Despite the misty kind of weather the glasses were poweful enough to show up everything on the planes even when high up . Diving the steep banks, the pilot and obvserver were plainly discerned while the revolutions of the propellor, red,white and blue rings for distinguishing and the movement of rudder or elevating etc, planes could also be followed.

An enormous "bus came out for a bit of an aerial canter last week and was easily the biggest we`d seen aloft. Must have been one of the big bomb droppers which play such havoc over the Huns ill gotten territory out o` nights – when the elements are favorable. I`ve seen the new triplanes over No Man`s Land while we were in action at New Year, but we rarely see them now, perhaps the little bi-plane leads the way still.

Spring must be on it`s way to relieve Jack Frost and King Winter of their shivery vigil, if signs around us of wonderful nature

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are any criterion. While watching thro the glasses for any sign of a Fritzer, I came into the focus of a different kind of sight, which proved a real interesting and instructive lesson on natural history . In the higher fork of one of the very tall trees, which line a side of a field outside our billet, I noticed a scraggy twig nest.(the trees, hedges etc are still devoid of foliage) on one edge of which was a long-tailed bird (like an exaggerated pee-wee) with a large twig in it`s beak. Inside the incomplete Home was the former`s mate busily engaged laying the twigs, The bird made several trips to the ground builder, returning each time with another addition tot the shaky shelter. Sometimes the twig would be a heavy one and lots of manoeuvring was necessary by the busy worker B4 the high nest was reached. I thought it all very interesting and will watch the further progress in architecture when I go back to the gun at 2 pm.

Other signs of spring`s welcome advent are had in the new shoots appearing on trees and in hedges and the Froggies` activity in the field. The stinking dung-pits at the back door, where manure, etc. had been "ripening for such a long period, is now being loaded into the peculiar 3 wheeled carts and emptied into little heaps on now grassy fields prior to the ploughing in process. Those who cultivate the Hop-plants go thro the same manuring system and are tightening up poles and vines which will have to stand the strain and weight of the plant which produces some of the "sting in the "stagger juice sold here by the estaminets. Nearly every town has it`s brasserie, (brewery) or several of them, so the hop-growers have not far to cart their valuable product- valuable because beer and wine are drunk by nearly every Frenchman or woman and child here.

Our "Rest is being spent with drill, musketry, and field work during the mornings and with games – rugby and soccer Football, hockey, etc. which we must all take part in, for the afternoon. It is grand exercise and is keeping us fit, especially as most games are held on muddy, slippery fields, where even walking is a difficulty. The "Glorious First has an unbreaten Rugby Team which is our pride, as it helps to uphold the good old name and to keep it in the limelight. So far, not one defeat has baeen experienced, in fact, cricket scores have mostly been the rule, tho the 3rd "gravel crushers created some excitement amongst the barrackers by keeping the black and greens on the "go from Kick off to last whistle, only being beaten by a converted try – 8 points to 3.

One of the Brigadiers was boasting recently aboout the wonder Rugby team in and of his Battns and our Brig (Leslie) put his boast to the

4.
test by challenging it to a match, which eventuated some weeks since (? rules). The Banana Landers were certainly a hefty and smart side and they lead at half time 6 to nil, the undaunted First romped home by 7 points to the good – 13 to 6. Soon afterwards another team wanted to dispute the title held by the First and were accomodated and dispensed with in good style, our pet team winning 17 to nil. Next came our hefty artillery team looking for fresh victories on the footer field and they went home wiser by their hard earned experience – a defeat; 24 to nil.Then 4th "human camel Corps next "hopped in for a cut and were accomodated on their own ground one wet day, the field being a veritable quagmire on which none of the players could keep upright. The barrackers of the Battn had previously told us that there was a "surprise packet " awaiting our team, and we really expected something startling, but when their debit at 12 to nil at half time we had no fears of the result which ended 27 to nil in the 1sts favor.

Still others came along to claim themselves premiers of the Divn,, or A.I.F. in the field, and when the much boomed A.M.C. (1st) met their doom by 22 to nil, we began to really think that our team was "some side. On Monday, I believe, they meet the "Bingerjeers and if not in the Line, the "Ally Sloper Cavalry soon afterwards. Amongst our team we have Les and Phil Bradman`s (the well know Sydney swimmers) bro Harold (a Lt. in B coy) who is acclaimed a champion forward and is some streak when it comes to running. The other favorite is "Stevo (Stephenson)who is a bit of a marvel with a ball, believe he was one of the noted (Wallaby) team. Needless to say, both marked men on the field, but all the watching makes no difference for they go through all opposition like splashes of lightning.

Hav`nt seen anything now of young Snowy (Codger) Ferguson since I last wrote to you, tho we are only camped (or billeted, rather) a little way from him. Will keep a look-out when in M---- at – parade, (if not on aeroplane guard) tomorrow for the lad.

Don`t think theres anything else of note to let loose on you here, so I`ll continue on referring to Father`s big communique still B4 me. No mail arrd from you during last week but I have a great deal on hand to pay you for yet in P/Cs and they still give me much pleasant reading.

It was rather very encouraging and pleasant to learn that prospects for Xmas and the New Year looked so bright since work at the Island , and elsewhere, commenced. Sincerely trust that prosperity on the line reigned again, never to slacken.. Yes there`s no doubt but that the girl`s good money helped you over a big difficulty and Elsie`s enforced "holidayss could not have been pushed on to her at a better time. Anyhow she`ll perhaps be able to allow of dear Mother having a good rest – so hard earned too –

It is pitiful for us to read about the

5.
enormous and terrible wastage of life giving foodstuffs at your end – all held up for want of sea-tonnage. Gee, but it`s awful!! Believe you`ll have something like 10 or 12 million bushels of what alone, when the present harvest is garnoud, and that to get it away will take from 3 to 5 years – if the mice and weavils don`t do the job themselves. What an awful pity. We `ve read where the Govt has told the farmers that its no use sending any more to the sheds in the shipping ports, but to devote their land to stock ranges instead. That wheat would solve Blighty`s biggest problem today if it could be sent over, as the people there are at last to be rationed like we soldiers on a/c of the depletion of home-stocks,

Let`s trust anyhow that the "back fill win-the –war party will get on with the cargo-steamer building programme, tho I s`pse you`ll have to now knuckle down to piecework at any rate, "till the boys come home and then --- well, there`ll sure be some bother for the gas-bag capitalists in the House ( and then bought over ) whose trade is being protected by the very men they are treating so shabbily now we`ll see!… I read you’re a/c of the treatment being meted out to the unfortunate returned soldiers who have no jobs waiting for them, and who applied to the Govt for succour, to some of the Anzacs and other pals here with me and they are extremely surprised at the revelation you have unfolded . They don`t know what to think of things for the future in their sunny homeland, but some express very militant terms of what they`ll demand for their sacrifices, etc. We can only carry on till the end of the piece then see what`s to be done at home. Let`s trust that a more democratically inclined party takes the reigns of Govt ere it`s too late …

Good old [indecipherable] He`s some hero to come at this game now, and I wish him best of [indecipherable] and the hope that we`ll meet on this side somewhere. Still cannot comrehend what unit he is to box-on with. The Bombardiers could either be the Light or Heavy trench mortars, or the Artillery, but bombing is a branch of the infantry which we must all be proficient in – likewise machine guns, bayonet, and rifle grenades, besides, of course, musketry ...

Have heard from Archie Murdock at Heigtisbury – a couple of stations from Warminster, the Salisbury side of the Western line to Bristol. We remnants of the relic "Fragments marched thro the little town on our last trek from Fovant to Sandhill Camp, Longbridge Deverill. Archie was A1 after his long journey and sends regards ok. to you. I have already replied

Skipper Drunnan also wrote to me – most unexpectedly. He was wounded in one of the "shoves and is still affected by his Blighty. Sutton Vennel next to Sandhill (not a part of his anatomy) is his present home. He too sends regards. Was on look-out for he and Joe Borthwick when their Battn took over from us somewhere in little Belgian on Jan 30th but owing to the fast falling dusk & heavy packs etc. they had aboard – I couldn`t distinguish one from the other, all had the old "tin at on too... I thought you made mistake when advising the death in action up here of "Chook Fraser, it was young Jack of the East-end I believe, who used to swim with the [indecipherable]
6.
& Balmain clubs. It`s real startling to learn of so many sterling lads paying the extreme penalty - all for freedom and right .. Scandalous !!!

I can hardly think that the authorities could be so callous with returned men as to treat them as they did during Cup-week. All these things point to bother sooner or later, and we over here can expect like treatment if we return with the Force apres la guerre. The novelty will soon wear down once this hellish job is done with, and we O.A.S. wil be the losers all the way, as we are now not as regards the prosecution of the war but the monetary part of the business. XQQ the pessimism but none the less things soon change, I can think in no other way ...

I do not know what a Pripet hedge is, but it ought to look A1 in the front of W`bool. Guess you`ve got quite enough, and more, to do now, without adding to your labors. Would dearly love to be back to lend a hand and to learn all about your choice blooms, veges and fruit. What a life in comparison to this !!.

Sorry to learn of Mr Tom Lewis` low state of health & of his poor prospect of recovery. My best respects to he and Mrs, please, guess he did enjoy the strawberries and veges you took over to Cove St. Very nice to learn of the great variety of spuds and other vegetables you are growing so successfully at W`bool. My ! & couldn`t we do with some of them fresh from the garden ! Six cw. of Murphies out of your plot is sure great going. You`ll have to open up a vegetable business to dispose of the surplus goods... Cannot picture over loaded peach, or any other fruit trees, now – my dulled imagination won`t stretch so far as that. The only trees we see here & in the part of Wiltshire near the Plain are those of great age & unkempt...

Thelma must indeed be some favorite to receive such useful presents as "live Stock – not "chats this time but real fowls and from neighbours. Tell her that I`m bouncing in some day for a feed of fried eggs & chips, so she`d better save lots of oeufs (eggs) for me, and that I want some lessons in the art of poultry, it`s care, feeding & housing etc.

The snaps you sent me in the later letters showing your dear selves have helped me to picture you all clearer after my seeming absence of a life time. Thel has grown almost out of recognition.. Was sorry to learn from your Nov.15th that dear Mother had not been in the pink, but let`s trust that all goes well now, likewise with you all. Glad to learn that you are able to keep the Starr-Bowkett payments going as you never know when that marble of your is to turn up. What are shares bringing at auction now? £30 each? Believe Fred Heming had a successful draw of £300 & that he put it down on a House for the future. good old Fred ! Is fair Alice still his fiancee. Best rememberances to her & to all her kind folk please & tell her to remr me to Fred & that I`m keeping a look out for his arrival in the land of stoush, sorrow, stress & strife.

Your Decr 23rd big budget brings me better news re Mother`s illness & I feel more at ease to know that all is still well with her, also that

7.
you are (or were) at work on the new cruiser "Adelaide, whose keel has been officially laid. (actually, I s`pose, done B4 the Great Strike. Good old record ! And are you all now on piecework? . Would like to learn that a start had been made with the proposed cargo-boats on the Govt`s. a/c, so that more of the un-employed could be taken on...

The screwing down of the drastic war pre-cautions Act must indeed be a big bone of contention in a democratic community & I wonder that such a thing is possible in your midst. The seizing & confiscation of the Q`land state Govt Hansard over the Conscription issue is certainly most startling news & what with the threatened arrest of that State`s Premier, it all makes us wonder what the climax is going to be. "Little Bill, is certainly sailing right into the wind and it looks as tho his helm will be jibd in time to save that pile up on the rocks which looks imminent. I still think he is a very clever man, but he seemns to be 4getting he`s dealing with just as clever real Aussies instead of "Pommies .

The several cuttings you enclosed re the case of J.H. Catts and his arrest for telling the truth about the mystic "Fragments has proved most interesting to me & the others of that Division with me to whom I showed it. Gee! but theyr`e daises of lives, or something, you`ve got holding the reins down under. It certainly appears as tho they think they`re dealing with ignorant, dull witted huns instead of real live educated people as well up in politics and diplomacy as they profess to be. Our pay books & identity discs do not tell lies & they are still in the possession of we Fragments who were transferred to it. The cutting relating to Billy Hughes` great reception at Warwick whre he was presented with the foundations of a Poultry Farm, one egg at a time (as you so cleverly state) made startling reading and shows the trend of feeling amongst the very people who put him where he is today. Won`t he ever take a tumble? Guess there`ll be a drastic change when his twisting party`s term is up. Three years from last year isn`t it that they have to run? The war ought to be over by then, so there`ll be lots a fun when the boys all come home.

The astouonding news you give me re we on this side knowing of the impending cons.ref 6 weeks or more B4 you folk and the despatch of the voting papers at same time is certainly a skinner. It shows that the Govt do not trust the people who put it there, & shows also that they are sure twisted.

Hope to learn in your next letters that the parcel sent from Fovant Camp reached you alright , not so much for the valueless articles I had enclosed, but for Les Norman`s watch which his sister would dearly like to receive. Let` s hope that it has long since turned up. Yes, your mail matter is now reaching me Ok since I rejoined the old Battn . Tell the girls to start the address from half way down the envelope – No, rank and name, corp, Battn & Australian Division on separate lines in that order – as your Sydney cancellation stamp, which extends right across

8.
the top part of the env. obliterates the very particulars which are so necessary for quick despatch. The writing on the env. is more important than that inside, as it goes thro. so many people B4 reaching me.

There`s no doubt that you must have some long waits for deliveries at your end now that the boats come so infrequent, but keep the old pecker up & all may yet be well... I`ve learned of Bogies arrival at your side from murky Albion and La Belle & of his determination, or inclination to come back as a combatant in the 3rd Divvy whizz bangs, I must wish him the best of fortune if he does come away again & will be on the look out when I learn of his departure. If this reaches you while he is near by you let him know that I am writing from a kilometre outside B--- & not far from where we billeted inApril 11/16 prior to going into the Bois-Grenier (VC corner) trenches. The town he was in for so long is 15 kilos S.S.E. (about 9 miles ) & I will be sending you some pre-war views of it as soon as I exhaust the few strays on hand... Pleased that Aunt Sophie recd my letter & that all were A! in Melbourne. Love & regards to them all when you write, please

The soil at W.bool must be wonderfully rich or prolific to make the creeping plants etc grow at such a rate after your tropical downpours. Guess you`ll have your work cut out to keep the weeds & parasites under. How about an offsider? Mr Hunt must really be in the weather-clerk`s confidence to make such a wild statement re the weather you`d get for Xmas. It did not sound too cheerful, but I hope he was proved wrong for once, & that loverly Aussie elements prevailed over Yule tide & the New Year. No doubt the garden and orchard at W`bool must be just grand & what a saving in veges and fruit !?

Real pleased to learn that you have such grand friendly neighbors & that you get on with them all so well. Makes life more pleasant I should think & takes away lots of lonliness. Good old Bakshee labor !! Mr Farley is very 4tunate to be in such a position for his own garden . Think I`ll have to try & souveneir a few greasy Huns & send em home to you. They don`t require much feeding (like all the pig family, the greens from vegetable tops, slops from the kitchen etc. are are much relished) are very docile; used to harsh treatment, sleep in "down beds and require little or no pocket money ...

The trellis work break-wind & the brick paths will all come in good time so let`s trust that the present prosperity continues. Poor little Dickey !! What a terrible pity that he`s lost one [indecipherable]. Hope sincerely that you do not lose him entirely after such a long residence as one of the family. We seem to have extra ordinary bad luck with pets. How I`d just love to hear him whistle – gee it`d be fine !! (a dinkum change from this drab & dreary part of the world & the disconcerting row & roar of battle)

Very pleased that that list I sent reached you OK. You ought to be able to follow it alright. Now in conclusion my Dear Parents and Sister, accept my very best thanks for all your many kindnesses & encouragements.
Best wishes to all Relatives & Friedns & sincere love to you all from your Devoted son & Bro. Harrie XX

(Same old address)

[Page 413]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 115.

In the line, in the region of beaucoup bother (39n)
Sund morn, March 10th. 18

My dear Mother, Father & Sisters –
Once more has it happened that thro duty & circumstances I have had to reluctantly forego a regular weekly communique to you & even now it will be in several spasms ere this is "launched, as we are still very much where bother brews & there`s lots to do night and day in the way of duty.

No.114 was penned from the scene of our recent welcome spell (near B---l) but I was not quite sure at that time that this one would be written from the "line Since then we have trekked & trained to this place & have finished our spasm in the actual front outposts, being at this moment just a very short way (about 300 yards) behind the vacated pill boxes ( or really "block houses) left us by the wily Hun, in fact, they can be seen from this ridge top down in the marshy valley below.

Our trek with all belongings

2.
only lasted a day, & the elements were kind to we "gravel crushers Our route took us across the frontier which there is a long ridge, from the summit of which we had grand view of "poor little Belgium on our left hand and La Belle France from which we `ve just come, on the other many places well know to us in 1916 could be clearly discerned away in the distance on the lower country, including P----eo battered historic Y---s, camps could be seen everywhere below, having taken the once bountiful fields for their sites. The border crossing is still guarded by Tommy police & Belgians – a very necessary precaution – a long pole across the road acting as the barrier. Our march took us very close to where Bert is camped with his unit, and where I was recently, at school, but there was no opportunity of calling then, not even when we camped for the night, a little further on, owing to the many thngs to be done with the mach-gun etc, prior to our next day`s departure to the front line.

We were 4tunate in getting a welcome lift on the narrow guage railway, which saved a great deal of boot-leather, sweat, and bad language, The little train with it`s open trucks, managed the heavy load OK & we were sorry when we were emptied out to continue the rest of the journey to the outposts in No Man`s Land, per shanks. The choo-choo brought us to the fringe of what is now a land of heartbreaking utter desolation & here such big things in the way of "shoves and "pushes were, accomplished last june by our Armies (the Aussies of course having guernseys were also picked , & played. We passed over the railway line (big guage) & canal which have previously figures so prominently in this war`s history.(while the Hun savages were trying to batter their way with shot, shell, gas & liquid-fire to Calais via Y--- by their "All Highests`s orders) Goodness !

3.
but what desolation ! No words of mine here could enlighten you as to what the dreadful scene is like, neither can any photos that are taken, one wants to be able to stand on the heights that are now on our side of the line to obtain the best sight of the awful environs.

The once busy & important traffic canal whence much of the inland produce, etc. was brought to the big cities & the coast, is now a fearful sight. It`s high banks are battered and torn into a terrible mess & only a trickle of water runs thro, as several dams have been thrown across by the combatants & used as crossings. During the recent bad years of continual strife hereabouts, terrible deeds were done, as you have undoubtedly read in your papers at home, as I did B4 I became a soldier. The now historic hill for which the Huns sacrificed so much was passed as we wended our weary way towards the new front line & we saw at close quarters the results of man`s madness & his crime against nature.

The enormous crater, of which Bert told you about in his letter, is only one of many which pockmark the heap of stuff known as Hill --- & across which previously extended the front line trenches of Fritz & us. The surrounding scene is past description for desolation, which seems to look more pitiful when a little bit of sunshine light it up. As far as you can see towards Fritz – only a few Ridges away – all signs of civilisation has disappeared, & now, even the eye-aching monotonous "Gippo desert is as a Botanical gardens in comparison. Several petit bois (little woods) once graced the little valley`s & slopes of some of the hills, but nothing but foot high stumps remain amid an endless & pitiful scene of shell holes & heaped up earth – little hillocks without end.

Amidst it all stand, mostly intact, dotted here & there the [indecipherable] you know as pill boxes, but which I would call block –houses or redoubts. Many are knocked to smithereens , but there are others with tops just showing above the ground which have defied the big shells. Others in the lower parts are full of water but as all are

4.
fitted out with a hand pump they are soon emptied.

It seemed an almost endless march along the narrow duckboards in the dark ere we reached the open, across which we had to traverse in order to reach the post in front of the Hun. I will need to "dig up the recollections of our spasm en-route or the term we had to serve, only to say that it all ended as God willed it – OK. As we were coming out to this place, who should pass me in the communication trench but young Bodgie Fergusson whose Battn has taken our place.We hadn`t time or opportunity to say any more than "Good luck owing to the narrowness of the trench and the fact that we were all loaded up with enormous heavy gear etc. & so many behind & in front coming & going. Nevertheless, it was most pleasing to see that "Snowy was then A1 & I hope he remains so. He sends regards etc to you & to all old acquaintances down under. His passing remark was that bro. Ralph was still going strong down Baghdad way. Good !

Winter is at last losing it`s fierceness & Spring seems to be nearly on us. couldn`t help some very deep thoughts during the hours previous to & just after dawn while "standing to in our outpost Pill Box – one of many which the the Square Heads have left to us to sleep in & watch him from during our exciting term there. The musings were caused by the birds – Yes, just our little feathered friends, & all that remains to remind that nature is still supreme - & what thoughts gee!!! There they were, skylarks & nightingales ( I think that`s what they were ) down in that dreadful region of No man`s Land, somewhere in Belgium chirping, tittering & singing most beautifully as if life, even amongst the foot high tree-trunks remnants where whizz bangs, heavies, trench mortars, minnies, gas shells & bullets with

5.
out end, cross & recross at all times of day & night. Yet, in those dawning hours in between the lulls, you could be dumbfounded to hear those songs. No wonder we thought, & deeply too those thoughts were not of war but of sunny Aussie, it`s own lovely songsters of the air, the quiet cool & serene valleys –Oh what a dream!! & lots of other beauties that make life worth while. It all seemed a huge mockery to me in contrasting our positions. There were we soldiers cooped up in a block house, armed to the teeth with death dealing man-made implements, watching & peering into the murky ground mist for any sign of attack or surprise, fearing to venture even a hand`s breadth outside (tho we had to continually pass to and fro throughout the night hours for rations etc.) owing to the unwelcome "souvenirs thrown our way by the enemy & altogether feeling as tho life was not worth while striving for, while amongst the sickening lines of broken & battered trees outside flitterred these birds the white signing & whistling as tho nothing unusual had transformed the once smiling prosprous countryside into the debacle & desolation that we beheld. Ah Yes, the birds are common enough in God`s universe & their chirpings in peace time are practicallyy un-noticed, but any lover of wonderful nature who comes to this hell-on-earth region must be struck by the seeming out-of-placeness of things such as that.

The monster rats still rule the roost in the way of animals & about the outposts & pill boxes & they`re becoming more game or cheeky as the war draws on. Sometimes the boys accuse these rodents of purloining "Tin ats & gas-helmets, which mysteriously disappear that when they`re so much required (of course it is some 2 legged rat who causes the bother being either too bloomin lazy or careless to get their own property)

6.
Other signs of the dawn of spring are had as the new shoots appearing on trees & shrubs & the green of the grass we see. Many insects are also beginning to appear, which seems to testify to the mildness of the past winter. Talking of the insects reminds me that there are apparently not very many of those pests here, or at least, they do not appear to be so numerous. I believe the "cockies here depend a great deal on the severity of the winter frosts for the quality of their new crops as the intense cold kills most of the earth insect-pest. It`s reasonable enought I spose.. In a week or 2 we will have been kissed by spring & I guess soon afterwards another kind of spring will appear, unless --- well, it`s hardly likely that Fritz`ll capitulate without a lot more "Box on.

Believe that we Aussies over on this side of the Pond are to be granted 10 days leaave to Blighty every 6 months now, instead of the ruling 9 monts. Looks like the dinkum oil too as the 7 months men already have their names in that case, if all goes well and God willing , I will be going over the "Gutter for my vacation about the end of April or some time in May. We`ll see, my pay book credit is now £9-7-6 & ought to be well over the tenner by then.

Owing to our move from the Rest area & the spasm in the outposts very little mail has arrd. The only letter since letters No.11 was sent to come along is Els.23/12, which was delivered with 3 or 4 from others while we were just to rear of no man`s land. I was in a Hum pill box on which was engraved (in the solid cement) "Gott mit uns & 132 (Gott with us, 3 jager Regiment No 132) when it lobbed. Well now my dear Parents & sister I must finish here as there`s duty to be done . Hope this finds you all still hale, hearty & prosperous.
Till I write again Good day and God bless you Loving son and bro. Harrie XX

[Page 414]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 116
In action (39n) –
somewhere in Belgium
Sunday noon
March 17 ‘18

My Dear Mother, Father, & Sisters,
"The better the day the better the deed, ‘tis said, so I have to take advantage of it, & the few spare moments, while in this Hellish region to try & keep the Home – letter chain intact – some contract, believe me!

It is very difficult at times to sit, or lie, down & write even a Field Card, as there’s always seemingly endless duties to be done, leaving very little time for necessary sleep – which can only be had here in the day time. We are like the nocturnal animals – work all night & sleep (or endeavour to amid the awful din) during the day, which of course is quite un-natural –

Don’t know how ever we’ll be able to sleep in comfort again, or at least we’ve given up all idea of spring-bed, mattresses, feather pillows & white-sheets, Goodness, how we

2.
long to get out of this rotten un-natural life!

The last time I was between sheets was Jany ’17 at Southall Convalescent Depot, but I am hoping & trusting that my leave to England will soon come, (or better still, Victory, & that even lasting peace) so that I can break the awful monotony.

We are still pottering about just a few hundred yards to rear of "No Man’s Land & amongst the many batteries which are on all sides of us, making an awful din & keeping us awake day & night. We’ll be in this "4ward Area for some weeks yet, so the change to more "healthy & congenial surroundings will be long looked for & be most welcome.

I will try & find Bert again when we go out for the "Rest (God Willing) as his Camp is a fixed one & the one we expect to go to is not far away – about 3 Kilometres I think (1 ¾ miles – nearly). Am hoping that all is still well with he & "Bill Easton. They were both, at time of my last visit, (while I was at the Musketry School) working in shift in the Region we are now in. From this little rise I can see (faintly) the Ridge on which he was working, & where we were in action during Nov. last, I am at present in a little post with the Lewis gun & glasses watching for any sign of Hun aircraft which may pluck up enough courage to cross his Line.

During our 4 or 5 days on this duty not one of his ‘planes has come over here, but ours are buzzing & whirring about overhead in

3.
their hundreds (almost). We cannot help but admire the coolness with which they go about their allotted tasks – spotting, photographing, escorting; or directing fire - & wonder what has come over the Hun that he is so quiet, or entirely absent from the heavens. It’s not that the elements are against flying, far from it, for the weather has been really delightful ever since we left the Front outposts in "No Man’s Land.

Everyone talks about the mildness for this time of the year & contrasts it with that which ruled on their side of the "Pond during Winter 1916-17. Mind you, we still get lots of shivery stuff, but Spring is nearly on us now.

With the Field glasses I use on this job (3 of us on the anti-air-craft gun & observation-Post) many interesting & well known sights connected with this memorable & historic sector can be clearly discerned. Even without them (in the sunlight) poor old once prosperous & peaceful Y – s, with its battered walls, & Towers looks a pitiful picture.

The remains of the Big Cathedral & the Hall are very prominent & cannot be mistaken. What a mess the Hun has made – gee! Close by it’s old fashioned battlement-wall (which surrounds the City) & moat, is Lake –, around which great deeds were done in the opening days of this most Hellish strife. The edge of the lake shows it’s numerous scars & the transformation-scene which has come over it, especially since Fritz received the "outer-of the-boot from this most important heap of debris – Known as Hill –

The belt of country which has suffered so badly (on our side of the Line) can be

4.
followed by the fallen & battered trees with those which have escaped, in the background. Several villages, which have figured prominently from time to time, are seen razed to the ground amidst the awful scene hereabouts – they are now only known on the maps or by the heaps of brickwork & bare walls. Down in the flat, round about the Lake, the grass is beginning to show up – another sign of approaching Spring.

Hope to be able to go to "Blighty on leave in a month or two, if the 6 month’s "stunt comes off. It’s rather early yet to decide what destination to make for, but I have been thinking that Manchester, Liverpool, Belfast, or the Isle of Man ought to be very interesting. I will certainly "imshee out of the "Big Smoke after obtaining a "brush up & new rig out from Horseferry Road, as it is ‘pas-bon’ for "Aussies.

Of course, I’d run out & have a look at Aunt Annie & the Woolcotts B4 going Nor’ west as they are not very far from the "Hub. Rose is looking after a Tunic I posted to her from Warminster so I’m in her debt. Their latest advices say that Aunt is not keeping up too brilliant – & it’s no wonder. Mr. Woollcott Snr. is still very ill in Hosp., tho. had so far made a remarkable recovery. Tom was expected to be sent back home from [indecipherable] after his recent wounding, so he may be there when I call. (God willing of course).

Believe the Food question in Angleterre is pretty acute, especially for those who are not blessed with lots of this World’s goods but Rose was telling me that Rationing was to commence last month, which

[PTO to 2]
5.
is the only solution to the problem of feeding for the masses – rich as well as poor. Many glaring cases of sinful hoarding have been revealed since the prohibition-order became due which gave those unscrupulous rotters the opportunity to surrender all food over & above the regulation issue, for which they’d be paid 1/2 cost. The surrendered food was then distributed amongst the "civvy Hospitals. Despite the warning of what the consequences would be for defaulters, the police-courts revealed bad cases every day.

"Aussie can consider herself the most 4tunate of combatant countries as she has suffered economically almost nil in contrast to all those up here. It’s a terrible pity that those 3 Harvests of cereal have had to lie idle & rot, all for want of sea-tonnage, but it also has to be & we cannot grumble. God’s will be done!

It was strange for a time for us to be getting Jam in cardboard containers in lieu of tin, but we are used to that novelty now. The great demand for tin has made it necessary to economise in that direction. I might mention that our ration of Jam is usually about 14 men to a 2lb Tin every alternate day, so they are not wasting too much for men in the Line.

We dream wild dreams of a time that may yet come to us again, way back in the Land of sunshine & plenty, but it all vanishes when our broken sleep finishes & we hear the eternal thunder of guns in our midst.

An A.I.F. order has just appeared relating to service-stripes which will dispel a

6.
great deal of bad feeling & imposition – the latter by fellows who have just joined up – & at the same time make some of us look like a variegated Zebra. The early "Anzacs (originals & reinforcements who left "Aussie during 1914) will wear one red & 3 blue chevrons, & I suppose they’ll still retain their big "A over the Regimental color-patch, also the gold bar or bars denoting wounds. The red chevron is for those who came away in 1914 only & for every year one blue is issued in addition. Thus I’ll be entitled (if I read the order correctly) to 3 blues – one for each 1915 – 16 – & 17.

Anyhow the idea is a good one & a great deal of satisfaction ought to result, especially as the chevrons will only be issued after enquiries from the Records Office, & from Pay-Book, which latter can be demanded for scrutiny by the "Ducks & Geese (Police) at any time so that it will be hardly worth while any one running the risk of arrest. There has been no issue to us yet but particulars have been taken so we’ll know at any time now.

Guess you’ll be having some real Summer weather now down in "Aussie & that the Harbour & surf will be favorites for all Sydney-ites, anyhow I hope you’ll all have a happy time. Make the best of these bad days of strife & turmoil.

Well, my Dear Parents & Sisters, I hope you’ll XQQ this funny old letter, but its the best I am able to turn out from this Region of Bother. Let me trust that it finds you all still in best of health & spirit, with prosperity & happiness. God be with you & bless you, is the hope of your Loving Son & Brother Harrie X X X.

[Page 415]
1115-116
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool
Bateman’s Road
Gladesville
Sydney
N. S. Wales
"Aussie

[Page 416]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.117

In the Field (in action)
Somewhere in Belgium (39n)
Sat. Apres midi.
March 23rd 18

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters –
This has been a glorious Spring day at least it must a Spring one, for it is so mild & the terrible war that is raging all about us seems a dreadful mockery. The lovely sunshine, the calm air, clear sky & the singing of the birds, makes one long the more for home & peace, & sends all sorts of thrills through us by the pleasant memories that course through our minds. Ah yes, it is just lovely to forget the terrible deeds, the utter, heart breaking desolation, & other distasteful sights, & dream of what might be when this awful war is napoo –which God grant to be soon.

I seems almost certain now that we`ve bid au-revoir (good bye-ee, I hope) to Jack Frost & King Winter, but I wouldn`t be surprised if they return for a spasm just so as to damp down our ardour a bit & remind us not to be too sanguine for the good things. The sunshine seems to make everyone happy despite the signs & sounds of the all-important job on hand.- the beating of the Hun – which in this forward area (39N) is ever "on tap

We`ve had several days of these delightful elements now & they`ve been just what the birdmen have longed for. Yesterday, while working in the trenches in the Front Line we had a good view of the great and daring work per

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formed by air planes, some far over & others nearer, the Hun lines. Above us slowly & steadily manoeuvred several big bi-planes evidently intent on photography or watching the enemy`s doings below. "Fritz from one of his many concrete block houses (mis named pill box ) or from a camouflaged position, over the big Ridge in front, was potting away with his eternal Machine gun, endeavoring to bring our mechanical birds down or to "shoo them away. Of course, no plane can ignore that leaden stream or hail, but it seemed as tho those above us cared little for the ever present danger. A steep bank, a nose dive & an upward dash & on they continued. It must have been very depressing for the Hun to be continually under that minute observation, as we know by experience what it means when it`s the reverse.

Away back in the distance could be seen Fritz`s big gas-bags (observation balloons) taking the place of the bluffed Gothas, Albatrosss or Fokkers, in the spotting of our side of what remains of this part of poor little Belgium. flocks of 3s, 4s, & 10s of our planes would make dashes across Fritz`s lines and pandemonium would reign. His antis send up thousands of shrapnel shells in a vain endeavor to drive them down & out, or off, but the Hun`s luck was out. As soon as the observers in the balloons caught sight of our flocks they wasted no time in telephoning the order to those on terra-firma to haul them down out of danger, for they knew that our lads would play the same game as they do whenever they reach far enough back – destroy the balloons with special bullets.

Talking of destroyed balloons, reminds me that Fritz forced two observers to hurriedly leave one of ours close by per parachute last week & we saw them as they safely floated thro mid air bound earthwards. The Hun is now indulging in a new caper as regards the "eyes of the army (observation balloons) & their destruction, & that is to shoot long-range shrapnel at them. He has to do something, now that his planes are refused air room by our aviators, antis & emm-gees. Guess he`s in for a bad time when the "Sammies with their legions commence operations – soon now, tis said – unless He`s got a big reserve.

I should now be up in the front line again on "Fatigue with the section, only that our officer has asked me to do a clerical job for him. It is very handy I can assure you, as I`d have had some bother tonight in

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writing this letter. We generally leave here about 10am, after lots of rifle, gas-helmet & other inspecitons, but it is after 8 pm ere we return for tea, leaving little or no time for letter writing & far less for inclination. Sleep is the only other thing besides a feed that we are fit for, so the change today for me is a welcome one. S`pose I`ll have to continue with the fatigue tomorrow, seeing that the pen & ink job is complete.

You`d be surprised to learn that I have met Les N again, in fact he is camped only a quarter of a mile from this place. He saw one of our lads near here on the day of our arrival (Wed) & straight away found out where I was. lt was, as you can guess a surprise meeting, & I was pleased to see him "sum-more, We had a petit promenade B4 dusk & talk of Angleterre & by-gone days in Aussie. Last eve he came again as he was off duty & wishes me to convey to you all, his best wishes & all that sort-o-thing. Says that you must XQQ for the few and far between letters which he sends to W`bool, but correspondecne is not in his line. I tell him that it is only practise, & stealing other peoples styles, that this task – a pleasant one when time comfort and opportunity is with one – is made easier. The change to this side of the pond (he joined the 1st Pioneer Battn. – "C Coy during Decr, I believe) after 14 months of life on the Plain has made him look A1 as regards health & he reckons that he is fit. May have opportunities of seeing him regular till we go back to the Rest area (some 3 weeks yet I believe) so will let you know from time to time how he is faring.

Was surprised to receive another letter from Archie Murdock the day B4 yesterday, this time telling me that he is now over on this side of the "Gutter and attached to the 6th Army Brigade A.F.A I do not know tha unit at all, but he cannot be very far from where I am now writing. I`ve already written to see if he can enlighten me any further as to his where-abouts, so will let you know, when those details come to hand.

Do not know how Les C. is faring just now because his last (to which I`ve replied) was written a few hours previous to his return to the Battn. from the "Big Smoke where he`d been on leave . He told me all about the pleasant visit to bonnie Dundee and what he saw and did there, also about other parts. Can only hope that if he is back all still goes well. Best wishes and regards to you from him.

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Have been keeping a look out for young "Edger Fergusson whose battn, took our place in the outposts recently, but so far I have never run across him – at least not since the night we came out, when I spoke to the lad in the communication-trench. While coming out of the same place the afternoon B4 last from an all-day fatigue I passed Arthur Sawyer, & poodle Harris (of Albury & late 61st) both of the 3rd. They were going into the ouposts & were fully loaded up with goods and chattles, so I only had time to greet them, Hope all is still well.

Dont think that there`s anything else of local importance that I can speak of at the moment, so will switch off on to Father`s great budgets still B4 me & see what there is to comment on.

Your Decr 15th "young library contains lots of grand news and is very interesting, merci beaucoup!! Always pleased, to learn that mail from this side is reaching you OK. if in spasms & that you find something to interest you. Good!! Very pleased that so many p.c s ,survived the journey and that amongst the 63 odd weere those written from the Base and R---- .

I thank you for your advice of receipt of "Miss Bristol`s letter & for the lack of caustic comment – headining on your part. I did not like to learn that the friend who has been kind to me over in Angleterre came in for much comment etc. on a/c of the letter. It was I who gave her permission to write, as she requested it of me. Anyhow, I`m pleased that you do not intend to ignore the communication as such a thing might make one poor unfortunate English soul unhappy.

I can well imagine what was thought when the letter came – that I`d "done-me-dash, "lost-me-mind or gone mad, but you needn`t fear that matrimony will be the end of the meeting, & the resultant correspondence – not much. Life in the army , in my idea, is too serious a thing for one to gamble with & marriage, especially on a few minute`s acquaintance, would be madness, No, I`ll be quite content to let the years roll while the war is on & wait till the return – if it`s ever heavenly Father`s wish.

I intend to go down Bristol way during part of my leave when it comes – any day now - & am assured of a pleasant stay despite food rations and the [indecipherable]. Believe that I`ll get 10 days as leave comes every 6 months now. It`s to be sincerely hoped the [indecipherable] there`ll soon be no need for any at all, as the war ought to end & we ought to have the holiday Down Under. God grant that no more anniversaries are to pass er the "Joy Bells ring... Yes I quite agree with you that it is very very hard for a stranger to write to strange folk in a strange land, but I hope that You`ll be

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able to let the Bristolian know something about our wonderful country, it`s resources & prospects. I had refrained form boasting about it to these down-trodden folk in decadent England, as I think such boasting the reverse of etiquette, especially while the recipient of their kindness and trust ... Yes, Rosie writes a grand breezy letter & I`m pleased that you found something to interest you in the one she sent me. Her latest (of Feby. 11th) tells me that old Blighty is at last to be rationed – rich and poor alike (?perhaps) on Feb 23rd. so they th

It`ll certainly do away with the heart breaking queues.. Mr. W.
Snr. was at that time doing pretty well in Hosp, & there was no sign of his home-coming... There`s apparently some doubt about bro. Tom being sent home to convalescence from his recent Salonica wounds. Guess he has more than earned the spell, but being just one of England`s millions of commoners, it wouldn`t do to go to so much trouble, of course if he was blue-blooded, or of the elite there`d be "Mauretanias "Aquitanias at his disposal. Good old England! but not for mine. Rose was pleased with Elsie`s effort in the litererary art & especially for the snapshot. Thinks the world of it & guesses that the Aussie girls are "some ..

Thanks awfully for our words of wisdom re rushing into the "Benedictine life - & all that sort-o-thing. My idea was always as yours. Was also good of you to add that my friend must be respectable or I would not continue writing. Well I`m hoping so, but as I`ve only known the "missy actually so few hours, I cannot tell by correspondence, tho I know that she is not a "blue blood or one of the hereditary rich but thro limited pre-war environment and social [indecipherable] she is somewhat ignorant, & of course not of "polished education. Still its not the rich and the college graduates who are the most genuine friends – you know that.

Ha! Ha! You can bet that I`d take the risk of going down with mal-de-mer if the homeward sea journey was on "on tap Yes, the trip across the "Gutter was some severe & I came out of thecoal box (as such was the s/s "Viper very groggy . Still I would not care to return (till this job is over, tho the [indecipherable] is worse than a hoboes & causes almost real tears at times, to come home with the boys would do me & I don`t want to be able to "flash lots of gold –bars for wounds, or other military ditinctions. It`s God`s will whatever is to be, & I am reconciled that way... what I would like is a rise in pay through the agency of a couple of stripes, a full corporal frinstance . The reason is only because of the extra pay (10/- per day) so that it could

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help you, my dear Parents, in the great struggle you are in to get that long hoped for home – our own. Only for the ‘fragmented Division, & if it had been God`s will that I should have survived the horrible 1917 battles – Flers, Bullecourt, Hermes, Polygon Wood & Passchendale (Brooodseinde) – I feel sure that I`d have been a little highter in rank than an "OR (other rank) – tho not the lad`s superior in any other way. As it is, I have had to stand down the lads who have only recently come over here (just B4 I) as they were given stripes after the stunts & so I must just carry on till there`s vacancies. Do you compree?

Do trust that the parcel I sent from Fovant reaches you, more for Les Norman & his sakes than mine. There seems to be a mishap with the letters that were to follow this Decr. 15th from W`bool as none between it & end of Decr have arrd. tho I`ve had some dated Jany from other friends. Am not worrying tho, as I know such a thing is useless. By the way Les Norman sent me a note from B---- ([indecipherable] the coast) Hosp. to say that he was marked for Blighty, was still in bed & feeling pretty "Jake. Les was gassed whle we were in the Front line a couple of weeks back and by this may be over the "Pond. I did not think he was so crook when I passed him in the communication trench on the day of his "evacuation, but there you are – one never can`t tell. Anyhow I hope he did get over & that he is going good.

Pleased that my little note to Sid Davis Snr (in ackgt. of his) arrd alright. He sent another one just prior to us going into action this time I had to make several "bites at replying but I got the Ackgt away. It is pas bon in this area for writing - too much duty, too much shell-fire & one is always dead tired & mind-weary (it makes one think) Thanks to Sid Snr & the "old ands & others at the baths for their regards merci !!

Yours is the first I`ve heard of Frank ([Dela) Dela-up enlistment. I am wondering if it is correct ... Very many thanks to Perlie & yourselves for the snaps that come enclosed in yours under reply, I think them real splendid & there`s no doubt but that everyone of you look to be tres bon in health. Glad indeed to see both yourself and dear Mother in the little group. My word you do look well! Be sure I`ll prize them and cherish them . They`ll go into my "art gallery the wallet. There is no trouble from to distinguish each one of you in the photos – you don`t look a day older. The views of the house are "magnesia & help me to further perfect the mind pictures I form from time to time. How I long to be there! Ah well, in God`s own time. Hope you`ll be able to wade thro this lot my dear parents. Will have to reluctantly close now as duty is to be done... As usual, best of LUV to you all, regards etc, to all Aunts, Uncles ,cousins and friends . God bless you & keep you. Loving son and bro. Harrie XXX

[Page 417]
117
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool,
Bateman’s Road
Gladesville,
Sydney,
N. S. Wales
"Aussie

[Page 418]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.118

In the Field.
(somewhere in Belgium 39 N)
Sat eve.
March 30. 18

My Dear Mother, Father, & Sisters
Time is fleeting sure enough, for this week has been the 2nd annivesary of the "Immortal 1st Division`s arrival in France, & we hope sincerely, the last. The 27th was the day on which the late "Ivernia pulled into the "boomed harbour of Toulon, when we Aussies had our first glimpse of La Belle, never dreaming then (1916) that 2 years and more would roll by & find us still on the awful Western Front, with Peace still doubtful. Well do we recollect the early morning departure on the 28th from Toulon – one of 6 large transports,- the heavy ground swell as we hugged the rough Gulf of Lions coast, the bad attacks of mal-de-mer on that 90 miles stretch, Marseilles in the murky mist and eventually the wharf.

This day 2 years ago we were nearing the outskirts of France`s pride – Gay Paree - & at this hour (2pm) we were looking 4ward to passing throught it, only soon afterwards to find our lengthy train being shunted on to another line at Versailles – south of Paris. It now looks as tho we`ll be going down that way, but for other purposes than sightseeing. I don`t mean that Paris is the destination, but where all the bother is now brewing & where the climax in this terrible war on land seems like being reached. Ah well, what is to be will be - God`s will be done!

The beautiful spring weather which had greeted us for the past week or two seems to have broken again

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& for the worst. Those days were just lovely & more like Aussie`s spring time than a European one – calm, mild, clear & sunny – one could not help feeling happy with the glorious sunshine, & life did really seem worth while. The birds with their songs can be heard as soon as we wake (when not on night fatigues) in the mornings & it is just grand to listen to them. Of course Fritz also dispenses "songs but his are the product of Krupps and Spandau & the tone is far from pleasant when coming this way. Rain commenced to fall a day or so ago & now the eternal mud is everywhere. Oh what a country !! – Yes. to be out of .

Don`t know how long we are to remain here in the "Forward Area but a shift to somewhere in France looks & feels imminent at any moment. Perhaps my next to you will be written from another part of the Front, but so far there`s no word. We`ll see!

Les N. paid me another visit several days ago & is still A1. Owing to our long day fatigue up near the Line I have been unable to re-pay the call, tho, his tent is only a quarter of a mile distant across what was once green fields and paddocks. Will try & see him B4 we move. He sends the usual wishes, etc. to you all.

Have not managed to come across Archie yet, but am in touch with him per notes & keeping a good look out in case he comes this way. He too sends you his best wishes and regards.

Had a very pleasant, tho very short in duration, meeting here on wednesday last when I ran across young Joe Borthwick (B of 53rd) whose Battn halted for the night & left per narrow gauge railway for an unknown destination next morning. I was 4tunate in seeing Joe, as the Battn had commenced to entrain ere I knew they were here, but I got to where he was in nice time. We had a few moments hasty conversation & I was pleased to learn that he was still well - & he looks it. You might let any acquaintance down your way know that he is still going good-0 & that he sends regards etc. It was with a quaking heart that I referred to his twin-brother`s death in action but I had to convey my sympathy for his loss & ours also.

I am also in communication with Sam ("Skipper) Drennan who is awaiting the M.O.s (medical officer) decision as to what is to be done with him. He thinks this side is favorite tho & very soon. Tells me that Frank Gross is doing good work at the Warminster YMCA & is always busy. He expects to be com

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ing to 1 Division (at the Front very soon so I hope to meet him "sum-mor

Bert`s unit`s camp is only about 7 kilometres (41/2 miles nearby) back from where I am now, but there`s no chance of me looking him up owing to our proximity to les tranchee & the out-posts. I can only hope that A1 explains his health, also his pal`s – Bill Easton. If we go out that way – which at this mo. is doubtful – I will endeavour to look him up.

The best news I have to dispense at this moment – as far as I am concerned – is the receipt of that long expected, but delayed Aussie mail, which was handed me yesterday. Twenty two letters was the total & you can bet I smiled.(something unusual for me eh?) Thse you`ll be interested to know of as being in the batch are :- Dad`s (3) 25/12, 6/1, & 27/1, Mother`s 25/12, Els` (5) 30/12, 6/1, (& one snap), 14/1, (& 3 snaps),20/1,(3 snaps) & 27/1, Lizzie`s 27/12, Thel`s 11/1 (with 2 snaps & Lottie Prout`s letter enclosed) : & lovely P/C photo of herself, 10/1, Aunt Jean & Cowan family sent some greetings cards, Aunt Soph. a letter & there were others form the Vac. & friends round about.

I had nearly 2 hours most pleasant & instructive reading, besides admiring the very welcome snapshots so kindly sent to me. I can assure you they are tres bon & most acceptable. My very sincere thanks are due to you all for the lovely letters & tokens & I only wish I had the time & conveniences so that I could in words & writing repay you. As it is I have to grab time by the forelock & sit, lie or stand in any old possy that is handy & try to tell you someting, You can guess that the environment we are forced to live in does not help one in his efforts to talk about all that is pleasant – it is awful!

Anyhow as I have about told you all the local news I know of or can at present think of, let me now refer to Father`s grand letters which are still with me. (will answer Mother`s & the girls as usual on P/C when opportunity presents itself & when I am able to procure another stock – at present it`s napoo

Yes, the nice snap shots you sent of the House and the group are tres bon & I`ll cherish them. I must add that neither yourself & the girls look to be A1 and not a day older. "Dinkum ! There`s no doubt but that Thels has grown won

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derfully & I`m sure now that I`ll be far too shy to talk to her. The snaps also give a little idea of what the lovely garden & surroundings at W`bool must be like. Jove! but I long to be there . Congrats to Thel. on gaining the prize at school. Guess she will soon have enough books to start a circulating library. Keep it up!

Wouldn`t mind giving Tarban Creek Baths a bit of a fly myself, tho I`m "dead off swimming just now owing mostly to the wintry elements & scenes that rule here, & the "am-anegy is not as clever as it was. Glad that the girls make use of those balls – there`s nothing like exercise & no exercise to come near swimming.

So you are to be initiated into the "Annuals at Elky. good! Pity that the heavy rains spoilt the apricots & peaches, but it`s good that Mother saved some by making jam. How nice! guess you will be able to supply small retail shops with the surplus fruit and veges grown at W`bool & so add a little more to the Bank A/C .

Nice to know that you are able to help some of the more unfortunate folk in the `Main` [(Balmain)] etc, who have had such a rough spin with it during & since the Great Strike. I just love to read your gripping a/cs of the progress of flowers, herbs, vege`s, & fruit in the garden . Tho they make me feel as tho I want to fly from this rotten, corrupt life & get nearer lovely & wonderful nature, I was always a great admirer & worshipper of natural beauties, hence my long tours to Melb, Kangaroo Valley, (via Camden, Razorback, Picton, -Vale, Fitzroy Falls & Barrengarry Mtn,etc.) Nowra, (via Camberwang Mtn) South Coast, Bulli Pass, Kurrajong Heights, Jenolan Caves etc. etc. Yes, the "bike, good health, & those grand scenes`ll me to admire, & I am longing for the time to come again so that I can 4get this big spasm in my life ... It` s always a great relief to know that you are all enjoying God`s great blessing – good health – tho your later letters tell me of your sudden illness & subsequent laying up. Let`s hope that long ere this is handed to you, best of health will your lot.

Pleased that the Govt. is carrying on with the warship building programme & that you are now prosperous. good to know that the HMAS Adelaide is progressing so well, & am hoping that nothing occurs to marr the completion. If she`s a bit late for this "dust

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up, there`ll be plenty of time to include her in our new National Navy – for I believe that Aussie`ll be a nation of her own after this war. Angleterre is almost mort (dead) in my idea & will be good place to be out of apres la guerre... The cargo ship building at home certainly looks "fishy & little Billy seems as tho he`s in for some caustic comments re his strange action in having the job commenced in the "Land of the Dollar.

Politics at home are certainly up-the-pole, & there`s no wonder the fellows who are taking our good gold for stirring up strife deserve a forced trip here in khaki & be made to "Box on. It certainly seems as tho they believe the people as a mass are like those in decadent England – narrow minded, dopey, docile & ancient in ideas & ideals – but what a fallacy! ..

I thank you for the clear way in which you have put the position B4 as regards those matters relating to politics. I can follow every sentence you`ve penned & now see with a broader mind the trend of things which are so cleverly, or should I say, barefacedly veiled from we OAS. I am trusting sincerely that long ere the warriors return a "full jerry will have been taken by the MP`s or better still, that the people government will once more be in power & that a better democracy will evolve from the chaos now in your midst. If such doesn`t come about, you can almost bet on bother & someone`ll suffer...

Would like to say a lot more but time flies - & like lightning ... That was your letter of Decr 16th, now let me turn to your next – that of Decr 25th Christmas Day 17.. You have recd letters No 9- good! & well I remr. penning it. All sorts of thought were in my mind then as the old Battn was up near Y---- & had been – hrs. that hell on earth round P----- Wood, A---- Ridge & B---. I know that soon after writing your letter, I would be on my way there – hence the rambling of my sentences.. Am pleased that you realise how difficult it is at times for me to write at all, & you won`t worry when spasms occur between them - for they must occur when we are up against the enemy. I can well imagine how you watch the postman & what your expectations but don`t think that I have 4gotten you when a mail is missed, because some must be missed while I am at the Front. The advice of the receipt of the parcel from Fovant is as good

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news as I could wish for, because I did so want to learn that Les Norman`s watch had arrd. & that you handed it safely over to Mrs.Napier. As I said B4, I should have sent something worth while from England only that the financial position with me, as you know would not stand it. Mention of Les Norman reminds me that he is now safe, ensconced in ward C2 ,10th Canadian Genl. Hosp, Brighton, Sussex whither he was sent from Boulogne-sur-Mer a week or so ago. I have 4warded his private mail out of his valise (pack) but his souvenir Hun gas—mask will have to wait till I go over the Pond. You know of course, that Les was gassed while we were in les tranchee here some weeks ago, (We are still close up) but he is doing pretty well amidst a bit of a heaven,- nice nurses, lovely bed & ward & the like. You might let Mrs.Napier know, just in case his letters get a "rough passage

Pleased that the parcel recd. such a smooth passage from officials and customs. Will send my 4th do from London when I go over – God willing in a month or so but will advise you later... good to know that none of my letters to you from England were ever opened B4 you got them, & hope that these that follow will go thro just as smoothly... Not surprised to know that your yuletide 1917 was so quiet, but let`s hope 1918 will be one of world wide happiness. You`ll know long ere this that ours near the front line was also a quiet one, tho spent amidst real wintry scenes. Brrh!!

Easter has now come (yesterday was good Griday) & the half year draws near. (no pun meant) By the time big things will have happened on this Front, in the air, Perhaps on the sea, & let`s hope. Peace will reign once more. Fancy! & youv`e been over 12 months at Warrnambool ? & I am approaching my 21/2 years absence, gee! Ha!,Ha! Good old feasts? - & why not? Don`t worry about us & our monotonous diet for we`ll make up for lost time, apres. It`s real good to know that you all have full and plenty & that W`bool garden returns you such grand fruit & vege`s for your patience & labor. Never mind, we`ll make "stoo query tea, Anzac hash, bully & Anzac wafers do till this lot is over.. I can well imagine the great delight at capturing a 3d out of the puddin! oo-la-lah.

Can`t imagine what hot weather feels like now let alone it being so hot that you can hardly venture out of doors. No wonder the surf beaches are so popular. Oh gibbit !! Pleased that you

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managed to turn up at "Elkyfor the "Annual. The hoo-ray you recd was certainly encouraging & I can just picture, Sid Davis Snr, "Nikker Knight, Peter Murphy, Jimmy Moore, Jack McQueen, etc, going their hardest. Yes, I guess our dear pals-in-arms, now "gone west (Jack Jackson, JimMcClaughan, Dave Borthwick, etc, etc,) will be remembered & am not surprised at the marked feelings of sadness expressed by the "old ands & others...Can`t remr. what I wrote to Sid Davis in my letter on eve of departure from England but I don`t think it could have been too clever. Anyhow, I`m glad to know he got it . Thanks to all those friends for their grand wishes & hopes. Encore to them.

Cream! what`s that? it`s so long since I tasted it that I only know it by name now. Mrs Reeves must indeed be a very kind neighbor, likewise those alongside you, in fact, you must be surrounded by grand people - & it`s good to know ... So Vaucluse is now Neilson Park eh? good ! Didn`t know B4 that it had been from to the Public as a Reserve or that it was such a popular spot. I first read of it in one of the Miss Back`s letters, but couldn`t place it at all in my mind. Next to Athol was the nearest guess. They mentioned that swimming there was the "goods but I am still a shy kind of a bloke where "John Shark is concerned. I give his crowd a wide berth at all times. Anyhow I hope you had nice weather on Boxing Day for your picnic there. (We can`t help feeling envious as the nearest to a picnic we get here is a bit of Anzac pudding (hard bisquit crushed & mixed with an eye full of jam& a bit of greasy extra as rations for tea - & very infrequently) still this is no "hordinary.

kind of a war & we feel like extra hordinary humans for putting up with it oo-la-lah!!!

Am glad that Uncle Jack remembered dear Mother at xmas & sprang with such a useful gift, Heat hat ! good old "bust up!! & why not? Anyhow it was cash well spent expecially as regards the floor covering for your room. Guess it looks "nifty now what! ? One could easily make 5 guineas look very sick over here, or in Blighty in fact most of our fellows, from what I can gather in conversation, would feel terribly put out if there was not a "pony (£25) waiting for them to collect at New Broad St. (Com`wealth Bank) or Horseferry Rd, when they come over on leave or commenced Hosp. furlough.

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Seems as tho. some of them have never earned so much money in their lives B4, because they make it run like water & care not for the future apres la guerre. I`ll be quite content to carry on with my bob-a-day & let you collect the balance for your use at Gladesville. I ought to have around £10-12 in credit by the time my leave comes thro – next month, god willing – so I feel content at that...

Can`t compree the reticence of our relatives in Melb. in not writing to you. Might mention that Aunt Soph & Maggie are the only ones who write at all frequently to me. Aunt Ciss of course sent the big & expensive parcel & Aunts Jean & Em. & Alice write now & again. Dont know whether they all expect weekly letters from me, but if they do, they can "wash right out of their minds, because I am here to "Box on & am not in a cushy base job or one in England.

Yes, we now know all about the Ref. its result & why. Oh that we here could have had the truth B4 the poll! Hughes has certainly shown that democracy & welfare & future of the people is not on his programme. It seems tho his nose rubbing in the "Big Smoke with Ll. George has turned his head to just the very thing we Aussies as a democratic [indecipherable] (or as near as we can get to that grand state at present) are up against. You know to what I refer? Yes, I ---ism .. oo-la-lah !! What a victory for No! How does "Little Willy feel on it now & why can`t he & his crew be imsheed out, lock stock & barrel & made to stick to their pledge – a resignation if defeated? It is certainly strange , the works-in-a-wheel barrow of present day [indecipherable] bagging parliamentarians & I`m sure fazzled to read of such carryings on. How much longer can such a party remain in power after such a clean cut public opinion against them? Thanks to [indecipherable] a/c , I now see thro the proposal to send Andy Fisher to Washington as Aussie ambassador, & give his London job to Mrs H. I [indecipherable] at the time I first read of it what could be in the wind ..

Thanks for the N/P clipping you sent, headed "A secret document it has enlightened me very much I can assure you & I`ll watch with interest the developments that are pending. Ah well, you`re having your bothers too, so let`s hope that all will soon be Jake again. In conclusion (& the hours is late) let me send you my best love & wishes & the hopes that best of health, spirit & prosperity is with you & all our friends and relatives in Aussie. Till I write "sum-mor Good night and good bye-e God be with you& bless you. I am ever your loving son & Bro.
Harrie XXX

[Four pages of this letter are dates and descriptions of postcards sent home – not transcribed]

[Page 419]
118
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool,
Bateman’s Rd.,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
N. S. Wales
"Aussie

[Page 420]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 121.

"In the Field somewhere in "La Belle France (7N)
Sun matin. April 21st. 1918

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters.
There`s very little of interest that I can skite to you of this week-end as we are still in the region where Bother blows &so far all goes well with the old Battn, - & me. – for which let us be truly thankful.

I am rather 4tunate this time, because I together with a certain number of others, have been kept out of the Front line for a bit of a spell, it being our turn, Tho, the rest of the boys are boxin-on with Fritz just over the 2nd low ridge, we are not kept in idleness, for there`s lots to do & every man is badly needed especially during this crisis in our history – a serious time for us all.

The elements are still continuing erratic & it feels as tho Spring is still playing with us, as rain, mist, sleet, a little snow, & lots of cold winds have come along since the beautifully fine day and weeks we had recently while up near famous Hill-- & Y--- Ah well we must content ourselves with the thought that this is not dear old Aussie, & that perhaps later on, God willing, we`ll bid it good-bye-e for the last time. Oh that that time was now!

We are now experiencing a strange kind of warfare – strange because the long established trenches and breastworks do not now border mystic no man`s land. How long it will continue thus, we know not, but it`s to be hoped overwhelming Victory may be the Allies soon. The boys up in the so-called "Line bring us strange stories of happenings thereabouts - pigs, cows, and sheep running about No man`s Land, the deserted farms and villages, and so on. I could add a great deal more about what I`ve seen myself here, but I think I`d better draw the

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veil, because the hardship and heart breaking lot of the poor unfortunate peasants does not tend to make pleasant reading to you folk down under who know not, nor can realise, the effect of shell fire, bombs, gas, etc, as used in this terrible conflict. It is well that it is so, and I can only trust that no such calamity as war will ever befall the "Land of Sunshine and freedom. Even the few aeroplanes that hum and whine above you at home cannot bring thoughts of war to you because they must seem so wonderful and peaceful flying in the blue. What a contrast here tho .

We sometimes envy the pilots and observers their hazardous job amidst the clouds, but our envy turns to admiration when we watch them over the enemy`s region, calmly sailing thro barrages of Hun anti air craft shrapnel or dodging the fierce streams and hails of machine guns (from the ground) which are sent up to them as soon as they are in range. What a terrible pity that the knowledge obtained by these fearless air men and their marvellous control over the machines, (which so few years back were still in the experimental stage) was not all used in peaceful pursuits! Such is the state of this part of the Globe today – War, and war`s effects on all sides! – and what for?

Talking of birdmen remind me that Jock Hawke (still in the "Glorious First with me - HQ Sigs) recd a letter from Sydney saying that Snowy Stopford has obtained his commission in that branch of the service, so here`s good luck to him. Have heard nothing of Wally Preston and his progress in air work, nor of Joe Dodd, hadn’t a chance of looking the latter up while we were billeted near the Aussie squadron`s aerodrome. Hope they are still Jake. Will keep a good look out for them all over this side.

I`m afraid that you`ll have to experience another bit of a spasm between the receipt of letters from me, because our recent treks and shifts from one part of the Front to another has temporarily upset the old routine and there`s no saying now when our mail will eventually leave us. I still have letter No. 120 in my pocket and this one looks like being deposited there also, till we go back to the rear

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It is hardly necessary for me to again repeat that delays must be looked for while I`m at the Front and worrying on your part ought not to be, as you know I can`t 4get you, and besides if anything comes along from the Allemagn with my address on it, the Military folk will delvier the advice at Warnambool months B4 one of my letters. Compree? I can well imagine feeling tho my dear Parents, when the breaks occur and it`s grand to know that one is not 4gotten.

I am writing this from our temporary "Home – on the straw of a farm house barn loft but the sounds of "stoush all round distract my mind from what I`d like to write, so I must just hurry on and get this finished, because the order; Fall in the Fatigue!! Will soon be called out and then I`ll have to go out up towards the Line to do a little bit more for Empire and Freedom… Tis hard to believe that the old farm house (the usual white washed mud, thatched roof kind of rural France, Nord) is deserted by it`s owners, yet such is the case, as with all the others here about.

Only a few weeks ago Fritz was still many kilometres away east and there seemed no chance of him leaving those breastworks, which since 1915 (or B4) have served him as his claim on the retaining of enemy country. The peasants, after working hard and long during the winter, had the field ploughed, manured, sown and rolled, and everything looked jake for the new season`s crop, when lo and beheld!! They`ve got to imshee and leave nearly everything! What a war eh? The old cows and cattle still remain and the boys are feeding them, but the old folk dodge backwards and 4wards regularly taking a few things from their once quiet and peaceful home to the rear, so anyday will see the end of the live stock.

Leave to Blighty for all hands is right up the pole just now and tis said that it will be some months yet ere it commences again. Some of the lads got as far as the Channel-boat only to be rccalled – how unfortunate! Ah well, I suppose there`s nothing for it but to trust to Providence and hope to be one of those who will get a little holiday when the time is ripe, tho for mine, I`d love to forego it if Peace after Victory came, which would mean our departure for ever from this side of the dead World. Of course, the longer I had to wait the longer will be my funds, but I wouldn`t like to see Angleterre again under the spell of another winter (far less this side of the Pond) – ugh!!! (My credit balance is now over 11 "of the best – yes, gold quids)

Have seen nothing further of Elsie`s pride and joy since we were "up above for "down below and lobbed back here. Gess he`s not far away and still going strong as the whole "Divvy is here now. Do not know what happened to Les D as he has not yet answered my last letter, nor have I seen Bert`s unit about. Can only trust that they are still A1. Likewise old pal Archie, with whom I`m out of touch for the moment

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It`s is a bit of a relief for me here to switch off on to Father`s great budget of Jany. 27th as talking or thinking about la guerre (amidst which we live OAS) is pas bon.,.. The continued glowing a/cs you supply me as to the lovliness of the garden and orchard are tres bon. Fancy the pumpkins & other climbers growing so swiftly and covering almost everything. It shows that the soil of Warnambool must be very [indecipherable] good!! Grand to know that you do not have to rely on greengrocers for most vegetables. What a saving!! Joves, but it is splendid!

Mention of veges reminds me that we as soldats (soldiers) have been making pommes-de-terre (potatoes) laugh since we came to this part of the Front. There were bocoo (plenty) in the village & barns which are now deserted so rather than see them go to waste we got busy with our knives and made chips – to augment our army ration of eternal "stoo & bisquit. Our frying pans were manufactured from petrol tins or any likely container, & the fat or grease was bludged from our "babblin brooks (cooks) so the rest was easy – stoking up and the eating part.

Others in their search for mungy (food)went a little further in their investigations in & out the farm houses & barns, & soon there were a multitude of little fires going for their lives in the yard, on which, had one been a keen detective, he`d have smelt "chook, tame-rabbit & pork - & other stuff. (it`s a wonder that the fires & smoke did not "bring in the flies (Fritz`s own) but I s`pose the mist was a bit too thick for him to to penetrate or they have been some reminder from him that the war was still on, that he was playing, & so were we. Anyhow it ended good o)

The chipped potato craze is still going strong & is likely to, so long as the grease and vegetables last. Guess we`ll be able to make a mess of your nice clean stove pots and pans. Mother, when we get back to you, tho I`d rather not take the risk of turning out any of my amateur cooking there, because well it`d be terrible rough & you mightn`t survive the shock. Ha! ha!!

The "Mungy (food) question in once Fair Albion is still acute (for the masses I s`pose) and the "Heads are imploring everyone to go in for potato culture as a means to help keep the cruel wolf from the door. There`s no doubt but that the old spud is of some importance now, & no wonder. It beats me how you have managed to get so many varieties of veges, fruit and flowers into that 50 X 195. You`ve done marvellously well!

Thanks sincerely to the old "water-rats of White House for their kind wishes. Please reciprocate on my behalf. Not surprised that you saw none of the [indecipherable] at the baths. The only ones I know of who are still at home of my age are Dick Burn, Ossie Golding (married last year to Miss Cross of Narellan – I`ve been to her place on my bike & met her folk ) and of course "Our Harry. There may be one or two others but I cannot recollect. Those new constituting the good old club are mostly all strangers to me & are mere lads – so I learn...

Pleased to learn that the Council have at last under-

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taken those necessary improvements & that the old Baths now look so well. The Rechis have been holding most of their races there I believe (since the "Floaties were condemned ) & Harry tells me that we have 3 most promising lads competing – young Wilsher of East end, Ric Bolus, & a boy named Lions, The former, you know is one of the sons of Murphy the bakers`s driver who used to serve us in Cove St. (do you remember?) & is a coming champion. His times for the sprints (50-220) are real good & there are very few of the best who could extend him.

It`s a pity that this terrible calamity has come for we would now have a "ding dory club (it always was) You very likely have seen those nippers cutting out the sprints at White House so I cannot enlighten you about them – rather the reverse I should think.

Harry Grose tells that Sid Davis put him on to young Lions (16 years of age) & that he has proved a marvel over most distances. He`s beat the schools` champs, Kirkland, I learn in a sensational finish over the 440 & his time shows that he`ll liven things up in the champs later on. good lad! Ric Bolus is Teddy`s younger brother (Ted is still Coy. clerk of D,13th Bn) & is also "some boy in the Water... From a/cs I`ve read Bogie, Bill Mason & other noted Vics. have deteriated since they "pulled on this more serious game. Am wondering if the former has re-enlisted as an artillery man since his return home. He told me he intended to. Has Harold Hardwick left for this side yet? Believe he joined up about last October. Longworth & Healy are still in safe jobs so they`ll be amongst the ones who are to return apres la guerre. Tommy Adrian of Manly & Ivan Stedman of Melb. are both in the "whizz bangs. The latter has been wounded. Albert Barry, I learn is still in England at a base depot on clerical work. I get so very little swimming news from Aussie that I do not know how things are going. I know that NSW A.S.A. does not encourage swimming races amonst the eligibles, but there must be some champion or champions who have stepped into the vacancies created by Longworth, Healy Ad

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rian, Fox etc. Who are they?

Must be nice to have the Tarbon Creek Baths so handy. A pity that they`re not deeper, but I`m sure you could have a good refreshing swim there. Has Thelma taken a liking for the grand art?

No, I have received nothing definite about Egga Bill being wounded, in fact, I have no got his Regt address cannot tell whether he`s attached to this Division (the Immortals or any other), Trust he is now A1 again & on his way back to Aussie.

Jacky Atkins ("Anzac) of 1st Field Co. (with Jim Duke & [indecipherable] Johns) was gassed while we were at Hill --- last month, but I didn`t meet him. Bob Pout (of my ptn, coy & Bttn) told me of him. Jim Dus--- was with the "Bingerjeers (or "duck board harriers) Pierrot Troupe up to a week or so ago, but is now back at the serious part of la guerre.[indecipherable] came across him any day now. Please remr those Balmain lads to all acquaintences. Merci beaucoup.!!

Thanks for your advice re the rates for the Chatswood Block. Trust that the payment is not proving a big burden to you. if it is, you know what my wishes are. Yes, sell it. There`s no doubt but that land in that district is becoming very valuable & it is a big jump in valuation from £47 to £70. Why the latter value is higher than the original cost! Anyhow, it`s better to see it advance rater than go the other way, is not it?

Hulls, here`s dinner! yes - & stoo again!! So I have to end up now by wishing you all, my dear Parents & Sisters, the best of health, spirits, prosperity & the hopes that ere long this dreadful strife will cease for ever. God`s Will be done.! Best rememberances to all our relatives & friend, hoping that they too are A1 in all particulars.
Accept my Best Love & kisses. God bless & keep you.
I am ever your loving son and brother Harrie XXX

[Page 421]
121
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"Aussie

[Page 422]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 122

In the Field
somewhere in France (7 N)
Saty midi, April 27th.18

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters.
Still another Anzac Day anniversary has come and found us still Boxin-on with the cause of the Worlds` present sorrows & troubles – the despicable Hun, April 25th was the date & Thursday the day , of the 3rd anniversay of Ausssies gallant sons` dash up the beach & hills of Gallipoli, & yet there are a goodly number who on that day helped to make our military history, still amongst we who came afterwards, inspired only by their deeds, the grand cause, & the honor of reinforcing them on the Peninsula itself.

Today, strange to relate, we are spending the anniversary ( in stern duty of course – holidays are unknown, only by name) om the same region, & not very far from the trenches or breastworks where we first came to on this most important battle front, but we are hoping that the co-incidence means a good omen, i.e. the early finish of hostilities, after

great victory to allied Arms, will soon be at hand and that the next Anzac Day will be celebrated at home. God grant so. His will be done!

I cannot say that I have a very extended choice of subjects on which I can write to you who are so far removed from this cauldron, in fact, when one cuts out the war and things that relate to it here he has nothing but the elements & usual scenes left to "murder in his quest for "copy or original news. I`ve tried to tell you something new every week but you will realise how hard it is & that there`s an end somewhere. What I should like to wax strong on in this letter relates to things that are 4bidden fruit, as the subjects would refer to scenes & doings in this region – the new Front – so I must resist the inclination & so keep "square on the books & in the good graces of our pal-in-arms – the censor.

We can hardly yet realise that but 3 weeks ago we were passing on the long troop trains through this very

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place en-route to our July 16, Nov.16 – May 17 "long suit & all was peaceful. What a transformation scene! Even the places we spent last Xmas and New Year in are under different conditions now & there`s no saying what next is on the boards. The Aussies of the rank and file are asking themselves whether they are the only ones who have been "picked, or issued with jerseys , for this great "game - & their query seems justified, especially when "John Bull`s guiding light (Horatio Bottomley – the idol of soldier and sailor) asks England when she is going to help the slouch-hat army win the war.

We`ve heard that one of our hard worked Divvies has earned a grand decoration from "On High (earthly), & the "Immortals: have recd great praise from same souce for "Service rendered) especially during the critical period of last month & up till now. (The Immortals of course are what now represent the first 20,000 – Yes, this Division) I can not tell you more here without imfringing censorship regulations, but you`ll have been reading daily of the doings here & there`ll be something elso doing by the time this is delivered. I can only add that we are now on our "lonesome since leaving so hurriedly "down below so there`s no chance of me finding out how Les. C. the artillery boy of the Main [(Balmain)], or others of our acquaintance are doing ...

As for HN, well I hadn`t a chance to repay his visit while we were in poor little Belgium, as there was lots of work up the line for us & a move (which culminated in the aforesaid trip train journey) soon afterwards. Tho` he belongs to this Divvy. I have not seen any sign of him or his Divl. unit, but can only hope that all is well – same with "Mystic Bert .

Met another Balmain lad here yesterday – "Snowy (Billy) Knight of "D Co, 2nd Bn, a pal of Col Nixon`s. You might let acquaintances know that he is OK, especially the swimmers. Arthur Sawyer (3rd) is also here & well. Tells me that his bro Len (Anzac17th) is still over in l`Angleterre somewhere & is not keen on "boxin on " again. The other bro.(Snowy wears glasses ) of the AMC belongs to a comedy-troupe of Aussies who are earning a great name as the "Anzac Coves & having a geat time in Fogland. The draw-cards is helped by them being "straight over fromt the Front - Yes, the back part of the Front whence a great many others of the much "Kiwi`d A.S.C, A.P.C.

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M.P, "Brass hats, red tabs, & others, belong.

Of course, we don`t begrudge the dispensers of – joy their soft-snap, for lots of them belonged originally to "Stoush distributing Units & have seen lots of service, but others still like to let their ignorant folk at Home know that they are "once more in the Trenches, when we know that their units are non-combatant, or are on the communications well to the rear & out of most dangers. I don`t think some of the blokes meant to see their letters or extracts, in the "Sassity pages of "Footlights, "Table-Talk, "Punch, etc., but they must feel terrible silly when a "cobber pokes such a sentence under their nose, & asks them whether they are really back in the Trenches.

It’s not every ‘soldat’ in the Force who goes into or near the Front-line – oh dear no! – far from it. It’s the Infantry’s "long-suit, of course, & they are accompanied by parties of Pioneers, Engineers, (hard to find – they’re the "Duck-board Harriers.) Brigade on gunners & Trench Mortars. The artillery-boys cannot get very close with their "shut-eye dispensers, but they’ve done some big deeds & earned our admiration for the wonderful & quick work. It’s that lying notoriety we don’t like to see in printing, especially where it refers to some of the "would-be’s-if-they-could-be’s. The pity is that you dear folk are unable to discriminate between genuine & imposters – but we know ‘em.

Since we’ve been on tour, mails inward & outward have had, & are still having, (tho. we are halted) a pretty "rough spin & we are wondering when the next "Aussie delivery is going to reach us. Only for the occasional letter from murky Albion – Great Aunt & Woollcotts (per "Rosie) & "Miss Bristol – I should be feeling lost & lonely, but I know yours will come along as usual in a big batch – either a feast or a famine with us.

Consequently I have none of Father’s budgets now to comment on, tho. mind you, I’m still hanging on to Mother’s & the girls’ grand letters, waiting for a chance to purchase some post cards, which are at this moment, & hereabouts, are not to be had for love nor money, nor is anything else in the way of food or luxuries, because all the poor unfortunate peasants, estaminet & fancy-goods people have been "shoo’d out back from this danger zone, & have taken with them anything that could be conveniently packed into pram’, go-cart, farm-wagons, "bikes & the like – a heart-breaking scene to us. Perhaps if we are sent out to the rear for

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a spell I`ll be able to keep to the old system, so in the interim we`ll just have to do the best that`s possible- hang on to [indecipherable]
Aunt Annie`s latest I advised you of in last weeks letter there`s nothing to add here that`s news. Hope the Huns are still bluffed. Rosie`s last, of 18th inst, tells me that bro. Tom, who was wounded at Solonica last year, is at last home and on a month`s furlough . It was not his arm-wound that worked the "oracle but his first taste of malaria. He was promised, together with the others who returned with him jobs either on munitions or shipbuilding but this present critical military position has altered the rosy-looking future for him & now he`s classed "A which means "box on sum more for - well, the soldiers recompense as awarded to English Tommies (read "John Bull – he knows) & some of our own.

Believe the lad looks tres bon, but of course is now disappointed at the turn things have taken. Anyhow, he`s on a better front than this one, as far as "Stunts go, tho of course he`s a good way from England & amongst a poor class of humans. I am awaiting a letter from him, so will be able to tell you what he says – if he has not already gone of course...

Mr. Woollcott, Rose tells me, was so excited over the news of Tom`s arrival that he "evacuated himself from the "civvy Hosp. & in consequence (as he wasn`t quite "jake) had another little spasm of illness, but is feeling good 0 now – thank goodness! Others of the Woollcott circle seem to be jogging along "A1 in the absence of the despicable Huns` dropping crusades over the Empires`s metropolis – Rosie at sewing shirts for soldiers (or something in that line), Annie , "counter-jumping, or some such stunt; Sophie, caring for her contribution to the Nation`s future generation with hubby ("Bill Mackley) shovelling coals on the fire & making the flames rise higher and higher down below in one of our side`s (Guelph & Co doesn`t own em) Battle cruisers on the North Sea & Jim (another "Benedict) regulating crowded traffic & answering all sorts of queries, besides slinging bakshee salutes to everything with pips, crowns (xcept NCO`s & crossed swords) not mentioning "Brass Hats, Red Tabs & the like, "somewhere over here.

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I may come across him at any old time now, or at least vice versa, (he`ll meet me) as Rosie has, on my suggestion, shown him the color-patches (on the tunic I left there for my hoped for leave which represent the "First in, last out & second to none

Talking about leave (Oh the joy from military restraint reminds me that it is still napoo for us, tho Dame Rumour has it that it`s to be turned on again as soon as we get out of this lot O my! I`m still finally undecided how I`m to eventually fill in my 10 fleeting days. (they`ll go like so many hours, worse luck) but there`ll be no trouble on that score once I`m 4tunate enough to cross the Pond.

I`ll sure run out to see out relatives in the "Smoke first B4 hiking away up Manchester-Liverpool way... As I`m still right in the boom down in the Cit of Chocs and fags. You can count on me giving it a "fly B4 I return to the Front. Of course lots of things are liable to happen that could alter the whole, or any part of the projected programme, so I must just carry on & trust to the best – circumstances will prove what`s to be done. If I get to Manchester, I`ll sure make enquiries round about Didsbury for our family ancestore & the rest of the link of once "Didsbury Hotel.

Bert by the way has not yet shown any additional light on the thread that he is supposed to be on per a Jack Cave over on the "Tight little Isle, but perhaps he`ll have some news for when I see him again. We`ll see!

Have no further news to relate of Archie Murdock, but a letter of mine is now en-route to that unit to which he was attached at last advice, so I may elicit something from him as to movements since his last to me. Can only hope that he is still "Jake’. The veiled camp location he supplies me previously was easy to decipher, but I guess he`s not there now, unless as a bakshee laboarer making roads for der faderland – O the fate & fortune of war! (could walk to that place from here in "clean fatigue - l[indecipherable] in an hour, but with full pack up & all the extras, it`d take half a day as there`s a small mountain ridge to traverse – o the sweat!!)

Archie will be feeling pretty well at home now I expect in this new and strange country. If he

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still has a liking for languages, he`ll have good opportunities in his job of mastering the English-French patter as used by `les soldats`. The

French people in these parts (du Nord) tho. do not give us any, or no encouragement to dabble deeper into their pretty language than the most common-place of words and phrases, because if you go into a shop or estaminet ("es-tam-een-eh) & open out in your supposed fair French, they let you know in perfect English that you`ve got a lot to learn.

The village folk are the same, so that`s why most of us do not worry about learning more – they discourage one. As for coming at Flemish, the tongue of the Belgians, - ugh!!English that you’ve got a lot to learn. The village folk are the same, so that’s why most of us do not worry about learning more – they discourage one.

As for coming at Flemish, the tongue of the Belgians, – ugh!!I don`t know of any of our fellows who`ve got any time for their gutteral – just like the grunt of the Huns – as it`s a mixture of Dutch & German, from what I can see of it. Archie`s little knowledge of Deutsch may come in handy if ever he gets near any prisoners behind the line. He ought to be able to let-em know what a rotten mob they belong to – the despised of the Civilised world now

Ah well, there`ll be lots to do when the bother`s all over, especially as regards the busting up of monarchy & militarism, so we`ll just have to carry on till God`s good time & abide by his will.

I am trustingthat Father has returned to his old robust health and strength after that unfortunate illness & that work has been steady and profitable to he and the girls. Hope Elsie is feeling satisfied & content with her new - & for a time, strange, job at the Hospital. lt`s very handy, anyhow and a big change from sewing for sweaters such as Jones`If Lizzie is still at Gowing`s I hope she is earning good "foluce & able to put some for that day of the future when the Benedict life`ll commence. Same with [indecipherablI don’t know of any of our fellows who’ve got any time for that guttural – just like the grunt of the Huns – as it’s a mixture of Dutch & German, from what I can see of it.

Archie’s little knowledge of Deutsch may come in handy if ever he gets near any prisoners behind the Line. He ought to be able to let ‘em know what a rotten mob they belong to – the despised of the Civilised World now.

Ah well, there’ll be lots to do when the bother’s all over, especially as regards the busting up of Monarchy & militarism, so we’ll just have to "carry-on till God’s good time & abide by His Will.

I am trusting that Father has returned to his old robust health & strength after that un4tunate illness & that work has been steady & profitable to he & the girls. Hope Elsie is feeling satisfied & content with her new – & for a time, strange, job at the Hospital. It’s very handy, anyhow & a big change from sewing for sweaters such as Jones’s. If Lizzie is still at Gowing’s I hope she is earning good "fooluce & able to put some by for that day of the future when the Benedict life’ll commence. Same with Elsie. Good Fortune to Thelma & her progress at School. Guess she’ll soon be thinking of going to work – Seems as tho. an age has gone since I saw her & you last, an age of thrills.

Now my Dear Mother, I must also convey the hope that you are keeping in the best of health & spirits & the dinky snaps certainly tell me that you are – you look not a day older, dinkum). Do not worry all may yet be well. In conclusion, accept my best Love & Kisses & hopes of continued good health & prosperity (margin)

[The following text is written along the left-hand margin]
I am, ever your loving Son & Brother – Harrie X X X. Regards wishes & remb’cs, as usual, to all relatives, friends & acquaintances "Down under.

[Page 423]
O.A.S.
122
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"Aussie

[Page 424]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 123
"Somewhere in
"La Belle France (6N)
Sat midi, May 4th ‘18

My Dear Mother, Father, & Sisters,
Another month has gone into the bad old past & we are entering the seasons of Spring & "Stoush, the latter tho. has opened a bit early this year, but we are hoping that it’s to mean an early final termination. You’ll have read, ere this, all about our Enemy’s big bid for supremacy in the Field & of the terrible "stunts that have eventuated in consequence on this terrible Western-Fortress-Front, so I will not (& may not, ‘cause "Mr. Censor’ll have objections) discourse on what we know of it – & I could say a great deal – suffice to say that all goes well with us – & me

My last to you was scribbled from a position well within the "Bother region & in a place we knew almost as well as old Sydney itself. It was terrible hard for us to realise that the Front line was so very close to that region, more so, as less than a month previous we’d passed down the Railway line that is now an objective of Fritz’s – one that he has failed to attain so far.

It was with some surprise, two or 3 days ago, that I recd orders to pack up again & report to another "School – & that’s how you ‘get me’ at this mo. – yes, a "school-boy sum-me. I don’t know how I came to have this "stint shoved on to me, for there were lots of others who have well earned a bit of a spell, but there you are, – the Army all over. Still, there was no use me making a noise about the injustice – if there was such – as I may not get another chance to get away so easily from the "Forward Area, &, you know the old Army saying "Dash you Jack, I’m alright!!

2.
‘every man for himself’ – yes, that’s how it always is. If one doesn’t take advantage of all that’s going someone else will. Get me? Three of us from "A Coy. are here, including the Corpl. of No. 1 Gun – the one I’m on.

We had a long & hard march to do with full pack up from the "Forward Area, ‘somewhere’ (7N) but luckily the day turned out très bon for promenading. Old "Fritz had given us a bit of a ‘stunt’ for some days previously with "ironmongery & "eggs – the latter from above – so we were light-hearted at the prospect B4 us, well knowing that every step 4ward meant a foot or two further from "Old Nicks stokers – & they’re working overtime too, so as to try & keep the little bit of flat country so recently grabbed. (They’re only coming further into the net – it’ll land ‘em high & dry soon, I believe).

We saw en-route along the busy roads many interesting – tho. now common enough to us – sights, rural & otherwise. The recently sown fields all round us are now beginning to show up & the scenes are very pleasant after the baroness & drabness of everything beheld during the Winter. Nearer the ‘New’ Line tho., unfortunately, a repetition of "No Man’s Land & it’s usual environs is beginning to show, i.e. numerous shell holes & battered trees. It seems a terrible pity that the crops & farm-houses, which, less than a month ago were all intact & peaceful, should be converted into War like scenes – but there you are.

The Hun would tell the French that: "C’est-la-guerre (it is the War) & that’s all that’d worry him. Wonder if he’ll stick it long enough to finish up with the Allies hitting him in Hun-land? What a wail the World’d hear then!

All the farm-houses in the Danger area are deserted – some very hurriedly – by the Civvy peasants & they make ‘comfy’ billets for the lucky ones who are camped near. Pigs, fowls, & tame rabbits have been wandering round lost, but they’re not lost for long when there’s hungry soldiers about & they’re always hungry if they’re Infantrymen.

One becomes quite an adept at the culinary art after a few tries. The making of a fire-place is quite easy & converting petrol tins into pans,

[The following text is written in the left-hand margin]
PTO

3.
(frying-pans, & saucepans) is not difficult, even if one is not a craftsman. Pommes-de-Terre ("murphies, "spuds, – or in elite English, potatoes, are also easily found in barns & cellars & you can ‘bet yer life’ the lads make ‘em laugh. Good old chipped-potatoes!! Guess we’ve eaten more lbs. of that tasty-dish during the past month than ever we knew how to.

As with the tinsmithing – (converting petrol-tins) art, so with that simple [indecipherable] cookery – we’re "some chefs! I’ll be making a mess of your nice shiny stove, Mother dear, when I get back – God willing – There’ll be grease on everything within splashing range, in fact, it’ll be such a "barrage that ‘aa-guess’ you’ll wish me back at la guerre.

The grunters too have given our "babblin-brooks (cooks) lots a work, but as they also partake of the fresh bacon & pork, it cuts their way too. No, I havn’t yet come down to "bunnies or "chooks – funny isn’t it? There’s always, or nearly always, something else one can chew to stave off starvation, as f’instance the good old hard-as-a-rock, "Anzac scone – or as the swanky ones amongst us have it, "the Anzac Wafer. – Yes, Army-bisquit No. 5. (it’ll drive in nails, crack nuts & do lots of other jobs performed by hammers, etc. without a sign of breaking. Dinkum!)

In the Front-line, when our lads so unexpectedly stopped "Fritz (he always ‘comes over’ to stay – good old full-pack & all his plunder), they caught unearthly sounds in the air coming from where he was. The squeak of suckers & sows was the most common, I believe, so you can guess how much in his glory he was, especially as the old domestic scavenger is so closely allied to him. Guess the change from doubtful sauerkraut & black-puddin’ was as a windfall or 4tune to him.

Many big guns near our route were seen sending "Souvenirs as we went out back & the concussion & discharge was almost sufficient to blow one’s "Tin ‘at off – like a "Boater in a Sydney "southerly-buster. Gee! but it’s awful!! The "Whizz-bang (18 pounders) are the ones we mostly have to pass in front [indecipherable]
[The following text is written in the left-hand margin]
PTO to 1

4.
the Line & I can assure you they play pretty tunes into your ear.

Poor, unfortunate, & heart-broken, peasant – old men, women & children – were seen on the road following, or riding on, the quaint old-fashioned Farm-carts, which were all winding their way out of the Danger-Zone. Their few ‘sticks’ of furniture, bedding, etc loaded on the Conveyance made the sight more impressive & we couldn’t help a sigh or thought at their great & sad distress. Goodness’ but how thankful we "Aussies are that those sights are not being enacted "Down Under!

Everywhere we pulled up for a "breather (or "smoke-o) they’d ask in pitying tones if les-Allemagne (the ‘Bosch’) were still advancing & whether such & such a village was still ours or how things were going with it. Of course, being "good soldats we gave away no such information for spies are here in their legions & ‘one never can’t tell’ can one? All the same we humored them as well as we could & so kept in the "boom. "Australian soldat très bon!! – that’s how they "kid to us everywhere. (S’pose the same applies to other Colonials too).

The trek per shanks’ eventually ended at the old Battn’s. Mch. 31st 1916 Billet Village (Yes, N – C – ) & we renewed again old scenes & recollections the square & our last Sunday’s service there by Capt. Chaplain Ashley-Browne, "Padre, just prior to going into the trenches for the first time on the Western Front (April 19’16); the quaint old Eglise (church) with it’s very prominent & unmistakable steeple; the Farm-house-Barn-billet; the various roads; etc. It was all very interesting to we who were there 2 years ago.

From that ‘square’ we proceeded here in what were once London motor-‘buses, & the view from the seats on top was très bon. Now & again we’d have to do some sensational "ducking as the old top-heavy "jigger approached low lying military ‘phone wires which were stretched across the roads, or [indecipherable] do some ‘side-stepping’ with the head when proceeding down roads which had trees bordering it with overhanging branches. Nevertheless we saw plenty to interest us on all sides – the fields, road traffic,

[The following text is written in the left-hand margin]
PTO to 5

5.
[indecipherable] of low hills & woods, Villages, street-scenes, etc.

The passing of Artillery on the move, with their ammn. wagons or limbers, guns, & Transport, hundreds of motor-wagons loaded with foodstuffs for soldiers & guns, trains likewise, & being unloaded by the yellow-peril ("chinks from inner-most China – there’s legions of ‘em here), Allied troops from all over the place – French, Portugese, (or as our boys know them, "Pork & Beans or "Pork & Cheese, Belgians, "Yanks, & English, besides the Civvy Refugees, all helped to draw & retain our attention outside the lumbering old ‘Bus.

I became more interested as we traversed the same road on which I rode that "bone-shaking "mangle down from near P – in Oct ’16 to near S – O - . Couldn’t help picturing young "Teddy Richards of Adelaide (K. near Menin Rd. in Oct. last, I believe) & myself as we "pushed our way on that trip. What a lot has happened since – Gee!! Yes, & many alterations have taken place along that very busy "National Road in that time.

We went thro. the busy Town of A – on the Traffic-Canal & I could almost picture every revolution of that old cycle-pedal & what happened there . . It was grand to renew old acquaintances with these places (we’d passed them on the "choo-choo since then but one cannot see much from a "Horse-box) & especially that of S – O – which holds so much of interest & is such a big Town, as Towns go in this part of Frog Land.

Our "joy-ride terminated a few miles from there at the – Army School (Imperial) - & that’s where I am writing from. The "Home from Home is situated in what was once, I believe, the Monastery of some French Monks & I can tell you it’s "some place. The Monastery itself is of stone & brick, very extensive, massive & impressive, & is enclosed in lovely surroundings with the usual high brick wall seen round R.C. institutions. Gardens are in front & trees all round with avenues nicely shaded. The trees are all now beginning to shoot into foliage & they look great in the sunlight – of which we are now getting a little, thank goodness.

We "students are living in
PTO

6.
in "Nissen (or Bow-roofed) Huts & it feels like being on leave or in Camp in ‘Angleterre’, as boards & palliases are supplied to sleep on – such a change from just common "ground or stone floors, or even straw. Other innovations, as hard to "compree as the boards after such a long spasm with the Battn. in the Field, are the "Waacs, (Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps) & Dining Room, with real seats, tables, crockery & cutlery – hark! I hear the soprano trill of one of the girls as she warbles to some piano accompaniment in the Top-story – (there’s about 5 floors or stories in the Monastery) "As you were!

I was just saying how strange it all seems – real English girls, or young women really, in Khaki carrying a back [indecipherable] Gee, what experience for them!! Most seem to be engaged with Foodstuffs, it’s preparation for inner fuel, despatch to hungry & ravenous soldiers, & the cleaning-up après process. Guess others that only the officers see are engaged as Typists & clerks, for this "school is run by perhaps, the "Pride of the lot of "Tommy Armies & to which we hobos from the Democratic Country (or dearly so) are at present attached.

As I’ve only been there 2 days there’s hardly time for me to learn more about the swing of things, so as our hours of learning are long (9 am – 1 pm, 2 pm – 4 pm, 6 – 7 pm) & arduous I’ll hurry up now & conclude. Oh! 4got to add that I am scribbling this from the "YM (good old YM!!) Hut which is in the extensive grounds & which is, as always, very popular with us all – "Yanks, Maori-landers, French poilus, "Aussies & Tommies. Yes, we’re all here.

Have just finished scrubbing my greasy web-equipment & as there’s lots to do for parade tomorrow I will "imshee forthwith, by trusting, my Dear Mother, Father, & Sisters that all is still well with you all regards health, spirits, happiness & prosperity. My sincere Best Love goes to you & lots-a "Wire entanglements – Yes, XX. Keep smiling.

Best regards, as usual, to all relations & friends Down Under & the hopes that we’ll meet there very soon if it’s God’s will.

Till I write ‘sum mor’, Good night & God bless you – I am ever Your loving son & affectionate Brother. Harrie X X

[The following text is written along the left-hand margin]
PS. 4got to add, or almost did, that this "school course is only a 6 day one, so I’ll be back with the Battn. in a few days. Don’t know why I was sent here as I’m just a Private.

[Page 425]
O.A.S.
123
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 426]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 124.

NZ Stationary Field Hosp.
Somewhere in France. (6N)
Sat. apres midi, May 11th. 18

My dear Mother, Father & Sisters.
Little did I dream while I was penning letter No. 123 that a week hence would find me once more a hospital patient. Yet such is the case, tho. for the life of me I cannot compree why I should have been `grabbed` as my health is still, & always was tres bon. The fact is, that after a few days of residence at the big monastory (the present HQ & seat of the Army Central School of Instruction) a serious illness or epidemic, broke out amongst us which caused the NZ doctor – a real father to us to treat all those under it`s influence with some respect.

It was 3 days after the first batch were sent away that I was `caught` & then not that I reported – nunno!! Someone else did the reporting to the M.O. & it ended in me going to the R.A.M.C. & having the body temperature taken. I sent the Fahrenheit up to 102.2 & blow me if I could feel `dinkum` ill. Anyhow, the fatherly old "quack & his staff shoo`d me back to the Hut, made me pack up all belongings, got myself & gear into a waiting ambulance motor & sent us off at the "trot (toute-suite – very quick) for this Hosp. which happens to be only next door to the monastery grounds (really half a mile off per road).

It was the large number who previously, became ill who made the Doc, take no risks with us. He did not finally diagnose the complaint, but I don`t think it as very dangerous. I was in a platoon of 38 men (NCOs & privates) when we were first formed, & 3 days after the course commenced 32 of the lads were here amongst the dinkum white feathery pillows, none-the-less white sheets & on the spring beds with real colonial sisters (NZ) & nurses flitting round the nicely kept "Nissen style (bow roofed) Hut-wards.

We 8 who remained at the "School were sent away in dribs and drabs till No.5 Platooon was napoo. Others soon got the craze & B4 the term ended the biggest part of the students were here. Some developed temperatures up to 104 ("permanent-shut eye 105)

2.
and looked very crook on it, but despite one death in this ward (a tommy sergt) all & sundry (Tommies, Jocks, Aussies & Sammies) are doing tres jake. I reckon myself that the NZ doctor here is only giving us a "rest for I never felt better in my life & I`m sure there`s nothing much wrong with the others. This is a real "Home for fed-up soldiers - good scran, bo-coos sleep, little or no work, nice beds to sleep in, no "chats & etc. etc. of all that`s bon.

None of us were allowed up out of bed for the first few days as some temperatures went drunk on their own . Mine did a steady but sure fall from 102 & now it is registered at 95, so there`s no reason why I shouldn`t be now back with the battn as the School course of 6 days ended on thursday last. Anyhow, I s`pose I`ll get back soon enough, tho. lI can`t say that the few days instruciton on "general subjects " which was to have been fed into us per the agency of "tommy Sergt. Majors (all ex Mons men, or "Old Contemptibles ) has been of much value.

The Privates & NCO`s were, or at least felt, decidedly out-of-place while at that monastery, that is, as regards having meals served to one at a real table while sitting on real seats, instead of one or two of us being told-off or detailed to act as mess orderly – or "slushy or private`s batman – as is the case with the battn. At this school there are 80 English girls belonging to the Women`s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAACs – pro "Whacks by all & sundry) who serve the meals & look after the cleaning up, besides doing the cooking & other domestic jobs. Their presence saves the Corps keeping fit men out of the line to do the job as we students would have little or no time in our short course to take on that work in addition to being on the various parades – 9am till 1 pm; 2pm till 4pm, 6pm till 7pm.

Despite the definite orders against the practise, the `WAAC`s are not afraid to promenade with their soldier brothers-in-arms. CB (confined to barracks or "Chase the bugle as we know it) is given to them pretty liberally for infractions of the order, but there you are. They are real novelties to us because hearing the English tongue from a woman anywhere near the front (We are about 15 miles to rear at this place) is something we never think of after 5 or 6 months pottering about the Forward Area. (up to 4 miles to rear)

The monastery is a very big building & stand on a commanding height, as seems most usual with Roman Catholic Institutions. The monks must have imshee`d, or been imshee`d, as there is no sign of them here now. Tis said that one of the old Mother-Superiors lies in a vault under the stone-floor, so there`s a chance for someone to invent a ghost story & so make the Waacs feel uncomfortable o`nights.

The few "Yanks amongst us are from a camp of theirs not far from here. Most of them seem to have come from the Eastern States & "Noo York seems favorite. guess they`re all we`ve got to depend on now. outside the indomitable Navy, to see this "shooting gallery, World Stunt through & you`ll sure to be reading lots about em between this & Xmas – if the war lasts so long.

In physique they compare very favorably with us & their independent sort of ways, hardly lack of discipline, make them something like our "ragtime lot. If they put as much fear into the Hun as the almost insignificant (in

3.
numbers) A.I.F. well, that`ll do us all & help to bring this awful carnage to an end, It`s the Yankee planes also that are being looked eagerly for by our side & aa-guess Fritz & his Devil`s own`ll know what fighting means ere the business is cried off. Our own few planes with our own wonderful pilots & obsrvers have already made fame for themselves & for us during their short while at the Front. It, I believe Von Richtofen`s "circus which bumped the Aussie armen down below & tried their old capers only to come the proverbial.

Richtofen himslef was brought down by one of our infantry Lewis gunners, but the AIF did not get any newspaper limelight fot that stunt, nor have we who came so unexpected from down below to these parts been mentioned. Yet if I could, I`d sure open your eyes as to what the presence of the AIF`s immortal, "First has accomplished here. Ah yes, it does sometimes appear as if we are the only mob who have "guernsays, but I s`pos the more [indecipherable] more honor`ll have to do us for an XQQ

Big things have been doing along the new battle front not far from here& the drumfire bombardments have been awful to listen to, even as far back as this is. At night the vibration has been very pronounced & the Hun planes add to the "thuds when the nights are favorable tho. I`m sleeping so well on these lovely beds that he`d have to drop an egg right on our tin bow-room B4 I`d wake.

Not far from here is a large aerodrome from & to which aeroplanes are coming & going all day and night. Some of the buses fly just over our heads & the pilots & observer looks very near. It`s just grand to watch them as they maoeuvre over the pretty field & hills and once cannot help envying them their nerves & coolness S`pose the old adage applies to them also `familiarity breeds contempt`

From our Hill, (where the hosp is also built or laid out) a great view is had of the surrounding country when the air is clear. Newly sown fields of grain are now looking at their best & the lovely green is very pleasant. All the trees and hedges have their Spring `clothes` on & one can hardly imagine the drabness of just a few weeks ago.

Looking Nor`east, the large and well know town of S--- O----- is plainly seen nestling amongst the low hills and the pretty fields and trees. The two prominent Cathedral Towers look whitish as the gleam of sunlight – one the ruined Cathedral of Napolean`s time & the other it`s successor I

4.
s`pse. Winding over the hills all round, like so many pieces of straggling tape, are the many roads which radiate from S—O--- and other near by towns. You can follow them with the eye for miles from this height – not very considerable either – so it`d be a good place for observation. Barbed wire entangliments have been up since 1914. Fritz`ll have some bother B4 he digs in back here - & that`s not impossible by the way things were going only a few weeks back.

I think by next week-end I`ll be back with the Battn, in fact, I can`t see why I should be here at all as there`s nothing amis with my health. We have one of our VC`s here in this ward- Sergt.Hamilton of the 3rd – so you see not all the heros have gone home. The 1st Battns pride – Snowy Howell of "A coy – is well known to me & I should have dearly liked to have seen him "dishin up the Huns with those Mills bombs at Bullecourt last April 12 months. I believe his coolness was remarkable & his action was witnessed by the whole of the Battn others good old Snowy - & an Anzac too – I`m glad he`s home and dry at last.

Letters from your end, & even from Angleterre are at present a non-entity, but there ought to be some batches for me when I get back to the Battn, which by the way, I believe is coming out this way to near where we were during Nov-Dec last year for that more than well earned rest good old rest!! Guess while this bother is on tap there`ll be little or no "spell os` cause we`re Aussie, & --- well, Bottomely reckons the other armies are not playing now.

Leave, as you can well compree is now a wash out, so our beautiful and wild dreams of a few weeks back have gone into smoke. Some say that it will not be `turned on` till next Oct, but I hope the war is napoo ere then, tho. it is napoo ere then, tho, it is liable to look to 12 months after that. Ah well, it is God`s will & will all end in his good time, so we must just carry on with the business.

Please convey my very best regards and wishes to all dear friends & acquaintances, relatives etc. down your way, & accept yourselves my best love & hopes that this note finds you still in the very best of health, spirits & prosperity, Till I write again good-day & God bless you
I am your ever loving son & bro. Harrie

[Page 427]
O.A.S.
124
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool,
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales, "AUSSIE

[Page 428]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 125.

"In [indecipherable]
`Somewhere [indecipherable]
Sat. Matin May 18th. 1918

My dear Mother, Father & Sisters.
My tip in last week-ends letter re me being out of the Maori-Land Hospital & back with the old Battalion once more has turned out partly correct, in that the first part of it has come about & I am practically en-route to the latter, as this Camp is really only a-halt-on-the-way.

The stay in Hospital was a very pleasant change to me as there was nothing wrong with my health at any time during my confinement there, in fact, the whole stay proved to be just a rest, not that I deserved one. but I s`pose I was [indecipherable] in being amongst the sickly ones at the "school when the epidemic happened along & the Fatherly old "quack was taking no risks. He only lost 2 by death up till the time I was evacuated (discharged) so that was no so very bad.

Wearing "blues again brought back my memory of the first experiecne at 3rd London in Nov [indecipherable] 16 – O what memories! The NZ Hosp (it is on by 5 or 6 kilometres from the large and important town & juction of S--- O--- through which I have been many times since 16) proved really a bit of a "once -from-ome for there was hardly anything to do but eat, read & sleep. I could not sleep on the spring bed, amongst the dinky white-sheets & the feather pillow, for the first two nights, as the change from hard, rough & damp floors, with a blanket full of "chats etc, was too sudden – that`s dinkum !!

I lay awake most of the night, tossing & rolling & could not compree why I was not "itchy. It was a relief when dawn broke and the night sister, with the NZ orderly commenced their daily routine of washing those who were unable to wash themselves & making the beds in readiness for the day-staff. Being in tres bon health I gave a hand at fixing up the beds. My first day`s residence found me a bed patient because the doctor was taking no risk. That day of ill-ness did not appear to me at all, I felt as tho the best part of my life was being wasted.

In the same ward (long Nissen style, or bow-roofed , Huts) are usual, nicely kept & polished, were some "Sammies from a near by camp, many "Tom

2.
mies of various Regiments and Divisions, "Jocks,(Scots) & Paddies (Irish) besides Australians. Our lads were "first favorites, as was to be expected in a Colonial establishments. & the "Tommies seemed to be out of the "boom altogether, I`ll tell you why s`mother times, as it is prohibited news just now. Anyhow, we were a pretty happy family & were made feel at home, some so much so that they`re still "swinging-the –lead (malingering) there & intend to stay till they`re imsheed – and the Tommies are champions.

I couldn`t "kid to a quack that I was crook if I wasn`t, but some blokes can lie in bed day in & day out & make themselves look ill. Still there was hardly anything to prevent one "hanging-out there for a month or more but what`s the use? One must box on again sooner or later, & besides leave may be overturned.

When once in "blues, one could go for short rambles round about the hospital`s environs & it was a very pleasant way of putting in some idle hours. Couldn`t help admiring Wonderful Nature, especially at this time when everything is looking so beautiful & fresh in the sunlight. The trees, hedges, & fields look magnesia now and war seemed a myth, even tho. the trenches of the new battle-line Front were so close. From our vantage point- a bit of a hill-top-a fine panorama of the surroundings was had on a clear day. S--- O----, with its two high church-steeples & buildings was the largest town in sight, but there were smaller places nestling amongst the villags surrounded by high trees-all looking so peaceful & serene.

The Waacs also take advantage of the nice walks when they are off duty at the "School (which is near by), & they are still "novelties to us because we see no English-speaking girls in the Forward Area, which has been the Battalion`s `ome` for many long months - & looks like being so for many more yet, unfortunately (we are the only one`s who are "picked. I think)

Attached to the Hospital is a good old "YM run by the people of NZ, (or their "fooluce) which is usual, a favorite with all hands. The bakshee Movie Show (also the gift of the "Pig Islanders) provides us with some hours of real pleasure but somehow the pictures make me feel very discontented, or fed up with this dreadful life & it`s manifold, corruptions, Seeing the film actors in their civvy clothes & amongst beautiful Natural wild, scenes, in safety & peace, makes me very envious & leaves me dopey when I get outside after the

3.
"show, especially when I realise that la guerre still rolls on & home is so very far away. Still I spose, one must buck up & be optimistic - & all that sort of thing - & hope for that black, white, & red striped towel to be thrown in by the evil`s own chief stoker in God`s own time.

As I have had no mail Aussie since the Divvy commenced extensive tour down A---s way & back to near H---k, I had nothing to write about while in Hosp, nor had I any post cards on which to comment on Mother and the girls letters, an accumulation of which I had B4 me. It was a grand opportunity for me to add to the list of post cards at your end, but you see my fortune in that respect was `dead-out`, as I couldn`t get into S---O, or any other town, to purchase any, so I hung on to the letters till I reached this Camp, & now, if Mr. Censor is kind to me, also the "U boats & others you`ll have some P/Cs of A---S & A-e sur-la-L-s to go on with. The list I sent you from England some time ago will help you to follow my movemnts by letter & P/Cs, for I have given you the reference on some of the latter also – those towns that appear on the list "compree?

I started numbering the cards as soon as I reached La Belle this time (Oct 7) so you`ll be able to see what are missing from mail to mail. Let`s know when writing, as I too will be interested. You`ll understand that I am unable to give you explanations or a/cs of the places represented on the Post cards, but some day I hope to be able to talk quite a lot about them & to point out places of World interest & places that I am acquainted with on this side, in the meantime I will endeavor to keep the ball rolling & that luck with dear old home intact.

Wishes of good fortune went with we who left the Hosp, from the Sisters & others, on our way back to the battalion - & Fritz, It would have been much nicer if we`d have been going the other wasy – the channel port and Angleterre, or better still, Marseilles & Aussie – but some of us may have that joy later on. A motor-wagon took our gear (o what a load is our infantryman`s!!) & as (Tommies, Sammies, Jocks & Aussies) to S---O railway stn & unload it.

There was a waiting "choo choo which prevented our staying an hour or two in the big town, as we were hoping for. A slow and tedious journey of not many miles brouoght us closer to the Battle Front & within gun range, & then a

4.
long [indecipherable] full pack, along hard roads & thro dirty straggling villages, past pretty [indecipherable] & woods brought us here – the Rgt. camp. It is a very pleasant spot up in the hills,& high trees, now in full & beautiful foliage bordered on 3 sides of us .Our r captive observation balloons are visible towards the line & many planes hum, whirr, and buzz about here all day, coming & going from an aerodrome which is near a neighboring village 3 kilos away.

The song of birds is delicious, especially that o the nightingale & sky lark, & one cannot help but envy them their joy & peacefulness. Out in the fields, old men [indecipherable] & their wives, with the kiddies are weeding & tilling all day long. It must be hard & tiring work for them as they are going from early morning till dusk (8pm now) & then there`s little rest, especially if the night is fine, for the Allemagna in his mechanical bird come over looking for billets, railways, & dumps on which to deposit souvenirs, the Zonk! Zonk! Zonk! of falling bombs is a dreadful & awe-inspiring sound to have in your ears till after midnight the whirr of double-engined Gothas overhead is not as nice to listen to, as f`rinstance, Pealie`s playing of the piano in W`bool`s dining room, nevertheless, C`est la guerre (it is the war) as Fritz says in French & we`ve got to put up with it & trust to God`s mercy.

The only conso. is that the dirty Hun is getting it all back four fold from our airmen & every night at that. Will be able to tell you all about those things & other thrills apres la guerre, so till then I`ll let the business severally alone as far as talking on paper about it goes.

We can safely say now that beautiful & glorious spring has been with us at last, & summer is just about commencing – a Summer which is going to be memorable over this way, apparently, but we still hope that they`ll be the last we`ll spend OAS as nice as they are to we lovers of the Sun. Aussie & you are all we`re interested in, with exception of victory to our arms of course, and the sooner this job is done with the happier we`ll all be.

As news of interest is just about nah-poo I`ll leave you here till next week-end, or thereabouts, my dear Parents & Sisters, hoping still that that it will find you all still hale, hearty and prosperous, likewise our many relatives, friends and acquaintances to whom please my best regards and wishes. Accept my best love & all sort-o-thing.
I am your loving son and brother. Harrie XXX

[Page 429]
125
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool,
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 430]
[The pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No.126.

"In the Field
somewhere in France Nord. (7N)
Sat midi, June 1st. 1918

My dear Mother, Father & Sisters.
Yes, I`ve "slipped again & missed another weekly communique to you, but I`m sure you`ll understand how it came about when I add that duty in the Front Line trenches "somewher (8N) caused the little break in the chain. Never mind, here I am now, perfectly OK & the wiser for a few more experiences and thrills which came my way last week, good old thrills!!

B4 I recount, skite about, the usual & threadbare worn news let me "mark time till I acknowledge & add my thanks for the big batch of Warnambool letters which came to hand some days ago. Unfortunately I arrd back at our Battn Transport Horse Lines, en route to the front line on the day that the Battn Post Corpl re-directed a previously despatched batch to the base post office in North West London so they`ll come back later on. Nevertheless tho their date of writing is earlier than those to hand they will be most acceptable & I will wait patiently for their receipt, knowing & realising that such disappointments & delays are inseparable when once one gets away from the Battn.

The grand & most welcome letters, mentioned above are Dad`s (2) 21/3,& 31/3, with Thel`s 28/3, enclosed Mother`s 17/3,Els` (3) 17/3 & snapshots,23/3, & Hosp. concert sheet & 31/3, & Lizzi`s 27/3 with 5 bonza snaps. There were others from my kind friends, inc

2.
one from Aunt Soph., for all of which, & yours, I am , as usual, exceedingly grateful.

Delightful Spring weather still holds sway over on this side of the "Pond & it feels good to be alive when one is removed from the scenes & sounds of war. The days are still lengthening, it being dawn now at 4am & dusk at 8pm. & everything in sight - out of the danger-zone, of course – is most pleasant to the eyes & senses. The beautiful green of grass, crops trees & hedges makes me 4get the drabness of so few weeks ago when the fields were bare and all plant life seemed dead and one cannot help but think of the ruler of all these wonderful beauties – Wonderful Nature ! & of the crime we`ve commited against him throught the ravages & desolations of this dreadful World calamity. Yes, modern man has made an awful mess of nature over here – hills have disappeared & so have forests & copses, & the country side in that fire-zone Belt will not be recognised after the war by the folks who once lived their life there when they return to start business & life afresh. O God that it would all end soon ! The lovely shady National Roads, which some weeks since did not appeal as very pleasant to one, are now at their best, & one cannot help but admire those ancient trees so high and straight.

With the beautifully mild & cloudless nights, which make life seem so serene & peaceful, has come the bother from the skies, a bother that is to mean much to the winning side during the closing months of this conflict & a Hell on Earth to the other. I would like to tell you lots about the thrills & experiences we`ve had, but I`m afraid it would not make pleasant reading & besides I may tread on dangerous ground. I can only add that we must thank God Almighty for "Aussie`s up till now immunity from the horrors, & anguish of such dreadful warfare & pray fervently

3.
for the protection of the poor unfortunate citizens of these combatant countries who live in the danger-zone & for a speedy & lasting peace, after Victory to out Arms on land and sea.

The sky so clear & beautiful with it`s canopy of stars & the moon, is further illuminated almost nightly by the anti-air-craft defences on both sides. You may talk about your New Year`s Eve, Anniversary Day, jubilees etc. illuminations, but I can assure you that the Chinese article wouldn`t get a look in against the `fireworks` let loose into the blue these times. As soon as dusk settles over this land of sorrow ones ears listen for the `moosique` which denotes the commencement of another night of `straafe` from above. The Zonk1 Zonk! Zonk! of aerial –torpedoes & bombs resounds throughout the night –hours, sometimes near, sometimes uncommonly close, & show those that explode far away, Yes, it`s some life ! Fritz`s heavely laden "buses – big Gothas with 3 of the "Devil`s own aboard as crew – can easily be distinguished by sound of engines from ours, - & that sound is not the World. The many searchlights behind the lines s
can the heavens with their long beams & when a marauder is found by one, the others are signalled & their beams are brought to the point of the finders ray where Fritz is going for his life to get out of it.

To understand the idea better, here is a rough plan :- [small diagram not transcribed] The converging of lights gives a larger area for the plane to traverse & the antis have a better target to aim at. The bursting of the Archies (a-a- shrap) signalling flares of various shapes & kinds, & the tracer bullets, (phosferescent bullets used in Lewis & Vickers machine guns to give direction of bullet flow) combined with the ground searchlights, the blinding flashes of the mobile anti guns & the smaller bursts of mach gun fire, all help to make a

4.
bakshee fire-works display, alongside [indecipherable] yours sided in celebrations & the like and for a sight of which you pay a few (sometimes) bob, pale almost into insignificance .
Yes, there`s lots of colored lights – flares we call em, - most of which are used by the Hun infantry in & about the Front Line to tell artillery, HQrs, etc, how things are going on the sector, for our side work in darkness & quiet, & flares are only used rarely & as a last resouce. Fritz has a pretty one on nightly display now – at least, I`m not sure whether its there`s or ours – which takes some beating for effect. It is first a white star-like flare from which emerges, in a long string, many smaller stars. When the string has run out the big star dissolves & the wee ones follow suit. Fritz also uses, in the rear, flares that go upward in a long string – perhaps 20 to 30 lights - & which one cannot fail to see. [indecipherable] that these are the night aerial-raiders flares to their hangers or aerodromes. O tis a lover war right enough.

Lots of things have happened since 18th ulto, when I launched letter no 125. on its long journed to you, but I will not be able to relate much here to you, unfortunately you know why, of course? Yes, the censorship. That letter was written just to rear of the new line down near A----e. at a Reinforcement Camp whither I was sent from [indecipherable] Island Field Hospital, en route to the Battn again. Left there with the usual full 7 up - & all that sort of thing connected with an infantryman`s Wardrobe – one lovely sunny morining, along petty coutnry roads, off which were to be had pleasant glimpses of rural scenery - much of a much-ness all over these parts tho.

The few villages traversed were of the monotonous sameness – dirty ancient,out of date, & poor & they were mostly full of poor unfortunate folk chased away from their old homes when the greasy Hum pushed up here in a [indecipherable] refugees. Poor folk! I am sincerely sorry for them in their awful plight and for their anguishing sufferings of mind since this calamity befell them. The kiddies (picannins) do not seem to compree the business, or may be they too are hardened to the horrors of this War. It`s a great

5.
pity that the modern Huns of Attila could not be made to suffer likewise, for it`s they and their nation who have wrought the havoc amongs us. Certainly some of the Rhine Provinces & Alsace-Lorraine towns are being almost nightly bombed now (or their railways, factories are ) but that`s a mere flea-bite to what is happening to the innocent and inoffensive country folk near this Fortress Front. Ah well, God knows what is best & he will temper justice with mercy in his own way and time.

All along our route (there was a small party of us `details` going back to our units) we passed down hearted looking families with all their worldly belongings on the quaint farm carts, in prams, peculiar barrows, tied on to the backs of which were usually the domestic sheep, goats, & dogs from the midst of piled up furniture came the grunts of crated sows & suckers or poultry , it`s a pitiful sight ! Some of the little processions told their own tale of anguis – aged grandmothers too infirm to walk behind the slow moving vehicles, were set amongst the baggage & goods, others being conveyed in wheel barrows by young girls or stronger members of the once happy family then there were mothers with little children - why go on ? Ugh ! if only the Hohenzollens and lots of our intriguing "heads were made to wander the earth likewise till the end of their naturals for all this suffering. The masses are suffering now in all the combatant coutnries, but the "blue bloods days are numbered¸ or I`m a bad judge.

The nights have found us much nearer the line & close to a small town near H---k which I knew so well in May 16 (Q---e) I visited the old shop where I often bought post cards and stationery and found Madamoiselle still doing lots of business, tho. now feeling most anxious for the future and the old town which is only on this side of the N--- Forest. She seemed exceedingly pleased to see the old colors denoting this Divn again & to speak to an Aussie. she remembered 2 years since especially as I was at the time the only Digger in the town. They like the "Diggers these people knowing that it means good "foolence for them when they are billeted in their area. There were some of the "Pork & Cheese’ (or Pork & Beans – Portugese – troops there, likewise Tommies and Frogs. Aussies cannot be supplanted.

Fritz of course came over our way that night, as it was clear and calm, and we who were in tents had some anxious hours listening to that seemingly endless "whirr – whirr - a –whirr !!! which told of the proximity of mechanical birds bearing on their wings the design of the Iron Crosss, & alongside the obsever, those rows of permanently "shut up distributors, which are playing a big part here now... Our rest was only a halt-on-the-way for next morning we were on the road again bound Battn. wards. It was a pleasant march [indecipherable] trim thro. our Mch 31 16 billet village (W----c-) & back towards the now battered town [indecipherable] [indecipherable] [indecipherable] to the front line 8N) where I found the lads of the [indecipherable] still going strong despite Fritz`s efforts from 300 yds away across growing crops of wheat & rye to put them out of action. The night I arrd there he`d straafed with some of his "perfume so I had to requis

6.
ition the old gas mask which is A1 & the envy of the Hun whose rubber supply is so fast ebbing. (pigskin I believe is his bad substitute) ... I hope to be able to relate the rest of the Front Line experiences apres, my dear parents, so will only say on that score that all ended well.

The sight of the burning Convent of M----s in front of us & of the town of M---n (near which we were `resting`during last Feby.) on our left, was most impressive, the glow lit up the sky all night & the crackling of wood, etc, being plainly heard. Other fires were in progress on the Hun`s side at the rear, some being big dumps or depots of Ammn, & stores , so there was plenty to keep us awake at our posts ("stand to now all night – 6 or 7pm till 4 or 5 am according to light – in addition to the Hun himself and his souveneirs. Forgot to add that I met again young Codger Ferguson (2nd) the day B4 I went up the line. He was left out of the trenches [indecipherable] time in the Battn Nucleus the same as I was when we first came up here from below & was looking & feeling A1. He sends regards to you all. ..

It was a great relief to get away from the trenches after our term, tho. the elements are tres bon now & Fritz was either kind or unlucky in his treatment of us, despite his several attempts of dispensing some hate or frightfullness. Of course, tho. not actually at this moment in the Front Line, we are only a step or so back & practically still in action, at any rate, quite ready to move at an instants warning and to be at hand.. Our home, up till a few days ago, was a bivouac under the shade of some high trees & bordering hedge, but our cookers drew-the-crabs the very first morning of residence, having been detected by an observer apparently in one of Fritz`s "sausage balloons & mistaken for a good position. Anyhow, his ironmongery soon made us evacuate at the "toot (toute suite – very quick) after giving several of the lads a start on their way to Angleterre & white sheets etc, and we hiked to nearby trenches out of sight till removing here a day or so ago – another bivouac.

B4 the last move I had an afternoon of pleasant surprises which came about thus :- for some time I have been trying to get some "encre (ink) a difficult purchase in this Forward area owing to the deserted towns and villages – and learned that there was an "Aussie YM a few fields away, so to there I hiked with ink only on my mind. As I came into sight of the familiar old sign of the red triangle, it suddenly came to me that Frank Grose was trying hard to get across here to the First Division as a Field Secretary (according to Skipper Drennan`s advice of some time back in Warmister) & I wondered how he`d got on. The YM was ensconced in a deserted farm house the usual kind you know ) mud straw walls, thatch roood, dung pit, barns and stables & made in square system – and was a depot for canteen of "dry goods & washing material.

Arriving in the farm`s fore-field I noticed first a curious little gathering round the farm pond (or dam) The attraction was caused by two Poilus French soldiers) fishing for – no, not bream, mullet or others of the finny tribe, but just common frogs – slimy, green croakers. Being a bit of a "sticky nose I too joined the little throng & watched intently the soldats proceedure of capturing the soldats dish. There`s nothing very flash about Jacques – a length of limb of tree like a rod,

7.
a piece of string, to the end of which is fastened a little piece of meat. Jaques throws his line with the bait just on the top of the water, & is not kept waiting long for Froggie, who comes to the surface for the morsal. Having by nature a wide chasm in his head piece, know to science, or anatomy, as a mouth, he opens wide with intention of making a decent & clean job of the transfer, by which time Jaques is alert for the disposal process. Froggie must get a terrific shock when he feels himself, soaring skywards & land wards after the hefty jerk on the rod executed by Jaques. The bagging is the next move but that is a minor matter as Froggie is more of less unconscious after the fall on terra-firma. I don`t know how many of these "fish our French Kamerad-in-arms considers as enought for a meal, but the business is continued with the same system. Yes, its`s true that the "Parlez vous include Frogs as an addition on their menu – not the whole of one, but the "amaneggs yes, legs. Those of our lads who have been to the gay and frivoloous City (Paree) on leave tell us that they`ve tasted the "Fish as turned out by the French chefs & they reckon it`s tres bon. Ugh !

Well to get on with my tale of woe. After the landing of one poor old
Croaker I heard a hearty laugh immediately in front of me which seemed somehow very familiar - Judge my extreme surprise when I found that it was Frank Grose, the very one whom I was thinking of so few minutes B4. Gee! But it was good to meet him, and especially there where Fritz`s big stuff had a nasty habit of lobbing when least expected. Needless to say we talked and talked and talked (encore) laughed and smiled, smiled and laughed – and all the rest of it. Appears that I was just in time as the Y.M. was only a depot and Frank had gone there from his farm house billet to see that all was good-o. We walked to this home from home, via paths thro growing crops of cereal, and he introduced me to a Tommy major (next above a captain) who asked me about how things were going up the line and he is attached to the 1st div. artillery as YM Field Sec.

He desires me to convey to you all his very best respects & wishes and same to all others downunder. "A1 and happy explains his health and spirit. Being with the whizz bangs I got him to take me to see an old pal of bro.Harry`s – Billy Watson, a great union footballer, who went to America with Austn team; an ex Rabaul Private (favourite pal of Harry Grose) a D.C.M. ist and a lieut of artillery whom I bid goodyee at the VO.Cos office in early 1915 when he came to Egypt and Gallipoli. Appears that I was just in time, as the YM was only a depot & Frank had gone there from his house billet to see that all was good-o.things .

Frank has not been over on this side more than a week or two so is still a little strange to places. . The hole to which he was then attached, was, like Frank`s domicile, a French peasant`s home to which they added a salvaged piano and on which some sweet refrains were being thrummed by the colonel when I lobbed. Billy made me very welcome, despite my rank – a thing he did not for a moment considere and I learned with surprise that a night or two B4 it was he whom I spoke to in the dark just behind the Front Line in answer to a query he put to me. It`s strange how these things come about is it not ?

The night we marched out of the Front Line the platoon (No 1) pulled up for a

8.
warm drink at a house near B----e and blow me if it did not prove to be o under Frank Gros`s supervision. Unfortunately we came the "proverbial as there was no cocoa on tap and as it was dark I could not see Frank or would not have been able to distinguish him rather after seeing Bill Watson we walked back to our billets – mine a French in the Field and Frank`s a farm house – and I promised to visit him "sum mor. Unfortunately for that we moved back here a little and how I know not when we`ll meet as that some day leave to go Blighty for some, opened and amongst the 4tunate ones was "Anzac Day Clark of A Co. orderly room who asked me to carry on his good work for the 14 or more days which will constitute his vacation – and I am.

Yes, "acting company clerk Don`t know how long I`ll have to mark time on leave, but if I`m 4tunate it`ll come later on… Would like to say lots more to you, my dear Parents, but time is fleeting and I have tous a celerical work to do all day. Suffice to say so regards this business that "la grande-guerre is developing into some big surprises, but so far all goes well with us. You`ll be reading in your cables of the Hun stunts and ours, and all of the terrible revelations now being unfolded in the joint called the "Heat of Europe so –la-la what a fiasco! Ah well, we can only trust in God`s will as to how this lot is to end..in the meantime let me 4get it by once more referring to Father`s grand home budgets which as usual have given me much pleasurabale reading and instruction. That of Mch.21st is of earlier date so let me comment till I reach the end of this agony sheet.

I thank you for the enlightening cuttings from the "Telegraph re shipbuilding on the "Island which further show me what a state that lovely "Win the War mob have got the crafts unions into. The cartoon is very good. I also have the 2 clippings from the Melb paper anont the sad and surprising fate of Mrs Kennett Snr`s husband, it seems as tho the new life had to be denied them. My deepest and sincere sympathy to her and the family please, Merci. No, sway to your early Mch. Letters arriving while I was at the – Army School (near S--- O----) and being returned to the base just as I reached here I did not learn till the present batch of late March letters were delivered a few days ago that Warnambool`s luck was "dead out once more thro your most painful and unfortunate arm injury received at the Island. Gee but it`s hard luck! I can only trust now that all goes well again with you and that the painful and slow knitting process proves successful.

I must thankyou, my dear Father for your great and wonderful effort under such difficulty in writing the 2 letters (Mch.31st also B4 me) and for the "breezeness of them, despite the pain and trouble… The receipt of more letters form this side is a great relief for me – I`m glad they broke the spell of patient watching and waiting… must let Bert know when he replies to mine of last month that you also recd his favors, likewise that of Rosie`s, a letter from whom, by the way is B4 me dated May 22 in which she adds amongst other items that another big Hun air stunt was brought off on London`s working class district (the East end) that month but they all came thro the terrifying ordeal safely. I`ll send the letter along under separate cover when I reply… With the above spasms of "gas I ll close. Tendering once more my best wishes of affection, prosperity, good health and spirit. Keep good heart, all will yet be well with God`s will, best love to you all and good day.
I am ever your affectionate son and bro. Harrie X X X

[Page 431]
126
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave
"Warrnambool,
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville
Sydney
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 432]
No. 127.
"In the Field
Somewhere in France (7N)
Sat. apris midi, June 8th ’18.

My dear Mother, Father and Sisters,
Tho’ time & opportunity are now at a premium I must not let this fleeting 1/2 hour or so pass without making some opportunity of keeping up to time-table – a difficult thing these days – & preserving the old chain too.

Necessary work in "A Company’s Orderly Room keeps me very busy all day & especially now when such big stunts are "on tap along this awful Western Front, still, I must find a few moments to write to you as there’s no saying where we’ll be ere another week goes by, & I know you look so eagerly & patiently for some news every time the postman passes down your street.

Can’t say that anything very exciting has occurred since No. 126 left the ‘stocks’ – just the usual hostile night bombing stunts; lots of heavy artillery fire; route marches along dusty roads from one Camp & position to another for [indecipherable]; Observation balloons brought down in flames; & other commonplace (to us) incidents of the air & surroundings. Oh it’s a ‘lovely’ war!!

The glorious Spring (or is it Summer?) weather now with us makes one feel good to be alive, despite our presence on the brink of this Hell on Earth, but it also tends to bring on the ‘Down-in-the-Dumps’ feeling, because those pleasant elements remind us so much of dear old "Aussie – & Home. The glow of the lovely sunshine & the pleasant field surroundings is taken off when we are tramping about the

[Page 433]
2.
country side on dry & dusty roads, – what a contrast to a few weeks back!! – wet with perspiration & weary with the weight of equipment, ammunition, etc. Still, one cannot help but admire wonderfulness of Nature which abounds on all sides. The meadows – or fields of grass reserved for the farm cows – are now looking "magnesia in the Spring sun, covered as they are in a golden clover – the gold of the pretty buttercup. Intermingled, are other field flowers, the little daisy being very prominent.

The hawthorn (or May-flower) growing in most hedges has also been out in bloom & has added pretty "lane scenes that abound in these parts. Out in the fields are crops of beans, the flower of which are giving off pleasant scents which we cannot help but notice as we march by, despite the fine smothering dust generated by many pairs of feet on the roads. Various colors of green & brown (I s’pose they’re the [indecipherable]) denote the cereal crops & the progress they are making. Some of the sown wheat is a beautiful fresh green, while the oats, barley, rye, etc. have their own shades

Hoping to make a pretty picture & chasing away thoughts of the terrible strife all round & the nearing of the ever present & never to-be-forgotten conflict. Yes, even behind hedges & crops lie hidden [indecipherable] dreadful implements of destruction as used in this Hellish War – guns of all calibres – & they spit flame, fire & death at most unexpected times, the concussion & explosion almost at times lifting our scalps off, "tin ‘at & all . . . .

The much domesticated cows, browsing & chewing-the-cud in the meadows, need [indecipherable] bails, leg ropes or slip-rails, as do most of ours; when milking time comes round. They are part & parcel of the "cocky’s family & Marie with her bucket has no trouble with the process of extraction, the cow being quite content to stand in line ‘n chew, chew, chew. These are such common sights hereabouts that I take little or no notice now.

Up near the line, where the farm-houses are deserted, (many now demolished) the lads carry on with Marie’s good work when they catch sight of a cow & the lait ("lay – milk) comes in very handy for weakening "Tea, straight, or mixing with porridge, etc, when it’s on issue. The poor old shiny usually gets a pretty rough handling as there’s generally more than 1/2 doz. of the lads follow [indecipherable] with the milking, & they’ll leave very little of the cow juice when they’ve finished . . . .

Tues. après midi – I had to "mark time on Saturday afternoon with this letter, my Dear Parents, owing to push of work, which continued over Sunday & Monday also, owing to our move to the [indecipherable] again . . I am now scribbling this in the sunlight at the entrance to a real Dugout in very shallow & rough trench, – a small isolated one which is situated on the side of a sunken road in "somewhere, 8N. amongst a growing wheat-crop – after getting rid of a 4 day’s long growth beard, & cleaning my teeth & partaking of a wash (the first for 4 days) out of the lid of my mess – water is precious here [indecipherable]. The shave & wash, also the hair toilet, makes me feel human again, tho’ the legions of "chats still [indecipherable] their parades & field manoeuvres over one’s skin & the thought of them drives away all inclination to sleep.

(We sleep in the day-time only, in & about the firing-line, as it is suicide to poke one’s head [indecipherable] owing to snipers, & the enemy balloons & planes get the "whizz-bangs, & other "ironmongery, beaded on to your "possy if they see any activity thereabouts).

"Fritz, & his "square headed pals-in-crime, are distant in places from 200 to 300 yds across a "No man’s land, of breast high crops of wheat & oats, and there are also batches of beans & "spuds. On the little rise in front stand the remains of two well

[Page 434]
3.
known villages on the B – l Road, while on our left is the remains of the little Town near which we were billeted during our "rest last February. Just to rear are several farm houses, one demolished, & others more or less so. Crops are growing on all [indecipherable] & some wheat looks like ripening already.

We dare not be too curious during the hours of daylight, but one cannot help a peep over the rough parapet towards the greasy Huns & try to pick out places we knew so well only a few months back. Yes, it’s a funny old War right enough & surprises do not seem to be any where near exhaustion yet.

As I write in this June sunlight, many squadrons of our gallant airmen are above us on all sides. "Fritz in his desparation & lack of his own fliers (they must all be down on the Home Front) is peppering the sky with "Archies & his machine-guns "pop!! pop-pop-pop!!! whenever a plane comes within range but it is marvellous how little success he has, for our "mechanical birds just carry on with their spotting, or photography, as if there was no such danger.

The artillery, in answer to the air-message, send over continually all sizes of "ironmongery & we guess at their calibre as they screech & roar overhead. Of course there’s two sides to all these "stunts & the "Sauerkrauters let us know that they are playing too – bet yer!

Our last term out of the "Line was a very short one, in fact, you could hardly call it being out of the "Line at all for we were not far back . . . Nevertheless we found time for a little relaxation in football & other games. "Vic Fowler rejoined the old Battn. on the day preceding our departure for the Firing-line & he looks "A1 despite his recent spasm of sickness in Hosp. He is still the general favorite he always was & is just as lively. Please remember him to Aunty Eur. when you write & add that he asks nicely after her & the Ross Family. Vic is in "D Company now – No. 13 Platoon’s Commander.

A letter from Les Norman (gassed at Hill – in March) at Kurdcott (next to Fovant Camp) tells me that he expects to be coming back at any old minute after he has had furlough. Young "Bob Pont of the Coal Yard, who left us in this Sector early last April (18), is also there & will be "[indecipherable] out soon. Les expects to have a ‘nifty fortnights’’ holiday & I envy him because this is a good time to be in l’Angleterre – good old spring!!

No news has reached me yet of the 2 Les’s or of Bert, [indecipherable]. I wrote to the latter last month from the N.Z. Field Hospital, & Les N’s Unit is up here with us, somewhere. Hope all goes well with them.

Have had no opportunity of ackg. Rosie’s last letter yet so cannot send it on to you, as promised, till I do. At last advice they had all survived the big Hun air raid (7 Gothas bought down) even tho it, as usual, took place over their quarter – the East end. Poor unfortunate Working-class!!

Franck Grose was separated from [indecipherable] when we moved back last week & I passed his Cocoa-Depot en-route to these trenches a few nights ago, but unfortunately did not see him outside. Must look him up again when we go out – God willing – as there’s still lots to talk about that will interest us both. I 4got to mention previously that he said Archie Murdock was now attached to same Artillery Division as Young

[Page 435]
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Jack, but as he (Arch) has not yet replied to my last I cannot get into touch with him owing to lack of proper address. If he is really with that Division he is a long way from here – yes, down South. Trust sincerely that all goes well with him, likewise with Pearl, her folk & his. Convey my wishes to any of them you see, please. Merci!!

There’s no other local ‘news’ available just now (all’s still well) so I will switch off on to Father’s great budgets still B4 me, which are, as usual, despite his injured & painful arm, so full of news & logic . . . Look out!! . . .

Yes, I met "Bert a few times & we had lots to say but his temperament & mine are as wide as is the Pacific, not to think that that in any way interfered with our pal-ship. I do not know where he or his "Diggers’ Unit is now as their Camp is on the fringe of the near "No Man’s Land, a few Kilo’s. north of here. Strange to think that some big battles were fought (& are still being) there & that we promenaded along the main (National) road only so few months ago – Yet such is the case. As others of the lads, I can only keep my eyes open for the different color-[indecipherable] & hope to meet them all still hale & hearty . . .

One of Mr. Sid Davis’ old Bath attendant’s ("Chut McMurdo) is back with "A Co. again from Hosp., he tells me that he met young "Bobby (4th Battn.) who were bivouaced near to us a few days ago. It’s good to know that Young Bob is going strong – I [indecipherable] to run across him when we go out – God willing. "Chut, by the way, use to work at the Leichhardt Baths & also at the little Drummoyne "floaties in Five Dock Bay. He came away in the 12th of the 1st with me – "Moollan, Decr. ’15. Remr. him kindly to Sid. Snr. when you visit dear old "White Horse – Merd! ...

The full a/c of your accident in letter of March 21st (early March letters must be still coming) shows me just how unfortunate you – & we – are. It’s our hard luck that another break should occur in the smooth running of "W.bools’ economic machinery, still as Mother says so aptly, it is God’s will & He will know what is best. I can only, at juncture, & after such an elapse of time, (nearly 4 months) trust sincerely the painful injury has knitted & mended & that once again the ball of prosperity rolls merrily at "W’bool.

It’s a great relief to know that you did so well under the anaesthetic & that the re-setting was a success. You’re a real [indecipherable] for "coming-at the operating table & for the further ‘stunt’ there on your nose injury of such long standing & real good to learn that that too was a successful – tho. undoubtedly, very painful – operation . . . You must have found it terribly hard to pen your letter to your me & I thank you for the trouble tho. sorry for the pain it caused you . . .

The 10 days’ "rest in the Balmain Hospital was not: I s’pose, the kind of "rest you desired, but I’m glad you’re able to leave it so soon afterwards . . . Yes, I can well imagine that you looked something like a wounded hero amidst the many face & arm bandages, still, so long as you are progressing, that’s encouraging news to me . . . It is really a blessing that you have the Lodge & Accident Fund to fall back on which to keep the "W’bool exchequer "OK & the Larder full. Trust that you will be suc-

[Page 436]
5.
cessful in your plains for the 1/2 pay compensation from the "Island. It’s good to know that the girls are doing so much, in their all too little spare times, in the garden, tho. I am sorry that I am not Home to give you that more than well earned rest from the toils & labors there, but it cannot be helped – we must carry-on till the end of the piece.

I am not surprised to learn from Mother that you have flaunted the "Quack’s definite orders re work of any kind being done while your arm is in such a painful state. Gardening must be a big magnet right enough if you’ll take such a risk, tho. I can well imagine the "fever when one realises that every minute put in on that block means so much more improvement which must also enhance the property’s future Value. Gee! but "Warrnambool must look grand!! With all the "snaps the girls have so kindly sent me I cannot, with the environments hereabouts ever on me imagine how nice it must be. It’s a real joy that awaits me in the, let’s hope, very near future.

Dusk is now falling fast as the glorious Sun has just gone West (8.15 pm.) so I must get a wiggle on if this is to be finished by "Stand to! (which of course means; man the fire – step in the trench, with rifle loaded & bayonet fixed, bombs & rifle grenades in a handy position, & keep a sharp look out across the mist, murk & crops till "stand down! in the dawn of tomorrow – about 4 am. If on ‘fatigue’ – wiring in front, digging trenches & "possies or carrying the necessary rations etc – You are of course not doing watch too – Patrols & "listening posts also go out & anyone is grabbed for those jobs. Oh! Oh! Oh! it’s a luvly War!!!)

It was so kind of Mr. ‘Gus Cowan to carry on with your good work at "W’bool when he paid it a visit during your incapication. Remr. me to him & the family please & add very best wishes, etc . . . I don’t wonder at Mother being upset at you endeavouring to do the work in the garden & orchard with that injured arm – You’ll do me for a toiler!! . . .

Pleased to know that the little persimmon tree produced such a delicious crop of fruit – good! One cannot realise having a little orchard in the yard when such a place as "Ma Smith’s recurs to one’s troubled mind. What a contrast! . . .

Yes, it was indeed a sad ending that befell Lieut. Alfie when everything seemed so bright for the newly weds future. Mrs. Kennett is really having many cups full of sorrow. My deepest sympathy to her in her anguish, please, if you are writing to the Southern City. I recd. the N/P cuttings enclosed re the sad accident thanks!! . . .

So "Billy Hughes is coming this way again? Guess he’ll be bumping heads with his countryman [indecipherable] & hatching up some more of those Imperialistic Stunts of his in which to annoy the "Aussies. Anyhow, he may be able to get into some gas bagging job in Westminster this time, which will keep him out of harm’s way "Down Under.

I saw with surprise in a "Daily Mail (London) yesterday that "Joe Cook had arrived already for the Imperial Conference. Wonder what surprise packet he’ll bring back to "Aussie out of it? . . .

Not surprised now to learn that "little Willy had another smack at Unionism (despite the fact that it was them who gave him his first lift on to the pedestal of fame & "[indecipherable] B4 embarking for here & that things industrially are not looking too clever in consequence, especially the Iron-workers & ship builders. Perhaps there’ll be an opening now for Mr. Ryan, tho. Austn. politics are a bit of a puzzle to me, looked at from up here – Look as tho. you’ll never get a start on with the most necessary of works required today – ships, ships, & hundreds of ‘em’.Ah well, the ‘wake-up’ will come some day & then we’ll all wonder how we allowed such short-sightedness to reign for so long a period.

Hopes at any rate, that the expected ‘storm’ at the ‘stand’ blows over & that lay ere this cranky & badly scrawled note reaches "W’bool, you will be still enjoying steady, constant & prosperous employment there & that all signs of the recent unfortunate & painful accident will have long since disappeared.

[Page 437]
6.
Lucky fires!! Envy Pearlie & Lizzie their projected visit to Melbourne, but hope that their stay will be a very pleasant one, graced by glorious weather. Their holiday with Aunt ‘Sophie’ may brighten her up a little. By the way, have they vacated pretty "Goonambil yet for a smaller place? I believe that was their tention recently.

You might convey my best regards to Aunt & Uncle when next you write & also let them know how it is that I am unable now, through [indecipherable] & other uncontrollable circumstances, to write to them (& all others, for that matter), more often than I do. It is as much as I can manage just now, while things are very critical, to keep in touch, per correspondence, ‘avee-vous’ (with you).

[indecipherable] on relatives, I would like you to convey my love & wishes to them all & hopes that best of health & prosperity still reigns in their midst – Merci beaucoup . . . So very glad to learn that Thelma is coming along so nicely with her [indecipherable] & schooling & that she has grown to such a big girlie. The welcome snapshots show me how she has come along since I bid you au revoir on that Decr. 10th Friday eve 1915, 2 1/2 years ago.

Goodness, who’d have guessed then that this awful & Hellish conflict would still be going strong & not yet at it’s Zenith – apparently? Ah well, we can thank aristocratic & decadent England, with her muddling, useless, & intriguing diplomats, & others of the idle & hereditary rich in [indecipherable] for today’s terrible position, I can only hope for God’s mercy in ending the strife, stress & turmoil in His own way & time – these "heads can’t. He’s to be done!

"Aussie must be a Nation of her own after this lot, there’s nothing [indecipherable] use for it, tho. of course it’ll take a century or more to do that. Advance Australia!! – who can stop her? . . .

Tell Thel. that I will need much [indecipherable] in Arithmetic & other Knothy problems when I return as this life of corruption & squalor has dulled me so much that I feel already like a real Dunce, [indecipherable] amusing myself at the piano as of you, well that’s a "wash out as I’ve 4gotten [indecipherable] Vamp & Piece I knew, & music here is also "nap-poo, except in the far back dirty Towns & then it’s the mechanical penny-(10 continues) in-the-slot "hirdy-girdy of the rowdy Estaminets (es-sam-un-eh) that jars on one’s ears –

What a life anyhow, I look 4ward eagerly for the time when I can sit down in peace of mind in "Warrnambool’s cosy dining-room & listen to those lovely piano pieces & [indecipherable] – what a day!!

Poor unfortunate Aunt "Maggie!! I do so feel for her, & she is continually in my thoughts, tho. I havn’t time to sit & write to her very often – only in ackg’s of favors rec’d, as with all others on my long list of friends, etc. So she is thinking of taking on housekeeping ‘sum-mov’? Ah well, I trust she will have more 4tune this time, tho. it seems as if such is not for her.

My [indecipherable] to her please . . . good to know that Aunt Alice likes being "out back & that she & "hubby are doing so well with the ‘selection’ at Merricks. I wrote to her (ackg’t) some weeks back. Best regards etc. to them, please . . .

I cannot enlighten you as to how so many apparently perfect-in-health "Aussie soldiers [indecipherable] back & discharged. Of course, a man can be permanently unfit thro. internal wounds & illnesses or gas, & show no outward signs, tho. I believe many in your midst now have "worked-the-oracle’ & hundreds floating the color-patches of Units "boxing-on here have been no nearer than the London or Salisbury Plain Front – a good [indecipherable] consolidated in too – safe enough. What a terrible expense to the Country they have been! Not done a hand’s turn in cracking at the Hun(or enemy) yet being clothed, fed, paid & shipped up here only to go straight back. Good old war!! . . .

Now my Dear Parents & Sisters, I’ve reached the end of this lot of gas, dusk has fallen (nearly dark now) & the steel-helmeted pals are "standing to so I must join them forthwith,

My love & best wishes for to you all as usual, & many thanks for all you’ve done for me. Best regards & wishes to all pals, friends, neighbors & relations

[A sketched arrow pointing to margin.]
[The following text is written along the left-hand margin from top to bottom:]
"Down Under & the hopes that God’s great blessings of good health, with prosperity, once more reigns supreme at "W’bool & with the others. Till I write again God bless you & good night. I am your affectionate & loving Son & Brother, Harrie XXX. (Same old Regtl. address).

[Page 438]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 128
"In the "Line.
Somewhere in France. (8N.)
Sat. après midi,
June 15th. ’18.

My dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Although this is not the rosiest of places to be writing the usual weekly budget, I’ve just got to put up with it as opportunities for settling down to quiet & peaceful, not to say comfortable, contemplation & thought are ‘nap poo’ just now as the Empire’s & the Allies’ futures are being hotly striven for along this dreadful Hell-on-Earth battle-Front, & war, as part of the "business, are picked to play.

We are still enjoying lovely Summer weather – sunny, clear, calm & mild days, with few hours of darkness – & one feels happy in a sort of way, & imagines himself away from this ever-present strife & turmoil.

Whereas, during the bitter Winter months, (in the Front & Support Lines) we "stood-to for at least 14 hours on end so as to be ready for any surprise move by the "Devil’s Own, that dreaded command does not ring out till 8.30 or 9 "pip-emma now while Summer is with us, &, B4 it is realised, the dawn of another day – another day nearer that vague ‘something’ we all look so eagerly for – has greeted us, generally, if the air is clear, at 3.30 "ack- emma – (am).

The glorious big moon, which seemed to smile pityingly down at us from a cloudless heaven some weeks back, has not reappeared lately, hence Fritz’s night – marauders & "permanent shut-up distributors, have had to take a bit of a "pull over our way, especially as clouds have obscured old Mother

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Earth & compelled any of the daring ones, in consequence, to come down below them. I s’pose it’d ‘cut’ both ways & our lads are at the same dis-advantage when on like missions. Nevertheless, the Zonk! Zonk! Zonk!! of bombs is heard every night hereabouts & reminds us that laguerre still rolls on.

I am scribbling this from a shallow & narrow trench, running beside a high farm-yard hedge, (good camouflage – bet ye!) which runs thro. what was once a happy peasants’ home & their domestic garden, (where they grew spuds, onions & other vegies for table use).

Alongside our flimsy "Dugout, (just an old door placed across the trench & covered with soil & bushes – more camouflage from the prying eyes of square-‘ed fliers) is the remains of one of the bars that once stood on a side of the usual stinking manure-pit. The rest of the "square’s border of buildings – barns, stables, & dwellings – are now "nap poo, having been razed to the ground some weeks back by the cause of all our present troubles – the greasy Hun.

Jove, but it is a pitiful sight, & more so when one tries to imagine the pre-war, & even recent, contentment & happiness that reigned within those now demolished walls & in the surrounding fields. Fritz is only about 600 yds. away – may be less – & his "ironmongery still lobs round daily & nightly.

I am sitting on one of the Farm-house cane-chairs which is jammed into our little trench but I don’t feel comfortable trying to pen this as the pad has no other support but my knees. A metal road runs past this farm but of course traffic does not at present use it, nor does anyone during the hours of daylight for it is a good target for enemy artillery.

Looking over our parados (the rear of the truck – parapet is the front) I see a delightful scene of various green fields & nice trees, amongst

3.
which nestle the French peasants’ Farm-houses & Barns – now deserted & many demolished by shell-fire. I see no sign of a living soul out there, for this is day-time and any movement brings the "rat-a-tat-tat!! of machine guns or perhaps a "whizz bang or two to remind the careless one that Fritz still does not accept any of us as pals while we have our ‘jerseys’ on.

Yes, it is still day time & the glorious sun is only just setting like a big golden ball over the tall steeple of the E’glise (Church) at N – . , tho. the hour is 8.30 pm (‘quatre-heure et demi’ – Kat-err-a-der-mee). The sun-set is delightful to gaze on & one can hardly imagine the bother that is imminent at any old moment.

Over the "sunken road are hop-fields, the poles of which are standing bare & battered amongst the green of growing wheat, oats, (are they green?) barley, etc; which surround them. The light breeze wafts this way pleasant scents from the bean-flower, many plots of the lentil being interspersed with cereal & "[indecipherable], are now of course, hereabouts, growing wild for want of attention – weeding, manuring, etc. What a shame!

Ah well, as the "Froggies, now reconciled to these bad times always exclaim: "C’est la guerre! (it is the War!) so must we accept it, hoping of course at all times that God’s time is nigh for that proclamation of Peace – so be it.

Not far in the background stand prominent those little ‘pimples’ of earth, known as Monts, (5 of them) & they recall many memories of the times we’ve ascended them & gazed around on the low lands below. They are now part of the pawn in this game & most important to both sides. They are pretty big ‘pimples’ as mounts go in these parts, but you could not put them in the same class as our "Blueys, Illawarras, etc, – rather enlarged Mount Steele, which you pass

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when en-route to the show-grounds, Coogee, etc – what memories.

Many big "Sausage Balloons are aloft back here & the ceaseless watch over the road on Fritz’s side must be disconcerting to him as his is to us, for likewise, several of his big "sausages are bent on [indecipherable] duty & they seem very close: (Bringing them down in flames is some stunt & sight).

Aerial activity seems to growing more intense every day, & especially on our side. The sky is simply dotted with the various squadrons as they go about their set tasks above & around us & their antics as they thread a way thro. A-A barrages & machine gun fire are pretty to watch from good old terra-firmia – "good when you’re out of the fire-zone.

Don’t know when we are coming out back for a spell but the ‘sooner the quicker – & better, for us, as the "Bunny life is pas bon.

"Leave is being very slowly & gingerly "turned on ‘sum-mor’, at present rate it’ll be the anniversary (or after) of my arrival on this side again ere my turn comes. Still, there’s no telling & I may be over there B4 the end of good old Summer – I hope so . . .

I meant to send You ‘Rosie’s last letter, but ‘blow me’ if I didn’t destroy it when I replied this week. Anyhow, except for telling me about the big air raid – as over the "Smoke’s poor quarter – & of her Dad’s continued poor health, there was little use of real importance in it. Of course, she sends to you all on behalf of the family & Aunt Annie, all sorts of good wishes & hopes.

I enclosed a cutting out of our "Anzac Bulletin in letter 127 ("green envelope) that may interest you, as it relates a good deal to some of the work done just here by the "Immortals & of which I know a good deal. Also enclosed you’ll find, if Mr. Censor & the "untersee [indecipherable] have "slipped, two ‘souvenirs’. They are part of the contents out of one of our propaganda-balloons, which when the wind is favorable are sent aloft to be blown over Hun territory.

The photographic one is rather sickly – even to us – but it will show you how we’ve retaliated for the Hun’s like stunt – spreading, per miniature balloon, false & misleading statements. These little Ballons are often seen in the blue & many are the guesses as to where they’ll lob.

They contain inside a receptor the propaganda threaded on a string, which by some contrivance (I do not quite "compree the idea) burns gradually & releases the papers in little bundles at intervals till the "cargo has been distributed, after which the gas bag ends it’s short life. The papers enclosed dropped out of one of ours this week just behind our front & support lines, the bulk of the consignments reached the Sauerkrauters . . . Last evening (it was still sunny – 8 pm) I saw 5 of those balloons up near the faint new

5.
moon – or so they appeared – fast travelling Hun-wards with the fresh breeze. We could not "compree for a while what they were as the waning Sun made them shine brightly – something like a star [indecipherable]
Yes, "she’s a good old War right enough, & the best ever I took part in – much more exciting than the "Commercial War . . . Now let me switch off this horrible business & refer to something more congenial – Dad’s big Mch. 31st letter f’instance, enclosed in which was Thel. of 28th.

Again, Merci beaucoup for your goodness . . . I’ve got to add more thanks for the great, tho’ painfull, (to you) effort you made to interest me in the letter under reply owing to your severe arm injury.

It was some relief to learn that you were doing so well, but I can well realise that the knitting & mending process will take a long while with even the greatest care . . . There’s no doubt but that you – & we – are having a pretty rough "spin with one thing & another but the trouble may all be a means to an end & we mustn’t loose faith – God’s [indecipherable] be done! . . .

Yes, I guess you feel fidgety & impatient at absence from Work & the difficulty of toiling in the garden & orchard, still it is best, I think, to take things easy than to prolong the healing by trying to do the impossible. It is real fine to read your glowing a/cs of the Home progress & the lovliness of everything about it. Gee, it’ll be a real "El Dorado to we up here when we get this job finished & rejoin you. Hurry up that happy day!! . . .

Looks as tho. "W’bool will not be short of fresh vege’s during the Winter months – such as they are "Down Under. That’s good-o! . . . So the little passion-fruit-vine is blossoming & bearing? Très-bon!! ...

I read all about Sydney’s "Passion – [indecipherable] Show & of the record attendance on Good Friday – my thoughts & feelings ‘mixed’. (Our Good Friday was spent in a Nissin-hut Camp in the Land of Lace & sprouts near famous Hill – which was, so soon after we vacated it for the [indecipherable] ‘down below’, the scene of many days most bitter fighting – strange but true) ...

It’s good to know there’s such wonderful prosperity in "Aussie during these bad sorrowful times & I only hope that that happy & most desirable state will continue – Thanks for a/c of the Reeves family. Pleasing to know that you have some splendid neighbors. Mother can hardly be lonely now & Thel. must be in her element with so many grand pals of her own size & [indecipherable].

Yes, the new neigbors’ names are certainly strange to me, tho. [indecipherable] now pretty well, after so much mentioning by one & the other of you I picture each one as they appear in your breezy letters. It’s a big

6.
conso. to know that you fare so well in that respect at the [indecipherable]. The name of ‘Landchester’ is a new one in your ‘communiques’, but it’s nice to read of Mr’s kindness to you with gifts of fish (poisson) & honey. He can have the bee "stunt on his own for mine. I’ve got great respect for them, tho. do not mind someone else, to [indecipherable] the hives for the delicious prize inside – I’ll do the eating up part without trouble . . .

Guess the enormous bunch of flowers from "W’bool’s & Mrs Cooke’s & Farley’s gardens, which you take to the Balmain Hosp., are most acceptable there. Cannot now imagine just how lovely the various blooms must be . . . Yes, I think too that you – & we – were most 4tunate to ‘strike’ such a place to live in. It seems a ‘bit-of-heaven’, according to the various a/cs I receive, after disreputable travels of dirty, dusty Balmain . . .

Am trusting that you will be able to carry on alright during the convalescence period as regards monetary matters & the purchasing of necessities.

We are having lots of ups & downs right enough but ‘cheero’ & ‘keep the old pecker high’ – all may yet be well . . . Thanks for advice of Post Cards rec’d., also of the newsless letters – news is warn thread bare & I can’t make any up ‘no-how’. I know mail from me must be arriving in erratic order but things here are quite a contrast to Angleterre Camps – & elsewhere – as regards opportunity & inclination –

I don’t mind admitting that I find it most difficult at most times to write a decent letter to you, in fact, there are times days when I feel right "off in spite of my endless thoughts of you, & letter writing is an effort. Those feelings come when we are here in the "fire – there’s so much excitement & thrill. When I take up my pen – I [indecipherable] not what I will write about – I "back – & file, puzzling my mind how I’ll start off after addressing you, dodging those stereotyped & childish phrases : "just a few lines, etc. "I am well; I hope you are too – & other "painful stuff, which so many, even amongst those who ought to be able to do better, are so fond of using. Ugh! it gives me the shudders!

I can only hope, after posting one of these, that you will be able to interpret the awful hieroglypics that now rep. my hand-writing (havn’t the time or comfort to turn out copy-book style now) also to "compree what I try to tell you in my cruddy way . . . Some day, God willing, I may be able to relate in person lots of things vaguely described since I came away, so till then we must all carry on hoping for God above in His own time & way to end this Hell on Earth.

Am trusting, my Dear Parents & Sisters, that this note finds you once more enjoying best of health, happiness & prosperity. I salate you!! God be with you till we meet again.

Love & best wishes to you all & regards to relatives & friends. I am your aff. Son & [indecipherable].

Harrie X X X X

[Page 439]
128
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool,
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 440]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 129
"In the Field,
– somewhere in France, Nord. (7 – 8N)
Sat. après midi.
June 22nd 1918

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Jove! Saturday again! Why, I hardly realised that another week has gone since my last to you, yet they tell me this is really Saturday – the day of sport & peaceful pastimes "Down Under.

To we "soldats of the A.I.F. it means just the same as the other 6 days of the week – "bohcoo fatigue & lots-a ‘Brother’ – "all the same Sunday, all the same Monday, – but I don’t suppose we should growl as we get "6-bob-a-day, "meals supplied & a "free(?) bed. What a life!

Anyhow, we cannot help casting our minds down your way & dreaming of those Saturdays in the seemingly distant

2.
past when we too loved to partake of & follow up our sporting "long suit. There were even fellows, long B4 this World calamity was thrust on us who spent their few precious hours of absence from toil in playing "toy soldiers for a few stray "bob – & they’re still there, some of them, getting all the honors & remaining in safety & peaceful surroundings. I used to smile at them then for ‘coming at’ the military "stunt & I’ll do so again après la guerre if it is not made compulsory for us all to carry on with soldiering – which I hope it will not.

Letters reaching some of the Sydney boys here are not too re-assuring for what the future is going to hold for those who return. ‘Tis said that Returned men are laughes at openly for being fools, & preference for those who have done their little, or big, "bit seems no nearer settlement when the lads go out for their old, or look for new jobs. The lovely "Lose-the-War mob are still "backing-&-filling, tho. The War has been going strong for close on 4 years now. Of course we only learn of the bad side of things here, but one cannot help the thought that perhaps he was a big "mug for ‘dragging’ this lot on, in spite of the apparent justification of for War.

The scandals, corruptions & intrigues just being brought into the light, via the Law Courts, of decadent, nae dead, England, have made painful & disheartening reading to most of us ‘soldats’ from dear old "Aussie at this crisis in our history, & we wonder what the next revelation will unfold. I refer, of course, to the Billing – Maud Allen Scandal

3.
which has stirred to the depths the folk of out-of-date ‘Angleterre’. It certainly looks now as tho. the ‘elite’ have smothered the rest of the scandal as little else has transpired since Billing was acquitted.

I think I made some good guesses in my various weekly letters to you, penned from the training – Camps during my sojourn in the "mud Islands, & I am more convinced than ever that the ruling system in England is doomed to face, if not now, well then, après, I would like to add lots more of my own opinions but one is hardl. allowed to think in the army, let alone write those thoughts, so I must keep them boxed-up till the great return – God willing – & hope for Democracy – not it’s sham – to come into its’ own thoughout England, & the World generally.

My last to you was scribbled from the front-line – I hope you got it "OK’. Since then we have come back a little way but are still practically in action as we must be ready to proceed to the "Line at any old minute, if needs be. It is months, & months, & months, since we were out of the "4ward Area & there seems no chance of a "spill-o yet – not for the "Immortal Division. The "bother is, partly, that we are on our "lonesome up here & it’s an important, very much so, sector. Would like to be able to explain the "whys & wherefores, but – well, I mustn’t, that’s all!

The thrills & experiences gained up the "Line during the last "spasm must go down in the mental-book along with the others that have come my way since Decr. ’15, – "some thrills! Just after dawn (3 – 4 am) one morning ‘up there’ some of us "swaddies were watching from

4.
amidst the charred ruins of a once happy Farm-house (intact up till middle May), the capers of some squadrons of our biplane-scouts over the Huns trenches & region opposite. Fritz, in his annoyance at their so early intrusion into his ill-gotten domains got his "emma gees (mach. Guns) to work in conjunction with H.E. A.-A. shrap.

Neither offensive-arm took effect, as our fliers casually got out of range & carried on. It remained for one of our own "ironmongery souvenirs, from a monster gun well to rear, to supply the thrill. One of the planes, a little higher above than it’s consorts, happened, most unfortunately, to traverse the big shell’s path & even as we watched, lo & behold!, a burst of loud report, a ‘plane falling in pieces like so much paper, & an occupant – awful!!

Ah well, as "Froggy says with the renowned shrug of shoulders: "c’est-la-guerre! ("say-la-gerr = it is the War!) – & so we must accept all these shuddering events & sights, for this is no "ordinary War & the "blokes taking part in the Vortex of it (not those in Q.M. & staff jobs in "Aussie & England or those permanently fixed way back out of the fire-zone – & there are legion) must be beings a part to bear up under it …

Some minutes after our ‘plane was smashed to bits in the air another one (an Infantry "contact ‘plane, apparently came to grief right over our lines, but how it happened we don’t know as "Jerry’s mach. guns & "archies were not firing at the time. "Dinkum "nose-dives must be terrifying accidents – the practise ones are thrilling enough to watch from Terra-firma – Yet – well, "C’est-la-guerre.

Talking of aerial-stunts reminds me that the activity over our Sector during the fine, almost perfect days (sunny – calm & mild) of last week was very intense. The air was literally alive with the

5.
"mechanical-bees & the whir-r & buzz seem continuous. There were ‘planes in "V formation (5 or 6 together), others in "3’s, "10’s & "20’s, "love bird sailing serenely backwards & 4wards noted the artillery "heavies; "spotter or the photographers. Often times were the latter in the midst of Hun A-A barrages & machine-gun fire but the work went on & never an "Iron Cross was seen aloft – except it sneaked across behind clouds or just at dusk when all becomes quiet – "the lull B4 the storm.

The large 4mations must [indecipherable] the Hun no-end, not for aggressiveness but the fact that so many prying-eyes are looking down on their greasy blue-grey forms & they "box-on with fatigue jobs behind the line to direct our shells on to their "possies. When the aerial-War will develop into B4 the [indecipherable] business fizzles out, we can only guess at wilder the dream, the nearer the reality.

It was some relief to leave the front-line, they are still much too close for peace & quiet especially as within a 100 yds. of the place I write from, (a "dinkum dug-out scratched [indecipherable] the side of a shallow-trench which traverses a deserted Cocky’s wheat-crop now breast-high. Several batteries of medium "heavies cough the terrible cargoes Hun-wards with ear splitting & almost scalp-lifting, concussion for their muzzles are pointed directly at us – overhead of us the flash at night – there are so few hours of sleep at this season, 10 pm till 3 am – is almost blinding in it’s intensity when one happens to pass at the second of discharge. Our "Dugout shivers like a leaf in a "southerly buster

6.
& loose dirt falls on us to add to the "glorious joy of modern War ….

While in some trenches a short distance 4ward of here we had an afternoon of exciting aerial-stunts. It was a [indecipherable] & many "Sausage Observation Balloons of both sides were aloft. Fritz’s were plainly seen & crews must have seen us dodging about.

All was going serenely – War seemed a myth then when almost without warning an "Iron Cross literally "dropped-from-the-blue, but his drop was for some purpose, & that purpose was the "nah-poo ing of the big "Sausage moored quite close to our "possy, whose presence there must have [indecipherable] disquieting to the Huns – apparently.

‘Howsum’ he approached the gas-bag at a terrific pace as we watched, poured several bursts of machine-gun lots into it & rose to repeat. Our two observers meanwhile formed their parachutes (suspended all ready for use on the side of the ‘basket’) & "p. off into space – a thrilling descent which finished "OK, thank goodness!

As the Huns came back to finish their job they found themselves surrounded by one of our roaming squads & it was time ere the marauders were down, for escape was "cut off. The "circus then shifted their attention to Fritz’s swaying gas bags, in retaliation, & in spite of an intense barrage we, & [indecipherable] had the joy of watching a big flame-burst, a trail of smoke going earthwards & a Hun observer descending per parachute amidst the [indecipherable] of his brothers-in-crimes’ artillery.

Such is now an almost every day occurrence on this long & Hellish battle-front – a battle-front bordering with the fresh beauties of lovely nature (green fields growing cereal, trees & hedges in all their prettiness)

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P.T.O. to 2

7.
an "occurrence that is borne out in your [indecipherable] as: "Our aerial victories continue; we brought down in combat – many planes & destroyed – captive balloons. Or some such phrase as those – just mere incidents, but, may be, the biggest thrills of their life for the participants – balloon observers, or ‘plane observers & pilots. Such is "la guerre 1914 – 19?? . . .

The continuance of lovely Spring, or Summer, elements still seems to make life worth while, & as we gaze at the crops so neatly sown, & the trees & hedges in foliage, & smell the scents of the bean-flower, & other fresh fired scents, we cannot help but admire the more, Wonderful Nature, & think how insignificant we are after all & also how a fully modern man has devastated the once [indecipherable] scenes that abounded in the present War-zone belt.

We wonder how much longer the devastation & desolation is to last, & tho. we count on being finished with the whole horrible business for this Christmas or that, Easter, "Anzac Days & the rest – well, we give it up. Heavenly Father alone knows & in His great [indecipherable] we must abide . . . I would not like to [indecipherable] you of the feelings & thoughts of many of the enlightened ones amongst us, especially since reading of the set-backs, scandals & intrigues of which we’ve recently learned.

All are unanimous in their opinions that "Aussie must splash out on her own when this war ends, if our side wins, – & I wouldn’t like to believe that we’ll lose, despite the muddles & corruption – because the Land of Sunshine is too far removed from the "Mother Land to hope for much protection & besides, our ideals & future hopes are so different that it would be better so. Of course [indecipherable] development into Nationhood will not evolve in a day, but the boys & girls of the future will see it, I feel.

8.
Ah well, these are bad old days with us now, everything seems topsy-turvy, but it won’t last forever, so till that "silver-lining appears on these dark clouds of strife & turmoil, we must ‘keep on carrying on’ ..

You’ll XQQ me if there is any sign of pessimism or despair in this letter, dear Parents, & also allow for one’s presence on the brink of the Hell-on-Earth round which we stand while OA, but I have no misgivings for the wonderful future that awaits our Southern "El-Dorado if it’s politicians & leaders do their job – governing by the peoples’ wishes & not for their own selfish ones – which latter seems to be the "gas bags "long suit just now ...

As times is fleeting let me switch off on to Father’s great letters still B4 me, & comment where necessary .... I was partly through the budget of March 31st, so I’ll pick up the [indecipherable] thread again –

Thanks for advice re "W’bool internal fittings, etc. Guess it’ll be "some Home in time, tho. even now, from all a/cs, it is a mansion in comparison to Ma ‘maison’ at [indecipherable]. You have undoubtedly worked a transformation with the "goods brought over from the ‘Main & I’d just love to see it all.

I often lie awake here when (?) off duty & try to imagine or dream of things as they may be now at Home. Always does the old table at Birchgrove float B4 my eyes – can’t think of any other – ere I can shift to some other scene of those [indecipherable] of peace, the ever-present "bother round about the front comes B4 me – imaginary bayonet stun charges, & all the rest – just as if some impenetrable veil was lowered B4 me only to be to show this side.

Yes, it’s strange but true I cannot get War and its’ scenes out of my wooden head . . . I don’t doubt but that Mother & [indecipherable] work very hard inside & outside – it was ever thus. Our relatives in Melbourne may not

9.
able to show "W’bool many points for attractiveness now, in fact, from a/cs. I’ve had you will soon be running "Goonambil a close race. By the way, Aunt Sophie was to send me a photo of that pretty spot but it has not come to hand yet. I still live in hopes ....

It was certainly "some surprise to learn of young "Eggar Bell’s return, but I was glad to know of it because he really should never have gone seeing that he is still young & the "one & only, also, perhaps, the little family’s main-stay. I hope he is successful in remaining "Down Under & I am sure, after his short experience in the Town (City really) of Ypres during the "Septr. Stunt he is not anxious for a "ditto repeato. I recd. a letter today telling me all about it. Please tell him that I’ll write as soon as ever possible – if you see him again, of course ...

Glad that "Jimmy Donno, Les Allen, & Fred Whitehead are also back in the old ‘Main. Yes, I s’pose they’re lucky, but I’d rather return as I went away, – intact – & après la guerre, tho. if it came to the point I guess I wouldn’t refuse a berth. Fred Whitehead’s bro. Jack was killed during the Menin Rd. battles of last year if I am correctly informed & they were both in the same battery. Jack was a particular friend of mine & lived, when up from the country, with the family in the last house along Fitzroy Avenue – nearest place to the white-house [indecipherable]. Would like to be remembered to any of them you meet. Merci! ...

Good to know that you still have many friends visiting "W’bool & that you are not isolated or lonely . . . What a coincidence!! It’s really strange that Elsie should meet Harry Russell’s sister at the G’ville Hosp. & I am pleased to know it. Yes, we were both in "A of the 61st. & same Grenadier Section.

While we were in bivouac, just outside the Village of S – (near 26 – ), a few weeks back, he came to see me as his sister had also told him of the meeting in a letter to hand so we had a pleasant talk. He belongs to same Battn. as Young "Codger Fergusson, but is in "A Co. I may come across him again later as our Battns. usually work in conjunction, being of course in the same Brigade. Pleased that his sister spent a pleasant evening at "W’bool. Good!! . . .

It makes encouraging reading when you tell of all the pleasant musical evenings & the happy company joining in

10.
& the good news makes me the more abhor this horrible life . . .

Yes, I would still ask you, nae implore, that you refrain from going to expense, worry & needless trouble with parcels on my behalf because I really require nothing, no, not even "sox.

As regards the latter, our "Divoy has had a good system going even during the Winter & that is, the constant change of clean sox to us, especially when in the Front line. They are sent up to outposts, "Pill-Boxes or Front line trenches with the various after Dusk – "fatigue parties from the Coy. of course [indecipherable] the carrying part of it – & we return our warn ditto per next nights outgoing parties for washing & repairing at our Divisl. Baths.

If you remr. all these things you’ll see how unnecessary it is to send "sox on now, besides, I might add that "sox made at home are almost without exception far too light (or wool thin) for the heavy wear put on them by an Infantry man, who of course gets lots of marching with heavy loads aboard – & all that sort o’thing – As for other things, well the same applies. Of course, I owe you many sincere thanks for all you’ve done previously & the same to all those many kind friends & relatives who have remembd. [indecipherable] ...

As for the food shortage, well, I s’pose there’s only one [indecipherable] remark for that – "c’est la guerre (it is the War) & anyhow we manage to exist on the monotonous Army rations . . . Cannot enlighten you re the return of apparently "A1 in health soldiers but I s’pose they’ve earned the trip after Service here or else have "worked-the-[indecipherable] 34 Medical [indecipherable] – Good Luck to ‘em!! ...

We read a great deal about the enormous crowds which attended the R. A. Show & Races during Easter last & we wonder whether most of them really know that their "cobbers, & perhaps brothers, are going "West every minute or hour while this War lasts – dying of illness & wounds because of the incessant duty in the "Line when "Rests should be more frequent. Ah well, if the boys who return do not get a "fair go after the War "Aussie deserves a Civil-War –& that’s talking.

We’ll see, anyhow – In the meantime, my Dear Parents & Sisters, I must box on with the boys ("Mugs [indecipherable] "cold-feet call us) till God’s own good time I hope to be with you all again soon, I salute you with my best Love & the sincere Wishes that God’s blessing will rest upon you & that prosperity & happiness will be your desirable lot. Au-revoir! [indecipherable] chance!! I am, your affectionate Son & Bro.

Harrie. X X X

[The following text is written along the left-hand side margin.]
PS. Best regards & rembc’s. to all kind pals, friends & relatives "Down Under. Harrie.

[Page 441]
129
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE.

[Page 442]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 130
"In the Field
(Somewhere in France, Nord (7N)
Sat. eve., June 29th 1918.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
One hardly knows what to talk to you about these days. The weeks pass so quickly – or seemingly so – that it is hard to tell one day from the next. I s’pose our continual "tours in & out of the "Line account for the deception, for the last "rest is now well back in the past, & another looks very remote – so far.

Ah well, "c’est la guerre (it is the War!) though a very "out-of-the-ordinary one & there’s nothing for us to do but to keep "Boxing on till the "grand finale, a bon blessé that will get one to the "dead Islands over the other side of the "Gutter, or will, God’s will be done.

We have left the little Camp

2.
"Dugouts in the Trench for this Camp-site & are now residing temporarily in well camouflaged bell-Tents or bivouacs round the hedges of some "Cockey’s grassy meadow.

Camouflage (or the deceiving of hostile airmen by painting, or covering, gun-positions, Trenches, Tents, etc.) is a big thing in this extra-ordinary War & all sorts of devices are used to make us, & our "possies, appear what we, & they, "ain’t.

The Tents round this field look as tho. they have been pelted with mud-balls by small boys, or as if some leopard, tiger [strike]&[/strike] or others of the cat-tribe, have rubbed against the Canvas & left the imprint of their varied-colored fur behind. Branches of leafy trees & shrubs also cover some "possies, so that, what with the growing trees & bushes in the high thick hedge & the additional artificiality, (camouflage), enemy airmen coming over in daylight, or night-time, find it hard to pick out objects on which to unload their cargoes of "frightfulness from Essen, Spandan, & other Hun factories. Of course, our bombing-planes are doing likewise, only more so we believe, so it cuts both ways, I s’pose.

The place known as the "Line is about 8 kilometres away (app. 5 miles) so we feel a little more at ease, though we are by no means out of the "Forward Area Hun-no!

Not far away, across some fields of lovely cereal, (fast ripening), is one of our "busy bees’ hives – an aerodrome – from which biplane scouts & fighters go & return all day. The "natty little 125 air-knot-per-hour planes, on their way back after relief aloft, give us some fine "backfire stunts & we "land lubbers stand aghast (is that it?)

3.
with wide open gaps in our admiring heads & wonder how the aerial gymnastics are done.

Yesterday one of the tiny single-seaters showed us a lovely "corkscrew dive from only a few hundred feet up & we waved our feelings. Others, as if light-hearted after their shift’s termination, come home in squads & prance about like young horses – "hopping over hedges & trees, grazing the growing crops & doing other hair-raising stunts all at a terrific speed.

Yes, the aeroplane is a wonder these days & there seems to be no end to it’s uses when this horrible conflict ends & it is developed under peaceful conditions. Already, I believe, an aerial post connects our "Big Smoke with "Froggie’s, & Lyon (on Paris-Marseille Line & junction for Switzerland, etc) is brought nearer by many hours to the "gay city on the Seinne.

Even as I write (& it is 9 pm tho. just nearing sun-set) our scores of planes are still aloft intently & closely watching the blue-grey "square heads in front of us, directing the monster "heavies, (many of which are close around this bivouac) & otherwise watching the interests of we who cannot see further than the Ridge [indecipherable] & not even the "dead for unseen) ground which lies closer – the dips & valleys, sunken-roads & cuttings, etc.

Still, that wonderful arm of the Service is useless, – as far as winning the War by militarism is concerned, – by itself.

Infantry, (poor us!) Artillery, Munitions, Provisionary & other branches, must co-operate, tho. we "gravel-crushers always say: "cut out the "Ironmongery of both sides & Fritz’ll [indecipherable] till he’s stopped by the Baltic Sea. Good old Baltic! Wish he’d hide his

4.
greasy frame there now without the persuasion of force, but it looks as tho. his wooden-head is still unconvinced of what the final result must be – if (good old "if) the English "gas bags don’t fix it up otherwise. You know the rest about Angleterre’s decadence, & all that sort-o’ thing . . . Half a mo!

(I have just been watching a Fritzer flier which ventured over here while all was quiet – none of our ‘planes handy as dusk is almost on us now. Our ‘ack-ack’s (anti-air craft guns) from all round have been putting up an "Arokie Barrage, &, combined with Lewis & Vickers guns, mounted for same purpose everywhere, the din has been "some. The hostile ‘plane was very high up but our shrap. gave him a sure "tickle for he turned back just after getting over-head & is now going for his life back to his hive in that ill-gotten & devasted countryside, "somewhere).

There’s very little else "on tap to interest you with just now – the Summer elements still cow [indecipherable] (très bon for us!); the fields look très nice, & so do hedges & trees – that’s the usual scenery we see – all so monotonous too – so I’ll just turn to Father’s grand favors still B4 me & comment, as usual, where necessary. Oh, stay!!

Nearly 4got to let you know that on Sunday last I rec’d another spasm of your April mail – making 25 letters in all. Amongst this lot to hand are Dad’s 6/4, Mother’s 7/4, & Elsie’s 7/4. Aunt "Sophie, Mrs. Fullerton (late of Albury), "Eggar Bell, "Florrie Phillips, & Gus Cowan Jnr., besides others of my friends also kindly sent favors, for which I owe you & they "bacoo merci’s. They are all we have to look 4 –

[The following text is written along the left-hand margin:]
P.T.O.

5.
ward to while O.A.S., in fact, without Home mail we’d have little heart to carry on with this terrible "game.

Dad’s breezy, & full of news, March 31st, still in front of me. Let’s continue on from last week . . . Am now out of touch with "Bert he has not yet answered my last – Nesbit Irwin, of "eggs-a-cook’d "Divoy, would be "down below if still "A1, same with Les C. of the "Dirty Diamonds [indecipherable] Ted Bolus of the "Devil’s Own Battn., Joe Borthwick of our "Sister Battn. & others. Hope they’re "A1 still ...

Have not met Les N. since early April (or late Mch) when he came to see me at R – wood Camp – over the Frontier (only a few kilometres from here) . . . Got in touch last week with "Dave O’Donnell, our old pal of the Richa S. Club, who wrote in reply from Avonmouth (near Bristol) where the "Wandilla, on which he is 6th or 7th Engineer, was refitting, etc., prior to another trip with wounded soldiers to – (dun-no) .. "Dave is in the "pink & would like to be rememd. to all old friends "Down Under . . .

Thanks to Dear Mother for her offer to write to Aunt Ciss & my "Angleterre friends thanking them for their kindness to me. Of course I have done so too, but the additional merci’s won’t come a miss, but would rather be most welcome . . .

It’s a great relief to learn that, in spite of your forced absence from Work, "W’bool will be still able to carry on financially, tho, missed You, I cannot help thinking of all our bad 4tune .. Tell Thelma that I now "compree what a "Scooter is, thanks to your sketch – guess they’re "some fun . . . Pleasing to know that all others at Home, with exception of yourself owing to the un4tunate & painful accident, are still enjoying best of health – good-o!

Once more my stock of Post Cards has been exhausted so Mother & the girls’ ackg’s. will be unavoidably delayed till we go out back sufficiently far to allow of purchasing more in some decent sized Town or Village – that joy is a "wash out so far but one ‘never-can’t tell .... Your "[indecipherable] book of April 21st, is, like all its’ 4runners, très bon, & I must add my thanks for your great efforts to interest me as to doings "Down Under. They’re really

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P.T.O. to 3

6.
It is encouraging to know that you are all keeping up brave hearts during these critical times – very grave & critical they are too! – & that you have not lost faith in the Allied cause – I am afraid that many of my letters to you have savoured of absolute pessimism, but I s’pose there’s some excuse for us after these long weary months at the Front where conditions & environments are "pas bon & do not lend themselves to all that is good or pleasant ..

Trust in Our Heavenly Father at all times & worry not over us – all may yet be well .. When we get back we’ll be able to give you our opinions about lots of catastrophies & set-backs that have hindered the Allies, but it’s all [indecipherable] just now so we must "sit tight & say nothing . . . You’ll be able to follow pretty closely my movements here if you keep that list I sent you handy for reference ...

Thanks for advice of mail recd. at "W’bool from me. Some comfort to know that the "Untersee craft have been dodged [indecipherable] fully . . . I’ve been to lots of places since those Cards & letters were despatched from M – n (No. 8N) & many momentous things have occurred since, in & around that very place, in fact, it is still the scene of much action by both sides & little remains of the ancient old place.

I sent you a Post Card while "resting there showing the ancient Eglise (Church), which, if my memory plays me no tricks, was built in 1770 – 71. That edifice is now no more; (our boys were in the trenches near there when it was "nah-poo’d some weeks back) I also saw many buildings on fire there while in the "Line these last few spasms ...

Yes, that water-colour painted P/C, by Pte. Morris, was not too badly done, in fact, it was the real likeness of part of the Farm-house Billet in which we spent nearly 4 weeks "rest. Fritz took possession of it during his "hop, step & jump in April last, but I believe it is also "nah-poo’d now & the "Cocky with his wife & 2 girls (20 & 22 ans-years-of age) are now refugees in the quaint old Town of S –– e (on the Frontier) – What heart breakings after their endless labour throughout the long Winter months & the apparent growing prosperity during the opening Spring Season of this Year!! Some of our lads are still in communication, per letter, with the poor souls who care a great deal for the boys of the "Glorina First ("A.C.) – you made a good guess when you "tipped

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P.T.O. to 2

7.
that the Huns had destroyed the late Billet when they took B – l . . .

Pleased that you showed Mrs. Napier the painting & explained to her what it represented. Les Norman saw it B4 despatch. (He was gassed at Hill – during our next spasm in – I came thro. the "perfume OK thank God. . . .

As for sending you "Miss Bristol’s photo, well, I only did so because she asked whether I’d mind giving you one. Anyhow, now that it has arrd. you know practically as much as I do of her & her looks – which of course do not always reflect character, etc.

You need never fear, (I shouldn’t think) unless I am turned right down by old "Aussie pals, that we will ever be more than pleasant friends to one another, in fact, I informed you previously that my dreams of the "Benedictine life do not soar so high, & especially during the course of this terrible conflict.

Elsie must bear with me a little for taking up the cudgels on the absent & far distant Bristolian’s behalf. Tho’ she is, in an "Aussie’s parlance, a "Pommy, & all my previous letters to you were so unfavorable to the average ‘Angleterre madamoiselle’ when giving my opinions, I must retract a little also, for without compunction she tells me that she is a "straight girl – & you know what that means – even tho. a worker.

You must XQs me for referring at such length to the Bristolian, but I had to "clear the air somehow after my apparent previous hard words of reproach – or whatever else you like to put it down to. D’ya get me? Good!!

Thanks for the favorable comments contained in yours to hand & the clear explanatn. . . . It is a great consolation to know that you have been enabled to go to the "Island again to carry on. Would be more at ease to learn of the complete recovery of the injured arm. Will hope for the best …. Pleased that Lizzie & Pearlie arrd. Safely in Melb. & commenced their holiday, also that the voyage down was pretty smooth. They have my absolute sympathy if mae-de-mer accompanied them over any part of the 576 Knots – it’s my "long suit unfortunately ..

Best of 4tune to "Bert Tetley on obtaining his discharge from the A.I.F. He is very lucky to be out of the "glory of War which is so much in evidence here on all [indecipherable]. Wonder will he "come-at-it again? .. Have not seen young "Codger Fergusson since some weeks back when I met him at his Battalion’s Nucleus Camp (or Billet really). May come across him again at any old time as his & our Batt. now work together. Hope Ralph is now "OK after his spasm of

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P.T.O. to one

8.
Hosp. life in the Holy Land (or Baghdad) Front …

I also have a letter (in reply to mine) from Aunt Alice telling me how bad things are becoming down in the Country parts especially in connection with poultry raising & it’s disposal at a profit to the Metropolis. I will write her in ackg’t when I can (all letters, outside the family, are replied to in order of their date of despatch – earliest date of course comes first) …

Uncle Jack’s visit (per motor overland) to Sydney & his failure to look you up at "W’bool seems very "fishy. It’s got me sure frazzled & I am in a quandary as to his reason. Ah well, if you are not worth visiting in his estimation, he is not worth worrying about & we are better as we are – far removed. (Hope I’m not judging harshly) ..

So Mrs. [indecipherable] has passed away? My sympathies .. Gee!! Roy Brigden & Lawler married! That stunning news makes me feel horrible old for they were practically still school boys when I left. A nice outlook for some of us, what?! .. Pleased that the girls still receive letters regularly from their fiancés. Wish I could keep an eye on them, but it is hard enough to get in touch with letters as it is. Don’t know how Les C. is faring now for I’ve had no reply to my last & if he is still "OK with the 17th he is a long way south of us – It has been since March last .. Best of fortune to them both, please …

Delighted to learn that work in the Iron Trade at the "Island is brisk, but would like to know that the "Lose – the War Govt. had taken a tumble re the building of merchant ships in Aussie. They’ll be almost worth their weight in gold after the War, especially if Fritz’s monster submersibles, as [indecipherable], are realities …

"Eggar Bell’s letter to me is breezy & full of news. What a lucky fellow he is to be back after such a very short spin of actual "active. He was 4tunate enough to join the same battery as Ric Steele, Harold Cartwright, "Ranga Atkins ([indecipherable] & Jack Waldegrave but had hardly time to see them [indecipherable] receiving his bon blessé (good wound) which got him Home – even if only for a little while. Regards to him when you meet, please. Merci!! ..

I will now shut off [indecipherable] fas-escape, my Dear Parents & Sisters, hoping that this note will find you once more enjoying best of all that’s good – health, spirit, happiness, prosperity, etc. My best "LUV goes to you all, with the sincere wishes that our long-looked for re-union will soon come when this conflict is finished. Till I write again, goodnight & God bless you. I am your affectionate Son & Bros.

Harrie X X X

[Page 443]
130
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 444]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 131
In the "Line
Somewhere in France, Nord (6x7N.)
Sun. après midi
July 7th 1918

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
This must necessarily be a very short weekly epistle as we are once more in the "Line & there’s lots of work to be done.

Nevertheless, I must snap up these few spare fleeting moments & endeavour to keep the old ‘chain’ still intact – established now for close on 2 1/2 years.

This hurried note is being penned, strange to relate, in the Farm house cellar of the Billet where old "A were quartered a little over 9 months ago prior to the "Glorious First’s departure for poor little Belgium to take part in those terrible battles for the Ridges & Woods, of which you read so much B4 the [indecipherable] of historic 1917. But what a change the boys who were there then see today.

Whereas, all was quiet, pleasant & peaceful, the hard working peasants & their ditto families content & apparently safe from the dirty Hun, the scene today is the reverse.

The old Home, of such ancient memories & peacefulness, is now very close to the Region known as "No Man’s Land. Parts of it have suffered badly from Fitz’s big shells & bombs, it is deserted by all living domestic animals & by the unfortunate owners; the interior is a heart-breaking series of scenes of disorder, damage & dirt.

The large barns round the sides of the usual central manure-pit show very clear signs of the effects of many shells; for large holes are [indecipherable] in the thatched roofs & parts are almost demolished. Outside are the peculiar farm-carts, ploughs, barrows, & other field instruments, left as they were when the enemy commenced his "push.

The field of growing cereal, peas, beans & spuds are looking "magnesia, but there are many large holes amongst the crops, showing the devastation & desolation created by modern war-fare. The wheat & oats are now shoulder high & it seems a terrible shame that after all the labor & worry of the Winter & Early Spring it may all end in waste & destruction.

The boys [indecipherable] of the parts of the house they

2.
are so familiar with. "There’s where we used to be served with café (coffee) by Madeleine! "Here’s the brazier where Madam prepared "eggs & chips. "This is the field where Capt. Edgely had us picking peas, etc. for the Farmer. (Capt. Edgely was in charge when I rejoined. Major G. E. Street, son of Mr. ‘Justice’ Street, is now O.C. – & all of the "whitest) – & so they go on.

All those things have nearly vanished now but the memory remains, – as it where will till long after this Hellish job is over.

B4 we left our late position – just a little way to rear – I recd. a most welcome batch of "Aussie letters, included in which were the following from dear old "W’bool: –Father’s (2) 4/5 & 12/5, Mother’s 23/4, Elsie’s (3) 28/4, 5/5 & 12/5, & Thel’s 7/5. Aunt Soph & Les, & Alice Fergusson also wrote, & there were many others from kind friends & pals.

The only bother now is for me to find time to acknowledge – opportunities seem to be rarer than ever. There is hardly any need for me to continue adding how very grateful I feel to you all for the grand favors I receive. When I say that their receipt is as good as a tonic or a "dinkum feed, (a myth up here) you may, in a small way, glean something of my gratitude & feelings.

It was with a thudding heart I read of the ‘death-in-action’ of comrade Fed. Heming, after only 6 months or so of soldiering – Goodness, it’s dreadful! I was eagerly waiting for his Regtl. particulars so that I could look him up if he came to any unit in the "Immortal Division, alas, it is too late now!

It is strange that Alice Fergusson, his fiancée, should have written to me, tho. at time she despatched her letter, Fred’s demise had not reached "Aussie. She wrote to me on May 8th, explaining that the item on the Mission Girls’ programme was corresponding to those of us whose names appear on the "Roll of Honor. The enclosed also a snapshot of the "Three Sisters of Katoomba taken by "Vi (who is "Vi?) I thought the kindly action a great one & will, as usual with all favors, acknowledge at my very earliest. Please convey my thanks in the meantime & my deepest sympathy & sorrows in her sad & heavy loss.

The 2 Les’s have at last got into touch with me again – both per the "Whizz bang (Field Post Card) – & I learn vaguely that Les. C. is still "OK & apparently with the Battn. who are "down below – or were. Les N’s card tells me the for the first time that he has been in Hospital, wounded, & that he is

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P.T.O. to one

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about to be sent to our Base Depot. Apparently his blessé (wound) was not serious enough to get him across the "Pond, as a move to the Base is the preliminary as a rule to a quick return to the Unit. I have been enquiring everywhere here, where I’ve come across the Pioneers, for news of him, but his Coy. ("C) seemed to always be furthest removed from us. Anyhow, I’ll endeavour now to despatch a note to both as soon as we get out of this region – when that be, I dinna Ken, – in the interim trusting that all goes well with them.

Would like to continue on with telling you how things are here – the Summer elements, aerial-warfare, etc., etc., – but time, with "Mr. Censor, will not permit, more especially the former, as in an hour or two we will be going out on some duty or other (patrolling, ration-carrying, barb. wiring, digging & the multitudinous other jobs always "on tap while in the "Line.) & I must hurry with this note in consequence if it is ever to go to you . . .

Father’s letter of April 21st is still here. Let me switch on to it .... Good Luck to Jack ("Bluey) Kemp! Remr. me kindly to him & say that I hope he is successful in remaining at the "island. Let him know that "Nugget Urquhart of his late "Zock emma (French Mortar – or "Shoot & scoots as we ref. to them) Battery is still "OK. I was speaking to "Nugget – a 12th of the 1st Friday last . . .

You were 4tunate in obtaining that good length of wire-bound hose so cheaply & I’m very pleased to learn of the great amount of hard labor you are saved in the garden & orchard for no doubt the watering was a big problem. How do you get along with the water meter – are the charges per [indecipherable] very heavy? Was thinking that perhaps a big tank, such as Uncle Alf has at the rear of "Goonambil, would be a good acquisition later on . . .

Pleased to hear of Thelma’s continued improvement. Guess she’ll be pretty well a "Young lady by the time I reach "Aussie . . .

Yes, I read of the Labor Victory in "Banana Land & we’ve all read of their great doings for the Returned soldats. They seem to be putting the "Lose the War crowd into a deeper disgrace than ever. Good Luck Queensland!! The political rout in South Aus. is an encouraging information, especially as the "Twisters mob has come the complete proverbial –. It only wants a repetition in "Noo Sowth & the Federal House to complete the oracle. Let’s hope that the Peoples’ party soon rep-

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P.T.O. to 2

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resents them faithfully ere we return – or those of us by God’s Will so are to . . . Didn’t know previously that "Iceberg Irvine – the Conscription King – been turned down by his clique & had been shoved into his "cushy job in Vic.

We believe that both "Little Willy & Cook have safely lobbed in murky Albert to take part in the great conference to be held in the "Smoke.

A great tale was going the rounds here last month to the effect that on the 24th (June) the "Aussies at the Front were to receive a great surprise from our "All Highest who sleeps at B. & other palaces. It did not eventuate & has not done so yet. I tipped that the surprise would be the imposition of military conscription on the people of the Aus. by the Imperial Heads – the blokes who are "losing the War today – but nothing occurred yet to verify the idea . . . guess we’ll soon know what’s in "Little Willy’s [indecipherable] when he pops out of it & the button for the turning on of gas is passed. We "box on for dear old "Aussie in the interim ....

Surprised to learn that the Govt. still continue to "lock out coalies, wharfies, Railway men & others & have done so ever since the memorable "Great Strike of 1917. Am not so much surprised by the position now created in regard to working conditions of you in the Iron & ship-building Trade. It appears as tho. the Govt. had the de-registered Unions "[indecipherable] beaten & our sympathies are with you, tho. trusting for a return to the pre-War system ere this Hell-on-Earth fizzles out after Victory to our arms Land & sea ...

Thanks to Gladys & May for their Kind wishes & regards. [indecipherable] them sil "S’il-vous-plait . . .

Delighted to learn that "W’bool’s lovely garden is now keeping in good nick under your great care & attention – Gee! but it must be great!! The mention of such varieties of beautiful flowers as you mention being given to friends & taken to the Field of Mars Cemetry makes me long more to see the grand scene.

The only flowers we see here are the daisies & buttercups in the meadows & they look très bon – with perhaps a little Farm-house garden here & there now at it’s best. The quaint stunted Willows which line ponds, water-courses, moats (some places, like the one I am writing from now, are surrounded, or partly so, by the ancient Moat that old time form of protection from marauders etc.) etc. also make a delightful addition to the "much-of-a-much scenery abounding over here.

How grand it would be to lob down in "Aussie again to see once more our own national & natural flora! Guess we’ll just have to keep on hoping from day to day for the best, even tho that best at the moment is continual trot in & out of the Firing Line, with not even a stingy 14 days of U.K. leave to look for.

Yes, the little bit of "heaven is still "turned off, but can s’pose it doesn’t matter much because we are democratic "Aussies & our Home is 12,000 odd miles away. Good old army!! ...

The front lawns at "W’bool will soon be some show when you’re finished with flowers – bed designs & replanting. How I’d love to be lending a helping-hand. Good to know that you still have plenty of fresh vege’s. to draw upon from the domestic gardens. How nice it must be to be independent (practically) of green grocers. You [indecipherable] our envy . . . Glad to know that Mr. [indecipherable] & his little family are doing so well ..

Am not surprised at the Auctionee closing down at the Pittwater Rd Land Sale after only being bid £2:13:6 per foot for the good blocks there. Guess that be a big boon when this job is finished with & Gladesville will be favourable locality, as also will be others of the nearer out-suburbs. don’t be afraid to speculate with the Chatswood Block if you ever see an opening. It’s

[The following text is written along the left-hand margin:]
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5.
you’re for disposal . . .

It is some conso. to learn that the splints have been removed from your arm & I trust that all is well [indecipherable] ere this . . . You are remarkably well with letter writing in spite of your great handicap. Do not over-do it by hard work in the garden or by straining. I can well understand how awkward it must be & how anxious U are to be busy in the garden, but give it a chance . . .

Hope Lizzie & Pearl have good weather for their sojourn in Melbourne & that their holiday will be a happy one – Wouldn’t mind 1/2 their Luck . . .

Yes, it is certainl strange that such enormous crowds could visit the R. A. Show & Randwick Races during Easter Week in spite of this terrible conflict in which hundreds of thousands of "Aussies are still taking a very active part. Still it is better that there should be enjoyment than that everyone goes into the proverbial "sackcloth & ashes, tho. the eligibles who are still earning their freedom amongst you at our expense should be given no encouragement to remain.

The great crowds & the money spent shows great prosperity as reigning "Down Under – a good sign. Let’s hope it continues so . . .

We read recently where Mr. Orchard had got the Govt. military authority to alter it’s rotten policy re the despatch of reinforcements from your end. The fellows now coming or enlisting are being made a much bigger fuss of than those who came away when the war was still young. The inducements held out to them – bonus to play volunteers to [indecipherable] Barracks, refreshments supplied there, names in all the papers, open leave at week-ends & now departure via Sydney’s main thoroughfares in broad daylight to blaze of trumpets etc. & the cheers of the crowds along the route – contrast greatly the treatment we, & most of us 1915 & ’16. blokes, recd.

There’s no need for me to recount the "Mooltan incident – You know all about it. Yet, it was one such bad judgment that many volunteers have been lost to the A.I.F. Can you wonder at it? Oh well, good Luck to those who get all the glory at this late hour – we envy them . . . It is to be hoped that the new arrangements will be the means of bringing in a few more of the "shy ones still amongst you for they’re very badly wanted here; that’s why all work & no play is our lot at present, with the additional heartbreak of "nah-poo leave to "Angleterre. All we’ve got to hope for just now is – Yes, & there’s no saying just how soon one’ll happen along, even if we’re out behind the "Line . . .

Do not lose heart when you read of the set-backs to our arms at this juncture – the loss of the hard won Somme ground & that at Ypres etc, is hard to take without a gulp in the throat but it cannot be helped & crying won’t restore an inch – You can wait a little longer & then our turn’ll come again. "Sammy will soon be "hopping in in real earnest for his "cut, so with the wonderful flyers & the allied armed Fritz & his Super Devils are in for a super Hell on Earth unless the "All Highest of Square’ed & [indecipherable] right-hand support capitulates in our favo. Watch & pray for in God’s own good time Peace will begin again. His will be done!

Cast out the "Box-on idea, my Dear Father,

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you for I can assure you, without any boasting, that only the young set can stand up to this Hell here. There are plenty of others of my age, & younger, who could give a hand, so you have no need to give it a thought unless of course the actual defence of dear old "Aussie is necessary . . .

No thanks necessary for the intro. per letter I gave you to my late work pal "Billy Burton regarding work at the "Vac. It’s the least I can do & I’m sure he’d do something for you if ever the financial aspect was so badly threatened ...

Pleased to learn that at last some start is being made in the cargo ship building line at the Various Com. yards, tho. it is not too nice to know that the Iron Workers had to accept the "Strife & Turmoil Govt’s "cut-&-dried-B4-the-Strike terms of employment on [indecipherable] work. Ah well, let’s hope that that mob’ll get their deserts when the boys return, for there’s certain to be much bother if they too have to knuckle down to those sweating "Pommy conditions.

Let’s hope till then that the programme & low down for the various ship-yards will be carried out smoothly for there’s no doubt now but that ships will be worth their weight in gold almost by the time Peace comes to "Aussie being so far removed from this rotten side to be practically left to her own resources for the lifting of grain & produce ready sold abroad. I trust that you will have steady work & much prosperity now, especially after all that bad luck of recently.

So Thel. now no lover of the ‘Main? I don’t wonder at it after the freshness & lack of overcrowding at Gladesville. To come home to the lovely Home garden after the dustiness of Balmain would almost be a tonic. [indecipherable] must have plenty of playmates now from round Gladesville, but [indecipherable] Lottie are still apparently inseparable – goodo’.

I don’t doubt the great interest people had in the beautiful basket of flowers you took down to the Balmain Hosp. while being treated as an out-patient nor their questionings & the thanks of Matron & Staff. Jove! but they must have been wonderful – the envy of others would almost repay you for all the hard & never ending work . . .

Yes, I "compree sweet-peas as a member of a lovely flora. We have the culinary pea growing in the Field in & about "No Man’s Land here & we have peas & "spuds often as an addition to our Army Ration – a pretty monotonous one too! . . .

Good fortune be with you in your efforts to add to the Home-exchequer per aid of the sweet-peas & other [indecipherable]. There ought to be plenty of scope as flowers of the best variety are so scarce – or were. I will be glad to learn later of what Kind of Luck you have in the meantime will have to "shut up as it is time for "fatigue – it’s a front Line or "No Man’s Land job too.

So goodnight & God bless my Dear Mother, Father, & Sisters. Do not worry, all is still well. Regards & wishes to all old pals, friends & relatives & the hopes that best of health, spirit & prosperity is still yours at "W’bool. I am ever your affectionate Son & Brother

Harrie X X X
(Margin)

[The following text is written along the left-hand side margin:]
PS. Enclosed – Some grass plucked from amongst a potato patch in the Fields 300 yds behind "No Man’s Land near 6x7

[Page 445]
131
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 446]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 132
"In the Line,
Somewhere in France, Nord. (6x7N)
Sat. midi. July 13th 1918.

My Dear Mother, Father, & Sisters –
It seems only yesterday since No. 131 was despatched to you, yet another 7 days has gone into the history of the past & la grande guerre is a week older, tho. that much near the end – we hope.

I hardly know how I’m to make a letter of this because we are still in the "Line – very much so – & I am not allowed to tell you much about that, nor do I want to for its thrills & perils do not make the best of reading for you dear folk "Down Under. I’ve worn thread bare most of the themes, or everyday scenes hereabouts, in my letters to you, so there remains little else other than your letters for me to comment on, just now.

The elements of course can always supply one with a line or two of "copy, but all I’ve got to say about them at this Season (Summer) is that they are still pretty kind to us. The unclouded sun of the past few weeks – très bon for us! – has generated lots of heat, which culminated during these past few days in some Summer thunderstorms & rain.

Our newly dug trenches & the dinkum "Dugouts were soon covered in the usual gluey mud, & walking through paths worn in the growing wheat, oats, rye, barley, "spuds, peas, beans, [indecipherable], & other crops, was difficult & slippery, especially when proceeding into or out of the Front Line with steaming containers of rice, "burgoo, "stoo or tea, with iron wiring-pickets, coils of barbed wire, boxes of S.A.A. (bullets), bombs, bags of rations & sundry other necessaries.

Many were the oaths muttered by the lads indicted to the habit when they’d slip on the muddy track with the load ‘aboard’ & fall headlong into nearby shell holes or water-courses. They’d increase the flow of "Aussie-soldier-lingo when the greasy Hun pelted his "ironmongery on the track, or close by, for that’s

2.
the stuff no one alive can give cheek to. One can only trust to Providence during those awful moments & at the same time "dive for the nearest shelter, be that, as it often is here, the growing wheat – & you can imagine just what shelter that’d provide. Still, it’s like the drowning person, when the clutch is made at the straw, only that we try to hide behind a blade of cereal – ha! ha!!

Nearer the outposts one becomes an adept at "on-the-hands-down! stunt, for Fritz has a great dislike for Ration-parties atamp; "fatigues, who, as a rule, after the tiring, sweating, hard & thrilling job of reaching their destination, becomes very careless, dump down their back breaking loads of hot food, wire, ammunition, iron, etc., with lots of clatter & banging, talk & swear as tho. the Front Line was hundreds of kilometres away & they were at Boulogne-sur-Mer or Brighton (Angleterre), & then expect the Devil’s Own to keep that "emma-gee (machine-gun) idle. He does too – we don’t think!!

Ah well, c’est-la-guerre ("say-lah-gerr – it is the War) so I s’pose we must accept all these things as part & parcel of it, tho. at the time of the thrills one wishes the whole of the German race in Hades, or some worse place, to undergo eternal torture for bringing us away from the Land of Sunshine & Peace.

The past 3 days have been exciting ones for us of the old "Second to None as some very daring deeds have taken place in "No Man’s Land here & all have ended successfully.

The "deeds I suppose you’ll be reading of in your today’s Sydney papers, for many hundreds of Huns have ‘fini’ (fee-nee) War, by being made prisoners & others have paid their supreme sacrifice, all at the astounding cost to our side of no casualties & very little ammunition. The Huns were brought in like sheep from shell-holes in "No man’s Land & from their outposts in broad daylight – yes, daylight raids.

The boys revelled in the class of stunt, for it enabled many who had great longings for luminous-watches, pocket-wallets, "Gott-mit-Uns belts & other souvenirs, to satisfy their whims, – & to an undreamed of extent. Revolvers of all sizes & kinds, glasses, gas-masks, short bayonets, daggers & other Warlike implements, were there for the taking – & were taken.

I, with others of the Platoon, had the job of taking some of the Kaiser’s dupes to the rear for examination & searching – the latter process almost unnecessary for the lads

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[This page is marked "5. but appears to be page "3.]
had already fleeced them.

Some of the prisoners were of very poor class – mere kids, wheezy blokes, tall skinny blokes, dopey blokes, – but there were others of pretty good physique – with the unmistakable square head topped by the funny little round cap. Those wearing the cumbersome & ugly looking steel helmet looked very comical as it covers most of their "unka – as big & ugly as it is.

The officers we got were terribly angry – those haughty domineering pig headed Prussians – & could not get over their easy & ignominious capture one felt like "putting-the-boot-in, but of course, being officers they are kept separate from the "muck & get different treatment.

Some day, God Willing I’ll be able to tell you lots more about these things, so in the meantime I must remember them (how could one 4get?) & talk of something else – your letters B4 me (all else is well with me – thank God.) . . .

Father’s great budget of May 54th, B4 me, is, as usual, full of good Home news for which, my merci beaucoup. Let me refer to it now –

Enclosed is the cutting headed "Petrol & Profiteering, which drags part of the "Oil [indecipherable] doings in the financial-World into the light. It makes enlightening reading & I am not surprised at the revelation, tho. I cannot see how the Aust. Govt. will ever be able to take over it’s products importation & distribution – some day, p’haps, but not in our time . . .

You are not alone in your wishes for peace & quietness throughout the World – we prayed sincerely for it during the intense barrage of gas & "ironmongery put over on us last eve. All the same, it is some conso. to know that you are all keeping in such good health & spirit. Keep it up!! –

Delighted to read that your recent grievous arm-injury has so far progressed that you are able to return to the "Island. Let’s trust that you will long ere this be abso. "jake –

Glad that Pearlie & Lizzie had such a grand holiday in & about Melbourne – Lucky girls!! – & that Pearl, after a decent look round, was not so hasty in the criticisms & ridicules as was "Archie, who seems to have expressed an inbred hatred of everything Victorian after his stay of about 5 minutes. Of course, "Archie is one of the whitest & best of pals, tho I am not surprised at his harsh criticism . . Will wait for your following letters telling me of Lizzie’s [indecipherable] . . .

The news you gave me of old cobber Fred. Heming’s death for "Aussie’s future glory & independence cut me life a knife. Goodness, whose next?!! Yes, c’est la guerre, – & we are all paying the price. Fred’s acquaintance with the Western-Fortress-Front was indeed a short one as was his experience of Military life. My deepest sympathies go to his poor relatives & his fiancée in their sorrow & anguish. God have mercy on his Soul! Let us know more of his misfortune or fate in your next.

Trust the new owners of the business have better 4tune . . . There’s little or no use worrying about us during these terrible times, when the Empire’s fate is in the Scales & all looks black. We are indeed in God’s hands & must bow to His Will. Guess, if the World doesn’t end B4, the Allies will have their turn with great victories, so we must carry on with those hopes & the knowledge that our cause (as we "common folk

4.
believe it) is the Cause of right over might & a future Democracy.

I don’t wonder at the lads who have returned being so bright & happy & full of smiles. It needs a few months of real active Service in the trenches to make one appreciate a life of comfort & peace – & they nearly all realise what a Hell this is who have gone back. We’d smile & be gay if in the same circum’s – & we do in spite of it all – but somehow the pessimistic spirit gets uppermost – we can’t help it . . . Good Luck to those who get back. I hope they have not got to return . . .

Les Herman, at last advice (June) had been back in Hosp. but expected to be sent to the O.T.B. (Overseas Training Battn.) at Sutton Veny, from whence he’d get 4 days leave, B4 coming back here. He has not returned yet. Says his 4 days will be spent in Bristol, so as "Miss Bristol’s chum, whom I intro’d him to per letter, lives there, he’ll he "jake for a good time. Pleased that you let his Sister know what I told you & that the information was of some Service to his folk. Will let him know of your kindly invite to "W’bool & of your wishes. Thanks! . . .

Thanks to Mrs. Callan for her regards, etc. same to the family . . . Mr. & Mrs. Smith must be keeping you well served with plants. They are most generous & kind right enough. My regards to them. With the addition of a peanut-plant you’ll have a wonderful assortment in the lovely garden . . good-O! . . . . & you seem to have no trouble with disposing of your wonderful blooms amongst the many visiting friends. Guess it’s better that they are picked & admired than allowed to die after on the plant . . .

Your grand [indecipherable] make good reading & I wonder at the familiarity with which you name the various plants which seem to have no end in the garden at Home . . . Thanks for advice of despatch of "Birthday parcel sent by Mother. Would rather all the same, that you had not done so for I still want for nothing & the money spent on those luxuries, which may never reach this side, could have bought some home-necessity. Will sure let you know when it arrives . .

Guess you have more than enough to do in & about the garden, especially after a hard & tiring day’s laborious toil, but some day, après la guerre, I hope, if it’s God’s will to lend you some assistance. In the interim, there’s only one things left & that is to carry on through the "piece & hope for the best at all times.

So now, as time is very limited here in the Trenches & it’s not the nicest of spots or places to be writing from, I’ll finish up by trusting sincerely that God’s blessing still rests upon You all that good spirit & prosperity is your happy lot. My best regards to all Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, friends & pals in Your midst. Best of Love to dear Mother, Self & the Girls.

I am ever Your affectionate Son & Bros.
Harrie X X X X
(Same address)

[Page 447]
132
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 448]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 133.
"In the Field –
Somewhere in France, Nord. (6N.)
Sat. après midi – July 20th ’18.

My Dear Mother, Father, & Sisters,
‘Out of the Front Line once more describes our position today, & goodness!, isn’t it just fine to be away from those 4ward tranchées, even if they are but so few foot-pads from this bivouac, in what was once a meadow, under the shade of a line of big trees which border the allotment – "not arf’n all!

It is real marvellous how quickly we 4get the bothers, thrills, frights, etc., experienced ‘up-the Line’ so recently B4, but it is a fact. While you are right up in front of "Fritz it seems, when you look back towards our rear, that an un-bridgable (XQQ the word) gulf separates you from it, because during daylight everything seems "dead – & everything with life, except the birds, is (literally) "dead. Movement of any kind on terra-firma is not safe within a certain distance of "No Man’s Land, because the enemy has observers, the same as we have, who are just as cleverly concealed but who are armed with all the most up-to-date instruments for ranging & spotting – (ours are too, of course.)

In the circum’s we who man the trenches for the 4 or more days at a stretch have to emulate the despised old "Bunny – come out of our "Dugouts at dusk & sneak in again by dawn. As soon as it is light enough the Infantry – "contact ‘planes come over to see that all goes well with our Line of the day B4 & then follow the various others of our wonderful fliers – artillery "spotters, "circuses (5’s & 10’s.) for frightening off Hun-formations, photographers, escorts, – & the rest.

We, down below them in the bottom of the narrow trench, ‘camouflage’ ourselves with blankets (one) & try to enjoy the unnatural & well-earned rest, called sleep – daylight sleep. Watch has to be kept on "No Man’s Land just the same because there’s no saying what’s on

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the "Cards, so everyone gets a turn at that necessary job . . .

Our recent spasm "up-the-road (Yes, it’s really just up the road a bit) was full of excitements, but I must not relate them here for fear of infringing censorship reg’s. suffice to say that all is still well & there’ll be many more stories to relate when the opportunity eventually arises – if it’s God’s Will . . .

You’ll have read of the daring daylight raids carried out by an "Aussie Battn. on this Front, in your papers of last week, so just think of the old Black over green bars & you’ve got us. Jove, but it was funny, – Yes, & thrilling too! The boys were in their very element, & smiles were worn by all. Poor, dazed, or bewildered, Ottos, & Haus’, & Fritzs, & Wilhelms, all with the unmistakable "square -‘eds, light hair & ‘orrible Hunnish or Mongolian-strain dials, were brought back in big batches by one or two of us as meek as baa-baas.

The boys were sneaking about that mystic "No Man’s Land dragging out silly looking Fritzs, tho. some protested with machine-guns & rifles, only to pass "West some afterwards, where they will get their reward for work done here below. Very few went back without first being "souvenired & the Companies in the Front Line got some "windfalls – watches, knives, revolvers, "knuckle-dusters, stilettos, belts, etc. etc. Gee, but it was funny!

One bloke we caught could speak a "leetle English so he was asked by one of our lads what his job was. This is something like how it went: "What’s your position in the Army, Digger? "Hoch! me no a fight man; me minenwerfer, fire. "Struth! Well you’re the bloomin’ cow we’ve been looking for! I don’t know what Fritz could make of his interrogation, but he should have gleaned something from the looks of savageness on the faces of all the curious "Aussie throng, for those "minny-werfers are the dread of a bloke in the front line – they are trench-mortars, ugh!!

Another fellow we brought down also provided us with many days of laughter. He was a typical "Un – square "unka, light hair & eye-brows, high cheek-bones & of forboding appearance generally – but could also parlez Anglais, petit – (speak a little English.) In reply to the same query, re his job, he said something like this: "Me no fight; me up the flares shoot! Well, blimey, if you could have heard the laugh you’d have thought the War was over! – they’re still laughing.

Someone suggested that this was the Hun who ran all the way along Fritz’s Front Line, from Westende to the Swiss border, firing up star-shells & flares into over "No Man’s Land every night, in fact, they declared we’d brought in the "Flare-King – a terrible mistake, for we rely so much on that "bakshee fire-works display, especially on dark & cloudy nights.

Don’t believe that all the "birds we got were "duds – not a bit of it. Some of them were big fellows & those who will get wooden black & white t’s were full of business. The most remarkable part of the stunt was that we did not sustain one casualty. Yet over 130 Huns are now hors-de-combat, tho. eating good mens’ rations, behind our wire.

From one of our positions on the much disputed Ridge we had a grand panoramic view of the countryside stretching to our rear & that position made us realise just how important even a "pimple of earth is . . away out in the distance could be plainly seen during the nice

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sunny days, the large Towers of the two big Churches at H – (6) & between us, the several villages on the B – l Rd. through which we marched with all our gear aboard, one day in April 1916, prior to going into the Bois Grenier trenches at "VC Avenue. Alas! what a change now!

Those villages, then so peaceful, & inhabited by the non-combatants of it’s French population, are absolutely deserted of "civvies & there’s hardly a house which does not show the effects of the new "Push – shell-fire & bombs. Fields, hedges & trees in all their lovely Summer ‘clothing’ are seen everywhere, but shell-holes & bomb craters (some are really immense) occur in amongst the crops & show the awfulness & destruction of modern War ugh! – it’s a shame!

The Summer breezes, which have been blowing us some really delightful weather, changed a little during our spasm in the Front Line & brought up some rain, which, for a time, made things very uncomfortable for us as mud very quickly generated & the "Dugouts & trenches were soon like they were in Winter time –

Going along the paths, worn thro. shoulder-high crops, with a load on was a very ticklish proceeding as they are rough & being wet, exceedingly treacherous. We found the task of Ration-carrying up to the outposts a very severe one on that score, for with a large & heavy container of steaming "stoo, rice, Tea, or "burgoo aboard one’s back it was pas bon when a foot slipped & sent you face downwards with the stuff inside oozing out thro. the clasped-lid down your back, ugh!

Added miseries came when nearing the lonely outpost to have to "dive for the ground with the load aboard when Fritz’s "emma-gee opened out in your direction. I’ll have the same "fun when humping the more awkward bundles of wiring-pickets, stakes, barbed wire, boxes of "ammo & bombs & other necessary stuff for the stopping of the Hun on the other side of "No Man’s Land.

The lads as a rule get very careless when they reach their Outpost destination as the relief of the back-breaking load lightens them in heart & bang! bang! clatter! bang!! goes iron, tin, ammunition & other goods as they heave them off their shoulders. Sensational "dives & "duckings into near-by shell-holes (if any) or behind blades of grass, follow, because Fritz, who may be anything from 80 to 200 yds. away has woke up to the fact that we, his enemies, are perhaps "hopping over the bags, hence the "dives & ducks to dodge the streams of machine-gun bullets. Oh it’s a life!!

I could go on in that strain for a while yet, my Dear Parents, but time is precious & there’s so very little of it to spare these days. I will just add in conclusion the "gas about little bits of life at the Front that all still goes well with us – & me – & that, tho. still in action, really, there’s a chance of a bit of a blow coming our way soon – & not B4 it is needed . . .

The best news, from my point of view, that I can give you now is that an overwhelming "Aussie Mail was waiting at Battn. H. Qr’s. for us when we came out & I was pleasantly swamped by 52 of the best. How does that strike you for a stunt – 52 in one batch! Gee, but it was grand – Yours truly was the envy of the Company that day. It took me the best part of an afternoon & evening to read the lot & words cannot express the joy I had or the depth of gratefulness I feel to U & all those many kind friends of mine. Some of the letters

[The following text is written along the left-hand margin:]
P.T.O. to one

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have had a very "rough passage apparently as they hark back to what is now a distant past – Jany this year . . From Warrnambool the following greeted me, for which, as usual, my most sincere thanks go to you, viz: –

Father’s (3) 8/2 (4 snaps), 17/2 & 24/2. Mother’s 30/1 & 3/3, Elsie’s (6) 4/2, 10/2, 17/2, 24/2, 3/3 & 10/3; "Lily’s (3) 30/1, 24/2, & 10/3; Thelma (3) 4/2, 24/2, & 10/3. With Elsie’s 10/2 (3 snaps) & 24/2 (snapshot), – gee they’re good & I am real delighted. You have my thanks, – "dinkum ones!!

Other letters among the 52 were from Les Limond (2), ‘Gus Cowan, Mrs. Whit. – & hosts of others. Both Les’s wrote, but their letters are old & many things have happened since Les. C. was at a Vickers gun school in Grantham (Eng.) but a "whizzbang of last month says, vaguely of course, that he is once more at the Front & doing well . .

Les N. also sent a F.P.C. but his advice of a different tone: "Hospital; Wounded’ doing well; being sent down to the Base. It came as a surprise, I can assure you, for I was at all times on the look out for him seeing that his Unit is in our "Divvy of course up here with us. While assisting with escorting some of our Huns back to the rear I happened across some of Les N’s Company mates & learned from them of his blessé. It appears that there were 2 Nuthalls in the Unit & both have been recently wounded up here. It may be that they got the 2 mixed but they assured me that Les N. was hit in the arm, or elbow, by machine-gun bullets, very close to where we were in the "Line during our spasm.

If he was really hit on the elbow I should think that "Aussie, after treatment in Hosp’s & "Con. Camps, would be his early destination, but his Card to me seems to infer that the blessé was a light one – hence, "being sent down to the Base. (The Base(1) is the next step to the Reinforcements Camp, later the Unit at the Front) Anyhow, I can only trust that he will get to "Aussie & that his wound will soon be "A1, also that Les C. if still here, will also be in best of health . . . .

That’s about all the "Local news I can give you just at the moment so I’ll switch off on to Father’s big letters which are still B4 me . . .

The earliest letter is dated Feby 8th – [indecipherable] but none-the-less welcome & interesting – & it contained 4 great snapshots which, believe me, are très bon & most acceptable. My merci’s beaucoup. Thanks for advice of letters recd. good-o! . .

Yes, it was pretty rough up Ypres alright enough, but some had it much worse – Don’t want to see that region any more. Wonder will we? . . .

I thought I had told you after the Ref. voting was over that this last time I once more "backed a loser – yes, voted "Yes, at that time we knew nothing about the carryings on of that losely "Lose the War Govt. or else there’d have been a different tale . . "No was my "long suit in [indecipherable] . . .

Pleased that Elsie likes her new job at the Hospital & that the hours & time off are not too bad. Hope she’ll be able to stay there permanently now . . . Yes, indeed, she is most regular in her correspondence to me & I owe her many thanks. I am unable just now to ack’ge. any of hers, Lizzies, Thel’s or Mother’s grand favors in Post Cards, as, altho. the large Town of H – (6) & other smaller places are close to this bivouac, but alas! they are deserted & under almost daily shell-fire. It is months since we were far enough back to be able to

[The following text is written along the left-hand margin:]
P.T.O. to 2

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purchase Post Cards & other things, so the little stock I had on hand was soon exhausted. In consequence of our position you will see how it is that I am unable to send you more than the weekly letter but I’ll lose no time getting busy on them if we do happen to go back a little way; which let us hope is on the boards . . .

Good old jam craze!! – & not a bad one, either. It shows Mother’s great "headwork in laying by a stock of that necessity in [indecipherable] of the rainy day – which comes, as you know, at most awkward times. The talk of home-made jam makes me wonder when I’ll sit down to some at "Warrnambool – goodness how I dream of those times that may be again . .

The a/c of the awful calamity up in North Queensland made pitiful reading. There seems to be stress & trouble everywhere . . Sorry to learn the places fronting Hobson’s Bay suffered so severely in the cyclone which swept over Vic., especially the great damage to St. Kilda & the Esplanade [indecipherable] .. Pity that the lovely garden at Home was mauled so badly by the heavy rains but I trust it is alright once more . . .

Didn’t know B4 that pumpkins could be stored from one season to another, but it’s très bon if it is so . . How I’d love to change from this job now – "not arf’n all I would be delighted to give you a hand in & about the garden & orchard & to learn something more about horticulture . . .

So interested & glad to learn that dear Leslie’s grave is looking so beautiful & is kept in such grand [indecipherable] & condition. I often picture it as it was when I was there, but I s’pose there are many additions to the pretty & quiet little Cemetry now . . .

Must thank Vic Fowler (2/Lieut) for remembering me to Aunt Eve, via Mrs. [indecipherable] – it was kind of him. The Hero. himself is still with us ("D Co.) & I see him pretty often – hasn’t got a day old in looks & is still the favorite as [indecipherable] you . . .

Strange things are happening in Melb. amongst the Nephews (my cousins) Fancy Reg & Les. going thro. such a long course of agriculture only to throw it up. Goodness me, what better could they wish? Wouldn’t mind having had half that chance in boy-hood days. They are lucky lads – & don’t know it! Oh well it’s their "pigeon. Better 4tune be with them in the Commercial, Law, Industrial, Naval or other branches they intend to dabble in & good luck to Ray for sticking to what is, & will be "Aussie’s long-suit – the Land & it’s products.

Yes, there’ll sure be some shuffling if the gold-lace of a [indecipherable] shipman is all that Reg hankers after – others will want to follow. Still, there ought to be tons of scope in Aussie’s little Navy, because when this flare up fizzles out the Island Continent will have to look-out for it’s own protection by Land & Sea – we need look no where else in my humble opinion. We’ll [indecipherable] anyhow . . .

Good girl, Thelma!! You’re some ‘ghirl’ school & I must add my congrat’s for your successes & advancement. Learn all you can – you will not regret the extra time you give to study. Only wished I could have seen further than my nose in those old days of doubt – I was in a quandary & could not imagine a future. I will get you to give me some lessons on arithmetic, etc., I hope after the War – will you oblige? . . .

It is with sorrow I learn of your ups & downs with health, my dear Father, but I hope & pray that long [indecipherable] no ill or ache will be with you – they’re pas bon! . . .

Glad to know that Thel. is still progressing with her piano music & that you

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have been enabled to send her to a Tech Teacher & I only hope she will learn all she can & practice continually. The promised trip to Melb. at Xmas time will no doubt be a big incentive to greater efforts. I look 4ward with all sorts of untold joys to the time when I will come back [indecipherable] if it is God’s will – & one of those joys is to hear Thel. play the piano . . .

The tone of your Feby 17th "Young book is sweet & pleasant . . My thanks sincere for all your nice words, inspirations, etc., contained in it. Only wish it was possible for me to emulate it & give you something in return for all the trouble you’ve gone to to interest me . . . .

Fancy 2,000 bags of Mail being snow bound in Amurrika – gee! Ah well, better late than never – you’d have had them long since this . . .

Pleased to learn that at least some discharged soldiers are being employed at the "Island, I do not know by name, Fred Foster of the 2nd but if he is an "Anzac he has more than earned his discharge from this Hell-on Earth. Tell him not to get the fever again like some others are, tho. I doubt not he wants no such advice especially if he was in memorable & historic Pozières.

Young "Snowy Fergusson may know him as he belongs to the "Second-to us Battn. also, though did not join it till we came out of that Pozières "stoush-up . . Good luck to them all who return – they’re earned it if they’ve been in action on this dreadful Fortress Front & I do not begrudge, tho. envy, them their good 4tune . . .

Delighted to read of the fast progress in the construction of our new fast cruiser "Adelaide good-O! Would like to learn also that the "Lose the War mob had given a final decision one way or the other about cargo-ship building. Surely they cannot be so short-sighted as to the great value financially & commercially that those vessels will be after the War? "Aussie will need everything that can be propelled or moved or floated to take those [indecipherable] for harvests of now decaying cereals to dear England & this side of the worn-out World. Let’s hope they wake up one of these days ere it is too late tho. it is rather late in the day as it is . . .

Hughs & Cook I believe are already ensconced in Blighty & the former has given some kind of a speech to some folk or other Wouldn’t be a bit surprised if he comes over here while we are out at (?)rest to "Kid to us. Guess the reception (all from the military discipline part of the parade) will be a mixed one with more coldness than warm. We’ll see!

The boys are pretty general in their hopes that the Peoples’ twisting King "dig in over in England & knock heads with L. george till the end of all time. They’ve lost all patience with him, tho. mind you, there are many thousands who know nothing of recent political events (they have not been enlightened like I have by you) & who will hail him as King of Austral-Land, making us traitors & [indecipherable] sympathisers any who would dare put him or his "Lose the War crowd down as enemy’s to our future Democracy.

I could say lots more but – well, I may not, So would conclude here, trusting, my Dear Parents & Sisters that this hurriedly scrawled note finds you all still enjoying God’s great blessing & prosperity

God be with You. Bonjour! I am ever Your loving Son & Bros.
Harrie X X X

[Page 449]
O.A.S.
The "Aussie Mag. only
133
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 450]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 134.
"In the Field.
Somewhere in France, Nord. (7th)
Sat. morn, July 27th ’18.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Here we are again, another week nearer the end, or something which we, thank God, cannot forsee.

There’s no doubt that our continual activity – movements in & out of the "Line, "fatigues, marches, drills, etc. – makes the weeks literally ‘fly’, in fact, I hardly knew that this was Saturday only for hearing someone say that we ought to be allowed a 1/2 holiday, seeing that it is granted to all & sundry "Down Under. Ha! ha!! Oh yes, holidays would be très bon, but we’ve got to try & forget such joys, especially at this critical time when the fate of Empire is absolutely in the scales.

Even our "little bit of Heaven (all that we can look 4ward to while at the Front) is "turned off, every available man, being required right here. Some have been with the Battn. for over 12 months without leave (mostly thro. their own fault – no money) so it means that we, who by careful spending have a credit large enough to last the 14 days, have to wait till the 12 months, & more, fellows come back. It’s hard, but there you are.

My Field Pay-Book shows to my credit just over £15, so by the time I go over the "Gutter I’ll be well "set as regards money. Of course, it’d do me to forego leave altogether if the War was to end now. They can have the "Fog Island & this part of the World generally for mine – they’re all worn out. "Building castles in the air is hardly worth while here, but one must formulate some schemes in his "noodle B4 he gets away, or else he’ll find himself in many quandaries by the time he reaches "l’Angleterre (Angle-Land – the Land of Angles’) –

Horseferry Rd. Manchester has been in my mind as a destination for the "preliminary canter, but I am still very much undecided as there are some other places I’d like to visit in the Midlands – Bradford or Leeds – in fact, I want to go to as many places as possible, but I’m afraid the ‘stingy’ 14 days will not allow of my doing so. From the Midlands, or Nor’. West, I return to London & hope to visit our unfortunate relatives there again (Will go there after being fixed up at our Administrative HQ’rs.) after which a rush down to either Cardiff or Swansea (in Wales) & finish up in Bristol.

Of course, as I said B4, it is only an "aerial scheme & I have no doubt that circum’s. will alter cases, leaving me, perhaps, to tear around in an endless rush & see or visit next to nothing.

This Month in France is proving one of very erratic elements, for as I write heavy rain is pouring down & our little bivouac is leaking badly. If it keeps up I can see us baling out with "Tin ‘ats & Mess-tins like baler boys in a skiff or "10 footer in a "Southerly Buster. Up in the 4ward Trenches, rain & wind, sunshine in cloudless skies, mist, & other stuff was our lot, & they still reign in spasms. Of course, it could be much worse – Winter, f’rinstance, – so we must not grumble – & we don’t. I only mention it just by the way & to let you see that the worst of European elements are not reigning yet.

I am penning this weekly ‘communique’ from the floor of the Sections’ little "Ome from ‘ome – a bivouac (canvas-cover over a hole in the ground) in what was, up till recently, a French peasant’s meadow-field for grazing the cows & chevaux (horses).

We are not very far from the Trenches, (Front-Line system) in fact, they are really just "up-the-road-a-bit, so War, & nearly all it means, is even B4 & around us. The Civil population have all gone back (they were doing so when we first hopped out of the troop-train from A – s (19) on April 13th.) so all the Farm-houses

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are deserted, also the Farms from which have been driven, or taken, cows, horses, pigs, dogs, cats & fowls, etc.

In place of those signs of domesticity there are Ammunition & ration-Dumps, big & little artillery (gun) positions, Horse-shelters, Infantry bivouacs, AMC dressing Stations (by Marquees or sand-bag protected Farm-buildings, etc., etc. From all sorts of unlooked-for positions in hedges, or behind lines of stately-trees, one "comes-to-earth with a startling hair-raising & deafening roar in the ears from guns which open out when one’s mind is of more pleasant things than "la guerre & when you are unconsciously almost under their terrible muzzles.

That’s how we are placed today – a bivouac in a Meadow, with tall trees on three sides & a high rough hedge all-round. On the main Railway Line near by are some gigantic guns (naval & military) which roar like thunder & shake the neighborhood with their shock of discharge.

Big howitzors, which have to be moved by "caterpillar tractors, lurk all over the place & their "cough is almost awe-inspiring, especially if you happen to pass any where near to their tilted skywards muzzles. Fritz does not let us have it all our own way, for his "swish-h-h!!! "crunch-h-h!!! of spare "ironmongery punctuates the other sounds pretty regularly, & then, when the lovely moon in cloudless skies appears o’night, over comes the big droning & whirring Gothas with their loads of big & little oeufs ("erfs – eggs) searching for these guns which must have given some of his land-fighters "severial head-aches when the souvenirs from Woolwich & other Arsenals have lobbed on or near some of their "possies.

We can liken those blue-grey clobbered "square ‘eds to ourselves in that respect, for one develops a super-natural kind of hearing instinct when it comes to judging the direction of hostile shells. A blade of grass is to us, at those awful particles of a second, as is the proverbial straw to the clutches of a drowning person – [indecipherable] it’s pas bon!!

The other night was a perfect one for the bombing-‘planes & they took advantage of it, the air being literally alive with those "mechanical-birds. The familiar drone of the Gothas was at times drowned by the none-the-less familiar engine-peculiarity of ours, but there was never any mistaking the "Swish!! – ! & "Zonk!!! of the "souvenirs left around here for us. I would never care to be on the Hun side during these or any other times, for judging by the great numbers of Allied ‘planes which pass overhead in that direction every night, it must be a living Hell right enough – it is to us here & we are much better off.

During daylight, the red, white & blue rings of our ‘planes, just like the prying eyes of some monster above us, are ever in sight. Droves of them haunt the regions where air must be extremely thin & where the less-familiar "Iron-Cross-ers choose to dash when scattered clouds favor their doing so – some 18,000 feet above.

Others again, in their various battle & other 4mations, – the "V, "diamond, etc. – patrol at lower heights according to the weather & the jobs they’re on. Aerial gymnastics are still provided us by the terrific little "spads (single seaters) which fly just above the ground & trees or over the enemy trenches. We always Wave our admiration to the daring pilot when he is low enough & he generally returns the ack’gt. likewise or by a nod if the way is clear. Jove! but they’re great!!

I dare not try to think what they’ll attempt on the day on which Peace is declared, or when they come back to "Civvy life & own their own Machines, for there seems to be no- limit to their daring stunts – & the machines are Army or Naval ones, whose pilots, like even were we, are guided by strict discipline & Orders. I can foresee some remarkable developments amongst the "Aussie Flying Corps. when they get back & you’ll perhaps gaze like we do (with open-mouths) at their capers.

I could go on writing of things like that for a long while yet but I’d better ease up now as I must get this finished. About [indecipherable] letters yet remain for me to ack’ge. from kind friends, so you’ll see that I’ve got my work "cut out, in fact, it is so much "cut out that I’m afraid the next mail’ll be in ere I get 1/2 through.

B4 I pass on to Father’s big letters, let me ack’ge. here (with the usual sincere thanks, etc.) the receipt of Mother’s lovely letter of 16/5, enclosing 2 good-o snapshots, Elsies 19/5 with also 2 snapshots (très bon – they are the 4 showing Els, Gladys, & Pearlie in soldier & nurse costumes – Real good too!) & on Thursday, the "birthday parcel, in tact, sent on April 28th & containing the letters of same date from Dad, Mother, Thel. & Mrs. Thompson came along to delight & make me happy. The parcel contained: 1 Tin Arnotts’ Arrowroots, 1 box Assorted Lollies, 1 pair Sox, 1 Tin ea. Con. Milk & Rex cheese & the "Worker of April 25th.

I really cannot, in idle words, convey the depths of gratefulness I feel for your kindness but you’ll understand when I say that the lads of my Section (No. 2 of No. 1 Platoon) wish me to also add their

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P.T.O. to one

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thanks also. Needless to add the bisquits & sweets & the Con. Milk did not last for 12 months, or anything like that – Nun – no! Fact is, that things like those are almost unpurchaseable on this side of the troubled World now. Sugar is so very scarce & valuable that they are almost unable to continue making chocs, bisquits, etc. in England. Milk of the condensed kind has such a great demand at the Front that it is almost "nah-poo as an article of sale (or not being) in a Regimental Canteen. (Nearly every Battn. in the Field has its’ own "Wet & dry Canteen – but goods are up to a terrible price, soldiers or no soldiers as we are) . .

I can well understand your desires to send-me such comforts, my Dear Parents & Sisters, & I genuinely appreciate it all, but why not put your hard earned money to some more useful & necessary requirements at Home? Don’t fear that we will ever starve altogether – not it! The Army-ration – tho. not very "clever as regards quality, quantity or variety, – is just about sufficient to see us thro. from our 24 hour day to its’ follower, in fact, it would be suicide [indecipherable] Allied cause if the Infantryman’s ration was cut down in any way ..

You can rest assured that everything contained in the parcel (such a beaut!) just to hand has been done great justice to & my thanks sincere go to you all for your self-sacrifice of worry, time & good coin of the realm in your efforts (which more than succeeded) to make me happy – & all that sort o’thing. Merci beaucoup!!

I will endeavor to try & get thro. the ackgt. of Mother’s amp; the girls’ many letters, now on hand, per the picture Post-Card as soon as ever we go out far enough (we are still practically "in action) & near enough to a Town or Village where I can purchase another stock. At present I have not one P/C. – & as this area is deserted, there’s no place near enough to buy any.

Oh! Advices from both the Les’s came along this week.

Les C. was the familiar literary "Whizz bang, (F. P/C.) undated, but Post marked 23rd inst., to say, in it’s vague way, that he is still "jake tho. has not recd any letter from me yet. I wrote some days B4 it arrd. . . .

My advice to you re Les N. being in Hosp., wounded, is borne out in a short letter from "St. Andrew’s Ward, Tankerton Hosp., Whitstable, Kent, dated 21st inst telling me practically what his Pioneer Co. mate told me at our Battn. HQ. in the Line recently – that he was "cracked on the arm & elbow by bullets from a Hun. mach. gun. Anyhow, he is doing well & it certainly seems as tho. "Aussie will see him after Convalescence, so Elsie can now begin to smile. I hope he does manage it, & would also like to learn that Lizzie’s "pride & joy is going there to.

Les N. is in a bed alongside one of the old "12th pals who came over from [indecipherable] with me, & who also got in the way of a Hun leaden-stream recently while we were in the Front Line near M – n, (8N) receiving a nasty blessé & one that will "nah-poo War for him so he’ll have some Company. Will write in reply to Les N. as soon as ever I am able . .

A letter just to hand from Les Norman (they’re all Les’s aren’t they?) tells me that he has just completed his "little-bit-of-Heaven (14 days’ hosp. furlough) which he spent mostly in Edinburgh with a finish up in the "Big Smoke. Sutton Veny ("Sandhill Camp – the "O.T.B) will see him next & after a 4-days’ leave in Bristol, he’ll perhaps be back again to "Box-on. Please convey his regards to Sister. Merci! . .

"Bert wrote a newseless note on 18th inst asking if I was still "A1. Says he has not heard of or from me for a long long while, tho. I wrote telling him the same some weeks back. Anyhow it is some conso. to know that he is still OK. I do not know where his Unit is – havn’t seen any of ‘em since last March. They are rarely ever near us so we Inf. have to do the work that is theirs’ & also do the Engineers’ & Pioneers’. We are the "Jack-of-all-Trades of the Army & none can deny it . . .

Now let’s switch off on to Father’s great budgets which still be waiting for reference. That of Feby 17th is first on the "Waiting List – a long while ago, but still full of news . . . Here goes!!

Re "Little Willy & Cook’s tour this way at our expense. You can take it as pretty general now that his "Lose the War Govt. is much in disfavor . . The boys are gradually becoming a "full wake-up to it all, tho. mind you, there are still thousands of disciples about – "disciples because they know no better . . .

So the State Govt. is in disgrace over Silo & Railway contacts – gee! Looks as tho. some of them are trying the "Get-Rich-Quick method at the Peoples’ expense & under their very noses . . .

Young Jamieson in a recent letter told me about the Aux. Vessel that was discharging at the "Point but he did not mention that her name was "France or that she had 5 masts. Thanks for the a/c. By the way, I gave him your Gladesville address so that if ever he was out that way (he lives in Petersham) he could call & see you. I also gave the Misses Back the particulars for the same purpose, so let’s know if you have any Visits . . I am not surprised that Oversea passengers

4.
& cargo shipping is so scarce in the port now. It’s a wonder to me that there’s any left to trade with at all for Fitz has a terrible implement of destruction in those "untersee craft . . .

Thanks to Rosa Simonetti for her rembc’s. etc. Please reciprocate. It was certainly very strange both yourself & Elsie meeting her on the one day. I would not know her by looks now. Pleased to learn that old warrior, "Artie, is still "A1 in spite of his trois blessés (three wounds). Good 4tune be with him! . . .

Ha! ha!! good old West Front Bombardments causing erratic changes of weather in "Aussie!!! If they do such terrible things as that to a place 12 or 13,000 miles away, what kind o’blokes are they who are in the very Vortex – unnatural, yes, no? .. Anyhow, I am sorry to learn that the continual wet has made you lose time at work, but I s’pose you can’t have all sunshine & no rain. We are in the same position as regards weather, but of course rain, hail or shine, this terrible & Hellish business must continue & getting wet is but a little part of the game ...

Yes, "Codger Fergusson wears the "MM & I’m not surprised to learn that he does not know what he got it for. Neither do lots of others, tho. mind you there are [indecipherable] who have earned the DCM & VC. but whose only reward is the M.M. – or nothing at all. I wish Young "Codger all sorts of good 4tune all the same – he has had a good "spin & deserves a V.C.

M.M.’s are generally given to a Battn. after going thro. "Stunts raids & are dished out to those who remain or are drawn for. That’s what I believe because there are a great many in this Battn. given in the same way, although, as I said B4, one never knows – the recipient may have done some deeds worthy of the higher decorations . .

I always like to read your glowing a/cs. of the prettiness of Leslie’s last Resting-place here below & of "Warrnambool & its surroundings – good-O! Keep it up!! . .

Good old leave in "Paree & London!! Your papers are evidently very much stuck for "copy if they tell you that 600 per week of the "Aussie force go away every week on leave. Those joys are turned right off at the meter just now & have been since last March, when I was due for U.K. Leave. The fact is that the "Aussies cannot be done without on any part of the Front & every one of us is needed till the "Sammies pick up the stride – & for ever after or till the final whistle goes. You can tell your papers to hit on some other tale – that won’t wash . . .

I would like to give the "Frivolous City "a bit of a fly after I’ve had my leave to l’Angleterre if there’s any money left in my Pay Book to do it on, otherwise it does not worry me much. One of the old "12ths who recentl came back from there says that "Big Bertha (the 75 mile gun) still methodically (as is the Hun style in everything) pumps "ironmongery into the City, but as it is such an immense place one cannot see any damage . . .

Very sorry to learn that Mr. Lewis has passed away, altho. after so much suffering his death must have been a blessing. Deepest sympathy to Mrs. Lewis when you see her, please . . .

I would dearly love to be Home to give you a bit of a hand with the labor in the garden & orchard. Gee! but it must look lovely with all those blooms & plants! The saving in money for the necessary vege’s. etc. would I should think be considerable. It is good to read about! Guess the lawns look delightful & I have no doubt that they keep yourself & the girls busy with the mower etc. Are they of buffalo grass or from seed? . . .

Your long & breezy Feby 24th is très bon & tells me that all goes well with you as regards health & spirit. That’s fine!! Thanks for advice of mail received at your end .. Yes, that batch of P/Cs. from near B – (4) was a good while reaching you but so long as they do arrive it is good . . .

I will certainly explain to Bert you feelings of good will towards him & how it came about that Mother was a little put out by his failure to call B4 leaving for the Front, also tell him of the welcome that’ll await him après la guerre . . .

We had a good "blow while down B – way "resting & our hopes are that providing the War has to continue, we’ll go back that way for another spell soon – Good old soon!! . . There’s no need for You to worry about me over the experiences I tell you of our life here during the Winter, etc. It is all in the "game, & I suppose we’ll get over it some day.

By the way – it was 3 years on Thurs. since I threw down the gauntlet to the greasy Hun – seems like a bloomin’ life time. Ah well, in God’s own time it’ll end & then we’ll 4get all the bothers, etc., experienced. In the meantime good old duty must be done & we can only hope for the . .

In conclusion, please accept, my Dear Parents & Sisters, all sorts of the best wishes hoping that this finds you still in the best of health, happiness & prosperity. Best regards to all kind friends & acquaintances, remaining ever your loving & devoted Son & Bro.

Harrie X X X

[Page 451]
134
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 452]
No. 135
In the Field.
Somewhere in France, Nord. (6N.)
Sat. midi, August 3rd 1918.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
You’ve got me "rocking again – I’ve got so much to do, & such little time to do it in, that I cannot settle my mind on any one thing. Never mind, I’ll do my best under the circ’s. Here goes!

You’ll perhaps glean from the above that at last we have come back a little way from that region called the "Forward Area – that is true. I cannot tell you here where we are today, but when I add that this is part of a very short "rest you’ll understand pretty well all about it.

We left our last Bivouac (that "’ome from ‘ome under a Tent-cover, in what was once a "Cocky’s Meadow.) last Monday morning early, with the usual full pack up & in lovely Summer weather. Our route took us thro. pretty lanes bordered by hedges, – now rugged & uncared for – past fields of ripening wheat & other cereal, potatoes, beans, peas, etc., & along main roads, cobbled & tree-bordered. It is hard going for we "gravel-crushers on such roads, more especially when the eternal pack & the heavy equipment is aboard, still, "c’est-la-guerre (it is the War) so we’ve just got to grin (& sickly ones they are, too!) & bear it.

Our first Billeting Village in "La Belle (Oct. 31. ’16) was left behind early on the march, but, as usual with our entry there, the old Battn. rec’d. many hand-waves from the poor "civvies who knew us in ’16. & ’17. & who are still hanging on in spite of the Huns’ aerial night stunts over these places of military importance. Many refugees from Towns & Villages now in Fritz’s hands or in the Forward & Reserve Zones live there in Bivouacs or Tents in the Fields, or else in any of the Barns available nearby. It seems awful that such anguish should be, but – well, "c’est-la-guerre.

The March would have been most enjoyable with such pleasant elements ruling & such nice scenes on all hands, only that our pack & equipment took the gloss off – gee, it was weighty! Sweat poured out of us, & B4 the mid-day meal was partaken of in a hedged-in meadow off the road, we were wringing wet – right through shirt & tunic to the pack itself. You’d have wondered, had you seen us there, whether we were "buck-navvies or Chidley-ites, as very few sat down on the grass to their lunch of "stoo, & bread & jam & water, who were not practically in un-dress

2.
Shirts, & Tunics were laid out to dry in the lovely sun & the boys were making the best of things with boots & sox off.

Some must have imagined themselves at the Surf, or else right out in the lonely "back-blocks, for they gave no thought to the "Froggies who lived round about the meadow & fields. Still, we can not grumble about sunshine for it is really the "Aussies’ "long-suit, but the humping of the eternal pack is a killer . . . Our previous canters in this area have made us very familiar with the localities thro. which we passed, ‘tho. it is as long ago as last Nov., while en-route to B – e, since the last march through here . . .

The sight of the traffic-canal, which runs thro. to S – O – C – s. made us feel like a swim, & our wish was soon after realised as our bivouac, for a wonder, was in a tree-surrounded field only about a 1/4 mile away. We wasted no time, after settling down in the canvas shelters, in making a bee-line for the water & I can assure you it was better than très bon especially to we who were lovers of the art of [indecipherable] . .

The Canal, which carried (in peace-times – & now) a heavy barge-traffic, is about 20 yds. wide & 10 to 12 feet deep in the centre of the channel, – a slow running one towards the coast – the water is fresh but, of course, not clear.

The French system of artificial waterways is wonderful, tho. the Country lends itself to such engineering feats, owing to its many flats & low-lying Country, combined with the abnormal rainfall which never seems to fail throughout the Years. Metal slabs & wooden protections strengthen the banks & I believe the bottom is bricked. Lovely big trees – now at their best – line both banks, also roads, along which the horses pulling the barges can walk, when the said barges are not motor-propelled or towed by steam tug (the latter generally pass by with 6 to 8 of the large barges towing behind) . . .

The swim was very beneficial to us after the tiring march & it was only the thought of "cook house [indecipherable] that took most of us out of it B4 Tea . . .

It is hard to say what next is on the programme for us, or even how long this "Rest is to last, so we live from day to day thinking & believing that the next will find us on the road again bound, perhaps, back to the Line . .

Anyhow, after a little drill, or some route marches, or Rifle shooting, etc., during the morning, we get the afternoon practically free to either go to S – O x A – s on 8 hours leave (2 pm – 9 pm) or else to take part in the various competitions held between the 4 companies ("A to "D) whose aggregate points in the contests decide which is premier Coy. & which is to hold the silver-bugle, (the latter already bears the inscriptions of A, C, & D Companies as previous winners so competition is very keen) . .

There are so many items that count points in the Company Competitions that it is real hard to follow the progress. There’s points for the best Company "Cooker, neatest "Lines, Tents & "Civvies, best Company at drill, dress etc., champion Platoon in drill & rifle exercises, Musketry squads (Rifle-shooting), Lewis-gun teams at their special drill & shooting, Champion Rugby Footballers, Cricket team, Baseball team (not this time) & sports generally – Foot races : 100, 220, & 440 yds & 880 yds Teams Relay (8 ea 100 yds) Championships; Long, High, & Hop step & Jump Jumps (that sound funny, doesn’t it?), Tug-o’War Team (all the "hefties), Platoon relay race, "Marathon (3 miles – not this time, so far) Novelties (obstacle, sack, 3 Legged & potato races, Kicking Football, throwing C. ball, etc. – but not held up till now) Bombing & Rifle grenade contests – & Swimming . .

Being a bit of a trier at Sport, "Yer ‘umble had a go at the Teams Relay to "rep Coy. against the others – I just missed getting amongst the 1st chosen 8. The "440, with 16 starters, was a ding-dong sprint right thro. from pistol snap to tape. I was "pretty stiff in picking position 14 out of the hat – that was almost on the "outer – but lost no time dashing across to the "inner. There were some falls on the slippery grass B4 the first 100 & at the 1/2 way were strung out pretty well. Anyhow, a chap named Gordon won for "D Co. & "A Co was 2nd & 3rd – Mere me just being "pipped for 2nd – I was the 3rd bloke.

Did not enter for the "100 as it was a full field & there were lots of "hotties in – fellows doing almost "evens (10 secs.) Reg. McKay won – one of the few 12th left – after a most exciting finish all in a heap . . .

The "220 – the hardest of all races, as in swimming (it is a long-distance sprint) – was a bit of a fiasco as there were 18 starters & there was were no heats – just one race; a straight out final. "[indecipherable] Bill had another "cut in that but the "field was too large for the distance, consequence being many "sandwiches, falls & bumps amongst us in our bustle for choice "possies. Young Kemp of "D Co. won it, with "Dug Clark ("A Coy’s Clerk) 3rd.

The jumps were not in my line, but "A Co. managed to squeeze a 2nd in the "long, with the high (5’ 3) in abeyance owing to dead heat . . .

The swimming races were arranged very hurriedly because we did not know when leaving the last bivouac that we’d be near a canal. At any rate, there was an inter-Platoon relay (1 Sergt. & 20 "other ranks) 50 yds champ, 100 yds champ, 50 yds Breast & Diving. Owing to the Platoon I’m in (No. 1) not being numerically strong enough we could not rep. the Co. in the relay so it was left to No. 3

Gee! but what a funny race it was! Each man had to swim 50 yds from a "dead

[The following text is written along the left-hand side margin:]
P.T.O. to One

3.
start (in the water) & the variety & style of strokes would have made even a Hun laugh. Some used the trudgen & a crude crawl pretty well, others relied on breast, single-overarm, "dog paddle, & even the one leg on bottom styles. Some made stops for breath at every few yards & a few were so done up that they walked more than 1/2 the distance. Gee, but it was fun – & "Noo Sowth Welshmen, too! "A Co. came 2nd in that aquatic stunt – "B were victors . .

I had a "go at the 50 yds. champ. & waltzed home in the heat slowing down. In the final I was up against Big "Tiny Douglas of the Sydney Club & felt like playing 2nd or 3rd "fiddle on the start (a standing one, ie. from the water) but, from a/cs. of onlookers I made him shift his hefty frame so much that many [indecipherable] I beat him on the tape. The judges declared a "dead-heat.

The 50 "breast came next & I made a big mistake in starting in it as the style does not suit me at all & it is most exhausting. Anyhow I got a second place for my trouble. It would have done me better to have gone in the 100 champ, but at the time I did not know there was one on for decision. There were only 3 starters & on the result I reckon it would have been a go for 2nd. Lieut & Adjutant, Harold Boardman, (bro. to Les & [indecipherable] Sydney S. Club) won handsomely in good time so is our Battn champ. He showed good form.

After the Carnival, the team of 4 to rep. the Battn. in the Brigade Championship relay (the Brigade, of course, is the 1st to 4th Battns inclusive) to be swum in a day or so – if we don’t move B4. The football match (Rugby Union) was won by "C Co. from "A by 3 to Nil – "A Co’s first defeat for a long long while (can’t remr. how long ago but B4 last Nov.)

The whole of the Competitions were rushed thro., & there are still some events to come in the Battn., besides most of the Brigade Stunts. It is unfortunate that it had to be so, but, of course, "c’est-la guerre (it is the War) – & we can’t get away from it . . .

Will let you know later on how we got on, so will just add, B4 passing on to your grand letters that everything, so far, with us is "OK. tho. Fritz’s Gothas lay "eggs all over the "[indecipherable] on every fine night & we see lots of fine night fire-works & search-light effects worked from here below by our defenses –

On all sides we behold the lovliness of Nature as revealed to us at this season (mid-Summer) in trees, hedges, fields, crops – gee! but they are magnesia! I just love to look at the pretty pictures presented to us hereabouts, as such things take one’s troubled mind off all things unpleasant & corrupt, & they remind me of my peregrinations, per "bike, into the lovely Country parts, enjoyed so much by me B4 "la guerre.

The thought of the Hell, raging only so few kilometres away, is enough to make one weep, especially when one sees the little kiddies & those left behind in the poor homesteads & places called "Home – ‘ Home’ of a kind. One wonders how much longer this Devil’s [indecipherable] will last – the 4th years end is right on us (Tomorrow is the 4th of Aug. & commences the 5th year of Hell on Earth – tho. does not lose heart, hope & trust, for it will certainly be in God’s own good time, His will be done!

As time is crawling on & I have [indecipherable] letters to get a start on after this I will switch off on to Father’s great communiques B4 me & comment where necessary . . (It is his letter, or rather, budget, dated Febry 24th. – came late, but was none the less welcome or interesting. Merci beaucoup!) . . .

I do not know your ex-soldier off-sider by name, but I knew a Frost of Balmain who was in the 61st. with me. His givenname was also Fred but he was a Reinforcement to the 20th (5th Battn). You say he joined the 2nd in Aug ’14 prior to Lone Pine. You mean, of course, Aug 1915 – that was when that Gallipoli stunt took place. Anyhow it is good to know that he is doing so well – Good Luck to him! – & also that he had a successful ballot for a Farm up Lismore way – that’s fine! . .

Glad you recd. the P/C. with Hun prison photos on it. I found it in the [indecipherable] in what was, at that time, "Rossignol Hutment (nissen, or Bow, Huts) Camp at Kemmel in Belgium but now, alas!, part of the No Man’s Land or else right in Fritz’s hands.

So Les N. sent on [indecipherable] souvenirs – good! The Mill’s Hand bomb is one of the Infantry’s most important trench weapons – it is very vicious & Fritz likes it not . . . the serviette-rings would be the brass driving band of a shell after it’s passage thro. the bore of the gun. The corrugations on the band are [indecipherable] as you can guess, by the passage along the bore.

. . Yes, indeed – it is quite time that my Angleterre leave came along. 10 months on the side will soon be up, but I’m afraid 12 months will arrive & find me still with

[The following text is written along the left-hand side margin:]
P.T.O. to 2

4.
Ah well, "c’est-la-guerre & as we are those who are playing in it, I s’pose we must take it as all in the game. – good old game!! Nevertheless I still look forward with patience to the little bit of Heaven – all that we can hope for while the War lasts.

[indecipherable] no, do not worry, my Dear Father, about my financial position for when I go over the "Pond. My Credit in the Field Pay Book now stands at £15:12:0, so there’s nothing wrong with that, is there? I don’t think, (in fact I’m sure) that I’ll require any further money, tho. there may come a time when I will want to draw on some from Home – a contingency I hope will not arrive . . . It is indeed pleasing to learn of the Balance at the Bank, etc. Trust that there’ll be no necessity to deplete any of them thro. misfortune with work etc., much less by drawings on my a/c. . .

It is indeed a relief to know that the girls are earning pretty big money now. Guess they’ll have lots to do with it – especially when preparing the trousseau . . . Gee! but the C’wood rates have soared since I left! Looks as tho. property about there is becoming very valuable. Don’t fail to sell if you get an opp. . . .

Am sorry, for Sid Davis’ sake, that the turnover at the Baths has been a disappointment for Season 1917-18 owing to the inclement weather which reigned. Hard Luck! Perhaps the all-day Sunday stunt ("Continental style) will improve the financial position. I hope so. . .

Mention of genial Sid reminds me that I met his son "Bob at the Canal here (6N.) today whither he had being with his Battn. (the 4th) to take part in the races. "Bobbie has had a very long spin & today looks "A1, tho., like every mortal in the horrid business, has long since decided that it is pas bon for human beings.

I learned from him, in hurried conversation, that Mr. Goodis (Town Clerk for the ‘Main) was in a critical position as regards health. Trust that he has fully recovered. I had to reluctantly leave the boy till a more opportune time, so will look him up when we get "Down below (ssh!) . .

Oh, I also went along the Canal to the Artillery "YM & there saw Frank Grose up to his eyes with work, organising concrete & generally caring for the social welfare of the whizz-bangers & others of the Forces who happen along. I stayed for the open-air show he had on given by an American Troupe & believe me, it was splendid. The "Sammies has us laughing from Overture to grand-finale (not "the King) & we gave ‘em of our best lung-power, the "hip-hips so Common to us. They reciprocated in good old style.

I am so very busy these days in the Battn. looking after the [indecipherable] (or assisting), caring for my Section & trying to catch up with the accumulated Correspondence B4 me that I really hadn’t the time to spend with Frank that I wished for, nevertheless, we’ve met again & I hope to see him ‘sum-mor’ after we get "down below & also come across some of the other lads of the different "Aussie Divisions.

While watching the American "show I caught sight of "Jimmy Duke of 1st Field Co. Engrs. who was also there & whom I hadn’t seen since Aug. 16 (Doullens) tho. was close to him last Decr. & Jan. (Kemmel). Jim is still "A1 & sends regards to all old pals, etc . . .

Yes, I was asking whom it was who asked after me – I think Les C. must have referred to Lde B., tho. why she [indecipherable] worry over the non-receipt of mail from me I do not understand, as – well we were never more than friends, nor would I wish it otherwise.

As I am’ll do for me . . . I am not surprised at the attitude of Els, Lizzie, Thel. & others, regarding English (or UK) or foreign girls as friends of we "[indecipherable] Merchants, but I do not like some of the (to my mind) unjust criticism.

The girls at Home may remember that "there are as good fish in the sea as ever came out of it, & many of the boys [indecipherable] have had just cause for their apparent "rash action in marrying over here. I know of a great many, even in this Battn, who have become "Benedicts since their sojourns in the "[indecipherable] lands & there are a good many fiancéed to French & Belgian girls – & married too. As for myself, well, I do not think you need fear that I’ll return (if it’s God’s will) with anyone but myself – it’s pretty well a "cert. tho one never knows, does one? . . .

It is a great consol. to learn that you find something to read in my weekly notes to you, tho. I often fear they savour of the grumbler or the pessimistic. I tell you, as well as I can under the [indecipherable] pretty well all that can be told in a letter, but you can understand that there are many scenes & subjects which it would not do to touch on – & even after the War we may feel inclined to go "mum on them – too awful to think of. Ah well, "c’est-la-guerre, so till it ends we who remain must carry on hoping that every day will see Peace . . .

Let me add my closing thanks, Dear Father, for your letter of enlightenment, encouragement & hope, trusting that this finds you, Mother, Els. Lizzie & Thel still hale, hearth & prosperous. God bless you all, Goodnight!

Lovig Son, Harrie

[Page 453]
135
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool
Bateman’s Road
Gladesville
Sydney
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 454]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 136
"In the Field –
Somme-where in France (19 N.)
Sat. après midi,
August 17th 1918.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
These are indeed historic & memorable days we are living in & the "Immortal Division is still in the forefront of all that’s going on this side as regards Stunts & work. It would delight me ever so much if I were allowed to relate to you only a very small portion of the things that we’ve done since No. 135 was launched a fortnight ago.

Yes, 2 weeks since, & another little break in our weekly chain of correspondence. Still, we must not grumble, because, so far, everything is well & the "ragtime Aussies have further added to their military pages of glory & honor – & continue to so do

It was impossible for me to write last Saturday because we were still in action, & had been for some days previous. As I said above, it’d please me to tell you about what we did, but, – well I mustn’t. You "compree, don’t you?

Your papers of these days’ dates will have told you about the big Stunt that the A.I.F. & others "pulled off down here & will have given you much more minute particulars than I am allowed to. There’s no doubt but that it was some ‘coup’ & has left the despicable Hun scratching his head very hard.

The amount of ground gained may not be so very much when considered with the whole of the Front, but the morale part of the Stunt is very important because the defeat may end, for all time, the Huns’ dreams of A – s & Paris, both of which places, in addition to the important coast ports further North, have been in the melting-pot & only pulled out in time.

Of course, the set-backs Fritz is getting here & there will not cause him to turn the game up, unfortunately, but they’ll bring him to Earth with a thud & by the time der Rhine is reached (if ever it comes to that) he’ll realise that others are also "playing & that if he hangs on, something like France & Belgium’s fate awaits his Towns, Cities & Villages – devastation & demolition – (not the violition of civilians though).

My Diary tells me that No. 135 of the 3rd. inst was penned while we were enjoying those very few days of inactivity called a

2.
"Rest, up in the North, but many things that have happened in the fortnight interim, so many, that I’ll only be able to touch very briefly on a few that may be allowable by Mr. Censor.

The 1st. Inf. Brigade Competitions were then in full swing & the old Battn. (always in the forefront – as with the more serious stuff) was doing very well in its’ great efforts to carry off the Premiership & Honors (which it eventually succeeded in doing B4 we entrained) –

We won the 220, & 440 ‘Flat’ races, 2nd in the 100 & also won the Tug-o! War, added to which we pulled off the cricket & Rugby Football matches (the former with the aid of Lt. C. C. Kelleway & the latter including Lt. & Adjutant Herb Boardman & Stephenson the ex "Wallaby player).

The last contests of all were the Swimming Champs. which were held in the Traffic Canal near which we were at the time in Bivouac . . Great excitement prevailed in the "rep. contests as some Battns. rather fancied their "favorites – said they were "dark horses at any rate. In the 100. H. Boardman romped home nicely from Schmidt (the 2nd’s "dark horse) & our other "rep, 3rd. No time was taken, but it must have been close to "evens (1 minute) as the Canal has a slight Coast-wise current & there was a little breeze, both of which were in the Swimmers’ favor ..

The 50 Champ (I did not start, as our team "specialised) resulted in another victory for Les’ & Phil’s brother (H. Boardman) with a 2nd place in addition for [indecipherable]. Our only "rep in the breaststroke, after a very hard race, touched down first in that 50 yds. stretch, so it looked très bon for the old Black over green bars up till then . .

We "slipped slightly in the Diving Champ, obtaining 3rd place, which counted in the aggregate. The white-over-greens "winning in a special team for the Brigade Platoon Relay Champ. but the result for them was such a bare faced Victory – over 50 yds. lead – that an enquiry was held as to whether their team all really did belong to the Platoon they nominated, & they came the "proverbial, the event going to the brown over greens (3rd) with us 2nd.

The main race of the day – the Battn. Relay for Brigade Champ (4 ea. 50 yds.) was the finishing-up item & that is what I & the others had to "specialise in. Our team of 4 was "Tiny (W.A.) Douglass of Sydney Amateurs (a Sergt.), Dave Billington of Ryde (who used to play Austn. Rules) – (a Coy. Quarter. master Sergt.), Pte "Buller Gibson (one of the 12ths) & myself.

The start was from two military pontoons fastened together & moored across the Canal & Dave was our man to "break-the-Ice. He evidently had some good men up against him for his "all-out sprint only touched him down 3rd out of the 4 & "Yer ‘umble (from an in-the-water start) thus had a lee-way to make up as I was the 1st’s 2nd man.

Anyhow, in spite of the little lose, & the "standing start, the current & wind, I surprised myself by being level with the bunch B4 1/2 way & it was a great "conso to touch the pontoon, having gained for Big "Tiny a lead of 3 or more yards. The latter increased the gain & our last man, "Buller Gibson could have been "’ome-&-dried (actually) as he finish up with the 2nd man well down the Canal – that ended the Brigade sports (held so very hurriedly) & gave the old Battn. once more the Honor of being First in sport besides name.

Next evening found us on a very different "stunt – the "stunt which lobbed us here. Yes, a hard march with full pack up to the Railway; (the good old Comforts Fund had some hot cocoa & cigarettes waiting for us – & they were exceedingly welcome to the boys); entrained & departed in the "dead of night (35 men & gear to a "horse-box – oh, what a life!!) – the usual packing like sardines; not enough room to lie down & hardly enough to stretch ones legs when you sat – for a "destination not disclosed, but well & correctly guessed by us; the usual sights along the line when daylight came – familiar stations, Villages, hamlets; "six-o’-one, etc. Field, scenes, sand-dunes we nearer & traversed the Coast near B – e thousands of Huns working on the Line & on jobs, Units of British & Americans & Portugese at rest, on the move or at work, & so on, [indecipherable]. Rain fell heavily while we were en-route & so made us close the Horse-box door for shelter.

After about a 12 hours’ ride (oh, what a ride!!) we were imshee’d out of the "choo-choo of many trucks, down in this Region – not far from nearby

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P.T.O.

3.
lost – A – s.

The first one to loom into sight as we reached the siding was Frank Grose, who had been going at top speed for the previous 12 hours serving out comforts to the men of the "Divvy Artillery to whom he is attached as Sec. for the good "[indecipherable I lost no time in getting to him after we de-trained . .

Oh! I 4got to previously mention that I met young "Bobbie Davis (Sid’s Young Son) at the Swimming Champs "[indecipherable] above. The boy, I believe, was 3rd in the "50 & was also a member of the 4ths (that’s his Battn.) disqualified Platoon. Tell his Dad that he is "A1 in health & I’m sure he has grown wonderfully. As usual, best of regards goes to everyone he Kin at "Down Under so I’ll leave you to do the conveying.

I might add B4 passing on, that while we were chasing Fritz on this bank of the S – on the morning of the "Hop over (9th inst) I again met the latter on the side of a high ridge, down which were streaming as prisoners, Fritzs, Ottos, Wilhelmes, & others of the Sauerkrauters, big, little, skinny, fat, spectacled, some hat & cap less, some almost lost to sight under the big "Tin ‘at, many wounded & the lot very bewildered. It has been said B4 that Fritz was using his boys in the Inf. & it looks a "Cert now after the many mere kids we passed – a bunch of 4, the eldest being just 10 – tho. there’s no doubt he mixes them with the older & tried men anyhow, "Bobbie was enjoying the sight, as we all were, in spite of the odd shells which plasted parts of the Ridge . . .

To get back to the train – Frank did the old Inf. a great turn at the place where we got out by "dishing out bastshush bisquits & ‘dry’ cocoa which really belonged to his Artillery Unit. Our officers added their thanks, for even they partook of the gift as the train journey was so trying . . Rain fell most of the time we were there & we had to sit under our [indecipherable] proofs to await further transport, which came in the shape of Motor-char-a-bancs.

I saw Frank B4 we left, in fact, he & his assistants knocked up a grand feed of tinned fruit & custard with bisquits & Cocoa, which without doubt was the best I can rembr. OA.

The Char-a-bancs, [indecipherable] away with us (another "sardines-in-a-tin crush) B4 midnight & by dawn we were well up, in what was then, the "Forward Area down here. We passed thro. a much damaged town (D – s) which at the time was a hive of activity – monster "tanks on the move, guided by our Officers with a Torch light in front; artillery brigades, Battn. Transfer Infantry on the march thro. the ankle-deep mud, motor ambulances, Pontoon Wagons ([indecipherable]) & hosts of other war-like traffic – too numerous to mention.

It felt eerie marching along in the dark with the continuous sight of Hun flares popping up over the horizon ahead of us, but it felt back-breaking actually, for the old "pack was a "Killer . . On thro. the demolished, old-fashioned & dirty Village of A – y. to a naturally Camouflaged Field (full of leafy trees) with which was full of the big Tanks of the "M class – some [indecipherable] I remember being the: "Maneater, (with an awe-inspiring Visage of der All Lowest ([indecipherable] Kaiser) "Mephistocks & the "Man-o’-War.

It was under the latter’s rearing fore-end that I, with the Pltn. officer & Sergt., flopped down to sleep the sleep of the weary – dead done we all were. It was daylight ere we lay down, but "shut-eye came very easy.

Late in the afternoon I was called, & lo & behold!, none other than Les C.! Goodness, it seemed too good to be true, but it was a realisation. I feel satisfied now, because I’ve met the lot. Les came from some kilo’s back to see me specially – having seen one of our lads with the old colors up from whom he learned our then location. I cannot describe how glad we were to renew acquaintances, but in the very short time left (we were preparing then for the "Hop Over booked for 4 am in the morrow) we brought out our Photos & snaps & let loose on the gas as it came to troubled minds.

Les tells me that he now belongs to the 24th Machine-gun Company Transport (4th. Divn.) having got out of the "Dinky Di’s Infantry, & that it’ll do him fine. He drives one of the "Cooker teams of horses. It was with reluctance I had to bid him good eve. but what with looking after my section’s rations for the ensuing 2 day’s Feld work ahead, the obtaining of bombs, sand-bags, grenades, & other necessary gear, there was lots of rush

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P.T.O. to One

4.
& bother.

By midnight the old Battn. was once more on the road, & still heading Front-Line-ward, our route taking us along the south bank of the S – River (or Canal) which, even in the uncertain night light looked beautiful & enticing; the long Avenues of tall trees on each side throwing dark shadows across the slow-moving water which was calm & serene.

On all sides we could hear the spurts & throbs of the big & heavy horse-powered Land Men-o’-War, otherwise the Tanks, as they crawled over fields, ditches, logs, & roads, on their way to the "Jumping off position allotted to them just behind our Line . . .

We lay out in the open till the "Zero hour (in this case 4 am – the "hop-over time) but dawn only revealed an almost impenetrable mist for we were on one of the River flats. The mist must have been sent by Our Heavenly Father, for it was indeed the Tank’s Salvation – they rolled on to Fritz’s [indecipherable] as Devils from below . .

From then on we foot sloggers (the "Eggs-a-cook’d were ahead of us) commenced our chasing-promenade up hill, down steep slopes, across the old support & Front Lines, past demolished (not a place erect) H – l, over Huns’ chalky trenches on the hill-side till we reached a Plateau which overlooked the River, along whose sides some of the greatest & most terrible battles in [indecipherable] history have been fought.

Here on the "Terrace I passed young "Bobbie Davis ([indecipherable] said) who, with his pals of the 4th, were at the time enjoying the sight of boh-coo Huns coming back under the escort of one or two "Aussies, or in 4’s bearing stretchers with our wounded aboard.

A little incident connected with escorting which happened to a Corpl. of the 34th. ("Eggs-a-Cook’d) may not come amiss here. He told us the story himself while he was with the prisoners).

There was a party of 28 of the Devil’s pals left for he & a Private to bring out & all went well till he got to a lonely part of the battle-field (a strange thing to say, but the advance was so fast that there were big stretches with only les morts-hommes for companions – died for their Country) when 2 wandering Hun officers appeared on the scene & commenced to rile at their [indecipherable] mob under escort. Their "sooling almost bore the desired result – an attack on the escort of 2 one (the Private was further away to rear with 4 Huns bringing in a stretcher case).

The poor Corpl. felt like "selling-out-cheap, but when the only Hun within sight of bother in him started out, he paced backwards a little & put a good old-302 (Military pattern) into each of the officers, obtaining a "bull with each pressure of the trigger. That settled the Huns – they wanted to continue on with whole hides. The Corpl. showed me the 2 bon souvenirs he got for his dead shot aims – one Iron-Cross of the First-class (gold) & one of the 2nd Class (silver – I believe) from the officers – & I reckon he earned them & one of our own, but for the latter, well, it was an incident that only he himself knows anything of.

Certain it is that his mob followed on without further bother. Every few yards they (the Huns) were relieved of something or other – a [indecipherable] shoulder-straps (showing Reg or Unit No. embroidered), buttons, belts, watches, wallets, gas-masks, – in fact, by the time the "real soldiers took ‘em over they were in very "light marching order – (the real soldats of course being the Army’s pride – the Mounted Police – Yes, we’ve got ‘em here – They are well back out of shell-fire to hunt up straying Infantry men & others of the "Box on Dept.) . . .

All day we Inf. promenaded forward, beholding on all sides of us the sights of a life-time – our wonderful artillery, light & [indecipherable] rushing & galloping up into new positions where only an hour or so B4 the Huns were pelting us with their "ironmongery from Battn. transports, A.S.C. "trains, (lines of horse wagons) Engineers with Signal-gear & Pontoons, & hosts of other "In the Field [indecipherable] at their jobs.

The Disl. Signals ran their cables & ‘phone lines out from special [indecipherable] the gallop, up hill & down dale & the Ammunition Columns came along at [indecipherable] the willing & straining horses being as eager as the lads to get the stuff up to [indecipherable] Up above us, often almost within hands’ grasp, flew our wonderful mechanical birds

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P.T.O. to 5

5.
bent on harassing the Hun Infantry, Artillery & Road-traffic, in addition to their usual every day job of spotting & observing. Yes, it was "some stunt, & nearly all arms of the service participated.

Our halt for the day came at a Riverside village about 4 miles from the old Line & the sights therein beggar description – too repugnant to tell you of in a letter. Anyhow, for reasons known to us on the spot, we had to "mark time till next afternoon when we had the unique opportunity of watching, at close quarters, from a high bank of the River opposite an advance by the "Tommies & "Sammies.

Their attack was a hard one, as a Village lay in their path, also some little Woods. We could plainly see the Inf. going forward thro. the trees & on the top of the bank, but Fritz’s "Ironmongery was there too. By night, after an intense bombg. the attackers were well past their objective & as our job was done we handed over & re-commenced a trek to another part.

I might mention that the aerial activity of the day was intense & both sides suffered considerably. We watched 2 Hun machines hurtle to terra-firma in nose-dives from awful heights & also two of ours likewise across the River were the scene of the afternoon "Stunt. At night, almost B4 dusk, the bombing ‘planes commenced their awful jobs & we could distinctly see the Gothas as they groaned & whirred above en-route to our side.

Our "whopper Handley-Pages, much more silent than the enemy’s air-‘buses, were also in sight & the Zonk! zonk-zonk!! of their delivered cargoes was heard on all sides "Oh-oh-oh it’s a ‘luvly’ War, who wouldn’t be a soldier, eh ay? ([indecipherable] you know that sony – it’s all the "go here – & we have it at all times & in funny places).

A long & tiring night march, thro. what was early the day B4, Hun-territory (ill-gotten of course), brought us to – well, just "somewhere amongst some battle scarred tanks in a sunken road, the latter having been converted into a kind of underground-Village by Fritz (deep dugouts, huts covered in soil, etc – apparently a [indecipherable] HQ).

Our sleep was only of an hour or two’s duration when the order to move on came, & thus it was why I could not write last Sat. We’d been on the go continually since we left "up above & even had our turn in the Front Line which the aeroplanes were continually photographing & observing. Fritz was only 20 to 30 yds. off so we had to "camouflage ourselves – lie very low & quiet – during daylight. I cannot tell you more about that 4ward position just now as I may infringe some Reg. so will just add that we had a lucky spin – thank God.

The day B4 our relief we witnessed above us, in a cloudless & calm summer-sky, a terrific aerial encounter. We couldn’t count the ‘planes engaged owing to the brightness & on a/c of the great height, but we did see an Iron Crosser come down in flames & noted the poor airmans’ futile efforts to guide the ‘bus safely to Earth – without avail – Ugh! it’s dreadful!!

Soon afterwards, one of ours, apparently with damaged controls, commenced a spiral descent from that dizzy height, accompanied by a Fritzer which saw that he didn’t escape. The wonderful efforts of our pilot could not help but be noticed as he gradually & gingerly manoeuvred the ‘plane to Earth with the Iron Cross ever hovering over him. I believe he lobbed "O.K. tho. the last few feet drop must have been heavy. Another of ours followed – a nose dive & – well unfortunately, "nah-poo.

That morning had set the aerial-ball rolling, for exactly at dawn Fritz’s first "Contact plane (an Inf. observing ‘plane) came over our lines & our "Archies, after the 3rd shot, tore away his rudder with the inevitable result – Yes, the last head-long dive. We saw the hit & also the fall out of one of the occupants. The thud came sooner than it takes to tell here & we heard it – just to the rear of the Lines – an awful "Zonk.

There’s no saying where the Stunts in the air will end – every day brings along something new . . . At this moment we are making the very best of a very short blow – just out & in & the scene of our repose is on a flat alongside the River S –e, near two Villages which were just to rear of our recent Front-Line & which, almost needless to add, are "nah-poo – Yes, finis – or demolished . . I write from the old prone-position under my spread-waterproof (it has been raining) with the famous River or Canal almost within touch –

It was a very hot day when we pulled up here from the Line & in a twinkling the

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P.T.O.

6.
‘magnetie’ water was being splashed & churned by we "Diggers. Gee! but it was glorious!! Just like a drink of water to a dying-of-thirst man in a sandy desert. The boy couldn’t help enjoying the swim for the water-temperature was noticably warm tho. the Canal is 10 to 15 feet deep & has a current – t’wards A – s.

I 4got to mention B4 that in the advance we roped in a Complete Hospital train, a troopm [indecipherable] & a Field Hosp. ‘Zis said "Herr Lady of the Snows troops boast a Hun Hosp. train with [indecipherable] or more Frauliens as Nurses for the Red Cross, besides other booty too numerous to mention [indecipherable] . . .

The Field Hosp. consisted of Tents, Marquees & Nissen (bow-roofed) Huts & was on a flat, very conspicuous, & having around it, worked in red & white brick & [indecipherable] the not-to-be-mistaken sign of the Red + as a warning to Airmen . . Alongside was a grave-yard with hundreds of his dead since his Mch – April advance inside. The propellor of a Flight-Sergts’. plane stood alongside his wooden-cross & many graves contained two bodies, some having very elaborate memorials – officers, I expect . . Ah, Yes, "C’est la guerre, but we wonder how much longer it is to last. 4 years gone & now we’re into the 5th. God’s will be done! . . .

Today is the 4th year birthday of this glorious old Battn. – Aug. 17th 1914 – but we trust there’ll be no more spent O.A. The day was to be celebrated in a Swimming Gala, but duty otherwise prevented the arrangement . . .

Met young Knight (Col Nixon’s cobber – of the ‘Main) of the Purple & Green bars (2nd) yesterday (now a Lewis Gun "Lance Jack) also Jimmy Duke of the "Gingerbeers. Remr. ‘em to all old pals, s’il-vous-plait . . .

Our Coy. Sergt. Major ([indecipherable]) tells me that Bert was asking after me while he (C.S.M.) was with our Nucleus near D – s. last week. I must keep an eye open for him, it’s good to learn that he is still "OK . . Another pal told me a few moments ago that [indecipherable] had asked him about me while he (the pal) was on a bomb-detonating job not far away. So you see I am pretty well amongst them all. Hope to meet Arch & Bert at a very early date (if we are not "imshee’d back to les tranchées, & will advise you later of success or otherwise . . .

The days are gradually, but surely closing in now, so in a month or so the shivery stuff will be turned on, & the trees, hedges & fields will be at their worst. The elements now ruling tho. are real [indecipherable] – just like an "Aussie Summer, & good-o for swimming & sun-hatching . . . .

But I conclude, my dear Parents & sisters, I must advise you that some more most welcome mail from "W’bool, & elsewhere, has come along. From You I recd. (just [indecipherable] of the Front Line – the supports): Father’s lengthy & full o’news 5/6, Elsie’s 2/6, & Lizzies [indecipherable] enclosing a très bon snap of herself, Ivy Nuthall & "Katoomba girl-friends on the steps of the look-out at the Melb. Botl. Gardens) for all of which you have my Merci beau-Coup. The snap is good-o & I must thank Lizzie for sending it – she’s "some ghirl now.

I might mention that young Aub. Vern, whom I wrote to "on spec from the Line up North, ackgd. my letter & sent a nice one in return, along with a snap of himself [indecipherable] at Moasca (Egypt) where he still is as Pay Sergeant to the 7th Light Horse Regt. I will forward you his letter when I reply & you can read what he says. You know of course, that he is married & has a son & heir – That’s right! He wants to be remd. & sends regards . .

Would dearly like to have the time to fitly comment on Father’s great budgets, but I’m afraid it’ll be well into Winter ere we got a rest of long enough duration. I still have over 50 letters to ackg’e. so I must get a wriggle on . .

Leave is still turned off & the Months are fleeting. My 10th in France is nearly over, but I s’pose the "little bit of Haven will come along soon. Lets ‘ope . .

Ah well, I must with reluctance end up at this as there’s such a lot to do. You’ll have to XQQ the hieroglyphics, but I cannot write plainer at this speed . . Trust sincerely that this finds you all still enjoying the very best of health, spirit, happiness & prosperity & that it will not be very long [indecipherable] we are back again. God’s will be done!

My best regards to all old pals, friends & acquaintances, not 4getting our relatives in & around Melb. to whom also my Love – & all that sort o’stuff. God be with you all till we meet again. I am, my Dear Mother, Father & Sisters, your affectionate Son & Brother

Harrie X X X

[Page 455]
136
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
N. S. Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 456]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 137
"In the Field
‘Sommewhere’ in France. (24N.)
Sat. morn., August 31st. 1918.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
It seems as though I am to continue to have a "rough passage in my efforts to keep up to that weekly compact, for another fortnight has already gone since No. 136 left the "stocks, the delay being caused, of course, by "the exigencies of the service, which, at this present, demand all our time & most of our thought in the carrying out of the stern duty for which we signed on to accomplish nearly 3 years since.

I know that there’s no need for me to tell you the above, or long ere this you will have realised that an Infantryman’s life O.A.S. is far from being a "bed-of-roses – no other branch of the vast service, I think, can be compared to the lot of the old "foot-slogger, not even the Artillery Filed, for "up to-putty conditions, & the rest.

Ah well, I must [indecipherable] the circ’s that now reign, just make the best of the little time available, trusting that the tiny breaks in our lengthy chain will not cause you to worry on my a/c. because God’s will must be done in all things & we must bow to it.

Since No. 136 went away, many experiences, thrills, frights & the rest have been our daily & nightly lot, the commonplace souvenirs, – Cards, etc. – which I sent in-between times, helping to bear out that statement of fact.

As a fortnight has gone I’d better refer to my 5th Diary if I’m to be able to keep you posted in any way as to our doings of course, I must not infringe reg’s., but I’ll ‘run-as-close-to-the-Wind’ as practicable & so keep in "Mr. Censor’s good Books & allow this a "smooth passage in consequence.

First of all, on the Sunday (after Church Parade on the flats of the S – River) I had the unexpected, but great pleasure of being greeted by "Bert, who had cycled along the River’s "Tow-path from his Units’ HQ at the old fashioned Town of D – s. for ‘the special purpose’ of seeing me. Needless to say, in the short time at our disposal we had a great yarn. I gleaned from him that the "Dinkum "Diggers had come down here at the "toot (tout-de-suite) from their old Stationary Hutment Camp at D – e – – e at the same time as we did, but,

2.
instead of following us right thro. the "piece, they stayed here while we were imsheed up North again to help stop the despicable Hun in his great rush towards the Coast – which facts you will have long since read about in your "Aussie papers.

Our "nibbling stunts ‘up above’ are now back numbers, but they’ll all be remembered by Fritz – Prussians, Brandenbuyers & Wurtembuyers, especially.

Bert also told me of his pal’s, (‘Bill Easton) trip to "Blighty with [indecipherable] as the blessé & of the latter’s dash into Matrimony Bill is still there & progressing [indecipherable].

I told Bert of your wishes & Luv, etc., & he wishes to reciprocate. The Lucky beggar is "dwelling on U.K. Leave again already, tho. it is only 8 months (Decr. 17) since he last returned. It leaves us with a bad taste in the mouth when we Inf. learn of those small Units getting such concessions over us, especially seeing that we’ve almost lived in the Line since March last & a rest or change is needed very much.

Ah well, I s’pose "c’est-la-Guerre & the more you do the more you’re expected to, so I’ll just have to continue "boxing-on, always hoping that every day will find me reporting to Battn. HQ’rs. to proceed on leave. I must be getting close, because the 15 months men (15 mos without a spell) are just about due back, the 12 months lot have gone & the 10 & 11 are on the list to go – I’m amongst that batch. The bother is that such big jobs are on tap just over the Ridge a bit towards 24 that we may be going up at the shortest notice to lend further aid, in spite of our just coming out of action.

To get on with the business – Bert had to be back by 2 pm so he left B4 lunch & I had my swim in the lovely River (or Canal). It would have made a very pretty picture from where we were in bivouac (V – e sur S – ) looking towards the old Town of C – e, as tall trees lined each side of the River & the sun was shining good-o – made us feel like being up the Lane Cove only we could not bring our troubled minds to such an un-reality.

Every now & again that "terrible-man ‘d send over a long-distance "Ironmongery shop which would recall the fact that la Guerre was still going strong. Up above, we had for music the ever-present hum of ‘planes coming & going, or the burst of anti aircraft shrap as a Fritzer ventured over – as usual, 12,000 to 16,000 feet above us – bent on watching our movements for der Faderland . . .

We had a few glorious days on the River – flats, during which time we made the best of the River for swimming & punting. The latter sport was supplied by some "souvenired punts found near-by, the lads putting in some good hours up & down the River – better going down with the current, of course.

. . Just B4 the order to pack up again came, the "Eggs-a-cook’d Field Artillery passed over the new Iron-Bridge near us, at the place some "Aussie, or rather Sydney, Unit had named "Circular Quay. I waited & watched for a long while & was rewarded by first seeing Bert? (blow me if I can remr. his name. His folk boarded at Beaver’s old place in Louisa Rd.) who was riding a gun-carriage "moke, & soon after, Col. Shand, likewise mounted.

As the whole Column was on the move there was not much chance of speaking, but I got a few passing words in with Col., learning, with surprise, that "Jacky Grose was at that time in Hosp. with tonsilitis, or some such malady. Hadn’t the opp. to find out about the others of the 26th Battery who still remain, – Billy McPherson, Alf. Whittaker & Geo. Noble, – Jack Goswell & Stan Knight, the others of that Battery, being now in "Aussie – so I can only trust that they are still "OK, or in good jobs. . . Col. looks to be, & is, in the very "pink & he asks me to send on his regards to you all. Please send along to others. Merci . .

Soon afterwards, we were busy packing up & preparing for the morrow’s departure, having been given a lecturette by our genial & adored OC. (Major Geoff. Street, "Anzac – son of Mr. ‘Justice’ Street) on the big stunt B4 us & thro. which some of us have just come scatheless – thro. God’s will.

Anyhow, I must not tell you all we learned, but we realised that there was lots to be done when the "Hop-over came at that momentous "Zero hour – (the hour or time to advance.) I saw & spoke to "Jimmy Duke, 1st. Field Coy. Gingerbeers, & "Snowy Knight of the 2nd. "gravel-crushers – [indecipherable] to us & they send best wishes to all acquaintances "Down Under. We made the best of our last swim (last for the

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3.
time being) in the River on the eve. of departure for "up-the Line. (then much further forward than we’d left it on the night of the 8th inst. & later, on another Sector) I’ve given the savon (soap – sav-vong) lots of work for we knew that it would be days B4 we could obtain enough water to wash or shave in ‘up there’ – a strange thing to say about this [indecipherable] try, but true when it refers to the Highlands, or hilly parts, where we are now.

Our march was a long one – about 9 miles – up hill & down dale, commenced at the dusk, & we passed en-route many of the places we saw for the first time on that foggy dawn of the 8th., – the first "hop over here for us – when the boys did so well all along the "Line.

There was all that remained of poor old H – l, – a once [indecipherable] tho. very ancient village, nestling below the Ridge, across which (the Ridge) ran the two Front lines & B4 which (the village) such big battles were fought – by Fritz in his great efforts to reach A – s, & by the "Aussies when they countered. All that remains now is boh-coo dust, (whitish variety), flattened dwellings, & the stumpy wall remnants of the Eglise (Kirk) – a sorrowful sight, especially when viewed from the Ridge-top . .

A long march brought us to the Village of C – y – G – y, where we "pulled up on the eve’g of our "Hop over, & from the hill above which we watched the "Tommies & "Sammies next day take C – y & the Woods on the opp. side of the River. next day. But that was not our destination.

A few kilo’s further on, down another Ridge, we passed thro. devastated M – t (outside of which I am now writing – in one of Fritz’s late roadside, "Funk Holes) as usual with all these Villages, terribly ancient, dirty & un-attractive, which presented, even in the night-light; a sad spectacle, for shells & bombs had done their work of utter destruction, so the Commune-authorities après la guerre (as with all the other demolished Towns & Villages) will have a clean start to modernise their late Homes, etc. & with thanksgiving we pulled up at 3 am in a Valley behind the Line & occupied the Dugouts & Funk holes made by Otto & Co. recently during his rapid promenade towards unrealised goal – or goals.

Altho. we marched in "[indecipherable] order, our shoulders were terribly sore & it was a great relief to lie down & sleep the sleep of the nearly dead, in spite of the brilliant sunshine which shone outside. Thus, Wasps, ground beetles & "chats did their [indecipherable] & succeeded, in worrying us to death almost – gee, they’re terrible!!

Fritz must have been on their side also, for his "ironmongery & war-time "eau-de-Cologne came out pretty regularly during the day, some lobbing rather close to "[indecipherable]. Overhead, the peculiar noise of the claxton horn kept rapping out it’s uncanny message to Artillery "possies of both sides, mixed with the "rat-a-tat-tatt . . or pop!-pop-pop!!! of machine-guns in action above.

Our big "Sausages looked down on the scenes around from our rear & got in their good & silent work . . . At midnight we came out of our holes, loaded up with extra "ammo. (S.A.A. – small arms ammunition, or ‘303 bullets), Mill’s hand & rifle bombs, ground-fares (by which to show our ‘planes where the furthest advanced part of the Line has reached) smoke-bombs (for guiding our Tanks & veiling ourselves from Fritz, if necessary), 48 hours rations & sand bags.

You talk about [indecipherable] & the baskets of "cabbigee, etc., he waddles round Sydney’s suburbs, but I’ll bet that little load’d break his yellow heart. Ah yes, "c’est-la-guerre, (say-lah-gerr – it is War) but what an extra-ordinary one? No other Unit in the field carries 1/2 the weight, nor have they got to face such odds with such great obstacles hanging on or about them, yet they are credited with lots of things that belong to the old "foot-sloggers – one of the many injustices of la Guerre, I s’pose . .

After loading up, we proceeded to the "tape, along which we had to wait in the open near the front Line till the "Zero-hour – & what a wait it was – gee! An eternity seemed to role-by, & then – great goodness!! – Hell let loose. On what seemed the blast of a whistle Came down the barrage – [indecipherable] pdr’s. belched forth flashing & deafening shrap., 4.5 [indecipherable] joined in with theirs & the 6 inchers tickled up Fritz’ rear.

All round us was the rasp. of hundreds of machine-guns (Vickers) & the noisy trench mortars. Talk about Fireworks-displays – why such trifles are childs’ play to this – only a "barrage

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Fritz did not let us have it all our own way for his "Zonkers, "Crumps, & long distance mach. guns added to the din, as did a big dump of Fritz’s "minnies to our rear which he hit with a shell & caused explosions & a fire which lit up the whole neighborhood as by many arc-lights.

I can’t tell you what part or [indecipherable] Co. played in the Hop-over, but I think we had the worst end of the stick, tho, as it had turned out, the most 4tunate. Anyhow, in less time than it takes to tell, the boys had over-run Fritz’s front outposts – just little trenches detached, with 5 or 6 men in each – his Funk holes on the next line of defense – a railway line & a sunken-road in this case –, & obtained all the objectives.

When I get back, if it’s God’s will I’ll tell you what we did & of our thrills, etc. Suffice to say, that after a terribly hard & tiring day, Fritz was imshee’d out well over the high Ridge in front of us & the boys consolidated the gains, besides souveniring everything in sight.

You’d have laughed had you been with us amongst the shell-holes in a field below the high Ridge to see the Otto’s, Carls & Hermanns rushing down to us with hands in the "Mercy Kamerad position or else waving bits of white rag or paper.

We gave those blokes a "fair go, tho. each 4 got the job of taking out our wounded, after they’d been "ratted (or "Souvenired). I left that part of the business alone because I don’t like touching their private photos, books or papers, tho. it’s a "moral they’ll lose everything they’ve got – cap, shoulder-straps, buttons, P/Cs., photos, rings, watches, etc., etc, etc, – B4 they even reach the old Line.

I don’t think the "Ducks & Geese (M.P’s) or others of the "Royal Sandbacks have anything to collect by the time they reach Division H.Q. . . Anyhow, Fritz seeked to be well up in the game, for he’d generally have something in the Souvenir-line ready to hand out as soon as he reached us.

They were often left in very un-enviable positions on their way in from their late Line or Dugouts because from 3 or 4 different directions fellows in shell-holes would be shouting out [indecipherable] "Come here Fritz you ???? "Ay, Fritz, over here . . – & so on. Poor beggars, they [indecipherable] move fast enough & their hands went up & down like a broken Windmill’s arms in a storm.

There were all sorts of Fritz’s in our "bag – short ones, tall ones, lean, fat & "podgy, dopes & mopes, officers, NCO’s & Privates. The arrogant ones, very very [indecipherable] recd. a good old "Aussie boot "abaft-the-engine-room & were "ratted clean.

Things were too "hot for some time after we’d got our "possy so ‘dig in for dear life’ was the rule. Our stay in that Warm region lasted some days – seemed like a life-time – & I can assure you we were like "kids on Christmas morning when at last we came back here, – & we were thankful to God also.

My "souvenirs consisted only of some Picture Post Cards, (I’ve sent them on to you) a decoration ribbon, which will go home with this letter, "boh-coo Hun-[indecipherable]-cards, boh-coo brass-buttons, some shoulder-straps of the "148th Infanterie Regiment some army books which I handed to our "Intelligence Dept., also 2 bayonets ([indecipherable]) which I’ve packed & addressed to you, but which, to save thieving at the rear Post Offices, my Platoon Commander Lt. Geo. [indecipherable]) has advised me to leave in his Valise till one of us goes to dear England. I hope, God willing, to be going over very soon, so I’ll post them on if they’re still safe here.

Others obtained watches, rings, wallets, belts, masks, (paper & coin) etc., so we did not [indecipherable] badly. I wanted to send you one of their quaint Gas. masks but I find that such things are not allowed to be sent to "Aussie – why, beats me . . .

Our ‘planes, tho. not so numerous apparently as on other Sectors, did some great work & the cumbersome old "Sausages were brought [indecipherable] closer as we progressed towards 24 ([indecipherable] I think I wrote once or twice) – may be the latter soon if this stunt keeps going as it is . .

The day we came out, Fritz brought one of our balloons down in flames not far from us & once more we had the thrilling sight of watching the brave observers falling thro. space till the parachute brought them gently & safely to terra-firma while the solitary Iron Crosser went Home at the "toot while his luck

5.
was in . . . Fritz’s "Flare Kings have had a very rough spin since Aug. 8th & it must be extremely hard for him to carry on.

In most of the outposts (they are all within 20 yds. of each other in a Line) & Funk-holes we found all kinds of flares unused. Bombs off the egg-shape & stick-handle variety were laid out on the parapet & parados in little bundles all already for use, but there seems to be no sign of them ever being thrown as the grass-camouflage was never disturbed.

Our boys must have got old Fritz "on the bounce, or else, as is more like it, he "had-the wind up completely. In his advance – backwards & in the terrible hurry he left equipment, pack, (containing all sorts of impedimenta, clothing & private letters, etc,) great coat, tins of blutwurst, dirty brown or black bread – ‘orrible stuff – rifles, bayonets, amuns. mach. guns "minnies, – & some of everything. Of course many of them came over B4 the barrage stopped & gave themselves up, hence packs, rifles, etc.

Many of the mach. gun posts stowed by the thousands of empty rounds lying about or already bagged ready for melting down at Essen, Spandau etc, so you see he does get thro. some stuff . . . I 4got to mention that the awe-inspiring old Tanks helped us no end during the early part of the stunt, so we must share the honors with them. (They are manned by Tommies – brave fellows) . . .

At present we are just getting our "wind back in Funk-holes on the high bank of a sunken road, but there’s no saying just how soon we’ll be going up again to do some more "boxing on – it’ll be sooner or later, with the 4mer as favorite . .

We can feel that Summer is fast waning for the glorious sun is losing its’ heat & the nights are beginning to close in. We no longer enjoy the day-like nights or the dawn which comes at 2 am but the shivery-stuff has not appeared yet . . . . Interval of some hours –

Young Joe Borthwick has just "blown along from his Battn. Nucleus (stationed at C – e) & I’ve just left him. You can take it from me that he is in the very "pink – tips the scale at over 12 stone – & by his a/cs. I glean that he is one of he prides of the Black & Green horizontal bars in sport. He & Jacky Dexter (R’wick & Coogee amateurs) just about scooped the pool at the 14th Bde. Carnival, so he must be in great form.

Joe & I went across to the 4th (bivouaced on the River-Flats not far thro. M – t. from here) & ferreted out young "Bobbie Davis (Sid’s son) & Ted Clarke (25th of 4th) – another ‘Main lad. I am very pleased to be able to add that both those lads came thro. our recent (Aug. 23rd) "Hop-over without a scratch & are still "A1. Please remr. the 3 of them to all & sundry down your way.

Joe tells me that he met "Skipper Drerman (34th) down at the Base recently where the latter had a job of some kind or other. "Bobbie had met Alf. Whittaker in action near H – l on Aug 8th (our first hop-over) but tho. I saw him on the Ridge so few minutes afterwards he 4got to tell me then.

I understand that Geo. Noble was wounded pretty severally & is still away. Joe’s "Divvy relieved us & carried on the good work to such success that P – e (26) was taken by them & later, I believe, (Yesterday) St. Q – n (24) is also ours. I do not know how much truth there is in it all but we live more or less on rumour up here in the desolate "Push Area, in fact, you in "Aussie know more than we do as regards the military situation from day to day . . .

I don’t think that there’s any other local news I can dispense here just now so I’ll refer to Father’s letters on hand B4 leaving you to wade thro. this hurriedly written lot – time’s awful scarce; hardly enough left to sleep.

Oh! wait a minute! I’ve just been handed another part of a welcome "Aussie mail – 13 letters (with more to come). Those to hand from "W’bool are: Elsie’s (2) of 9/6 (with 2 welcome snaps of Hosp. group & Els, Pearl & Glad in character dress) & 17/6, Lizzie’s 16/6 & Thel’s 9/6 (with 3 snaps of "Alfie & herself on the scooter). Believe me, they are the goods!! Besides those, Aunts Jean(P/C) & May, Les Limond & Mrs Jim Cowan, with others of my kind friends also wrote.

The only thing that worries me now is, how the "dickins I’m to ackge them for I am already overwhelmed with accumulated Mail owing to our long & seemingly endless terms, in amongst the bother. We’ve been going continuously ever since March – just after Fritz commenced his funny business. Ah well, I must just do my best, hoping that those who are so inadvertently kept waiting will understand my –& our – present position as regards corresponding – there are over 50 letters in my pack now

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& nearly every day adds to the batch – English, Aussie & France . .

My stock of View – Post Cards was exhausted yesterday, likewise all the Fritz ones I found [indecipherable] Line, so I don’t know when I’ll be able to purchase any more as this region is noted for its poverty & dirty Villages.

Even the City of A – s (19) contains nothing because the "civvies, or most of them, left there when we first came down on April [indecipherable] tho. by now they ought to be returning for we are a long way in front & it is practically out of range of shell-fire, tho. bombs are sure to be dropped till the end of the "piece on such an important River & Railway Junction.

Guess Fritz will have [indecipherable] some nasty tastes of that Devilish kind of warfare round about his Rhine Towns because his squeaking very loud . . God grant that Peace will be with the World B4 this awful year ends. His Will be done! . .

Dad’s big letter of May 4th is still here. Let me continue . . There’d be no need for suggestions from me re the centre or other designs for the front garden, because you are on the spot & you know what’s best. I’d just love to get back to see it all – & you . . I hope & trust that you will have great success with the "sweet-pea cultivation & the sale of the blooms. There ought to be a ready market for good varieties. The money would be most useful for purposes connected with the Home or by which to augment the bank a/cs. Let’s know how you fare . .

It is real delightful to read your a/cs of the success you’ve had with vege’s & fruit & of your detailed a/c of the garden generally. Only wish I had the time to say more about it here, but it’s as much as I can do now to get these letters written to you at all . .

Glad to learn that Thel’s chickens & fowls are paying their way. She must be an expert now . . . I can quite understand how dear building material, etc. must be now & also how big a job it’ll be to put up trellis-work wind-breaks, etc. Guess they’ll all come in time . . .

Young Jamieson told me all about the Diesel-engine vessel which was up at the "Point – "some novelty, eh? I cannot picture the Mail-boats or others so [indecipherable] being camouflaged. They must looked peculiar.

We have not been on the Coast since last Novr. when one month’s rest was put in about 7 miles over the hills from Boulogne-sur-Mer. Wouldn’t mind being at latter place now – on the way to l’Angleterre or better still, embarking for dear old "Aussie after Peace had been declared. What a dream!! . . .

Yes, we know that most of our Rfts. are now coming here via the Panama. There are some amongst us now who were on the first [indecipherable] transports which came that way (the 26th) & they speak of their great receptions at Panama, Colon, & Jamaica . . ‘Twould be great if we returned that way because lots of us could then say we’d been round the World . . .

I think you will soon change your views re what the "Sammies are going to do in this bit of a "shooting gallery. Those lads do not differ much, apparently, from we "Aussies in physique, ways & ideals – & there’ll be millions here soon – they are new & fresh in the "game & all are eager for a smack at the inhuman Huns. They don’t skite as much as they’re said to, but their deeds will make up for that.

Next year, & perhaps this, will open your eyes – if Fritz doesn’t turn the game up B4 . . . I will leave you to ruminate over the possibilities of the Land, air & sea operations, which, ever ere this reaches you, maybe at their height – only possible for the [indecipherable] America’s timely intervention, for no other purpose than the upholding of Democracy & it’s furtherance & for freedom & injustice. Long live America!!

In the interim I trust sincerely that this letter (about my worst effort) finds you all still in the very "pink, with prosperity & happiness supreme. My best regards to all relatives, friends & acquaintances, hoping also that they are going most swimmingly in all things . . . My Love goes to you, my Dear Mother & Father, likewise Elsie, Lizzie & Thel . . Hoping to be back with you again in God’s own good time. Goodnight & God bless you. I am ever Your Loving & devoted Son & Bro.

Harrie X X X

[Page 457]
137
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool, Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 458]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 143
"In the Field
Somewhere in France (20N.)
Mon. a’noon.
Oct. 21st. 1918.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
Am Feeling "At Home once more, tho. I can’t bring myself to imagine that it’s the "Home I once knew, nearly 3 years since. Still, after the "bit of Heaven so recently enjoyed, when I felt once more like a civilised being – sleeping on beds, sitting down at table to eat & write, washing under taps, etc. etc., looking, like a "country bumpkin, at shop-windows, trams, & buses, trains, & at the electric & gas lamps, etc. etc. – it was not so hard when I had to knuckle down to this hobo-life again, especially after such a long time of it.

Our present "’ome from ‘ome, is not what you’d call "clever as regards comfort, cheeriness, cleanliness or anything that goes to make life, as we know it in "Aussie, enjoyable, because – well, I s’pose "c’est-la-guerre (it is the War) & this is where most of the bother is . . .

I found the old Battalion ensconsed in & about a very old, dirty, & erratically built string of mud-slab & stone dwellings, called a Village, when I lobbed back from my 4 days leave to l’Angleterre. Our sleep of the night B4 in the icy-cold waiting Room at the P – R – station, was not a very refreshing one & the long early morning tramp, with full pack, & other gear, up a seemingly endless hill did not make us any fresher seeing that we’d had no wash & no breakfast .. One of the

2.
Indians’ Forest Labour Camps en-route thro. one of the French Govt’s. Forest Reserves & we gave them the old greeting : "Salaam, Johnny!!, for which we got a like response & rows of gleaming white teeth as they smiled – or laughed really . .

The Battn. – or what there was of it – had been in the dirty old Village – built in the usual haphazard fashion peculiar to all Froggie places down in this region – ever since I left them at P – e a fortnight B4, so they were pretty well used to the environs – empty fields, "boh-coo mud, slushy slipping roads, broken barns, leaky, mud walls, leaky thatched-roofs – & the rest . .

Rain had been & still is – pretty persistent but I s’p-ose we can expect it now that Autumn is on tap. Yes, the leaves are going yellow, dying & falling fast, tho’. there are still some very pretty scenes (pretty at a distance) to be had round about yet. It will not be very long ere the trees are bare & rain sets in in earnest followed by the severe frosts snow & other Wintry elements. Bruh!!

The Village where we were is 4 1/2 kilometres from the one I was in (about Oct 23rd ’16) when the "Divvy ‘Sigs’ left for Fricourt per Motor-Way [indecipherable] & I got the crushed leg which sent me to the 3rd. London . . We passed thro. it (A – le 26 – G) to get a Bath & change & again on our way to the Big Rifle Range & "stunt courses, from whence, I came here today.

Oh! I almost 4got to tell you that I am writing this time from the Billet (a Barn-loft of a small Chateau) of another "school where I was sent this morning to go thro. a course of instruction on mapping, map-reading, sketching, reconnaisance, etc. etc. The "Stunt is to last about 12 days & we commence tomorrow morning with Lt. Stobo (of Balmain & 1st Battn.) in charge of 12 of us from 1st Brigade . .

For the past two days the old Battn. has been getting it "thick & heavy on the Rifle-Range & Bayonet-Course, & the elements have not added to the "joy as rain has fallen regularly making everything where traffic is, muddy & slushy. Firing rifles & doing "stunts under such conditions may look amusing on a "Movie, but its pas bon when you get mud on everything & have to sleep in damp clothes, as we have to.

The Billet there (in the Village of Y – s – A – ) is a large barn over cart-horse, pig, fowl, etc., stables, & the old Bairns father caricature "We are staying at a Farm, is well borne out. Cows make horrible grunts, so do pigs, then the chien ("shee-ang – dog) adds to the joys of the Farm-Yard with its yelps & growls all night long – Marie, Louise & Yvonne are rushing about B4 daylight (it does not come now till nearly 6 am.) feeding the beasts, milking cows & cleaning up. Poor beggars! – they never seem to be finished

3.
Another saying applicable to this "joint is : "Oceans of water & not a drop to drink. Yes, with all their rain, water is not plentiful. A big 200 feet deep well supplies this large farm, but one loses the best part of an hour drawing the precious stuff to the top from that depth. I don’t know how we’d ever get on if this War was on ‘Aussie’ soil, all the same, but with the certain & almost continuous rainfall over here you’d expect better systems, tho. I s’pose there was never such a War as this B4 & the need of so much water was not felt.

Mud, after so much rain, is everywhere & one never feels dry, especially underfoot. Walking along some paths, if down hill, is a task when iron heels & toes adorn one’s boots, but I guess we can’t expect rubber-heels & paper-like soles to them these times.

If things keep going as fast along the front as they are now tho. the time may soon come when we’ll be with you again – ‘God Willing. Oh that it was right now!! – There’s no telling what the near or distant future holds, so we must not be carried away with the great accomplishments of today lest more disappointments are our lot to come. Keep strong of heart & pray for the grand cause, – all will be well in God’s good time.

I do not know how long we’ll be down this way, nor could I tell you if I did, but all depends on the course of events – & they move very fast these days, despite the waning Autumn & the near ushering in of "old King Winter.

I don’t doubt that all the wonderful advances are followed daily very closely by you all "Down Under at this time, & you are learning more about Geography than ever in your lives B4 – as are we. Let’s hope, the folk there keep those supposed "Joy Bells quietly till the time is right ripe – not ring them as they did last year for the unfortunate Cambrai debacle – or almost so. Flag-waving too can be well ‘cut-out’ till the A.I.F. (or what’s left) gets back, or till Peace is really declared, or la Grande Guerre is not "fin-ee yet & der Rhine is still behind the Hung hordes who remain un-killed, un-captured, etc.

I don’t think there’s much else I can gas about just now as regards things here, so let’s switch off on to something else – favors recd. from "W’bool, f’instance. If you could only see the 3 big bundles of letters from yourselves & kind friends that are B4 me, I’m sure you’d have pity on me. For the past 7 months (& longer) letter-writing from

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4.
the Battn. has been a task indeed because we’ve had no time to devote to anything but the job for which we signed on to accomplish. So many letters have come along that there are 3 & 4 from several of my friends unanswered yet, so I’d like you to let any know of my dilemma when they ask what’s happened. . .

I’ll quote here the full list of mail still on hand rom "W’bool so that you’ll be able to see what has survived the journey across, Look out!! – Dad’s : 28/4, 25/5, 5/6, 19/6, 23/6, 1/7, 14/7, 20/7, [indecipherable] & 25/8; Mother’s : 19/6, & 23/7; Els’ : 26/5, 3/6, 9/6 ((2) snaps of Hosp. group & girls in character dress), 17/6, 24/6 (& 1 snap) 2/7 (x N/castle) 8/7, 13/7, 21/7, 29/7, & 25/8 (& 1 snap of "Goonambil); Lizzie’s : 4/6, 16/6, 30/6, 7/7, 13/7, & 28/7; Thel’s : 14/6, 30/6, & 28/7.

Words of mine cannot express the thankfulness I feel for all your kindnesses nor the disappointments because I am unable to answer them all regularly on P/Cs as I should wish. Never mind I must just waggle along as worrying won’t improve a condition of things which must be during such times of crises as these ones we exist in now.

Let’s see what Dad has to say in his earlier communiques, as time flies, etc., & [indecipherable] (– good old "[indecipherable] that isn’t !!) time is nearly on me already . . .

Oh! again lest I 4get . . Young "Teddy Clark (a "Lama-Jack of 4th Bn. with Bobby Davis) is alongside me here being one of the reps. of that his Bn. at this School. He sends best of regards to everyone down your way. Let the cricket, swimming & other "fans in your midst know that he & Bobby have come thro. all the stunts good-o so far. Merci! . . .

Let ‘em go, ‘erb!! Your April 28th I find is the note that came in the parcel you so kindly sent at that time, & it has reminded me (thick head that I am!!) that 4 days ago Mother’s big parcel of sweets came along intact & I cannot find words good enough with which to convey my gratefulness. You can be sure that nothing was wasted & we who partook of the luxuries murmured our thanks & wished for the time when we could be back where they came from.

The only thing is, I think, that you should not have gone to any expense at all over me because I know there’s much you could have done with the good money that it took to get such luxuries to me. I’d always rather that you did not send parcels on that a/c. & also because the chances of them reaching us at the Front are no good at all. We soldiers live much better as regards quantity than the people in England just [indecipherable] so we cannot

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P.T.O. to 2

5.
grumble. There is a big chance of a reduction now tho. on a/c. of the great No. of civilians who have been released from Lille & those other big Towns just taken from the Devil’s own crew. We’ll soon know! . .

With that April note was one each also from Mother, & Mrs. Thompson which I will ackg’e. at earliest oppt’y. . . I have previously made some comment on your May 25th. – let me continue . . . .

It is good to know that Lizzie’s holiday in Melb. with Pearlie made her look so well. Hope she is still "comme ca, (the same) . . I should like to learn that [indecipherable] Alf had gone Sydneywards to live, tho it’d be a pity to let "Goonambil . . . He must be doing well in business to be able to put up another house on the property. It’s a wonder some of the other Unc’s. do not dabble in landed-property . . . The news of unrest amongst them in Melb is not pleasant but I am not really surprised – It’s good we are so far away . . .

Thanks for the news re the "Yac’s doings during these bad times. It’d be a mammoth job to probe that firm’s business "stunts . . . Pity that Els’ term at the Hosp. was nearing completion. Let’s hope she gets the job back again. It must be a good job when the girls stick there so hard –

The news that you are [indecipherable] work at the "Island on the "Adelaide is real good & I trust that all will go well. You must be doing fine work if the "Adelaide is so far advanced. Hope she’ll never be required, nor the others over here ready or those still at Home.

The bustle with wheat-ship & other vessels is good news indeed. What a pity there was so much wrangling about them while "Little Willy was at home. By the way, what’s going to become of he & Cook? Are they still up here. They did not visit the "Immortals (1st Divvy) to my knowledge . . .

Guess I won’t know parts of the old Parramatta when I get back if there are so many new ship-yards on its banks. It’s good news anyhow, tho. some of the pretty scenery must go . . .

Yes, indeed, those Western Suburbs will go ahead now in leaps & bounds & property will [indecipherable] unobtainable in & about Gladesville. What a "heady move on your part in "getting in when you did! I’d like to have [indecipherable] got a block or two there only for this cursed War – it put the acid on lots of aspirations & hopes . . . Am not surprised that so many Balmaniacs are lobbing out your way now. It’ll soon be full of them! . . .

Pleased to learn that the Chatswood block is becoming valuable now that so many places are around it. We may yet make a £ or two out of it. If you can get a good offer [indecipherable] it for tho. please yourself entirely what you [indecipherable]
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P.T.O. to 6

6.
Thanks for describing its’ environs; Very interesting to me . . .

Your big budget of June 5th, containing the 2 startling cuttings about the scandalous treatment primarily meted out to our 1st Divn. batch of returned "Anzacs (6 months "stunt) is B4 me. I wish I could do it justice – My sincere thanks are yours . .

It was with sorrow I learned therefrom of your cut thumb caused by your knife while pruning. You are doubtedly having a very "rough spin but I trust all goes well long ere this . . .

Thanks for advice of mail recd. at your end. I don’t know whether the list of particulars of Post Cards sent you will be interesting but they will be to me later on if – God willing – I get back. Some of those which you ought to have recd. this month are of Lille, Toureon & Rubaix – places now on our side of the Line. They may be of some interest at this time of big deeds . . . Your tip of June re the turning off of the leave-tap proved correct. I also knew it as when big stunts are pending every man jack is wanted . . . . Pleased that young "Codger’s parents found time to call on you . .

The wonderful work you have performed in the garden is phenominal considering that you are one-handed. I’ll have to put in for a week-end or two so that I can lend a hand . . .

It’s true about those Battns. you mentioned being "cut out, tho. I don’t know for sure whether it’s a permanent arrangement or not. They do not belong to the "Immortals, tho. many individuals in them were originals of the first 12 Battns. that left in October. Yes, we know the whys & wherefores of that drastic step . . .

It will be interesting for you to watch the development at Woolwich Yards of the first of the Wooden auxiliaries. They’ll be worth their weight in gold après la guerre. What a pity that that "Lose the War party ever held office. Those boats would now be invaluable, especially for the carrying of those 3 years’ harvests paid for by the "old Dart . . .

Very pleased to learn of Gladesville’s continued advancement in popularity. Land must soon go up sky high in price & none so when les soldats return after la Guerre. Balmain must be a dirty place & crowded out after the new suburb. I long to see it – this life’ll send one mad in time I feel dopey enough as it is . . .

The scandalous treatment meted out to our first returned soldiers (6 months’ Anzac stunt) has got the boys thinking hard here & they are expecting practically a like show when this Hell fizzles out. The N/p cuttings you sent in letter under reply have been perused by many & their caustic remarks against the "heads at Home (far removed from War) does not bear repeating – Wouldn’t be surprised if some "stunts are put up down there when they all get back. Most of [indecipherable] after 3 & 4 years of it are fit for anything like that now & it won’t surprise me if they get out of hand – We’ll see . . .

I’ll now imshee, my Dear Mother & Father [indecipherable] I am hard hit for time. Let’s hope that you are all still enjoying God’s great blessing & that happiness & prosperity is your desirable lot.

Best of Love to You all & trusting in God’s time, if it’s His will, to be with you again once more – I am you aff. Son & Bro.

Harrie X X

[Page 459]
Mr. R. E. Cave
c/o Goonambil
Dandenong Rd
Caulfield
Victoria

[Page 460]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 146
"In the Field – still
Somewhere in France (57 & 60)
Sat. eve., Nov. 16th 1918.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
It seems as tho. I am going to have a "rough passage now in my efforts to keep up to the old time-table, as for the past fortnight I’ve been trying in rain to squeeze in a few idle mo’s to spend with you.

The trouble is that I am in charge of "A Coy’s Orderly-Room, having relieved "Doug Clark who is now a Sergt. & of course in the ranks, & there’s lots of work because in the Companies one is lone-handed & is Pay-clerk, mail-clerk, correspondence-clerk, enquiry bureau & encyclopedia all rolled into one, so by the time everyone’s job is done for him, little time remains for me to spend with my own accumulated correspondence.

It is worse just now because the old Bn. is on the move, & has been for over a week, & everything in the mail Line is interrupted – I am not allowed to tell you where we’re bound for but by the time you receive this, your "dailies will have "broken the news to you.

Anyhow, it will be a great experience for us all if we do go there, for another foreign country, besides many more Villages, Towns & cities, will be added to our already lengthy list & we’ll see for ourselves just what the effect of this dreadful "Hell on Earth has been amongst the inhumans who lit the "Hell-fire on July 31st ’14.

Of course, there’s nothing known as to what’s B4 us, but ‘tis said that we are to move keep moving up, so we can only live on the rumours & "Dinkum Oils which filter thro. so regularly & percolate amongst us.

2.
– that’s what keeps us alive – "Dinkum Oils.

I think, if I’m to make any kind of a letter of this, I’d better hike back to where I "launched my last (No. 145) from, a fortnight since – the Brigade "School.

Well, a day or so afterwards the daily expected "break-up order came along & we were imshee’d back to our Battns, having for most of the time done no studying whatever & learnt less. This was because of the glowing War News – Austria, Turkey & Bulgarias’ capitulation, etc. – & the urgent calls made by Bde. H.Q. on our "Teacher who is chief of the Branch known as "Intelligence – a branch which deals with all the Technical & other difficult problems connected with a modern Army in an extra-ordinary kind of War.

Anyhow it was a relief to get back to the Bn. because one is out of touch with everything when he’s away from it & "schools get on one’s nerves – they do with me anyhow, because I cannot put my mind in the Work. I had only been back with the Coy. a day or so when Orders to take to the "road for a destination unknown came along.

Three times we packed up & were sent back to Billets (such a lovely "Home too! – dirty, stinking & rotten barns in a likewise Village, one as poor in everything as ever we’ve been in yet) B4 finally setting out. Of course, being Infantry, we each were our own "transport so carried all the furniture on our backs & shoulders. Luckily good elements prevailed on the way to the troop train, as our task would have been unbearable with rain on the roads & mud everywhere. Wayside scenes en-route were not exciting to us, because we see them so often on this side of the "Gutter & writing about them is monotonous because there so little variation.

Anyhow, "Old King Winter is gradually being felt & the scenes all reflect his already early influence – trees, hedges & shrubs losing their foliage, "Froggies busy ploughing their fields in readiness for next harvest; the short hours of daylight, the weak sun (when he’s out) & the mists. Part of our route was along one of the "National Roads – cobbled & tree lined – & it was hard going, especially as it consisted of many steep hills.

At the railway yard it was our job to load the Battn. & Brigade Transports & the boys were soon "bogging in, pulling, pushing & lifting on to the open trucks at the siding. AMC. wagons, limbers, "Cookers, Water-Carts, Mess-Carts ("Maltese), "GS. Wagons & other gear inseparable from a move by rail by a Battn. or Divn.

We hadn’t finished when darkness fell so big acetylene lamps were turned on (there’s no fear of Gothas now – it seems so strange) & they enabled us to "box on till the long string of trucks making up the troop-train were loaded & the wagons etc. lashed down. Our "carriage was the usual "Horse-box (Hommes (Mer) 35-40, [indecipherable] 8 Horses) into which 30 or more of us, with our gear, had to pack

3.
& squeeze for the journey ahead.

We "salvaged some coal & wood & soon had a fire going in the brazier (oil drum) for the nights now are very cold (très froid). The "carriage was closed up & it was not long ere the air was so thick that it was difficult to see or breathe thro. it. Gas-Helmets would have been far better on than off but we didn’t bother. By 1 am we were all asleep & the journey was well on its’ way.

I remr. going thro. poor old Amiens & it’s two Stations & thoughts of our last visit there recurred to me – the hurried rush down from the North; the arrival at our destination in the "wee sma’ hours; the march (with all gear aboard) thro. the deserted City’s boulevards & streets out to Allouville; the hurried rush back again from Molliens-au-Bois; the thrills at St. Roch Stn. (Amiens Yard), where "Jerry was sending over his long-distance "crunchers right amongst us; (Oh, the dirt, dust, scatter, blessés & morts – what a memory!) the aerial bombs from many Gothas that night; the vain efforts of the "Ack. Acks (anti air craft guns) with aid of many big searchlights to prevent the Mechanical birds unwelcome visits; the zonk, zonk, zonk!! of bombs & aerial torpedoes; the march up to the Amiens Asylum thro. the empty streets to where our Billet was for the night, etc etc.

There were other memories too as we passed thro. the outskirts, but sleep, & the efforts to keep warm, were uppermost then. Our journey was a painfully slow one – we’d go one mile & stop for 2 or more hours.

At Day-break we found ourselves at a place called (on the map) Omiecourt, not far from Chaulnes & Lihons (Somme), the scene of some very severe fighting & absolute desolation after the August Stunts in which the Diggers & [indecipherable] & Blokes took such a prominent part.

The remainder of the "tour was done in daylight across the recent Battlefields & many were the mind-pictures we found as we passed enormous craters, millions of shell-holes, blown up bridges & culverts, "nah poo’d Villages, hamlets & Communes, over-turned & smashed carts, artillery limbers, [indecipherable]-limbers, gun-carriages, remains of once pretty woods & copses, overturned Rail’y carriages & trucks, lone graves of Huns with the familiar "Tin-At & Mauser marking it, our own lone graves, little cemetries made by "Jerry with some crosses smashed by flying shell-pieces & shrap., smashed canal locks, old trenches & the shell-holes all round & in them, (ugh!!) & so on ..

Round about poor old Perrone (which the Diggers took in early Sept) & Mont St Quentin (a low hill overlooking the latter) the scenes of destruction were awful. B4 Fritz went, he mined all the Bridges across the fast flowing Somme R; the big steel Railway one being in a terrible mess.

It was from Peronne Sud (south) that we came out to from the "Red Line (old British trenches) overlooking Bellicourt & from whence I departed on my recent 14 days’ U.K. Leave. Oh, lest I 4got!! Mention of Bellicourt reminds me that B4 I we left to come here I was in charge of an Escort to our Corps Clink at Flixecourt & while waiting there, met a

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P.T.O.

4.
Corpl. of the 29th Bn. (one of "Tivvy’s Chocs) so I asked him about young Johnny Bell (Aunt Alice’s step-son) & Jim McKechnie. The news I recd. of the 4mer proved stunning, for the Corpl. was in charge of the Secn. that "Johnny was in & knew the latter well, in fact, they were old pals.

Their "Divvy (& the Yanks) took over the Hindenburg Line near Bellicourt (N.W. St. Q.) from ours at end of Sept. & continued the "Push. Fritz did not put up much of a show, but the Corp. tells me that during one of our many barrages his Secn. (in which was John) took cover in a big shell hole on the other side of Bellicourt & while there another shell filled itself in the same "possy, with the result that a few more heroes go to swell the now lengthy list of "Morts-pour-la-Patrie, (Yes, "dead for their Country) & amongst them was Johnny.

Gee, but it’s dreadful! I have not written to Aunt Alice since I replied to her last, so if she mentions their sad loss you can give her the above information.

As for Jim McK., well, I knew that he transferred to the 5th Pioneers but I thought the Corp. may have met him but No.

I told you in a previous note that I learned of Young "Codger Fergusson’s death in action near Bellicourt (Hindenburg Line) on or about Sept. 22nd, well, I believe the date was Aug 18th, or thereabouts, which, if true, would make his whereabouts then round about Chuingnolles – Proyart – Chuignes (Somme, South bank) which places the old 1st Brigade took with a record No. of prisoners. I will tell you all about that stunt later on. She’s "some memory! Poor "Codger! – God have mercy on his soul & comfort his dear folk.

. . . Perrone looks very "sick now, but it is a Paradise in Comparison to Ypres & some of the Villages, now historic thro. the Hell round them in this awful War . . .

A "snail’s pace was fast in Comparison to our journey back to the "4ward Area (that’s where we were bound – to be in readiness for the Huns’ Armistice answer "Yes, meaning "fin-ee War "fin-ee Kaiser & Hohenzollerns, "fin-ee Junkers & "fin-ee Germhun-ie; "No, meaning "Box on till [indecipherable] was another shambles as Belgium & France & their "last man & last bob (or mark) was were "nah-poo.) that’s why we’re here now – a place called Busigney (near le Chateau) – just so we’ll be close to "Box on or "Box off.

You’ll wonder why I mention these places but the situation must be so good now that we are allowed to tell you almost anything, even when we’re going to – & here it is, – Yes, we’re going into the Land of the Huns (the modern Huns) at any old minute & the place there in that now dejected & down-hearted Country is Coblentz on the confluence of der Rhine & Moselle

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P.T.O. to 2

5.
Your papers of today’s date will have told you more than I know even tho. we’re on the "spot almost, but we are part of one of the Armies of occupation & our presence is to help enforce the only terms that can be thought of after such a Hell-on-Earth – absolute capitulation by Germany.

I don’t know when we are going, but ‘tis said that at any old time now we move off per "shanks & full pack, a distance of nearly [indecipherable] miles. We may get a lift on the "choo-choo for part of the way but it is not guaranteed because "Heinie has mined many miles of Rail during his retreat, so it will take some time to get them & the bridges fixed up B4 a train can pass thro. . . .

On the way up here from [indecipherable] (near Abbeville) we put in a night at Epehy in Tents & it was quite strange for us to be there without aeroplane-guard (a Lewis-gun team) or gas guards. Lights were burning (& fires too) for well into the night but there was no need for anyone to yell "look out!! for Jerry’s ‘planes do not come over now – they have finished their dirty work.

Instead, we watched the flittering head & tail lights of our big Handley-Pages as they flew over amongst the stars on their deadly mission for at that time the Huns had not asked for armistice. Those Handley-Pages droned & hummed in all directions & they reminded us of only a little while since when the Gothas were not idle on our side of the Line . . .

Next day we were put in 3 ton wagons & taken to Bazuel, a large Village near the Town of le Cateau, thro. which we passed. The ride was a very interesting one to us because we traversed the very Battlefield over which we’d fought & advanced from Sept. 18th till 23rd – in front of Jeancourt & Hesbecourt, thro. Hargicourt, (skirting Templeux-le-Grand) & Villeret to the old British "Red Line in front of Fritz’s boasted Hindenburg System at Bellicourt.

The day turned out beautifully fine clear & fresh & we saw the scene under good conditions. Needless to say we had some sad memories too, for we lost some grand pals round about the old Line – Cpl. Len Gosper, Sgt. Fred Bingley, Young Skipper, Capt. Moffitt, Lt. "Gerty Page & Lt. Bull occur to me now out of "A Co. Yes, "Morts pour la Patrie . .

On the strength of the Corpl. of the 29th’s statement, I kept a sharp look out as we went thro. demolished Bellicourt & Estrees for any sign of Young "Johnny Bell’s grave, but I had no success. In green hillsides about B’court & Estrees we could follow the different shell-barrage lines by the pock-marks or shell-holes. All is serene now, & one cannot picture the awfulness which held sway only a few weeks B4.

As we progressed, the devastation & demolition of Villages lessened in extent & then we came to Villages (Premont, Maretz, Bazuel, etc.) & the Town of le Cateau where French & Belgian

6.
citizens & refugees have lived under the iron heel of Hun discipline for over 4 years. They were mostly very old folk & youngsters & none looked too fat on it.

The 2nd "Aussie Bn. had gone thro. those places the day previous to us but the Villagers did not quite "Compree what we were. Some of the poor souls at Bazuel had heard of us from the Hun Infantry who used to Billet there when the "Line was down on the Somme, & by all a/cs. the "Diggers had the "wind up of "Heinie for they used to say to the "Froggy civilians: "Australian soldats avance toute-de-suite, meaning that we came at them very quick.

We left the wagons at Bazuel a large Village near the big Town of le Cateau (on the River Selle) & the whole Brigade marched past. I noticed "Curly Wise & Snowy Knight of the 2nd, Bob Davis & Ted Clarke of the 4th. They are still "OK.

Our Billet ("A Co) was in an old Flour Mill (works by a water-wheel) alongside a fast running stream below a Ridge, on top of which "Jerry had put up a bit of a stand, judging by the machine guns, rifles, anti-tank Bullets (almost small shells) & gear. The Mill owners were still there & had many tales to relate of the Huns & their occupation.

We "souvenired many mach. guns, trench Mortars & other implements, round about during our few days there, but everything as to future movements was in doubt as at that time the War was still going strong up past Landrecies & other parts of the Front.

Great excitement prevailed amongst the civilians when the news of the Huns’ monster white Armistice flag & the Emissary party was heard about; but the [indecipherable] tho. elated, were not boisterous.

The 11th inst. was awaited with great interest because that was the day on which the Huns were to announce their Armistice decision – to accept or not. We have not seen a paper here for a long while, but we believe that all goes well towards the desired ends or we’d have been "all ez’d up to the "Shooting Gallery "toot sweet ere this . . .

My next week’s letter, Dear Mother & Father may be written when I am not so busy, tho. I fear (or think) that we will be well on the way per road to Hun Land so the chance is that another 4tnight or more may elapse ere I can find the opp. You must XQQ this rambling note because I have so much to do that I cannot concentrate my mind on all that I want to say here.

Oh! B4 I finish let me add that Bert came to see me while we were at Bazuel [indecipherable] here (Busigney) & I’ve met Will Easton, his pal. Bert is still same & sends Love etc. Will tell you more next time, so till then may God continue to bless & keep you in good health, spirit & prosperity. Best of Xmas & N. Year greetings from Your Affectionate Son & Bro.

Harrie X X X X

[Page 461]
146
Mr. & Mrs. H. E. Cave,
"Warrnambool
Bateman’s Road,
Gladesville,
Sydney,
New South Wales
"AUSSIE

[Page 462]
[The following pages of this letter are not in chronological order in the volume. They have been transcribed in correct order]
No. 147
Still "in the Field –
En-route to der Rhine & der Faderland – perhaps
Avesnes, Sun. eve.
Nov. 24th 1918.

My Dear Mother, Father & Sisters,
It does really seem as tho. the greatest war of the ages has "come a thud at last, because for nearly a fortnight we’ve been traversing, per train & "shanks’, the recent Battlefields of la Somme & the region round about St. Quentin & le Cateau to this place, Avesnes, & the only sounds of the late "Hell-on-earth we heard, or hear, are the occasional "booms!! of clockwork exploded mines laid by "Heinie, which go up under Railway bridges, canal-locks, cuttings, etc., or the casual firing of souvenired Hun rifles or "Emma-gees. Yet we can hardly bring ourselves to believe that all the fighting has ceased or that there will not be any more later on.

Our long trek is still "on tap & we are not sure yet how far we’re to go. We were told last week that Coblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine & the Moselle, was our objective whither we were to proceed with one of the Armies-of-occupation (perhaps Rawlinson’s 4th) by road & rail. At present we are with the 9th British Corps. & we expect to cross the Belgian Border down this way during tomorrow’s march, as it is not so far away, after which comes the crossing of the River Meuse.

Since I wrote Letter No 146 (from Busigney, near the big Town of le Cateau) we have "padded over a few more kilometres of French roads & soil in an easterly direction & have worn out a few more good old "Aussie Boots in our efforts to catch up to some rail head where there’s a chance of a lift into "Yermany.

We have also lost a great deal of honest sweat humping the old "pack, "ammo, rifle, etc., along the cobbled Roads, but altogether the trek has been a very pleasant because, despite the lateness of the year, lovely weather – sunny, clear & "nippy days – have favored us, (tho. they are so very short of daylight) & our thoughts are turned away from the Hell we’ve lived in for some so many terrible months & years to the hopes of an early re-union with those we Love so much in the only Land – worth going to – dear old "Aussie & U.

We still see around us the awful scenes of devastation & desolation, tho. the further we go, the more pleasant & less battered becomes the Towns, Villages & Hamlets or detached Farm-houses. Here & there can be seen the effect of a "Hop-over barrage – many shell-holes in the Fields, smashed hedges, trees & holes in the roads & on the roadsides etc. – or the scenes of little isolated stunts (with bombs & machine-guns) with "Jerry’s quaint old "Tin ‘ats & bits of his leather-equipment, lengths of used machine. gun belts, empty

2.
cartridge-cases, stick handle bombs, which were never used, Jerry’s mess-tins, etc., roundabout the little Trenches that may have been outposts. Those scenes were seen continually along the route & they all told their own tales.

Under the old apple trees, in what were once orchards, could be pictured the blue-grey Hun artillerymen sending over to us their 77’s ("whizz bangs), 5.9’s (what memories!!) & heavier stuff, for in their hurry to pull their guns out of danger they’d left dumps of shells in their basket-carriers, cordite & boxes.

A near by huge shell-hole (or many) would help one to picture our spotting aeroplanes overhead & our gunners way back behind the advancing Inf & Field Artillery, making the 9.2’s & 12 inch howitzers cough & spit fire when the dreadful "souvenir was sent on its’ way to knock freedom & right overnight to the ‘schwine’-heads of obstinate Huns . . Here & there bridges over little streams had been mined, but Engineers & Pioneers had followed close behind the Inf & put up temporary structures & so allowed that nations mail, "ammo, etc., to go ahead.

Fritz made a "monty of the heavy guage Rail’y Lines B4 the Armistice was arranged (11 am on Nov. 11th) & in places great craters have made breaches that will take some filling. Most of the bridges are "nah-poo, but those sort of things can be expected in War – it’s only what we’d do in a like position . . . Passing thro. St. Souplet we saw the damage done by shell fire & bombs, but the poor French people who remained amidst their shattered houses could still find the heart to smile & wave us bon chance (good luck) as we went on.

And, so it was in all the places we went thro. One day’s trek got us to a mean Village called on the map, Ribeauville, where we learned lots about the Huns who used to Billet there when in Reserve.

An old madame (back once more in what remains of a once happy Home) with hubby & little girl, tried hard, by actions & French rattled out like water rushing over "Govett’s Leap, to explain to me how dirty & lazy "Jerry was in his habits. She was there when ‘he’ broke through on March 21st & commenced his march to "Par-ee & the Coast. "Jerry was very boastful & proved ‘He’ was fond of repeating daily what they were going to do when they reached the great prize – poor sorrowful Paris – but when madame indignant, but wonderfully proud of her country, told "Jerry that they’d never reach Paris till the last soldier had died ‘he’ got very wild & annoyed.

It was as much or more than those poor people dared do to sing any patriotic songs or whistle the ‘airs’ for the Hun was riled to his depths & would flourish the sabre or bayonet at any one who so far 4got themselves.

Madame told me also that English prisoners were much prized, as from them were taken much needed clothing & boots of which the Hun was badly in need. They were treated very harshly – much more so than the Belgian or French – & were almost starved.

The poor unfortunate folk of those Villages were all driven back out of the danger-zone when the Advance was in full swing but many elected to say so braved the awful ordeals of shell-fire & bombs. Many from thereabouts made for the large town of Valenciennes (of Lace, etc., fame) on the Franco-Belge. Frontier) where they remained till its’ fall recently B4 returning to their old Homes some came back to find them

3.
pillaged, & looted & perhaps razed to the ground during intense barrages or by big shells sent over to root out the Bosches.

Madame’s ‘maison’ ("mez-ong – house) had a lot of damage done to it but was habitable; not so with others tho. The old dames looked very sorrowful & would often, in conversation to us, wring their hands & shake their weary heads when memories of only recent dates crossed their minds re the Devil’s own-crew. Ah yes, it is all very sad & "Aussie & the "Aussies must consider themselves extremely well favored that such scenes & heartbreaking aren’t theirs’ today . .

We did not stay more than a day – perhaps 30 hours – in any one place, but continued the trek to the much quieter destination, (Coblenz) which day by day seems to be losing in favor, despite our continued Easterly course which is taking us that way. No one seems to be sure of what is B4 us so it will be no surprise if the next in favor, Brussels, (Belgium’s nominal Capital) turns out the "Dinkum Oil . . .

Fritz was hustled very badly along the routes further back from the "Hindenburg Line, judging by the good state of roads, Villages & Fields which met our gaze. He even did not have time to load up the machinery & boilers of the Catillon Milk factory (‘Laiterie’) which he had moved on to a specially built staging alongside the Landrecies road in readiness for immediate removal to "Yermany. Near by were also ‘dumps’ of harvesters, barrows, ploughs & other agricultural implements gathered together perhaps for the same purpose.

It is marvellous where all the blue – white & red flags (drapeau) of "La Belle Francoise which fly from the windows of the villagers’ houses have come from – we see them everywhere . .

Another day’s trek brought us to the big Village of Prisches which, like most we’ve been in shows many signs of the Grande Guerre (the Great War). Lots of its inhabitants imshee’d in [indecipherable] when the Hun commenced his Hellish & never-to-be-4-gotten World-domination stunt, but many held on thro. the 4 1/4 years of occupation & were there when we "pulled up & Billeted in their midst.

Our "Home-from-Home was one of the 1914 vacated places which faced the Church (L’E’glise) & part of the square & it suffered – "boh-coo damage by bombs. We slept on the cold stone floor but it was only for one night – we left next morning for this place – the Town of Avesnes, or really its’ adjoining outskirt, Avesnelles . .

Many of us at Prisches essayed the climb to the quaint Tower-top (square) of the old church from where we had a great panoramic View of the surrounding countryside. It was très bon! Only a short distance away was a village with "Bogie’s name, Yes, Beaurepaire, which I should liked to have visited if we’d been at Prisches for more than an afternoon & night. I must tell him about it when I write.

Fritz had been using the Tower-top as an "O.Pip (observation-post) for there was a sentry Box there which had been up some time. The Bell was a massive one with a beautiful clear & loud ring. The old Curé had to lock the rope on a/c of our fellows trying its’ tone so often. Down below us could be plainly seen the damage done round the square by bombs & a slight idea of the sight an airman sees was B4 us.

The town I now write from is pretty big but of course there’s no shops & "nothin’ doin’, tho. the lights from many windows give the impression of the days B4 Hell was let loose here below by the "all Lowest & his "Kultured band of murderers, rotters, & all that’s Devilish.

This day’s [indecipherable]
[The following text is written along the left-hand side margin:]
P.T.O.

4.
"literary oration, my Dear Parents, brings you in line with me as I am today – just one of an "Aussie ‘pilgrim-band’ bound for goodness knows where. We are all happy in our funny old Army way tho. because, tho. advancing, we feel that it’s not to action again but just a long way round on our way to dear old "Aussie – & you.

We don’t know yet, how or when we’re to get home, but "cheerio everything’s "jakerloo & there’s no need to worry. We may go back as a Battn’ from the Battle Front or in groups throughout the Army Corps ("Aussie) according to our service abroad – Yet, we may not. No one knows yet, but I s’pose the "Oil ’ll come when we get to Coblenz – or according to latest "oils, Brussels (Belgique) . . .

During the week I received a letter each from Aunt Annie & Mrs. Thompson of Eastbourne (nee Henrietta Cave, sister to [indecipherable] Bowman of Wilmslow, m/c). I had sent the latter a "whizz bang & her letter came in ackg’t. & asking me to come & see her without fail if ever I reached Eng. again. I’ll send the letter on when I ackg’e. Aunt is still "OK & as usual sends her Luv – & all that sort o’stuff . . . Other thank those favors, nothing has come along from England, in fact [indecipherable] "promenades of today have got the Postal Dept. in a sweat as they can hardly keep up to us.

I think I advised you in my last of the receipt of a much welcomed batch of letters from "W’bool but in case I 4got, here it is: – Father’s (2) 7/9 & 15/9, Mother’s 11/9, Elsie’s (2) 3/9 – with 3 "good-o snaps; 2 of Pte Jackson’s house & one a panoramic view looking t’wards the "Island, & 15/9. Lizzie’s 26/8 & Thel’s. [indecipherable]. Once more I tender my genuine thanks for they have helped no end to continue carrying on with this most un-natural life . .

So little time is mine now while I’m in charge of "A Coy. Orderly Room combined with the almost daily trek that I cannot get a "fair go with outward correspondence, so you must not think that I 4get you or am lazy for that would not be right . . .

B4 me now is Father’s grand letter of July 28 so I will make some reference to it here B4 posting this. Enclosed were 2 very interesting n/p. cuttings relative to the launching of the HMAS "Adelaide & the IWW cases in which Scully & the "Lose the War Govt. were concerned. Merci!!

I was very sorry to learn of your further bad Luck – a strained back is a very unenviable malady. It was more un4tunate when it came during your Spring planting season. I am hoping sincerely that you are now "A1 again, my Dear Father . . . Would much liked to have witnessed the launch of our new cruiser "Adelaide from the "Island. [indecipherable] Lizzie & Thelma enjoyed the sight & the roam round the Workshops afterwards. Has the "Brisbane been on service in the North Sea yet.

[The following text is written along the left-hand side margin:]
P.T.O. to 2

5.
Evidently "she has been on some voyage to be back in "Aussie for overhauling . . . I am glad to learn of the great activity at Home in the ship-building Line. Those Wheat-ships are badly wanted now . . .

Pleased that Els. has returned to the Hosp. on duty, even if only for so short a spasm. She may get on the permanent staff yet . . . So you’ve had ‘[indecipherable] coo rain at last – gee! Sixteen & 1/2 for Jervis Bay in a week is tall going, but I s’pose it was very badly needed. It seems strange to talk droughts over here because I don’t think any one up this side "compree them & they get their rain so very regular – too regular for us! . . .

Would dearly like to see your wonderful display of sweet-peas. From all a/cs. they are also beautiful – good-o! – Sorry that I won’t be Home in time to partake of any of the "King Edward peaches or other fruit guess [indecipherable] be "nah-poo long B4 Easter, which is the very earliest, I think, that we can be back by now – tho. there’s no telling exactly . . . Your [indecipherable] supply of fresh vege’s. seems to be keeping up well, thanks to your wonderful efforts lonehanded – good-o! . . .

I was awfully surprised to learn from Your’s under reply of Young Ted Bolus’ death in action, in fact, I could hardly believe it till others from "Down Under reiterated the news – Gee, how sad! He must have been in the Villers-Bretonneux with the 13th Btn. at that time. My sincere sympathy to his folk . . It is news to know that Young "Artie Cowd has stopped another one. He seems to be in a very combatant Unit. What’s his Battn?

I must be extremely 4tunate to have come thro. as I have up to now. It seems without doubt that it has been God’s will . . . Glad to know that "Bluey Kemp is still in constant work at the Island. Tell him that he won’t know very many of the present "Tock-Emma-Beers as very few of the originals are left now. Thank him for his wishes. Same to him . . .

I can’t quite "compree the dirty underhand work being carried out at Home by those rotters in the Police, Govt. & etc. re the Scully scandal. It seems as tho. a great deal of good money is being frittered away while the soldiers who return are left to do the best they can . . Where’s it all going to end? It seems as tho. the "Nationalists will go to any extreme, no matter how long low down, to gain their dirty end . . .

No Billy Hughes & party did not come near the Inf. Battns. of the "Immortal Divvy (1st) but our "Anzac Bulletin a month or so back shows him speaking a few "Diggers in "some where. He may have gone down the Somme way to the other 4 Div while we were on the Bailleul-Merris-Strazeele etc. Sector . . .

Hope the Govt. find some solution to the Meat trouble & the fixing of prices. For a long while the same trouble with the [indecipherable] was experienced in Eng. regarding the refusal to send their produce to Market. I think Rhondda fixed ‘em up. There’s enough trouble up here with Food distribution without it extending

[The following text is written along the left-hand side margin:]
P.T.O. to One

6.
to "Aussie . . .

I am real pleased to learn of the continued good health of Dear Mother & the girls & only trust that they’ll keep so & that you will long ere this be "in the pink again . . . I am still longing for the time when I’ll be back with you, this horrible life ended for all time, & to hear Thel play some of her pieces. It is good to learn of her great progress at school & with her practises – good-o! She must indeed be quite a young lady now. Just fancy, she was only 10 years old & quite a youngster when I left you – 3 years in less than 3 weeks hence . . .

I’m glad you realised that the Allies could not have great Victory without corresponding great losses. One needs to see the aftermath of just an Ordinary "Hop over to get some idea what it means when the communiques say, f’rinstance, : "we advanced our line 800 yds. on a wide Front yesterday or : "Our Infantry, assisted by many Tanks, captured the enemy’s 4ward [indecipherable] of Trenches on a wide front with very few casualties. Um! I wonder how they’d explain away a colossal casualty – List? Anyhow, it doesn’t matter much now, tho. those HQ. communiques do rile one when the stunt is called a "minor action or a "straightening of the Line with no losses worth talking about . . .

Your Aug 8th is no less interesting – & wished I could do it justice, but time flies & so must I as opportunities are now so few. XQQ my hurry . . . Like yourself, I do not know why such days as Bank Holiday, Kings’, Queens’, Princes’ etc Birthdays are kept up. There ought to be a clean sweep of such rot & a new lot of Holidays for present great events instituted – They are pas bon of course when the "filuce is turned off . . You must have got thro. an extraordinary amount of work on Bank Holiday – but it must be too hard on you. I hope to soon be back to lend a hand or two so [indecipherable] . .

Thanks for ackg’t of mail. Glad to know that you get something in nearly every mail. A break now & again is inevitable in this [indecipherable] but the receipt of such a big lot, even in spasms is good to know about. I hope you found something worth reading in the letters & P.C’s. tho. I [indecipherable] that they all savor of the same old stereotyped thing . . .