Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales

Marks war diary,7 August 1914-21 December 1918
MLMSS 2879

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1914
August 7th
a.m. Received notice of Mobilisation of Australian Rifles (29th Infantry) at Drill Hall, Rozelle at 9 a.m. Marched off 3 p.m. for duty at Bobbin Head. From then till the end of August the Regiment engaged on Coast Defence work. Demobilised about August 28th.
September 7th. Went into Depot Camp at Kensington. Camp moved to Roseburg Park next day and some weeks later to Rosehill where the 13th Battalion was formed. Camp then moved to Liverpool where serious training was entered into.
November 23rd. Battalion entrained from Melbourne about 7 p.m.
November 24th Lunch at Albury
November 25th Went into camp with the remainder of 4th Inf. Brigade at Broadmeadows. Spent a pleasant time in spite of fearful conditions prevailing at the Camp. Rotten train service to Melbourne was considerably augmented by numbers of motor-buses and taxis. Our field operations and manoeuvres attracted the local hawkers in droves. The cries of "Who’ll have a Kooler" and "Hot Frank-furt!" are still memories. Only one of many types of camp followers all differing from our quite commonplace vendors of Liverpool. Broadmeadows

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1914
[Ship numbers not transcribed]
produced that name for Rumour – A tall yarn is now always a FURPHY. (Furphy Carts were used to empty the latrines.)
December 17th. Brigade marched through Melbourne, the first time a Bde. with all 1st line transport has passed through an Australian City..
December 22nd Entrained early for Port Melbourne and embarked on H.M.A.T. 38 (s.s. Ulysses.)
Sailed 8 p.m. and anchored in stream. 13th & 14th Bns. and Bde. H.Q. on board..
December 23rd. Sailed 5 a.m. Pleasant trip, no one sick. Accommodation good for all ranks. 14th Bn. endeavour to swank before the savages from across the border. At first meeting of officers and in fact all subsequent ones, the 14th ranged on starboard side and 13th on Port side of smoke room.
December 28th (Monday) Arrived Albany 5 a.m. Anchored in outer harbour, No leave. Waiting for concentration of Convoy ( 19 ships and 1 submarine.)
December 31st Subalterns of two Bns. now on good terms.
1915
January 8th 12th. Transfer of mails effected in mid-ocean. "Ceramic," "Suevic," and "Persic" headed for Aden direct.

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1915
January 13th. (Wednesday) Arrived Colombo 7 a.m. Anchored inside breakwater. My first view of the Orient. Though the harbour does not carry a "spicy" breeze, the sight of Cingalese boatmen propelling a barge certainly does give one a "lazy" feeling. Officially no leave. In spite of this some hundreds contrived to go ashore, adopting most hazardous ruses and dangerous paths.
January 14th. After great perseverance obtained leave until mid-day. Wilson Gardiner, Hopkins Lee and self. Splendid time, rickshaws to Galle Face, car through native quarter to G.O.H. arriving on board 1 p.m. (due to sail 12 noon.) Crowds of men still ashore. Main fleet sailed, - we remained with large piquets on shore to collect "scrags’. Weighed anchor 7p.m. and anchored outside breakwater.
January 15th. Transferred "scrags". and sailed about 5.30 a.m. Passed Cape Cormorant during evening. Intercepted wireless message in German. Later proved to be a commercial message from a Dutch settlement on mainland. Reported danger caused us to set a course along the Malabar coast as far as Mangalore.

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1915
January 18th (About.) Sighted suspicious grey "cruiser", hull down on the horizon on starboard about 12 noon. "Berrima" at this time was towing submarine (AE2) in advance and on port side of convoy. On the flagship’s (A38) warning whistle blast she crossed our bows to starboard while the submarine cleared for action and headed for stranger. We wirelessed her to break her number within 3 minutes whereupon she disclosed herself as the Indian Marine "Dufferin" carrying Indian troops.
January 22nd. Two patients from A37 were taken on board and operated on successfully for appendicitis. Sea delightfully calm.
January 23rd. Aden 9 a.m. Anchored somCol. Burnage e miles off. Picked up "Ceramic," "Persic," and "Suevic" and sailed 5 p.m. Berrima fouled cable and was delayed. Borda took submarine in tow. During our stay AE2 was bringing Captain Brewis (P.T.O.) on board when she bumped heavily breaking her aerial.
Saturday 28th. arrived off Suez about 4 a.m. Large fleet of ships delayed by action on Suez Canal. All had bridges sand-bagged against rifle fire.

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1915
January 28th. (Contd.) Delayed at Suez all day in Port Ibrahim. Port Tewfik the industrial quarter on left side of canal. N.Z. troops landed to complete journey overland.
January 29th. Entered Canal 9 a.m. passing H.M.S. Ocean, anchored off the mouth. Passed a number of British war ships and a French one near Ishmalia. Passed numerous Indian (Gurkha, Punjabi, Rajputs, Brahamans, etc. ) encampments, R.F.A. batteries etc. Anchored at Ishmalia 5 p.m.
January 30th. Weighed anchor 9 a.m. Witnessed small scrap (appeared to be one) near El Kantara. Entered Port Said and anchored within 200 yards of De Lesseps Monument. Col. Beetson’s (4th F. Amb.) dog "Paddy" lost onshore. Search parties discovered and returned Paddy to weeping owner in time for vessel to sail.
January 31st. (Sunday) Sailed 1.30 a.m. Arrived off Aboukir Bay 3.30 p.m. and went alongside at Alexandria 5p.m.
February 1st. Right-half Bn. entrained 9 a.m. Left half (ours) at 4.30 p.m. Arrived at Ezbet El Zeitoun at 11.30 p.m. Marched 2 miles across the desert

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1915
to the Aerodrome Camp, Heliopolis. Fearfully dusty and tired.
February 2nd. First visit to Cairo. Granger and I had an excellent evening, saw all the "sights’ visited the Casino and Palmarium etc. and arrived home next morning. Col Burnage promised us a free rein for first week in anticipation of heavy work to come. All this week spent in sight-seeing and "blueing" back pay. taxis and not Gharries. In our numerous subsequent excursions we managed to see the Zoo, Museums, Bazaars, (Khan Kalil & Mouski) and the native quarter (Wazir.) Sharia Clot Bey we learn to be the most undesirable streets frequented by undesirable Europeans The "Ex Continental" (Pension Beau Sejour) came in for no more than a cursory visit.
February 4th. Introduction of 4-Coy organisation in the Brigade. "G" Coy. joined with "E" Coy to be "D’ Coy.
February 7th. (Sunday.) First visit to Pyramids. "Taxied" out with "Babe" Hopkins and Lee. Saw Ida Garvin at Mena House (Hospital.) Pyramids, Cheops, Cephon and Marsarina, also Sphinx and Temple of the Sphinx. All the wonders of the past and the mystery of the Libyan Desert.
1915 February 8th. (Monday.) First desert march. Quite a new type of camp follower. The Arabs seem to spring from nowhere with "eggs is cook," Lemonata" etc.

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1915
February 12th. (Friday.) Marched to No.1 tower to witness Infantry advance with ball covering fire, the whole covered by artillery fire. Many large manoeuvres follow from time to time. Bivouacs and strenuous field training.
March 3rd. "Setchell’s Battle." - A large field day in which N.Z. & A. Div. were opposed to the Lancashire Div. One Corpl. Setchelle of B. Coy sent home to Australia a description (subsequently published) of this event, describing with startling realism the screams and moans of the wounded and dying.
March 9th. Brigadier’s inspection. Col. Monash said that in spite of only 8 to 10 weeks training the brigade was now fit to take its place with the troops who had arrived earlier
March 16th. C.O. withheld the men’s pay, whereupon a deputation of the whole battalion marched in an orderly manner to Bde. H.Q. and laid its case before the Brigadier. Corpl. Booccard headed and took charge of the Bn.

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1915 .. LATER. Severely wounded at BOIS GRENIER July 11th, 1916., and lost his left leg above the knee. Promoted Captain and awarded M.C. (Entered 18/1/17.)
March 22nd. (Monday) Inspection of Div. by Sir Henry McMahon

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1915
March 28th (Sunday) Major Carter (15th) Freeman (15th) Faddy, Wilson and self (13th) confirmed in All Saints Church, Cairo, by the "Bishop of Jerusalem and the East." (Bishop Rennie McInnes.) (See note.)
(I think I am mistaken about this date. Should be 21st March , - confirmed.28th March, first communion at Helliopolis Camp.
March 29th (Monday.) Review of Division by General Sir Ian Hamilton. The dust was something excruciating.
March 30th. Col. Chaytor’s Musketry School. A nightmare of rapid fire and doubling across boiling hot sand before breakfast.
April 1st. Route march through El Marg to the plantations of Princess Nemat Hanen. Fearful trials for poor McArthur (transport officer. Our travelling cookers will not stand rough country. Moonlight concert amid the palm-trees. The Colonel’s joke. – D. Coy. told off as Outpost Company. While remainder retired to bed. The C.O. told us that we were to march out and relieve an imaginary Coy. which was at the moment on duty. "But, said he, "you will not march till the moon sets." As the moon was just rising (at 11.30 p.m.) we appreciated the joke and turned in.
April 2nd (Good Friday) Marched back to camp after good breakfast.

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1915

'Battle of the Wazir,' – Troops visited a questionable house in Sharia Clot Bey. Caught a glimpse of an enormous crowd in this quarter, in front of a 4-storey house. Arrived in time to see a chest of drawers followed by a couple of "domestic furniture" come hurtling out of a 3rd story window on to a bon-fire in the middle of the street.
April 3rd. (Saturday.) Practice in digging and manning entrenchments at Helmieh near the Ostrich Farm. Found we were digging on the site of a cemetery of ancient Heliopolis (ancient name "On"). Unearthed numerous tombs containing bones, trinkets, etc.
April 4th (Easter Sunday.) Received leave to meet Leo at Port Said, but up to last minute expected to be recalled. Caught 6.30 p.m. train, dinner on board. Arrived 11.30 p.m. Put up at the Grand Continental Hotel.
April 5th. Strolled along breakwater before breakfast.
"Medina ‘ Arrived 10 A.M. Went aboard with Port Authority. Left by 6.30 p.m. train. Khamseen blowing train much delayed by sand drifts.
April 6th. Arrived Cairo 1 a.m. in time to catch last tram to Heliopolis.
April 7th. Buried one of my platoon in little English Cemetery outside Cairo. Company marched back through Cairo headed by band.

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1915
April 11th. (Sunday.) Marched out of camp 8 p.m. amid intense enthusiasm. Entrained 11 p.m. from Pont de Koubbeh.
April12th. Arrived Alexandria 5 a.m. Formed up on wharf opposite A33 ( ss Ascot.) Bivouaced all night in the coal dust.
April 13th. Embarked and sailed about noon. Ascot an iron tramp 13 years old and defies description. Men sleep on iron decks with two decks of horses above them. Officers mess in three relays. Cabins – 16 officers in one half of crew’s quarters. 12 others in a paint locker 14’ x 10’ x 9’. Doing about 5 knots until we actually broke down and had to call for volunteers to help the dago stokers.
April 15th. Sighted Rhodes on right and Carpathos on left.
April 16 th (Friday). Received wireless from B 12 ( MANITU) that she had been torpedoed. Deviated from our course towards mainland of Greece and sailed within 3 mile limit of territorial waters, passing Scyros on our right.

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1915
April 17th (Saturday) Arrived Lemnos 5 a.m. Piloted through boom and anchored in inner harbour, Port Mudros, opposite Mudros. Large fleet of warships and transports, must have been quite 150 in all.
April 19th. Swimming parties on shore. Visited town of Mudros. Quaint little Greek town full of French soldiers. Clean little wine shops and a large Greek church.
April 20th (and subsequent days) Practising descending rope ladders in full equipment, loaded up with extra iron rations, bundles of fire wood etc.
April 24th. First division, war-ships etc. sailed during the day.
April 25th. Heard the guns at 5 a.m. sailed 01.40 a.m. Un-fortunate accident to 2 Greek boats which became caught in propellers and crushed. Probably 5 of occupants drowned. Guns again heard and now persistently at 11.30 a.m. Passed Cape Helles operations about 1 p.m. having a full view of operations at a time when Sedd-el- Bahr village was being shelled Anchored off Anzac position at 4.,30 p.m.

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1915
Scenes of action, though vivid, baffle description. T.B.D. "Chelmar" came alongside at about 9.30 p.m. and started disembarkation by taking B. and 3 Platoons of C. Coy (A Coy on Seeang Bee) D. and remainder of C. got off about 2.30 next morning.
April 26th. Landed, under fire, in ships boats from T.B.D. at dawn with the loss of only one man on T.B.D. and one in boats. Rendezvoused on slope of Ari Burnu and moved up to Monash Valley about 6.30. a.m. Passed mountain battery in action and not having any instructions found myself with my platoon on what was afterwards called Popes Hill with shrapnel bursting pretty thickly around us. Snipers also busy. Major Ellis arrived and ordered 50 men to reinforce opposite ridge. Started off followed by about 20. Arrived with all except Sgt. Duncan (band sgt.) who was wounded in the leg: to reinforce C. Coy under Capt. Forsythe. Filled a gap occupied by Sgt. Shapley and one man – number of dead and wounded Australians and New Zealanders. Started to dig ourselves in Continually worried by snipers from rear and both sides. First meal that night on dead men’s rations.
COPY OF MESSAGE
CAPTAIN FORSYTHE
1. Twenty –sixth AAA
Our left flank left unprotected AAA. Can be infiladed from small spur about 100 yds. to left AAA. Snipers busy at this point last night AAA. About one platoon to occupy this would hold whole line.
7.30 p.m. (SGD.) D.G. M arks. Lieut.
(EXPLANATION.)
Spur referred to was later called "Dead Man’s Ridge." Later reports refer to the fact that Turks were entrenched above this. When attack was made on 2nd May, the enemy had established themselves and our men were badly cut-up.

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1915
Hooker (my observer) had stuck to me all this time, and was beside me now. He had held on to the periscope which became invaluable when we dug in. Dug all night, keeping watch in turn. Our packs were discarded as we entered Monash Valley so we had to puy in the night which was cold, without our great-coats. Greatly troubled by false orders and messages and in particular by one officer of 1st Bde. who repeatedly shouted "five rounds rapid!" Waving a revolver in each hand. By this I had obtained a rifle and formed a component part of our little firing line. We disregarded Captain J’s orders and only fired when we observed a target. All through the night we kept close watch and occasionally caught snipers creeping up to our position, All through the night the noise was deafening, a continually roar of rifle fire was kept up which made up for the quiet of our fleet of men-of-war. Granger wounded today. Wilson killed over with the New Zealanders.
COPY OF MESSSAGES
MAJOR RANKIN
a. Twenty ninth. AAA
1. Equipment will be forwarded
2. (a) Discs & Paybooks
(b) 1 Man on our right unburied.
3 We can make no provision without assistance in our immediate area.
3. Can you give me your position on the map.
5.30 a.m. (SGD) D.G. Marks
Lieut.
(EXPLANATION)
This was in answer to a very formal and prosy routine order issued by Major Rankin (finding himself O.C. outpost lines) and signed by Captain Wright.
O.C. OUTPOST LINE.
3. Twenty –ninth AAA.
Require rations twety-six men.
Urgent AAA Water also AAA.
7.10 A.M. (sgd.) D.G.M arks
(EXPALANTION)
These arrived O.K.

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1915
April 27th. No sleep during the previous night. During the afternoon we were repeatedly ordered to cease fire as the British and French were coming up Message actually signalled to us from H.Q. and all the time the Turks were creeping up to the attack. All these messages were proved later to eminate from spies actually in our trenches. During the afternoon a Turk who had been cut off and lay in hiding behind our lines gave himself up. He was quaking with fright and fully expected us to give him the coup de grace; he was disappointed, happily so. At night the Turks heavily attacked, the whole time blowing weird calls on a bugle. Some say that "morse calls" were being blown on it, at all events the sound which travelled rapidly about was eerie in the extreme. Poor old Watkins was killed today. He led a charge out of the trenches. Turks fled disclosing a machine-gun which opened on our chaps with terrible effect. My men now consist of detachments of all units of the Army Corps, N. Zealanders, 1st, 2nd, 3rd. Bde., signallers – one could not wish for finer chaps. Poor Shapley
COPY OF MESSAGES
13TH Bn.
4. Twenty-ninth AAA
Provisional Casualty list
KILLED: Pte. Hardy C. Coy 13th Bn.
Sgt. Seewell "D"Coy "
Pte. Goldring (?)
" Barnes 2nd Bn.
4.30 p.m. (SGD.) D.G.Marks
Lieut.

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1915
fearfully excited and enthusiastic. During the afternoon we had witnessed charge after charge by our chaps on the right, and Shapley would jump and cheer regardless of danger. Indeed it was an inspiring sight. Then we had an opportunity at some Turks advancing up a gully. An officer leading them with drawn sword. The fire of my men was masked, but those directly on our right must have accounted for at least 40. Extreme left (almost 15 yds on my left) very dangerous. A 1st Bde. Corporal and another fellow have just been shot and fallen backwards down slope.
April 28th. The roar of musketry and thunder of guns has never ceased for a moment. Managed to snatch an hour’s sleep during the afternoon. "Big Lizzie" has won the admiration of all. The fleet still active, the ‘Euralyius" doing most of the firing.
April 29th. Have never moved out of the trenches. During the evening a light constant shower commenced which made our situation very miserable, having no great -coats. Took Hooker with me and started looking for
COPY OF MESSAGES
MAJOR RANKIN
5. Thirtieth AAA.
M.G. and about thirty men visable in a trench on extreme left front AAA. Think they intend rushing us as our position good for their M.G.
8.30 a.m. (SGD.) D.G. MARKS
Lieut.
CAPTAIN FORSYTHE.
6 Thirtieth AAA.
Enemy have a trench about 505 yds. on our left flank as far as I can make out 224 M5.

[Sketch of position]
9.40 a.m. (SGD.) D.G.MARKS
Lieut.

Note 20/6/16 (a) Later called POPE’S HILL
(b) " DEAD MAN’S RIDGE
(c) " BLOODY ANGLE
(D) " QINN’S POST

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our packs, about 10 p.m. Every pack in valley had been searched and the greatcoarts taken out. Ashamed to to say that they had been "ratted" and the things strewn about. Could not find our packs but managed to get two other greatcoats and some warm clothing.
April 30th. Snipers very busy on ridge to our left. Hooker did some good shooting at about 275 yards, signaller of 3rd Bn. observing with telescope. Accounted for two daring snipers on this ridge. Have had no sleep worth mentioning since we landed. Still urging the advisability of occupying what was later called Dead Man’s Ridge. Capt. Forsythe forwarded my message to Bde. H.Q. I have no records of casualties, but we must have lost 6 killed and 20 wounded. Though I was in charge of 20 in all, my losses were replaced immediately. Placed a flag to indicate the extreme left. This drew a lot of fire on us , but was to indicate our trenches to the artillery.

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1915
May 1st Battalion (less C. Coy) now all re-organised on Popes Hill. Granger, wounded, Sinclair sick and Watkins killed left Forsythe with Binnie. I was ordered to remain with C. Coy.
May 2nd. The evening of attack of "Dead Man’s Ridge" and Bloody Angle. At about 7.30. p.m. warships, 18 pounders and howitzers commenced heavy bombardment for 14 minutes 13th (withdrawn from Pope’s) advanced onto Dead Man’s Ridge and the 16th assaulted Bloody Angle. The Otago Bn. was to come round from the left and join up with the 13th – 16th to junction with left of Quinn’s (my post) 14th and Bt. of Marines in support. 16th joined up but lost heavily getting into position. Otago Bn. got into communication with 13th, but where slightly in advance.
MAJOR W.E. ELLIS – Killed morning of 2ND may, 1915.
May 3rd. When dawn broke the 16th were so badly enfiladed that they had to retire, the Otagos fell back and the Portsmouth marines who had failed to dig in, were mowed down and retired badly. This left the 13th with both flanks unprotected. On right of Dead Man’s ridge I saw the Portsmouth M.G. Section working their gun in a fearfully exposed

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position in early morning till every one was shot down. Later, on the day of the armistice I came upon them, the whole section dead in a space of 14’ x 12’. The M.G. officer must have dropped last tending the gun.
When the 16th retired, those on the extreme right jumped into our trenches and rushing blindly down our communication trench at least 5 out of about 16 were dropped by a sniper. Poor old Binnie was shot today. He saw the fellows of the 16th shot and took a rifle into the trench to exchange shots with the sniper. Later he was ordered to show two staff officers into another section (no. 3) The communication trench here was very bad and the poor chap was shot through the heart on the way up.
The Colonel had been with his battalion in the firing line the whole time. During the afternoon he went down the Bde. H.Q. and the Bt. was ordered to retire by the Brigadier. The losses on our side must have amounted to at least 800. I cannot help thinking, and am borne out by a great many, that had we attempted it on the first days we could have occupied

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the ridge with ease. As things now stand, Dead Man’s Ridge, which commands Monash Valley, is in the hands of the enemy. A dangerous gap at the apex of a dangerous salient. The trenches which we dug on this occasion were later occupied by the Turks, and it then became necessary for all approaches in Monash Gully to be sunk to a depth of 8 or 9 feet.
On the evening of May 3rd a party went out from my section and destroyed the trenches immediately adjoining ours which had been dug by the 16th. Crow and McLeod killed. Faddy missing.
May 7th. Had just been relieved on Quinn’s and were waiting to move down off the hill. Portsmouth Bn. R.M.L.I. in trenches. Genl. Godley and staff arrived. He had just spoken when a bomb exploded in No. 2 sub-sect wounding 4 or 5 out of the 9 marines in it, who came rushing out in a panic, crying "Run! Run!" All thought there was a serious attack on and Gen. Godley ordered the supports to man the knoll on right of main communication trench. Captain Forsythe yelled to them not to but some rushed to the top and 6 were shot by a M.G. which immediately opened on them. Our fellows manned the trenches and stayed there until the marines had pulled themselves together. Did some bomb throwing with Patchett and NZ. Engineer Sgt.
(Note. – Patchett was lost in Hill 60 fighting 27/8/15.)
(Later) We came down from Quinn’s Hill and joined the Battalion in Sectional Reserve in Monash Valley. My batman (Pearce) who had been wounded near me about the 3rd day had returned. He was sitting near me frying bacon and "chips" when he was sniped through the leg. No stretcher bearers

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being available we hoisted him up between us and made a dash with him across the sniper-swept zone.
May 8th. The Battalion moved up on to Pope’s Hill.
May 9th. 15th Bn. made an assault from Quinn’s down into Turkish lines. Captured Turkish trench and joined left of ours on to it by a deep communications trench. We penetrated right down to their headquarters and bayoneted a great number.
May 10th. At 2 a.m. was awakened on Pope’s Hill by Capt. Herring’s batman. Tumbled into my great-coat with equipment on top and found Capt. Herring waiting for me with most of the Coy. at the foot of Quinns. Was immediately sent up to take charge of a platoon which had gone on under an N.C.O. Arrived panting at top of hill, enquired for 13th. Senior officer pointed to communications trench to No. 4 sub-section. Kept on and found myself in front trench with fellows climbing over the front parapet. Someone said "Fix your bayonet." I "Fixed" and crawled over after the others. Near- by I heard a voice say "When I call ‘Australia for ever’ charge boys!"

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I said "Who’s that?" He answered "Capt. Townsend!" I said "We’re all ready" Next moment we rushed forward shouting, a number pitched forward and I found myself lying on the Turkish parapet with a hail of shot going over my head. There was one man on my left, a dead man on my right, and a little further Collophy, the bandsman. Two bombs were thrown over, the second one was thrown back by Sgt. Scott who was away on my left and who I could not see at the time. I placed my rifle over the parapet and attempted to fire into the trench – my rifle wasn’t loaded. The man on my left did the same thing with better result, and I had then loaded up. Dawn was beginning to break, so I sent Collophy back for reinforcements – he managed to crawl back safely. Some time later I passed word to number off. There appeared to be only three of us, so I called "When I shout ‘Go’ we’ll retire!"We tumbled into our trenches as Sgt. Scott and Sgt. Hill (wounded) were getting in. They had been there and either heard us call or seen us run. We must have been out 15 minutes. Townsend had been shot in the foot immediately he rose. Sgt. Cross attempted to carry him back, but a second bullet blew Townsend"s

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brains out, and Cross ran back to the front to us.
Do not know how many we lost. Poor old Martin was badly hit, and died later. There were about 30 in the sortie and I do not think more than 5 or 6 got back.
(SGT. W.A. CROSS.- awarded D.C.M. A.C.R.O. 183- 30-7-15.) (Cross, a Mosman parson (Deacon’s Orders) is really a New Zealander. He is a great wireless enthusiast. Was a section commander in my platoon.)
When I reported to L. Col. Cannon (O.C. Post) he ordered the withdrawal from Turkish trenches. First he called for some marines to go out and take the gap we had attempted but the O.C. Marines (about 120) said that he thought they couldn’t do it as they had been up all night.
May 13th. 1st A.L.H. relieved us on Pope’s Hill at 11a.m. Jeff Harris in fine form. Light Horsemen very amused at their new role. Moved down to Sectional Reserve in Monash Valley.
May 18th. 8" shells dropping in valley. Enemy landed heavy reinforcements at Maidos – reported by aeroplane reconnaissance. At about midnight a terrific attack was launched all along the line and lasted until 10 a.m. 19th .

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May 19th. Attacks repulsed (there were two main attacks) with great loss to the enemy. They must have lost nearly 5,000. Our casualties small. L/Cpl. Jacka 14th Bn. won his V.C.
The operations of the Turkish troops were personally directed by General Liman von Sanders. Estimated Turkish force 40,000.
C. Coy. and 1 platoon of D. Coy (mine) moved up to garrison Quinn’s at 2 p.m.
May 20th. About 4 p.m. a white flag party was seen making its way towards the 1st Bde. (on our right.) Our people responded and immediately red-crescent flags appeared all along the line of Turkish trenches. For one moment we thought it was surrender and our chaps stood up in the trenches and exchanged pleasantries across the short intervening space at Quinn’s (Trenches only 18’ apart opposite right of 4 sub section) Negotiations lasted for nearly an hour but we refused an armistice as it was getting dark and we scented trouble. They lowered their flags and fully three minutes elapsed before fire was opened. Our artillery on Walker’s Ridge did some glorious night shooting

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Into the trenches not 20 yds in front of us. The Turks were told to send someone in to arrange for an armistice properly.
May 21st. Japanese Trench Mortar used. Moved down to Section Reserve.
May 22nd.. Periscope Rifles first used.
May 24th (Empire Day.) Official Armistice 7 a.m. till 4.30 p.m. On duty with Brigade Burial Party ( 5 officers, and 100 men, Chaplain and M.O.) Buried on "Dead Man’ Ridge" and "Bloody Angle". Found Watkin’s body about 3 yards in front of our parapet on Quinn’s.
Exchanged coins with Turkish and German officers. We recovered 100 rifles and about 25,000 rounds SAA. with our little party alone.
May 25th. Promoted lieutenant. (dated 25-3-15) At lunch time word was received from Courtney’s Post that H.M.S. Triumph was visible floating bottom upwards. She had been

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torpedoed . T.B.D.s were quickly along side and took off all but 50.
Caught Turks sapping under Quinn’s and blew their sap-head in 5.15. p.m.
May 27th. Adjutant to Quinn’s Post. Sapping and counter-sapping.
May 28th. Blew their sap in at 2.30 a.m. L/Col Burnage took over post during afternoon. Still acting as adjutant to post. Evening gloriously quiet – the quiet before the storm. Sat yarning to the Colonel in the moonlight till nearly midnight. Turned in for a few hours sleep in McSharry’s dugout about 20 yds. behind and some 10 or 12 feet below No. 3 sub section. We threw proclamations (in Turkish) into their trenches.
May 29th. Wakened at 3.30 a.m. by a terrific explosion. Tumbled out amid falling sand-bags and earth. No. 3 sub-section had been blown in, a cloud of dust being blown up about 50 feet in the air. Enemy attacked and bombed us out of this position. Collected supports in main communications trench but were driven backwards by a rain of bombs. Telephone wire cut. Called for

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artillery support. 18 pdrs. and mountain battery opened. Smith wounded. Standing by Colonel when he was hit in both arms by a bomb. A number of bomb throwers stuck to their post by the Garland Mortar and returned bomb for bomb. Vine-Hall wounded. Supports arrived (D. Coy. 13th and 15th Bn.) and charged across the skyline after the Turks had been driven into one of our bomb-proofs by our bomb throwers. Killed about 30 and took 18 prisoners. Went across to assist Captain Forsythe (o.c. left section) He was hit in foot by a premature burst of our own shrapnel and I was placed in charge of his section. Attack eased off about 7 a.m. Our losses, 13 killed, 6 officers and 75 men wounded. Turks must have lost fully 300. Relieved about 1 p.m. Major Quinn [QUINN’S POST) killed.
May 31st. B. and D. Coys. moved to Reserve Gully, changing with N.Z. Inf. Bde. as Divisional reserve.
June 1st. Remainder of Bn. moved doun. Simpson ill. Took up duty as acting Adjutant.

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June 2nd. At 2.30 p.m. General Godley addressed the Brigade. Highly laudatory speech.
June 3rd. Simpson sent away sick.
June 4th. NO. 3 Section made attack at Quinn’s Post at 10.55 p.m. and took 70 to 80 yds of Turkish Trench. No1 section failed to take "German Officer’ Trench" and Quinn’s had to retire to original position soon after dawn. We (Div. Reserve] stood to arms all night.
June 10th. Lunch with Cosgrove and "Whisky" Dawson at 4th F. Amb. – Tinned chicken, roast beef and Butter.
June 13TH. Our biplane flew very low dropping 3 bombs in direction of "Baby 700."
June 25th. German aeroplane dropped proclamations to the British and French troops calling on us to surrender.
June 28th. Major Durrant sick to H.M.H.S. "Sicilia.
June 30th. Engaged in a conversation of signs with some Turkish prisoners. One of them took off his identity disc and handed it to me. He is Ali Ali ([Pte.) A Russian subject from Batum.
July 1st. Saw Major D. on Hospital Ship. Seas very rough, had trouble getting out and back.

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July 6th. Temp. Lieut. Colonel L.E. Tilney (from 16th) took over command vice. Col Burrage (wounded – invalided to England) Formal taking over 10 a.m. Brigadier spoke in glowing terms of Bn.
July 13th. Ramasan commenced. Anti-cholera inoculation.
July 21st. Gas helmets issued to every man.
July 22nd. Expected attack. Stood to arms 11.40 p.m. and 3 a.m.
July 24th. Mid-Ramasan. Turks shelled No. 3 outpost. Terracing of Reserve Gully commenced – this to accommodate large numbers of further troops.
July 21st.Large stocks of ammunition, guns and SAA mark VII have been landed the last few nights as well as batteries of field guns and 5" howitzer brigade. We will have about 150 guns of all calibres shortly. German aeroplane in the air at same time as one of ours. It made of south chased by two French planes. To lighten his plane he dropped a bomb which he carried into the Turkish trenches. The Turkish anti-aircraft artillery opened on him but he escaped. We made a night attack ( aeroplane) on Soghan Dere, with machine gun, bombs and darts.

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July 30th. German aeroplanes dropped bombs but did not cause any damage. "Sopha" plane (British) looped-the-loop twice during the early morning (5.30 a.m.)
July 31st. German planes dropped 3 bombs and a number of arrows but did not do any damage (morning.) German again up during the afternoon. Have now been two months in Divisional Reserve during which time the regiment and in fact the Brigade has suffered considerably from sickness (gastric trouble mostly) Sea bathing has made life bearable. We have to wait till darkness falls because Turkish snipers command the big beach N. of Ari Burnu, and Anzac Beach is too dangerous on account of the continual shelling. The sunset behind Samothrace and the rugged outline of Imbros is a picturesque setting which never loses its attraction - New map 1/20,000 came into use at midnight. 10.26 p.m. 11th Bn. captured trenches opposite Tasmania post.
August 1st. It is not to be expected the Turkish soldier (the real thing) will throw up the sponge. He is an ignorant, fatalistic automaton and will fight as long as he has orders to do so. We can only hope that the numerous waring factions in Constantinople will crystallise, as a serious menace and bring about a coup d’ etat.

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August 2nd. Rumours of an early move are very persistent and complete. Some think that we will make a big move on the anniversary of the declaration of war (August 4th, 1914.) Sgt. Davis returned from Alexandria with splendid supply of stores. Our 6th Reinf. (1 off. and 136) reported.
August 6th. Large number of troops landed during last couple of days. General Birdwood addressed C.O.s and adjutants. He seems very proud of his Australians. Scheme to commence on 6th (evening). 10th Division (Kitchener’s 1st Army) to assist 1st Aust. Div (on right) 29th (Indian) Brigade and 13th British Division with A.& N.Z. Army Corps. 11th Division to make a fresh landing. Operation to commence with attacks on right to induce enemy to concentrate there in belief that our objective is to connect with force at Cape Helles. Meanwhile the A. & N.Z. A.C. etc. push out to the left and endeavour to assault Koja, Chemin Tepe (971) Ridge and Abdel Ruman Bair Spur. During morning boards were raised by Turks on Johnson’s Jolly With the words "WARSAW EST TOMBE."

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At 5.30 p.m. the 1st Brigade attacked and took JOHNSTONE’S JOLLY after an intense and successful bombardment by our howitzers. THE whole of Nos. 1, 2, and 3 Sections made demonstrations, all with the idea of inducing the enemy to believe that we were making our blow on the right.
At 9.25 p.m. the 4th Brigade (13th, 14th, 15th and 16th in that order) passed No. 5 Supply Depot, turned North along beach road, headed by a party of guides under Major Ovrerton (Canterbury Mounted Rifles) with Captain Eastwood (Staff Captain 4th Bde.) checking pace etc.
At 10 o’clock the new Zealanders assaulted "Old No. 3 Post" and attacked in direction of Rhoddendron Ridge. 4th Brigade and Indian Brigade were to assault "971."
Northern Assault Column:- (General Cox.)
1. 4th A.I.Bde. 13th Bn. )
14th Bn.) Advance Guard and outpost troops
15th Bn.)
16th Bn )
2. 29th Indian Brigade
Left Covering Force. ) (Bdr.- General TRAVERS.)
4TH South Wales Borders
8TH Wilts. Rifles
½ of 88th Coy. R.E.

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Reserve Columns. (a) In AGHYl DERE –
39th Inf. Bde ( Bdr-General CAYLY.)
(9TH Warwicks.
(7th Gloucesters.
(9th Worcesters.
(7th N. Staffs.
(72nd.Coy. R.E.
(b) In CHAILAK DERE –
(Lieut. – Colonel BALD (8th Regt.)
(6th S. LANKS
(8TH Welsh (Pioneers.)
(1/2 of 88th Coy. R.E.
Guided by Major Overton and his party which included a prisoner and an interpreter we moved north past "OLD No. 3" Walders Point to the mouth of AGHYL DERE. We were in column of fours, A. Coy leading with C.O. AND Major Herring and self in front. The Padre would insist upon staying at the head of the column with us.
The night was fearfully dark and as we turned in to the AGYL DERE shots broke out from ridges on right and left. A platoon was detailed to clear each side, and men went in with the bayonet and nothing was heard but a few shrieks and some prisoners were

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immediately brought in. At this stage we were moving through a narrow defile in twos and it became necessary to detach the remainder of A company to clear a large ridge in front of us. Our native guide and interpreter (Nicholas) were continually being apprehended by our covering party and stood in imminent peril of their lives. We crossed over to the left of AGHYL DERER and 13th and 14th moved on to the outpost position allotted to them on the right of Wilts Rifles who were already in position. Remainder of Brigade and Indian Brigade commenced the assault of 971.
(NOTE.- Wilts had gained their position by moving along the beach and had met no opposition.)
Aug 7th. As dawn broke we discovered the 15th driving between 50 and 100 Turks on to our position. We took about 40 of these including two Captains (youz Baski) We entrenched all morning under shrapnel

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fire from 971 ridge. The elder Pullings was hit about mid-day by a piece of shrapnel shell and died soon after. Made a reconnaissance of country in front for a distance of quite a mile and a half without seeing any sign of enemy. Found a number of wells with clear cool water and a farm-house with bees and black-berries. Men robbed the hives with the aid of their gas helmets. We decided to place a piquet of 1 Coy. on ridge in front of us. To this end I took Russel and his subs. out to pick out spot in daylight. We saw a Turkish scout at about 800, but did not fire so as not to give our position away. He took cover and fired hitting me in the foot. Walked back to our lines. (Everyone else says I ran.)
Up to this we had not reached our main objective, (i.e. the rest of the Brigade etc.) It was decided that 13th Bn. assisted by a battalion of Lancs. Should hold line, 15th, 14th, and 16th Bns. In that order were to march in file on a compass bearing to foot of Abdel Rahman Bair and assault up the spur. Immediately opposition was met a platoon was to

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deploy, then another platoon, etc. throughout 44 platoons.
10th and 11th Division landed near Salt Lake last night. Landing appears to have been highly successful. We can see them rendezvous in battalions on the southern slopes of NEBRUNES POINT.
(Farm house referred to (SUSUK KUYU) later occupied by the enemy, and not retaken until27th August)
Aug 8th. March on ABDEL RAHMAN BAIR commenced at 3 a.m. but column struck substantial opposition on three sides soon after starting, 14th and 15th losing heavily. Went down to Anzac Cove for evacuation to Mudros. Sent on to "Redbreast." Sailed 6 p.m. Assisted M.O. with dressing etc.
( Note: 21/10/15 – The landing at Suvla will be the "black page" in the history of the campaign. We lost what was practically in our hands through their failure to "make good". Stopford will be a name I will not forget.)
(Note: 21/10/15 - MARCH ON ABDEL RAHMAN BAIR. – When the column started it was thought that our line was overlooking the ASMA DERE. An illustration of the fallacy of working too much by the map, and an object lesson on the necessity of personal reconnaissance.)
Aug 9th. Woke up to find steamer anchored in Mudros Bay. Landed 7.30 a.m. and sent to No. 2 Stationary Hospital.
Aug 10th. (Fierce Turkish attack at dawn, retaking the FARM. Navy and artillery did terrific slaughter as Turks came over crest.)
Aug 12th.Transferred to Convalescent Camp run by Lowland Casualty Clearing Station. Shared tent with McCormac (5th Inniskillings) and Gowan (6th Leinster Rgt.) No accommodation for officers. The C.O. is a selfish scot who bleats eternally about "nae equeepment." Offered hospitality of officers’ mess. We "think not!"

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Aug13th (9.15 a.m.) Walked to a near-by village (PORTYIANOU) with Gowan. Hired a pony and a donkey and set out for Thermos (Greek – THERMAE) guided by the owner of the animals. The old guide could not speak a word of English but endeavoured to point out all the sights to us. The track (it is hardly that) winds across the mountains through vineyards and under avenues of trees, past Turkish and Greek villages, and isolated houses perched on eerie heights. About 6 miles out the mule-track joins the road from Mudros to Kastro. Here one has a glimpse of the cleanest and wealthiest village in the island – CORNOS – nestling white amongst the hills. A mile further on, in a shady gorge beneath Mt. Therma, is Thermos. At the entrance to the chalet is a spring of delightfully cool water. Not 30 yards further are the hot springs from which the place earns its reputation. Two stone cubicles each containing a deep roman bath let into the marble floor, no light save which filters through a few panes of glass let into the roof, two jets of boiling mineral water running unceasingly through the bath – these are the thermal springs of THERMA. By the time we had our bath the Greek proprietor had prepared lunch for us, which we sat down to

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in the shade of some giant figs. We left about 4 o’clock arriving home in the cool of the evening (about 7 p.m.)
Aug 14th. Met an old friend – Sister Gregg – at No. 2 Stationary Hospital.
Aug 16th. Discharged from hospital. Reported to Camp Commandant and spent night in old quarters at hospital.
Aug 17th. Ferry to H.M.T. "ARAGON" AT 8.30 a..m. – No ferry to Anzac. Spent night on board.
Aug 18th. Left Mudros at 8 p.m. by S.S. "Redbreast" for Anzac. "Alaunian" passed us coming into Lemnos with some of new Brigade on board.
Aug 19th. Arrived off Anzac at 2.30 a.m. Landed 4 a.m. turned in for an hour’s sleep in old Bivouac, had breakfast and walked out to our position. Well entrenched on line we took on morning of advance.
Aug 20th. 17th and 18th Bns. (5th Bde.) landed at WALKER’S RIDGE PIER and bivouacked in RESERVE GULLY.

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Aug 21st. 9th Army Corps made its attack upon "W" hills. At 2.30 p.m. an intense and heavy bombardment of the whole plain was commenced. At 3 p.m. the British advanced in open order, line after line under heavy Turkish shrapnel fire. Viewed from our position it was a most wonderful and awe-inspiring spectacle. At 3.30 p.m. 250 of 13th and 250 of 14th under Major HERRING debouched under heavy covering fire and attacked towards the right bank of KAIAJICK DERE. Otago and Canterbury Mounted Rifles and 100 Maoris attacked on their left with 10th Hants. in reserve. Indian Brigade on left to join up with 11th Division of 9th Army Corps. Our people got into position and New Zealanders captured Turkish trench on left. Maoris captured machine gun which had jammed at critical moment. Our casualties 15 killed 4 officers and 63 wounded, and 30 missing. 2 Platoons 17th Bn. sent up in support of our post.
Aug 22nd. 18th Battalion (5th Bde.) attacked KAIAJICK AGHALA but made a very poor showing. Conference of C.O.s and Adjutants at Bde. General Cox stated that only troops of his he had confidence in were 4th A.I.B. and 2 regiments of N.Z.M.R. This bears

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out our opinion of Kitcheners Army (29th Bde. under his orders) but comes as a surprise as regards 29th Indian Brigade. Probably they are shaken on account of the bad cutting up they received. The 5th Brigade certainly aren’t fit for this warfare.
Aug 23rd. Major HERRING’S party relieved by Major MARGOLIN and 16TH Bn. "A" Coy 17th reported for duty with POST.
Aug 24th. Saw Rupert Roy who is acting R.S.M. of 18th Bn.
Aug 26th. Lieut-Colonel Tilney sent to hospital sick.
Aug 27th. Attack on "Knoll 60." 3 officers and 100 men of 13th B. participating in attack. Viewed whole action from No. 2 M.G. implacement in our position. (No. 3 Post – Australia Valley.) Generals COX? RUSSEL and MONASh observed near by. At 4 p.m. artillery commenced a steady bombardment with 3 batteries – 5" howitzers, 1 battery – 4.5" howitzers and Indian Mountain Battery and 2 warships. Bombardment ceased at 4.30 p.m. and at 4.35 p.m. commenced intense bombardment. At 1700 (5 p.m.) the guns lengthened their range and punctual to the tick the assaulting troops bounded over the parapet. In spite of his heavy punishment, the Turk immediately

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manned his trenches and poured in a very heavy fire into the incoming troops. We took a number of trenches after very hot fighting. Our M.G.s rendered invaluable assistance with covering fire and later protected our troops by firing over their heads. 13th Bn. casualties (100 took part in actual assault) – 4 killed, 3 officers and 44 wounded and 14 missing.
August 28th. Major J.M.A. Durrant returned and took over command of the Battalion.
August 31st. Relieved by 1/5th Essex at 2.30. p.m. and marched to Brigade Bivouac behind Bauchops Hill in Aghyl Dere (95 x 5.6) at 7.30 p.m.
September 1st. Relieved 1/7th North Staffords at "Durrant’s Post."
September 12th. Relieved by 25th Bn. A.I.F.
September 13th. 7.30 p.m. marched to Anzac Beach and embarked per s.s. "Osmanieh" and "Abbasieh" for Mudros for a month’s spell. Battalion sailed on later, but I arrived late and went with the 16th on the former.

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September 14th. Arrived Mudros Harbour at 9 a.m. Went into camp at Sarpi (Mudros West) Good camping ground. Drawing every evening an issue of either stout or beer.
September 18th. Sent to Egypt on special duty for a fortnight. Boarded "Aragon" at 2.30 p.m. Sailed at 7 p.m. per S.S. "Osmanieh" Course to the west of Crete. Pleasant voyage.
September 21st Arrived Alexandria 9 a.m. Stayed Windsor Hotel. Fewer attractions but much pleasanter than Cairo. Sea breeze makes the nights bearable.
September 23rd. Train to Cairo 12 noon, arriving 3.30 p.m. Put up at Continental. Col. Campbell and Crane over from home in charge of troopship.
September 24th. Dinner at Helouan (Al Hayat Hospital) with Perry. Drove to the Nile and Khedive’s Palace. News of Greek mobilization while at Antonio’s.
September 26th. Train to Alexandria at 6.30 p.m. arriving 9.50 p.m. First view of "Princess" Ysery.
TOTAL CASUALTIES OF BN. UP TO END OF SEPT. 1915.
Officers - O’Ranks - Total
Killed………………… 12 - 225 - 238
Wounded………… 20 - 625 - 653
Prisoners of war…………Nil - Nil - Nil
- 891
October 1st. Met Ford and had word of promotion (20/7/15) Viewed procession of Greek Reservists from La Bourse.
October 2nd. Sailed 7 p.m. by H.M.T. "Manitou" (B12) Col. Pope O.C. troops, self acting as Ship’s Adjutant. 61 officers and 1153 men of 268 different units on board. Shaped course to pass Crete on right.

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October 6th. Arrived Mudros Harbour 6 a.m. Held by disembarkation staff. Big movement of troops going on (Salonika?) which makes it necessary to pass us over for the time.
October 9th. Gardiner assumed command of Bn. vice Major Herring absent in Egypt.
October 12th. Last troops disembarked. Col. Pope and I landed in M.l’s launch. Ship’s people very good.
October 13th. Assumed Command of Bn. vice Gardiner. Fox to be Adjutant while I’m on the job.
October 14th. Fearful and terrifying adventure. Went with Fox to investigate an apparently deserted farm-house. Horrified to discover a secretly planned and highly successful attack by millions of fleas. Three hours later we were still picking them off in threes and fours.
October 20th. Received farewell notice from General Hamilton. Let us hope that Genl. Sir C.C. Munro can do better for us.
October 21st. Brigade sports. Entertained Nursing Sisters to dinner. 13th held a moonlight concert. 7th and 8th reinforcements arrived.

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October 24th. General Godley inspected the Brigade.
October 25th. Reinforcements isolated owing to outbreak of mumps.
October 27th. General Sir C.C. Munroe (C in C) inspected the Anzac troops. 1st Brigade marched out at 0645 presumably for ANZAC. After lunch the men paraded and sent a deputation to me to ask for pay. I told them we were doing all in our power to try and obtain it for them. They paraded to the a/Brigadier who told them the same. One of their number came at night and asked me to take into custody the sum of £300 for himself and £100 for a mate. This man is a notorious crook and won the money at a two-up school. I took his money in trust and divided it among the 4 Coy Cmdrs to pay the men.
October 28th. Paid the men in their own coin, so to speak. The £400 they had lost at two-up was passed back as pay in the form of greasy 10/- and -P- notes. The money even included Australian Commonwealth £1 notes. Major M.A. Durrant returned to duty at 1700 and resumed command of the battalion.
October30th. First Court Martial. Senior member of F.G.G.M. on a private of 15th Bn. L. Col. Hart, D.S.O. president.

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October 31st. Reveille at 4 a.m. Brigade marched to NORTH PIER at 5.30 a.m. Embarked with 14th and 15th Bns. on "0smanieh" at 7.30 a.m. Major Durrant O.C. troops. Sailed 1.30 a.m. Arrived Anzac 7.30 p.m. Commenced disembarkation 8.50 p.m. Wind came up from S.E. and lighters cast of with Co. McGlynn, Twyman, Pulling, Fox, Henley and Henderson and about 40 other ranks. M.L.O. ordered that no more would be taken ashore that night. One of the 14th Bn. killed by a stray bullet, another man wounded in the hand. Sailed at about 3.30 a.m. on 1st.
November 1st. Arrived at Kephalos (IMBROS) at dawn and anchored inside boom. Another case of mumps reported in 8th Reinforcements. Sailed at 7.20 p.m. Arrived ANZAC 8.10 p.m. Disembarked at Walker’s Pier and marched to water Course Gully near Bauchope’s Hill.
November 3rd. Took over Durrant’s Post from 28th Bn. at 10 a.m. in similar positions to previous occupation. 3p.m. took over more frontage on right from 27th Bn. Splendid headquarters dug-outs and headquarters mess. Band broken up and instruments stored at BrIgade H.Q.

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November 4th. At 8.45 p.m. very heavy firing away to the right. Turks apparently exploded a mine in front of Quinn’s and attacked further round at Chatham Post without success.
November5th. Heavy firing in direction of Chocolate Hills at about 6.45 p.m.
November 9th. 16th Bn. made an abortive attack on HACKNEY-WICK. Found it impossible to assault the position as the only approach was by a knife-edge along which there was hardly room for single-file. They occupied SANDY KNOLL with the loss of only one wounded.
(NOTE. - It was found that early on the night of the attack, the Turks had sent a party out and chipped the narrow track into what was more akin to a real knife edge than when I had first seen it. They left it so that it would be impossible for even one man abreast.)
November 13th. LORD KITCHENER landed at Walker’s Pier and visited WALKER’S RIDGE.
November 19th. Major DURRANT evacuated sick (Jaundice.)
November 24th. For 48 hours no guns, rifles or machine guns are to be fired to induce the Turk to believe that we are evacuating the position. This is in the hope that he will attack.

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November 25. Fierce gust of wind took the iron off our quarter. Very cold night, raining the whole time. Ruse of silence still continuing.
November 26. Ruse extended 24 hours. Turks very jumpy and seem to expect an attack.
November 27. At 1345 a heavy artillery fire opened on Turkish trenches on CHUNUCK BAIR in which the enemy was massing in anticipation of an attack. Snow commenced falling at about 11 p.m.
November 28. Heavy snow storm, bitterly cold.
November 29. Ground frozen over. Commenced to thaw about midday. Still bitterly cold. No stores landed for four days.
December 1st. Weather much milder and very pleasant.
December 12. Men in excellent health and spirits. Reported evacuation of some field hospitals and half of each battery. Rumours suggest the evacuation of the position. This would be the end of our chaps after the hard fights they had to obtain what we hold.
December 14. 15th Bn. and Brigade Band evacuated

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December 15. Pioneers and 2 of "A" Coy. sent off. Preliminary evacuation under way. Weather fine.
December 16th. Seventy "Picked men " chosen to act as rear guard. Weather still fine. Shipping and air-craft very active.
December 17th. General BIRDWOOD inspected post at 1330.
December 18th. First day of evacuation. Weather propitious, things better than anticipated. 2 officers and 125 of 13th evacuated with "C" echelon and the whole of 14th Bn. with echelon "B". Remainder of 13th took over whole of No. 1 Sub-section.
December 19th. Everything normal. Squads sent to parade CHAULAK and ABHYL DERES to produce signs of usual traffic. Turks shelled CANTREBURY KNOB and HILL 60 with 8" H.E. No casualties. 3 Officers and 169 other ranks for echelon "A" left post at 1715. At 2100 Turks still wire-fixing on HACKNEY- WICK and GREEN KNOLL. Left in charge of "B" echelon (3 officers and 98) at 2115. Embarkation very smooth and uneventful. Under-weigh on "Carron" at 0300. Whole of "C" echelon embarked safely. Whole show a gigantic success.

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Dec 20th. Transhipped to "Cardiganshire" at 0900 and landed at Mudros after breakfast. "C" Echelon marched into camp at 1700.
Dec 21st. Resting at Mudros East. Heavy rain.
Dec 22nd. 1st A.L.H. Bde. embarked.
Dec 24th. Battalion held a most successful camp-fire concert. Arrival of Xmas billies from Australia.
Dec 25th. (Xmas Day) Xmas dinner a huge success. Visited "Scotian" with Fox and Doc. Storey. Battalion Comforts Fund Committee cases arrived (13 in all)
Dec 26th. 1000 in all ranks of Brigade embarked for Egypt. Distributed parcels from Comforts Committee and plum-puddings, one to every two men. Henley to Egypt.
Dec 27th. 36 other ranks 13th Bn. to Egypt.
Dec29th. Battalion less 1 officer and 37, embarked from Egyptian pier for Egypt per S.S. "Tunisian."
Dec 30th. Sailed for outer harbour. 4 p.m. Acting as Ship’s Adjutant. C.O. acting as O.C. Troops. G.H.Q. on board.
Dec31st. Sailed 4 a.m.
Jan 1st. Escort (French Destroyer) sighted German submarine.

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Arrived Alexandria at dawn. Entrained for Ismailia 6 p.m.
Jan 3rd. Arrived Ismailia 6 a.m. and went into camp opposite to Railway Station.
Jan 5th. Rode down to Canal to see 30th Bn.
Jan 8th. 9th Reinforcements arrived. 13th played 4th Field Ambulance (Rugby) on Ismailia football ground.
Jan 12th. Left for Cairo by night train on short leave. Put up at National Hotel. Met Ida Garvin at Ghizereh hospital following day.
Jan 15th. Left by mid-day train with Major Durrant and Perry.
Jan 16th. Inspection of Division by General Sir Alexander Murray, C.I.C. the Levant Army. My first mounted ceremonial parade.
Jan 21st. Brigade moved to MOSCAR and went into camp near NEFISHE STATION.
Feb. 2, 3 and 4th. Divisional manoeuvres.

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Feb. 11/12th. Night operations by N.Z. and A. Division.
" 16th. Lt. Colonel L.E. Tilney, D.S.O., V.D. resumed command. Canterbury Battalion (N.Z. Inf. Bde.) gave farewell to 13th officers, - wild and woolly night.
" 18th Champagne supper as return to Canterburys. Another such night.
" 26th. Entrained for Tel- El –Kebir at 0700. Arrived and went into camp at 0830.
March 2nd. 2nd Wing personnel, 10 officers and 363 other ranks handed over to Major S.C.E. HERRING as C.O. 45th Battalion. Strength prior to disruption was 25 officers and 806 other ranks.
" 4th. 9 officers and 445 mixed reinforcements reported. Include men for 1st and 30th Bns.
" 7th. Office work very heavy. At 5 p.m. went out for a ride with Henderson and Murray. The latter took his gun and we had some good sport with Teal, plover and snipe. Scored 3 plovers out of 4 shots.
‘ 11th. Obtained four days leave of absence. Left at 2115 with Barton. Arrived Cairo 2330, met by ABDU GILIL MAGDOULI and spent the night on a dahabeah on the Nile.

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March 12th At 5 a.m. Magdouli took us to some Egyptian Baths in the Esbekieh district. Thought of trying one till we saw the main bath. The door opened loosing a gust of foetid steamy air and there before us was a high spacy room chock full of naked arabs, with bath attendants rubbing as if their lives depended upon it. A stone heater in the centre completed the picture of Tophet.
6 a.m. Breakfast at Continental.
8.30 a.m. Train to Luzor. Jeff Harris got in at MINIEH, but left at SOHAG.
11.30 P.M. Arrived Luxor and put up at Luzor Hotel.
Mch. 13th. Riding "Lovely Sweet" and "Snowball" we visited first of all Temple of Karnak and then back through the town to the Temple of Luxor. In the afternoon, with Shikkary, guns and boys, we set out on donkeys again. Quail very plentiful but our shooting not as good as it should be.
March 14th. Crossed the Nile in a Felucca and found ‘Lovely Sweet" and "Snowball" waiting for us on the other side. Visited Thebes, and Dir El Bahary and then had

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lunch at Medinet Habou. More quail shooting, this time with a very old Shikkary known as "Big Daddy". My bag was 5 quail, 1 hawk and a donkey. The latter got in the road and took what the quail didn’t need. The "donk" didn’t worry after a while, but it took a lot to satisfy the owner.
After a rest under the Colossil of Memnon we journeyed further and lay down in trenches till the suN went down and the little jackals came out. We saw plenty of their footprints, but although "Big Daddy" would say "Hush" every two minutes none came. We went home quite happy. It amused us and didn’t hurt the jackals.
Mch. 15th Spent a quiet morning on the Nile. Hired a felucca and went up stream. Visited an orange grove. On the way down stream I went in for a swim with Magdouli. 6.15 p.m. train to Cairo.
Mch. 16th 7.30 a.m. arrived Cairo. Saw George Gardiner and Shellspear and had afternoon tea at the Club with Ida Garvin. Train to Tel-El- Kebir at 6.15 p.m.

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Mch. 17th St. Patrick’s Day. Battalion Sports.
" 22nd Inspection by Captain H.R.H. Edward A.C.G.A.P.D. Prince of Wales and Duke of Cornwall, K.G. Grenadier Guards. Staff Captain, G.H.Q. and General Birdwood.
" 23rd Brigade Sports. Battalion won Drill competition, bomb throwing, tug-of-war and team’s races. Twyman won flag race for mounted officers. Tied with 15th for Cup.
" 25th Preparing for move. Practice in loading camels.
" 26th 0700.- commenced march to Serapeum. Marched out 18 officers and 662 0’ranks, 56 horses and 9 vehicles. Also allotted 47 camels. 1st flight of 4th Division consisted of 4th Brigade, 4th Pioneer Battalion, 4th Field Coy and 4th Field Amb. Other battalions sent ‘cookers" by rail, we decided to take our three ( heavy salamander cookers.)
Camel loads:-
Each camel will carry 300 lbs: or (with nets) 44 blanket rolls (2 blankets in W.P. sheets) or 40 with ropes. Or 4 cases of biscuits and 5 of beef.
1200. 3 hours halt at Kassasins (battle of K. 28/8/82)
1500. Resumed march over good ground.
1630. Bivouaced at MAHSAMA (15 miles.)

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Apl. 7th To No. 1 Stationery Hospital, Ismaila, by barge on Suez Canal.
" 12th Returned to duty by same route. Brigade Swimming Carnival. 13th carried off practically all the events, including the Brigade Cup.
" 20th Inspection by C. in C. Genl. Sir Archibald Murray. Our show admirably stage managed. As the cortege road up, platoons sprang magically from tenches charging gallantly down the bayonet course; the musketry school produced a roar of fire, and the grenade school threw bombs as they never threw before. Trying to look unperturbed, the Battalion band discoursed popular airs in the pretence that it was practising. The R.M.Os of the Brigade were moved to unusual activity in their stretcher drill (stretchers borrowed) and the regimental sigs. sent dazzling flashes from their helios. When the C. in C. says he wants things to go on as usual he really sees a moving picture when the operator moves the handle too rapidly. The prince was with the party. He did not look at all happy, in fact, rather sulky he seemed.

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April 22nd Easter Sunday
" 24th Non-religious, native-holiday of "Shem-el- Nessem" or "Smelling of the Zephyr."
All Cairenes join in common fellowship to "smell the air." First day of the Khamaseen month when the hot winds are of frequent occurrence. Khamaseen terminates on day of Pentecost (Whit Sunday) a period of 50 days. Native women rise early on this day, take an onion, break it open and smell it. The festival is entirely non-religious and is observed by Copts and Mahommedans alike.
" 25th First anniversary of Anzac Day. Divisional aquatic sports, whole holiday. Those present at landing to wear a red ribbon, those who were on Gallipoli at any time, to wear a blue ribbon. Memorial service at 6.45 a.m.
" 28th Divisional operations.
May 2 Inspection by Corp Commander (Genl. Godley) Left for Alexandria on duty in connection with records at 6 a.m. Took O.R. Sgt. and Rook (batman). Padre Wray boarded train at Tel- el – Kebir. Changed at Benha and had a long wait.

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May 3 Arrived Alexandria 5 a.m. Put up at Regina Hotel. Guests of Ald. Tom Henley. M.P. and family at all meals.
May 4 Combined business and pleasure.
May 5 Mostly business.
" 6 Left Alex 9 a.m. Arrived Serapeum 1430.
" 13 Heat fearful. Mess paraded for dinner in pyjama coats. After mess, siting out in the cool, some evil genius persuaded McPhillamy to don a hideous blue and white striped bathing costume. This set the whole mess off. We dressed Ford in a table-cover as a kilt and a horses fly-fringe as a sporran; Twyman made a portly Salome in a Lava – lava and bare –skin. Henley wore full marching order over nothing; others wore the brightest and gaudiest pyjamas they could find. First the 16th Mess was raided more or less successfully, then the 14th Field Ambulance. Eventually representatives

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June 1st Arrived Alexandria 0245 and embarked on H.M.T. "Transylvania" immediately. 14th and 15th Bns. embarked later in the day; Bde. H.Q. were already on board. Horses etc. embarked on "Haverford’. 16th Bn. and 1 Coy 14th Bn. on "Canada".
Rook sent to hospital with pneumonia (?)
June 2nd Sailed at 11 a.m.
June 7th Arrived at Marseilles at 9.30 a.m. Entrained at Gare St. Charles (Point 2) and ‘pulled out" at 1736.
Train of 36 mixed carriages carrying 13th Bn. less transport and 38 of D Coy and two Coys of 14th Bn.
Beautiful scenery, the more beautiful to our sand and-tired eyes. Everywhere great enthusiasm as we pass through. The train seems one mass of waving khaki arms, one endless coo-ee.
Arrived at ORANGE at 23.34. Supper waiting at L’Hotel de Grand Cerf near the station. Men issued with hot water at this and all subsequent Haltes de Repas.
June Train left Orange at 0100 .Passed through LYON in the early morning and

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Stopped at MACON from 1032 to 1136. Great excitement at DIJON, reached during the afternoon. Coffee served here by French Red Cross workers, the band gave a few items while our boys mingled freely with the troops on a French train at the adjacent platform.
LES LAUMES from 1758 to 1925.
June 9th Passed through VERSAILLES and passed the wonderful Chateau at about 9 a.m.
Arrived at EPLUCHES at 1140. Walked into PONTCISE for lunch and taxied back. Left Epluches at 1230.
Through AMIENS to ABBEVILLE reached at 1758.
" 10th Arrived HAZEBROOK at 0200 and BAILLEUL at 0230. Detrained and marched off in exactly 33 minutes. Billeted in village of STEEN-JE, 1 mile S.W. of BAILLEUL.
With the Colonel am billeted with an old dame of about 60 summers and quite deaf. She has arranged to cook for us, and my word! she can cook. Everything is going very smoothly. Have my orderly room in the centre of the village.
" 11th Divine services. Band plays in village square at 1345.

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June 13th Memorial services for the late Earl Kitchener at 1200 in the village square. Cure paid us a pretty complement by tolling the church-bell. General Birdwood inspected the billets at 1630. Conversed freely with the men in his usual "taking" way.
June 14th At 11 p.m. Army time was put on to midnight to fall in line with new French decree.
June 15th Rumours of two impending moves. The Brigade will soon move to fresh billets and last, but not least,- expect to push off on London leave tomorrow.
Steel helmets issued today.
Received instructions at 11 p.m. to catch leave train at 0538 the following morning.
June 16th 0538 - Obeyed instructions.
Took charge of the first Leave-party from 4th Division consisting of self, Blainey (14th) R.S.M. and 2 Sgts. 13th and 1 sgt. and 2 privates of 14th.
Arrived at Boulogne at about 1000.
Lunched and left by Channel steamer at 1200. Arrived Folkestone at 1400 and caught Pullman car on the wharf. Arrived Victoria Station at 1600. Strand Palace and Regina Palace being full put up at Jermyn Court Hotel. Have a very "comfy"

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little suite with bathroom attached. Cutler- desk and telephone in bedroom. Wire to "Gassie" returned "Addressee preceeded Expedtionary force."
June 17th Lunched with Aunts Ada and Debbie at 26 West Cromwell Road, Sth. Kensington. Tea with Aunt Bell and supper with Uncle Lyon at Hampstead. Palladium with Herman and spent night at Hampstead.
June 18th Taxi to Hampstead Heath then lunch with Aunt Bell and back to supper with Uncle Lyon at Hampstead. Did West End with Len and Herman and back to Jermyn Court Hotel.
June 19th Arose late and lunched with some of the family at the hotel. Did the East End and the Blackwall Tunnel in the afternoon. Dinner with Stanley followed by H.B. Irving in "The Barton Mystery." Supper at "The Café Royal" a noted Bohemian resort. Bohemian atmosphere not enchanting; nor was I impressed with their long hair and mutton-chops. Bohemianism is the excuse advanced by minor poets, artists and charlatans for that part of their tawdry existence that must be displayed in public. ‘Tis hard on those who woo the muses, unfavoured by the Gods, that here they must be content with Café Royal (without the royals since the war). Ambrosia served by a Swiss waiter in a soiled apron (and the Kaiser weeps over that "Swiss" waiter.)

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June 28th. Moved in with C.O. at 1030 a.m. Battalion marched about midnight, at which hour Col. Tilney took over command of the Battalion area. 1st Division (on right) carried out a successful raid.
Battalion occupies Secs. 48 to 52 (inclusive) of Front line, i.e. from L.31. C.5.5. to I 31. 6.9.6 (36 N.W. edition on 6. 1/10,000) with three companies, 7 Lewis guns and two Vicars in front line, with one Coy in support in BOIS GRENIER line with M. Guns at White City (I .31.a.4.6). transport remains at JESUS FARM. This is the scene of IAN HAY’S first experiences.
June 29th. Genl. BIRDWOOD inspected at 9 a.m. 6th Bde. (on left)made three raids at midnight.
July 2nd. 14th Bn. attempted a raid of enemy tr enches. Unsuccessful owing to artillery failing to cut enemy wire. Bde. estimate of enemy casualties at 51. 14th Bn. lost 1 off. And 9 o’ranks killed, 3 officers and 20 o’ranks wouded.
July 3rd. Enemy raided a section of trench held by 14th Bn. 14th lost about 8 killed and 2 officers and 30 o’ranks wounded.

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July 6th. Enemy shelled WHITE CITY with 5.9s. without doing any considerable damage.
" 10th. 29th Bn. relieved 2 ptns. per Coy. during night 10/11. Night characterised by absence of artillery activity.
" 11th. Balance of battalion relieved by 1.20 a.m. on 12th. Boccard wounded by 29th M.G., whilst bringing in German flag. Ruhan killed.
" 12th. In billets at FORT ROMPU at 4.30 a.m. Marched to STEENT-JE at 1.30 p.m. Route via BAC-ST-MAUR, SAILY and BLANCHE MAISON. Arrived at 7 p.m.
" 13th. Entrained at BAILLEUL at 11a.m. Train pulled out at 6.45 p.m. Arrived and went into billets at 10 p.m.
‘" 15th. Route march through BERNEUIL and FRANQUEVILLE.
" 16th. Left with billeting party at 8.30 a.m. for NAOURS (ten miles.) Battalion left at 2 p.m. and arrived and went into billets at 8 p.m. Route via ST. LEDGER LES DOMART, HALLOY LES PERNOIS and WAGNIES.
" 17TH. Company training and Battalion route march.
" 22nd. Bde. Route march with 1st Line Transport. Route NAOURS - WARGNIES- FLESSELLES-VILLERS-NAOURS.
Commenced French lessons under local "school-marm" (some peach)

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July 23rd. Spent a very enjoyable afternoon with the "Doc" and the two school-mistresses of NAOURS. We had the gramophone sent across, much to the delight of Madame and the kids. NAOURS would have been a putrid hole but for our French lessons.
" 24th. Visited Les Souterrains. These caves have been safe refuge during many wars.
" 25th. Battalion marched to RUBEMPRE via TALMAS, and went into billets.
" 27th. Moved to WARLDY via HERRISART, TOUTENCOURT, HARPONVILLE. Passed Starting Point at 9 a.m. and arrived at 3 p.m. Luncheon en route.
" 30th. A. & C. Corps sent to Albert for buying and salvage duties.
August 4th. Brigade moved to BRECKFIELDS near ALBERT at 9 p.m. Arriving at 11.15 p.m. Bivouaced on hill.
" 6th. Battalion moved to TARA VALLEY and bivouacked. About midnight were shelled out and had to take shelter in communication saps.
" 7th. Moved to SAUSAGE VALLEY.

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August 8th. Battalion employed in Reserve carrying rations etc. to firing line.
" 9th. "A" Coy sent up to support 16TH Bn.
" 10th. 13th. Bn. relieved 15th Bn. in front line at 3.10 p.m. H.Q. at R.34.A.9.1. Line from R 34.b.2.4. to R.34 a 7.4 to 4.3. Pattrick, Murray, Kell and Wallack wounded, McGown missing. 19 o’ranks wounded 1 killed.
" 11th. A. & D. Coys made a forward move at 1 a.m. under cover of Artillery Barrage. Seized line R.34 a 53-43-44-65. A & D Coys in position in"Hopping-out" trench (R.34 a 53.47. 95) at 11.30 p.m., 10th inst. At midnight report received from D Coy (on left) that his trench had been heavily shelled between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. B Coy. (support Coy.) in position at R.34 a 91 – c. 56 and improving cover trench.
At midnight our six Lewis guns were disposed, two in commanding positions in support line (R34. b.12 & a. 5 ½.2) and two with each of A and D Coys in front line. C Coy Reserve to 16th Bn. At 1 a.m. (zero time) bombardment commenced, and first wave moved into

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No -Man’s land. At 1.3 a.m. the barrage lifted and "A" and "D" Coys advanced. Word received at 2 a.m. that we were in our objective and consolidating. Operations seriously impeded by dense fog. Enemy replied with heavy counter bombardment at 3.45 a.m.
Capt. F.M. BARTON and 4 o’ranks missing.
"TOBY" was last seen leading his men at 1 a.m.
At 11 p.m. "D" Coy on left pushed forward to P. 34 a 35-56 where they were attacked by a bombing party at about 1 a.m. on 12th We took 15 prisoners.
12th August. Under cover of artillery barrage we continued the forward movement at 10.30 p.m. in conjunction with the 50th Bn. and 12th British Division on our left. We seized line R.34 a 86 – 38. R34 b. 9.6 ½ and linked with 50th Bn. near "THREE TREES" and with 14th Bn. at R. 34 B 24. Secured a very extensive artillery dug-out containing large supply of shells thought to be gas shells. Enemy replied by intense and sustained bombardment from 10.30 p.m. till 2.30 a.m. 13th.
2/Lt. Randell slightly wounded.
2 killed, 29 wounded 1 missing.

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August 13th. At 4.45 a.m. enemy made an attack on right flank of 50th Bn. which was dispensed chiefly by "C" Coy’s 2 Lewis guns.
At 11 p.m. the 51st Bn. (Lt. Col. ROSS) took over portion of our line from R.34 a. 7.1 to b. 24. At midnight we took over up to R.33 b. 55 from 50th Bn.
2/Lt. McDOWELL and 43 o’ranks wounded . 5 killed.
" 14th. Further advance. At 10 p.m. barrage commenced. "A" "B" and "C" Coys in attack line in two waves of two platoons per Company. Six Lewis Guns and Bombing Platoon (less 1 section in reserve at Bn. H.Q.) followed second wave. "D" Coy in support. 1 Platoon and two Lewis Guns in Hoping-out trench. Remaining three platoons to link up to objective when gained. Our objective R.27d 911 to 33b.4.8. thence to 3.6. 50th Bn. on left. 51st on right.
Word received at 10.30 p.m. that a trench had been encountered 75 yards from hopping-out trench. First wave took this after a little fighting. Report timed 11.15 p.m. stated that we had

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taken a further trench 150 yds from "hopping-out" trench. Trench was full of Germans. We took 11 prisoners and a machine gun was brought back by L/Cpls SMITH and PATRICK.
Report timed midnight stated that neither of the two flank battalions had come up and that our flanks were badly exposed.
At 12.45 a.m. we were heavily counter-attacked on front and flanks and had to retire to original positions. We brought all our wounded out of enemy trenches.
2/Lts. WALTER, GLASSER, FARLON (later died of wounds) and LANGAN wounded.
Capt. J.K. HENDERSON and Lt. C.B. MAYER (wounded) missing. Capt. A.G. FOX prisoner of war (also slightly wounded) 10 other ranks killed, 78 wounded and 22 missing.
August 15th Relief by 51st Bn. commenced at about 5 a.m. Battalion moved down to WIRE TRENCH in twos and threes through a barrage.

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Les Henley was killed on the way down, 5 other ranks killed, 1 missing and one taken prisoner.
Moved from WIRE TRENCH to ALBERT at 5 p.m. and on to WARLOY to join the Brigade at 9.15 p.m. and received a great ovation from the remainder of the BRIGADE.
August 16th. Resting at WARLOY. Messing a la supreme with Twyman and the Colonel at the home of M. LE the Notaire.
" 17th. At 9 a.m. the Brigade moved to La Vicogne via CONTAY, HERRISART, RUBEMPRE and TALMAS. Arrived 6 p.m. and bivouacked in an orchard. Rode into NAOURS during the evening with Murray and the Doc.
" 18TH. At 9 a.m. the Bde. moved to HALLOY-LES-PERNOIS via NAOURS and HAVERNAS.
" 19th. Resting in billets.
" 20th. Bde. paraded at 11 a.m. General H.B. COX presented congratulatory cards to officers, N.C.O.s and men responsible for distinguished conduct.

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August 21st. Strength now 16 officers and 708 other ranks including 50 reinforcements which joined at ALBERT on 15th and 94 who joined on 19th. Our total losses whilst at POZIERS (from7th to 15th AUGUST):-
Officers - O’Ranks
Killed - 1 - 37
Wounded - 12* - 302
Missing - 4 - 28
Prisoners of War - 1 - 1
18 - 368
*ROGERS and FALOW died of wounds
The Colonel ordered of to Hospital by A.D.M.S. Major Durrant took over command.
August 22nd. Brigade moved to TALMAS via HAVERNAS & NAVOURS.
" 23rd. Moved to VADENCOURT via RUBEMPRE, HERRISTART and CONTAY.
" 26th. Moved to BRICKFIELDS and bivouacked for the night during heavy downpour.
" 27th. Battalion moved to CRATER TRENCH in SAUSAGE VALLEY AS Reserve Battalion.

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August 28th. All officers and N.C.O.s made reconnaissance of line near MOQUET FARM.
" 27th. At midnight 29/30th moved out of CRATER TERENCH to the relief of the 15th Battalion. March by Companies at 10 minute interval by the following route:-
Tramline to KAY DUMP thence to KAY TRENCH, TOM’S CUT to Firing Line. "B" Coy left in CRATER TRENCH to move up with rations during the morning.
Took over from 15th Bn. at 4.30 a.m. at which hour Bn. H.Q. moved to dugout at R. 34 b ½ . 7. Found that, with the exception of the left flank the line had advanced very little since Battalion was relieved on morning of 15th August.
Line as follows:
R.28c.9.2. to4.1 to 2.1 to 0.1 to R.27. d 9.1 Regimental Aid Post at R. 28 c. 8. ½. "A" Coy on left, "C" & "B" Companies in that order. "B" Company arrived with rations at 11 a.m. and went into support in TOM’S CUT.
"B" moved up and took its place in the line at 9 p.m. Capt. T. WELLS was wounded during the morning, remaining in command of his Company.
The attack was launched at 11 p.m. with Company frontages as follows:-

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"A" Coy -- R.27. d. 7.3 – 28 C. O. 3. ( exclusive.)
"B" Coy -- R. 28 C.O.3 -36
"C" Coy -- R. 28 C. 3.6. (ex) -66.
"D"Coy -- R.28 c. 66 (ex.) – 9.5
"D" Coy 15th Bn. in Reserve in TOM’S CUT

"A" Coy worked out about 40 yards into NO-MAN’S LAND and then followed up the barrage, meeting with heavy machine-gun and rifle-fire and showers of bombs. They rushed and took first objective and reached communication trench leading to point 73. Two sections of the Bombing Platoon worked along trench from R. 27.d. 91. under covering fire from Stokes Mortar situated at R.27.d. 9.0. worked up trench to 73 and established a block about 30 yards on far side of it.
A patrol which tried to connect with 16th Battalion on left met with heavy opposition; was heavily bombed but forced the enemy back after hand-to-hand fighting. Captn. Murray then informed by patrol that 16th Bn. was seen retiring. The enemy counter-attacked with bombs but were again driven off. Owing to the objective being thinly held and heavily shelled the Company then withdrew bringing their wounded with them.

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One prisoner taken, a member of the 1st Reserve Regiment of Prussian Guard. "B" Coy. encountered similar opposition to "A" Coy and was forced to withdraw with them. "C" & "D" Companies reached their objectives but met with heavy opposition from enemy dugouts situated near R. 28.c. 9.4. They were forced to withdraw in the face of a strong counter-attack. They suffered heavy casualties from machine guns fire from the right.
Each company experienced great difficulty owing to the mud, soaked and crumbling condition of parapet, the clogging of rifles with mud and the heavy shelling throughout the day. Rain had fallen through the whole of the day and night. All saps knee deep in tenacious "clayey" mud. Runners travelled barefooted, leaving their boots at the bottom of the mud in many cases. Stretcher-bearers had to take to the open in spite of snipers and whiz-bangs. We had 16 other ranks killed, Captains T. WELLS and R.H.BROWNING, 2Lts. COLE and D’ARCY-IRVINE and 95 other ranks wounded. 2/Lts. B.S.H. PATRICK & J. ALLEN & 31 other ranks Missing.

[Page 79]
Aug 30th Day quiet. Trenches very badly damaged by previous night’s bombardment. Communications very difficult owing to partial "setting of mud."
48th Bn. commenced to relieve at 11 p..m.
Captain H.W.MURRAY, Lieut. R.J.HENDERSON and 2/Lieut. C. KALER & MORGAN & 42 other ranks wounded, 8 killed and 14 missing.
" 31st Relief completed by 7.14 a.m. 4 wounded. Battalion rendezvous at SAUSAGE VALLEY – thence to Bivouac at BRICKFIELDS. Marched to WARLOY at 7 p.m.
Sept 1st Moved to RUBEMPRE at 9 a.m.
" 2nd Lt. Genl. BIRDWOOD present Military Medals won during first tour (8th to 15th August.) 6 to 13th B n.
Battalion held open air concert during evening. Canadians and "Tommies" contributed.
Sept 4th Moved to MONTRELET via VAL-MAISON, FERME-DE-ROSEL, VALHEUREUX and BONNEVILLE, at 9 a.m.
" 6 Moved to GEZINCOURT via CANDAS at 9 a.m. arriving at 12.30 p.m.

NOTE
The following table was recorded on page opposite page 79:-
13th BATTALION
TOTAL CASUALTIES
Officers Other Ranks
1ST Tour near) Killed 3* 37
POZIERES ) Wounded 10 302
8-15th August) Missing 4# 28
Prisoners of War 1 1
TOTAL 18 368
2ND Tour near ) Killed - 26
POZIERES ) Wounded 6 141
29-31ST August ) Missing 2 45
TOTAL 10 212
GRAND TOTAL 28 580
Lost 3 out of 4 Coy. Cmrs. Each stunt
*Includes two who died of wounds
#(Later.) Lieuts. Meyer and McGowan later reported as wounded and Prisoners of War.

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Sept. 7th.
Spent afternoon shopping in DOULLENS. Very interesting CITADEL.
" 8th. Battalion entrained at DOULLENS and left at 6.19 a.m. Arrived POPERINHHE ( HYPOUTRE STATION) and marched to ONTARIO CAMP at RENINGHELST.
" 11TH. Inspected trenches occupied by 75th Canadian Battalion.
" 12th. Rode into BAILLEUL with Davis. Gluyas came back.
" 13th. Gen. Sir H.V.COX presented Congratulatory Cards to 54 members of the 13thBn.
" 14th. Visited trenches of 75th Canadian Bn. near VOORMEZELE.
" 16TH. 50 of our specialists went into the line with 75th Canadians. 75th held a raid and took two prisoners. Their casualties sonly four in the actual raid.
" 17th. We completed relief of Canadians by 7 p.m. Our lines from 0.7. b. 49 to 0.2.c.58 Bn. H.Q. at n.6.D.1.9. (Ref. map VOORMEELE.)

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Sept. 27th. Attempted a small bombing attack under cover of an artillery barrage. Novel feature was that the word "open" was to be given by the officer actually on the enemy’s parapet. Everything worked smoothly but unfortunately the party had gone too far north and the left edge of "the Box" came down on them. Lieut FITZPATRICK and L/Cpl. MUIR killed. 4 others wounded (early morning of 28th.)
October 4th. Enemy made small raid on 16th Bn. (left) They (16th) had 8 killed and 8 wounded.
" 7th. Relieved by 49th Bn. and marched to LA CLYTE, where Army Commander watched the march through to billets at RENINGHELST.
" 9TH. Lt/Col. Durrant left on 10 days leave to United Kingdom. Left in command. Davis acting Adjutant.
" 10th. Reconnoitered our new position in the Zillebeke Area.

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Oct. 11th. Genl. Sir H.V. Cox presented Military Medals to those who won them in our second tour of Pozieres. 64 presented to Brigade, of which 13th Bn. were awarded 32.
" 12th. 11.15 a.m. – Army Command inspected the Brigade.
2 p.m. Marched out headed by the band, to the relief of 1st
Bn.
Relief completed by 8.20 p.m. Battalion H.Q. and one
Coy. at SWAN CHATEAU (1.19.C.2.7) – three
Companies in tunnels at THE BLUFF (1.19.d.2.7)

" 13th. Reserve Battalion. Employed mainly on tunnelling and carrying fatigues.
" 16th. Cycled into Ypres, to the ruins of the Cloth Hall.
" 19th. Relieved by 7th Battalion London Regiment and marched to QUEBEC CAMP, RENINGELST. Relief complete by 11 p.m. Casualties while in the line – 2 wounded.
" 20th. Col. Durrant returned from leave. Davis remained as A/Adjutant.

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Oct. 21st. Moved to billets near STEENVOORDE. 1 man wounded by nose-cap from ant-aircraft shell.
" 22nd. Rode into CASSELL with Murray for afternoon tea.
" 23rd. Afternoon tea at Hazebrook with C.O. and Mills.
" 26th. Marched to CAESTRE at 2.15 a.m. and entrained. Train left at 5.33. a.m. Route via CALLAIS, BOULOGNE, & ABBEVILLE.
Arrived PONT REMY at 3 p.m. and detrained – marched to VAUCHELLES-LES- QUESNOY and went into billets at 5 p.m.
Headquarters at CHATEAU DE VAUCHELLES.
" 27TH. Afternoon tea at ABBEVILLE with C.O. and Mills.
" 28th. Battalion tactical exercises. Dinner at ABBEVILLE.
" 29TH. Church parade at the Chateau.
" 21st. Strength of Bn. on this date – 39 officers and 989 other ranks (including attached and detached) Of these 4 officers left Australia on 22/19/14 as such.

[Page 84]
18 Officers left in the ranks and 122 other ranks left on that date.
24 of the officers and 264 of the other ranks saw service on Gallipoli.
20 officers and 137 other ranks landed during the first five days.
Motor ride with Padre Wray. Through FLEXECOURT to AMIENS where we looked through the Cathedral. Thence to VILLIERS-BOCAGE, HEAVERNAS, CANAPLES, FLIXECOURT, and home.
Nov. 1st Battalion moved to VILLIERS-SOUS-AILLY.
" 2nd. Moved to BELLDY-SUR-SOMME. Headquarters in CHATEAU D’EN HAUT. Very comfortable rooms, the best we have had yet. Electric light throughout the Chateau and stables.
Nov. 3rd. Locke returned to the Battalion.
" 5th. T. Wells rejoined.
" 8th. Marched to PICOUIGHY at 8 a.m. and from there the Brigade (less 15th Bn. ) was moved by a French motor-bus squadron to RIBEMONT. Transport moved independently.

[Page 85]
Arrived at RIBEMONT at 3.30 p.m. and went into billets.
" 12th. "A" and "B" Coys ( both less Lewis Gunners) moved to WILLOW SIDING (F. 4. b.) at 9 a.m. Lt. Col. Durrant leave to attend 7 day conference of C.O.’s at 4th Army School (FLEXICOURT. ) Locke temporarily in command.
" 13th. Battalion ( less "A" & "B" Coys) moved to DERNANNCOURT, arrived at 3 p.m. and went into billets for the night.
Nov. 14th. Moved to bivouacs at BERNAFAY (near MONTAUBAN) Roads in fearful condition owing to congestion & bad weather. Very scanty shelter and rain and cold. "A" & "B" Coys rejoined. "C" Coy detached to QUARRY SIDING.
" 20th. Still at BERNAFAY. Men employed on road and railway construction. C.O. rejoined from4th Army School.
" 23rd. Battalion (less "C" Coy at QUARRY SIDING and Transport at POMMIER RERDOUBT ) moved to NEW CARLTON CAMP near BAZENTIN.
NOTE ON OPPOSITE PAGE:
Noc.15th. Saw my first tank (a female) on western edge of TRONES WOOD. Collected a machine gun "comb".

[Page 86]
1916
Nov. 27th. I took over "C" Company (at QUARRY SIDING.)
Battalion moved into position as Right Bn. QUEUDECOURT sector. Battalion H.Q. in POSSUM RESERVE TRENCH (n.28.d.12) "A" & "B" Coys in front line. "B" Coy ( right Coy.) N.21.C48 – n.2.d.26. "A" Coy (left N.2.c.48 – N.22d.1.21/2 ) "C" Coy in PILGRIM’S way (N.26C.30 – N.26d.1.21/2) "D" Coy in PIONEER TRENCH (n.32a 7.0.- N .32a.3.6) and BULLS TRENCH (N32C.2.61/2- n.32d.1.5) Relief completed by 6.45 p.m.
Nov. 28th. Made a reconnaissance of the front line preparatory to relieving "A" Company.
Nov. 29th. Relieved "A" Company. "D" Coy. Relieved "B" Coy. Both reliefs completed by 6p.m. Whole relief had to be carried out very quickly owing to the absence of communication trenches. Found front line to be in fairly good condition "A" Coy having put in a lot of work.
Decided to occupy German dugout in sunken road (see sketch.) Had this cleaned out and sapped out to it along the road.
NOTE;; Sketch on opposite page.

(Page 87)
Placed my Company Scouts on a bombing post about 20 yards up the sunken road to cover Coy. H.Q.
1916
Dec. 1st. At 3.15 a.m. the Lewis Gun on the end of GOODWIN’S POST (see sketch) saw a hun run across their front. They gave him a burst and he ran down into the sunken road almost on top of my scouts. The scout on duty hearing the gun open and seeing the German rushing towards him, thought there must be a party of them and so threw the mills bomb he had in his hand. This brought the bosch up with a scream and a cry of "Kamerade!"
We brought him into the dugout and I dressed eight bomb wounds in his body and a machine gun wound in his wrist. And yet he was not seriously hurt.
He was a runner and carried a message from his Coy. Cmdr. In BARLEY TRENCH to a platoon Cmdr. in LARD TRENCH and was returning with the answer when he lost his way and ran into our post.

[Page 88]
1916
Dec 1st. (cont.) The message was a notification that the German "higher authorities" had decided to evacuate the salient and asked the platoon Cmdr. to report on a trench to be sited along the base of the salient. A map of the area, showing their lines and ours was enclosed, and the file was being returned with the Platoon Cmdr’s report, and was an adverse one. Naturally our General Staff were delighted. We had prepared for an attack to drive them out of the very trenched they now proposed to evacuate
Dec. 2nd. Enemy shelled their own trench (LARD TRENCH)very heavily with 4.2 & 5.9. H.E. The huns in the trench sent up myriads of red rockets and eventually when his gunners has shortened on to our trench (they were firing over GREASE TRENCH at LARD TRENCH) A green cluster rocket followed by a single white was fired. A fine display and one which greatly amused my men.

[Page 89
1916
Dec. 3rd. During the morning a well-placed 4.2" howitzer shell fatally wounded a stretcher-bearer (Smith) and Corpl. Mapleton and slightly wounded another.
"A" Coy relieved us during the afternoon and we moved back to PILGIM’S WAY.
Dec. 6th. Battalion relieved by 5th Bn. A.I.F. and moved back to QUARRY SIDING (Near MONTAUBAN.)
Our total casualties for the tour were:
5 killed, 2 died of wounds, and 14 wounded.
Bivouaced near Quarry Siding for the night.
Dec. 7th. Entrained 6 a.m. and detrained at MEAULTE at 9 a.m. Marched to RIBEMONT and went into billets at about 1.30 p.m.
Dec. 9th With C.O., Mills & Locke went into AMIENS to celebrate promotion of Locke and self. Walked to HEILLY and were given a lift in a Red Cross Car. Put up at Hotel Belfort near La Gare du Nord.
Dec. 10th. Caught 6 a.m. train to Mericourt (near Ribemont)

[Page 90]
1916
Dec. 11th. During the afternoon rode across to WARLOY-BAILLON to see the estimable M.DOMON le Notaire, but more particularly to see Jeanne. Madame pressed me to stay to dinner and meet M.le Cure. Promised to have dinner with them the following night and bring Harry Murray.
Dec. 12th. Rode over to Warloy (6 miles) with Harry Murray through an icy head wind and driving rain. Nevertheless Madame’s cuisine is well worth the trouble and we had a very pleasant evening.
Dec. 13th Granted "Blighty" leave.
Dec. 13/14th. Midnight. Set out with Gordon Mills to catch 2.38 a.m. train for MERICOPURT.
Dec. 14th. Froze in the Officers’ room of B.E.F. Canteen until 8.15 a.m. Leave train not having put in an appearance we caught the passenger train to AMIENS. Arrived at 10 a.m. and did another freeze until the leave train arrived at 1.15 p.m. After that the freezing was beyond description. The train averaged about 5 miles an hour when it did move, which wasn’t often.

[Page 91]
1916
Dec. 15th. Arrived at HAVRE at 7.30. a.m. Received instructions at Officers’ Rest Camp and then repaired to Hotel Normandie. Went to bed feeling very ill indeed. Voice absolutely gone, and throat like sandpaper. Reported on the wharf at 8.30 p.m. and sailed at 11.30 p.m.
Dec. 16th. Arrived and disembarked at Southhampton. Train to Waterloo Station arriving at 2.15 p.m. (late owing to very heavy fog.) Reported to A.I.F. Headquarters and was ordered out to No. 3 Genl. Hospital, Wandsdworth. Fog impassable, taxis impossible, took train to Clapham Junction, then tram and trudged through the fog guided by the inevitable boy. Arrived at 6 p.m. and went into - -bed.
This was a famous Saturday night fog, quite equal to a small raid in point of casualties.
NOTE on opposite page:
(BRIGADE moved to "T" area, 13th Bn. to COISEY)
Dec. 21st. (Thursday) Out on overnight leave. Put up at Jermyn Court Hotel and saw Razzle Dazzle with Mills.
Dec. 22nd. Medical Board during morning, and discharged

(Page 92)
1916
Dec. 22nd. (Contd)
from hospital with instructions to report to A.I.F. H.Q. the following day. Dinner at Frascati with Bob Henderson and Mills, and afterwards to see "Tales of Hoffman" at the Aldwych.
Dec. 23rd. Reported to A.I.F. H.Q. and had my leave extended till 4th January.
Lunch at 76 Addison Road.
Dinner at Trocadero with Bob and Mills and then to "Peg o’ my Heart." After the show went round to Café Royal in Regent Street. Fell in with a crowd of models, etc. and eventually migrated to St. John’s Wood Studio, Knightsbridge Road. Here, Elvey, the sculptor, had thrown open his doors, stocked his cellars and prepared for a merry time. His stock in trade pushed back to the walls floor polished and gramophone in full blast, the fun began. Plenty of cosy chairs and a roaring fire helped things along considerably. Some of the party caught the workmen’s train the following morning.

[Page 93]
1916
Dec. 24th.
Ran round to R.A.C. with Twynam. Lunch at Trocadero, afternoon tea at the Cecil and Trocadero for dinner.
Dec. 25th (Xmas Day)
With Howden and Mills went to the Cecil for Xmas dinner. Afterwards went to London Opera House with Harry Murray and Henleys. A very good show. Dinner at St. Ermyns with Henleys.

Dec. 26th.
Matinee performance of "Daddy Longlegs" with Harry Murray and the Henley girls. Dinner at the "Troc." with Harold and Mills, and afterwards to "Aida." Supper at the Savoy.
(BATTALION SPORTS AT COISY)
Dec. 27th.
Boccard and a few of his "pals’ blew in just before dinner.
Diner at the "Troc." and then to "Bing Boys" with Murray and Howden.
Dec.28th.
Dinner at 120 Goldhurst Terrace. Met Bob Henderson and Howden at Jermyn Court and caught 11.30 p.m. Great Northern Express from King’s Cross, bound for Hattonburn. Comfortable sleeper.

[Page 94]
1916
Dec. 29th.
Passed over Forth Bridge about 8 a.m. Changed at Kinross Junction and arrived Milnathort at 10 a.m. In the absence of anyone to meet us, we walked to the "Thistle" and had breakfast. Here we were picked up by the dogcart from Hattonburn.
Mrs. Montgomery gave us a hearty welcome.
After lunch Mrs. M. took us round Loc Leven in her car. Thought the Loch very pretty though must confess it was not very long before I was sound asleep in the tonneau, wedged in between Howden and Bob.
In the evening played rush patience till 10 p.m. and then had a couple of hundred at billiards.

Dec. 30th.
A more or less quiet day.
Dec. 31st (Sunday)
Went to the little Church of England in Kinross. We three were the only ones to see the New Year in. At midnight in my room, we joined hands and sang a silent Auld Lang Syne.
(GENL. BIRDWOOD presented ribbons and medals after Church Parade. (COISY)

[Page 95]
1917
Jan. 1st.
Dogcart at 8 a.m. Train for Milnathort, arrived Edinburgh 10.30 a.m. Put up at North British Hotel.
Lunched with St. John Martin and picked up Howden and Bob for a run out to Arthur’s Seat. Returned for Billiards and dinner at 14 Lindoch Place.
(BRIGADE SPORTS AT RAINNEVILLE.)
LIST OF HONOURS WON BY Bn. UP TO 1/1/17.
C.B. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
D.S.O. . . . . . . . . . .. 2
M.C. . . . . . . . . . . . 10
D.C.M. . . . . . . . . . . 10
M.M. . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Croix d’ Officier . . . 1
Serbian White eagle . 2
Cross of Kara George .1
Serbian Gold Medal. 1
Jan. 2nd.
Lunch at Caledonian Hotel and then up to see the Castle. Dinner at Lindoch Place. Howden and Bob decided to leave the following day. I left by 9.45. p.m. for St. Pancras (Midland Express) Unable to book sleeper.
(Bn. MOVED FROM COISY TO RIBEMONT.)
Jan. 3rd.
Arrived at St. Pancras at 9.45. a.m. and went out to 26 West Cromwell Road. Dinner at Frascati with Boccard and then to "Some." Boccard had to unscrew his wooden leg before he could get into his seat.
Jan. 4th.
Lunch at Frascati with Boccard. Reported at A.I.F. H.Q. and ordered to return to France the following day.
Afternoon tea at the "Troc," with Padre Wray. Dinner at Frascati with Phil & Jane and then to "Vanity Fair."

[Page 96]
1917
Jan. 5th.
Caught 4 p.m. leave train from Waterloo Station. Embarked at Southhampton and sailed 8.15 p.m.
Jan 6th.
Arrived Havre at 9 a.m. and put up at the Normandie. Met a few friends and ran out to Nice Havrais (St. Addresse) for the afternoon.
Jan. 7th
Drive up to the rest camp at 3 p.m. with all our baggage.
(BATTALION MOVED FROM RIEMONT TO MELBOURNE CAMP)
Jan. 8th.
Caught 6 a.m. leave train. Filthy carriage with broken windows. Air very cold.
("A’ & "D" COYS. DETACHED AT QUARRY SIDING.)
Jan. 9th.
Arrived ALBERT AT 2.30 a.m. and slept in Luggage Room. Breakfast and lunch at Officers’ Club and then to MELBOURNE CAMP – (near MAMETZ) to join the Battalion.
Jan. 12th.
Acted as President of a Court Martial for first time.
Jan 15th.
Mess Dinner. Great success.
" 17th.
First heavy snow storm.
Jan. 22nd.
Visited 45th Battalion in GAP and SWITCH trenches to arrange details of relief. Another snow storm. Snow still on the ground from that of 17th.

[Page 97]
1917
Jan. 23rd.
Last night in Melbourne camp. Another pleasant Mess Dinner.

Jan. 24th.
Relieved 45th Bn. in GAP and SWITHCH trenches. Battalion H.Q. in SWITCH trench (s.6c.9.6). Support Battalion. Employed on general maintenance and construction fatigues. One man slightly wounded.
Jan. 25th.
Collected souvenir (pounder V.S.M. shell) from male tank stranded on FLERS ROAD near Bn. H.Q.
Jan. 28th.
Shell landed in Mess kitchen without doing any material damage. Business resumed almost before the earth had ceased falling.
Feb. 1st.
Two companies of the 15th Bn. attacked strong points N.21d41/2 . 7 ¼ and N.21d 81/2 51/2.
Attacked launched at 7 p.m. Two minutes barrage on objective. When artillery lifted the people on left hopped in without much difficulty, but those on right encountered heavy wire, and had to move to the left and then bomb down to their objective.
Took 2 officers and 50 other ranks prisoner and up to about 2 a.m. on 2nd had light casualties.

[Page 98]
1917
Feb. 1 / 2
Towards dawn the enemy counter-attacked. "Our artillery" (says the 15th Bn.) failed to respond adequately to the S.O.S. signal, and we had to withdraw.
Approx. casualties in 15th Bn. were:
1 Officer and 20 others killed.
1 " and 30 " missing
2 " and 87 " wounded
Feb. 2nd.
We relieved 15th Bn. in front line. Relief completed by 8.50 p.m.
"A" Coy (N.21.1 N.21.2 & N.21.3
(1 Platoon at CHALK PIT, 1 at WATLING ST.
"B" Coy (N.21.4, N.21.5 & N.21.6
(2 Platoons in POSSUM RESERVE
"C" Coy PILGRIMS WAY.
"D" Coy BULLS ROAD
H.Q. POSSUM RESERVE
Feb. 3rd.
Day quiet. Received orders for an attack to be delivered on night 4/5th.
Feb. 4th.
The two platoons of A. & B Coys which were not in the front line were sent up in small parties. After dark "A" Company closed to its right to is jumping-off place. "C" Company went up to EVE VALLEY to its place,

[Page 99]
1917
Feb. 4th(Contd.)
"B" Company closed to its right and "D" Coy went up FUGITIVE ALLEY to its jumping-off place in GREASE TRENCH. At 8 p.m. Battalion Headquarters moved to CHALK PIT and 10 minutes prior to zero-time, word was received that the four companies were in position for the assault, and every thing was quiet. At 9.57 p.m. the artillery fired a few rounds to warm the guns and at 10 p.m. the barrage commenced.
Our assaulting wave immediately "hopped over the top" and moved across "No-Man’s Land" in an unbroken line, which approached as close as 5 to 6 yards to the edge of the barrage so excellent was the shooting. On the way over an enemy Maxim gun in "No-Man’s Land" was captured and the crew killed or wounded. At 10.2 pm the barrage lifted and our men rushed into the trench. Most of the Germans were in their dug-outs and on the left they surrendered freely, but on the right they showed fight and hand to hand conflict took place.

[Page 100]
1917
Feb. 4th (Contd.)
About 40 Germans were killed. A smart bombing attack was made on the right flank at once by 10 or 12 German bombers, but the right bombing section dealt with it, completely wiping out the party. At 10.6 p.m. the first of several green flares went up indicating the position was captured. Our losses in the assault were very slight indeed .
At 10.9 p.m. the enemy barrage came down, a fierce and terribly concentrated fire, mostly on "A" Coy, SHINE TRENCH, GREASE TRENCH, EVE & FUGITIVE ALLEYS. This fire died away at about 10.40 p.m. At 10.15 p.m two prisoners of 10th Coy. 362nd Rgt. 4th Ers. Division were brought into Bn. H.Q. and an identification wire was sent which reached G.H.Q. within one hour of zero time. At 10.50 p.m. the right flank was fiercely attacked by enemy bombers, the first shower of bombs killing or wounding 7 out of 9 bombers at the bombing stop. The S.O.S. was sent up and a beautiful barrage was forthcoming within 30 seconds.
NOTE
On opposite page sketch of trench system involved in this attack.

[Page 101]
1917
Feb. 4th (Contd.)
At 10.58 p.m. the left flank was attacked by bombers, and the S.O.S. sent up. Again our barrage was down in 30 seconds; this attack was easily repulsed with heavy losses to the enemy.
At 11.30 p.m. two Lewis guns were sent from CHALK pit to replace two of the "A" Coy’s destroyed by shell-fire.
Feb. 5th.
At 3 a.m. :A" Coy was again attacked by swarms of bombers and the S.O.S. sent up. The barrage came down in under a minute and the attack was beaten off with heavy losses to the enemy.
"A" Company went over 140 strong and in 24 hours lost 92 (including 1 officer killed, and 2 wounded.)
We took 600 yards of enemy trench which was very deep and contained many deep dugouts.
2 officers, (one of whom died of wounds.)
75 other ranks
1 Maxim Gun.
2 Granatewerfer ("pineapple bomb" throwers.)
Large number of rifles. bayonets etc.
"A" Coy (on right) relieved by "D" Coy of 16th Bn. (Captn. AHEARN) at 7 pm..

[Page 102]
1917
Feb. 7th.
Up to noon 7-2-17 our casualties were as follows:
Officers Other Ranks Total.
Killed . . . . . . . . . . 2 41 43
Wounded . . . . . . . 5 167 172
Missing . . . . . . . . . - 5 5
7 213 220
Officers killed were Captain N. MACDONALD ("C" COY) and 2/Lieut. G.A. BENTLEY ("A" COY.)
The fighting strength of the battalion on 4th Feb. was 671 other ranks.
German prisoners thought the Battalion was a specially selected and trained party of raiders. Another prisoner, a Corporal, said he knew we were Australians because we got in the trench so quickly after the barrage lifted.
Feb. 9th
Relived by 46th Bn. Complete by 9.15 p.m. Moved to MAMETZ.
Feb. 11th
Went to AMIENS with Harry Murray, Hugh Pulling & Mills. Returned on night of 12th.
Feb. 18th.
"Cassis" turned up for lunch.

[Page 103]
1917
Feb.22nd.
Colonel took over command of the Brigade vice G.O.C. on leave. Administering command. Brigade moved to RIBEMONT at 9a.m.
Feb.24th.
Received word of the following awards in connection with affair of 4/5th February:
M.C. – Lieut G.S. McDOWELL
" W.S. BONE
Captn. N.C. SHIERAW
D.C..M. Withers, Robertson, Gore
M..M. Wallbank, Bice, Corbie, Windsor, Jackson.
Further awards to come.
March 2nd.
Had two airmen to dinner at H.Q. Mess.
March 4th.
Brigade parade for presentation of Div. Commander’s Congratulatory Cards. Dinner at WARLOY-BAILLON with the Colonel and "Bomb" Wells.
March 6th.
Brigade Route March.
March 7th.
Brigade Tactical Exercise interrupted by snow storm. Still in bed.
NOTE
List on opposite page:
HONOURS WON BY Bn. UP TO 24.2/17.
C.B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
D.S.O. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
M.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
D.C.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
M.S..M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
M.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..55
Croix d’officier . . . . . . . . . 1
Serbian White Eagle . . . . . 2
Cross of Kara George . . . . 1
Serbian Gold Medal . . . . . 1
TOTAL AWARDS. 90
( also add 1 C.M.G. for Padre Wray.)

[Page 104]
1917
March 11th
General Birdwood presented Medals and ribbons on a Divisional Parade near BRESLE. Received the M.C. Ribbon.
March 12th.
Received word that Harry Murray had been awarded the V.C. also heard of the fall of BAGHDAD. Dinner with 45th at BRESLE.
March 13th. Brigade Tactical Exercise.
March 14th. Brigade Tactical Exercise. First open warfare exercise since SERAPEUM.
March15.
Dined with "C" Flight, 3rd Squadron, R.F.C. at LAVIEVILLE Aerodrome. Word received that Anzac Corps expect our men to be in BAPAUME tomorrow.
March 16th.
BAPAUME occupied at 6 a.m.
March 18th.
Dinner in honour of Harry Murray. Anzac Pierrot troupe gave splendid show. George Gardiner returned.
March 19th.
With Harry Murray went into Amiens for dinner with members of 3rd Squadron R.F.C. Dined at the Godbert and arrived home about 11 p.m.

[Page 105]
1917
March 20th.
C.O. left on special leave. 9 more military medals awarded for 4/5th February.
March 21st.
Brigade open warfare exercise.
March 22nd.
Battalion (less "D" Coy at MEAULTE) moved to CRUCIFIX CAMP, FRICOURT.

March 23rd.
Gellatly of 3rd Squadron, R.F.C. sent Invitation to Murray and myself to go back for a fly and have dinner with them. Rode back to LAVIEVILLE Aerodrome at 2.30 p.m. We went to 6,000 feet in Morane parasol monoplanes. Flew for 20 minutes and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. After dinner they sent us back in two motor-cycle side cars, keeping the groom and horses till following day.
March 25th.
Inspected "Billets" in Bapaume. Left at 10 a.m. with George Gardiner and returned at 4.30 p.m.
March 26th.
Moved to huts at BAZENTIN LE PETITE. Received word that 20th Bn. H.Q. in BAPAUME that we had intended to occupy was blown up by a time bomb on night 25/26th, 20 casualties.
NOTE
List on page opposite to 105;
AWARDS TO 21-3-17.
V.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
C.M.G. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
C.B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
D.S.O. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
M.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
D.C.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
M.S.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
M.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Croix d’Officier . . . . . . . . . 1
Serbian White Eagle . . . . . 2
Cross of Kara George . . . . .1
Serbian Gold Medal . . . . . 1
101

[Page 106]
1917
March 27th.
At 9 a.m. moved to WARLENCOURT, arriving at 11.30 a.m. improvised shelters from debris of the village.
March 28th.
Moved to dugouts between BIEFVILLERS and FAVREUIL (squares H.13, 14 & 20) at 9.30 a.m. arriving at 11.30. a.m. Bn. H.Q. at H.13 d. 8.4. "C" Coy sent to LE SARS.
March 29th.
At 6.30 a.m. 14th Bn. H.Q. was blown up by a time-bomb. Lt. McQueen and 3 other ranks killed, 2 o’ranks wounded.
March 30th.
"C" Coy marched in at 1 p.m.
March 31st.
Made reconnaissance of Forward area. Visited Col. Pope (52nd.Bn.) at L4a 8.8. LAGNICOURT, QUEANT & ECOUST all visible from ridge in I.4a.
April 2nd.
Preparations for move to trenches in vicinity of FAVREUIL. Carrying timber, iron etc. from adjacent villages.
April 3rd.
Battalion (except H.Q.) moved to FAVREUIL. C.O. returned from leave. Enemy plane brought down two balloons just near Bn. H.Q.

[Page 107]
1917
April 4th.
Battalion H.Q. moved to sunken road in wood near Chateau at FAVREUIL.
April 5th.
Made reconnaissance of Hindenburg Line from our forward positions in front of ECOUST ST.MEIN.
April 6th.
Conference of C.O.s at 16th Bn. H.Q. Brigade to attack on 1.100 yds. frontage, 4 Battalions in line, distributed in depth. 2 Tanks on each flank of Brigade and 4 M.G. Coys. allotted to us.
April 7th.
Made valuable reconnaissance of REICOURT and the Hindenburg line from the high ground north of NOREUIL.
April 8th.
At 5 p.m. went with McDowell and the Doc. to have a look at 16thBn. outpost line in railway cutting between NOREUIL and QUEANT. Were not allowed to pass the former place before dark, 8.30. p.m. Had a snack with Percy Black and were guided out by PARKES. Got back at 11 p.m. to NOREUIL and found our horses had not turned up. Trudged home to FAVEUIL which we reached at 2.30. a.m.

[Page 108]
1917
April 9
At 8 p.m. we received word that the impending attack would take place at dawn on 10th. We were to move up to NOREUIL and join the Brigade. Stunt to be done without any artillery but tanks to co-operate.
C.O. & Davis went on ahead and I marched the Battalion off at 10 p.m. The whole Battalion was in position in the Railway Cutting at 3.55. a.m. on the 10th.
April 10th.
A few minutes before zero time, when the 14th and 16th Battalions lay on the jumping-off line, and the 13th and 15th lay in close support, a message was receive that the tanks had not arrived and that, accordingly the stunt was cancelled. Units to move back to original positions. Dawn was approaching when word was received and the situation looked extremely desperate. Just when the whole Brigade seemed doomed to annihilation it commenced to snow heavily and under cover of this, the men of

[Page 109]
1917
April 10th. (Continued)
the Brigade were ordered to move back independently and rendezvous near NOREUIL. Viewed from within, the retirement resembled nothing so much as a crowd moving away from a Test Match. Thanks to a merciful Providence our movements were completely screened by the thick snow-fall.
At NOREUIL, orders were received for the 13th to move back to billets at FAVREUIL. Dog-tired, the men straggled on, the last one limping in at 4 in the afternoon.
At 6.30 p.m. orders were again received that the attack originally planned, would now eventuate at dawn on the 11th. This time the Companies moved independently and I went on with the Colonel to a conference at Brigade H.Q. Around Brigade H.Q. the night was made hideous by the impatient bark of many tanks moving to their place of assembly. Again the attack was planned to the complete

[Page 110]
1917
April 10th (Contd)
elimination of artillery. 4th Brigade attacking on a 900 yards frontage on the right with objectives as follows:
1st Objective.
2nd Objective.
3rd Objective, - RIENCOURT.
On the left of the Brigade and on the left of a gap of 400 yards the 12th Brigade attacked on a frontage of 600 yards. Twelve tanks were allocated to that portion of the Hindenburg Line between BULLECOURT & QUANT and which embraced the Divisional frontage. A British Division was to attack on the left of BULLECOURT with HENDINCOURT as its ultimate objective. Zero hour to be 4.30 a.m. 11th inst. The Brigadier ordered the men of the 14th and 16th Battalions to take the first two objectives. 16th Bn. on the right. 13th & 15th Bns. following in close support (former on right) to take RIENCOURT.
The C.O. decided to advance in formation as under:
B A
1111 1111
C
1111
D
1111
(in artillery formation )

[Page 111]
1917
April 11th.
All companies in position in Railway Cutting by 4 a.m. "A" Coy led off at zero time and moved out without a hitch in spite of a moderately heavy fire on to the cutting. "D" Coy had a Lewis Gun section knocked out by a pine-apple bomb from QUEANT just before moving off. When dawn broke very little could be seen of the Infantry owing to thick smoke haze, though a number of tanks could be seen, apparently in difficulties. At about 7 a.m. a shell fell near Headquarters, killing 5 and wounding 6. Of the latter the "Doc" who was very badly hit, only lingered till he reached the field ambulance. At the time, I was observing from the top of the cutting and the piece of the base of the shell caught me in the back and tumbled me over; afterwards to roll back to the bottom of the cutting. Thought it was all U.P. for a while. Lung gone and pretty hefty bleeding inside. Fixed up in H.Q. dugout. All very concerned. On the way back the stretcher bearers walked into a barrage and a walking case, walking

[Page 112]
1917
April 11th (Contd.)
just by my head, was killed, and Corbie (one of the Stretcher-bearers , ) was wounded. Nevertheless they let the stretcher down lightly and by some means I crawled or staggered a few yards further on to a shallow sunken road and waited for a new S.B. to be brought. Snow on the ground made my hands very cold, and exertion made me spit up a lot of blood. From here on things are just hazy. Eventually reached 3 Aust. C.C.S.
April 12th
They tell me I was not expected to live through the 12th.
April 13th-14th
Interesting to hear a long while after that on these days the Colonel had a slight hope. I would not have evinced much interest at the time. General Birdwood came in on one of these days and spoke to me.
April 15th
More hopeful. Put on hospital train at noon. Colonel Durrant and Harry rode up from Mametz (15 miles) to see me, and arrived a little before the train left. Were only allowed to talk to me for two (2) minutes.

[Page 113]
1917
April 16th
Arrived Rouen at 8 a.m. and sent to No. 8 General Hospital.
April 17th
Operation at 2.30 p.m. Foreign body and piece of rib and fragments of clothing removed from below left clavicle in front and carrel’s tube inserted. Rib re-sected below entry wound and pleural cavity drained.
April 23rd
Carrel’s tube removed and wound stitched.
April19th
Stitches removed and tubes removed from wound in back.
May 2nd.
To Hospital Ship "St. David" at 5 p.m.
May 3rd.
Sailed 4.30 a.m. Very pleasant trip down the Seine. Able to sit up and look out the Saloon windows. Arrived HAVRE at 11a.m.and anchored off. Sailed at 9.30 a.m.
May 4th.
Arrived Southampton before dawn and anchored off. Disembarked 10.30 a.m. and entrained for London. Sent to No. 3 London General Hospital, Wandsworth arriving, dog –tired, at 5 p.m.
NOTE
On opposite page:
AWARDS FOR OPERATION OF 11/4/17.
( Bar to D.S.O. – Capt. H.W. MURRAY. V.C., D.S.O. (also D.C.M.)
24 ( M.C. - PARSONAGE and ROSE.
(D.C.M. – four AWARDS.
( M.M. – SEVENTEEN AWARDS.
TOTAL AWARDS TO MAY 1ST ‘17
125

[Page 114]
1917
May 15
First day out of hospital. Saw matinee ‘"Chu Chin Chow" with Bomb Wells.
May 16th/26th.
10 good solid days of pleasure in London. All the time with Bomb Wells and later with Harry Murray. Dos. Wallach, Brown, and Ted Pluchnett. Among other things saw "Maritana."
May 25th.
Boarded at Hospital.
May 27th.
Afternoon at Hampton Court. River looked very pretty with a large crowd of Whitsun holiday makers. Dinner at Karsino.
May 28th.
Board at Horseferry Road. Convalescence to 25th June. Carte Blanche and a warrant to Milnathort. Dined at Romano’s with Harry, Pulling, Bomb. Ted and five girls from "High Jinks." Box for the show. As I had been discharged from hospital in the morning engaged a room at the Club.
May 29th.
Went to stay with aunts at West Cromwell Road.

[Page 115]
1917
June 1st.
Went with Ted Pluckett to lunch with Billie’s people. Ted undertook to act as guide and took me to east Ham in mistake for East Sheen. Arrived at 3.15 p.m. to find the family out.
June 2nd.
Investiture in Hyde Park. Harry Murray received V.C. & D.S.O. and bar.
June 3rd.
Left by 11.15 a.m. train for Nottingham with Padre Ray, Pulling, Harry, Wells and Bone to visit former’s brother’s family. 9 p.m. train to Grantham to connect with Great Northern for Scotland in company with Harry and Bone. Others returned to London.
June 4th.
Arrived Milnathort 10 a.m. Slept all afternoon.
June 5th.
Glorious day. Breakfast in bed. In the afternoon motored into Perth and back over the hills (15 miles each way.)
June 6th.
Ran into St. Andrews (27 miles) in the afternoon. Lovely Golf Links and St. Andrew’s Castle and Cathedral by the sea. Harry left by 8.28 train from Kinross Junction.

[Page 116]
1917
June 7th.
Raining most of the day. Short run to Blair Adam after tea.
MESSINES-WYTSCHAETE offensive began at 3.10 a.m.
June 8th
Raining till about 4 p.m. After tea motored to "Rumbling Bridge." Beautiful river gorge and falls. Estate owned by Lord Lansdowne.
June 9th.
Splendid weather. Left at 2 p.m. for Stirling. The Castle and surrounding country are teeming with scenes of historical importance. The battlefields of Stirling Bridge (1297) Falkirk (1298 and 1746) Bannockburn (1314) Sauchieburn (1488) and Sheriff Muir(1715) are all visible from the Battlements of the Castle. Had tea at "Golden Lion Inn" and returned via Bridge of Allen (Allen Water) Dumblane and over the Ochil Mountains. Home at 6.46 p.m. Total run 63 miles.
June 10th
Church at the little kirk at Kinross.
June 11th.
Afternoon –motored to Sir Basil Montgomery’s private pier and rowed to Loch Levin Castle on the Island. The whole Loch is the property of Sir Basil. Mary Queen of Scots imprisoned in Loch Leven Castle, 1567. Escaped with help of George and Willie Douglas on 2 May, 1568.

[Page 117]
1917
June 12.
Short afternoon run in Glen Farg and Ochil hills.
June 13
Afternoon tea run to Falkland. Beautiful old palace dating from 12th Century. Restoration commenced by the Marquess of Bute. Scene of the death of young Duke of Rothesay, said to have been previously imprisoned in the Bottle-dungeon at St. Andrew’s Castle, 1567. Scott’s version of death (vide "Fair Maid of Perth) said not to be true.
June 14th.
Went for an hours ride with Clem in the morning. Afternoon spin through Kelty and the Cleish Hills.
June 15th.
Riding with Clem in the morning. Quiet day generally.
June 16th.
Afternoon spin to North Queensferry (Forth Bridge). On the return journey the glass oil indicator burst and deluged Mrs. M. , who was driving and splashed all over my British-warm. The three in the back escaped scot-free. Patched it up with cardboard and got home without incident.
June 17th. (Sunday)
Church at Kinross.

[Page 118]
June 18th
Afternoon run to Perth.
June 19th
" Bomb" Wells, Ross & Hickey left, Hugh Pulling arrived. Afternoon run to "Rumbling Bridge."
June 20th
Afternoon run to Dunkeld. Tea at Inn on bank of Tay near the bridge. Fine old cathedral of 12th century. Splendid scenery, is 6 miles into the Perthshire Highlands and very much the Duke of Athol’s country.
Letter from Harry Murray that the Battalion has been 24 hours in the front line near Messines and that it advanced 400+ with light casualties. "Teddie" Randell and Fitzpatrick killed. Bon Henderson, Player and McIntyre wounded, the two former lightly.
June 21st
2 p.m. train to Edinburgh with Wilkie. Met on station by Moore and had run to Porto Bello. Box at the "Empire" and caught 10 p.m. to Kings Cross. Sleeper this time.
June 22nd
Arrived at 8.30 a.m. and went out to Cromwell Road. Lunch at Club with Gassie & Bone. Saw "Bubbly" at the Comedy Theatre. Dinner with Aunt Bell.

[Page 119]
1916
June 23rd
11 a.m. to from Paddington to Bristol. Arrived at 1.15 p.m. Aunt Francis and Ruby met train but missed me altogether. After lunch ran round the Downs and Sea Wall and across the Avon. Variety show at night.
Went down to catch 7.28 p.m. only to find no such train ran on Sundays. Hell!!!
June 25th
7.50. a.m. from Bristol. Board at 2.30 p.m. - Four weeks light duty. Managed to get a fortnight’s leave
Afternoon tea with Madamn at the Curzon.
La Tosca at Dury Lane with Gassie, his cousin and Bomb Wells.
Jeanne Brola in title role.
June 26-30
Various "shows" in London. Still staying at 26 West Cromwell Road.
July 1st. (Sunday)
Morning service with Padre Wray at the Temple Church and lunch at "Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese" in Fleet Street. Spent the afternoon at Hampton Court with Phyllis and Nancy. Diner at Karsino.
July 2nd.
Lunch at Club with Adie Whitehead.
NOTE:
On opposite page:
AWARDS FOR MESSINES. JUNE
M.C. . . . . . . . . 1 (Henderson)
D.C.M. . . . . .. .1
M.M. . . . . . . .1
(See Page 127)
and:
July 2nd. MAJOR GENERAL HOLMES was hit as he was taking Mr. A.G.Holman up to see that part of the line held by 13th. Bn. A shrapnel bullet penetrated his chest and he died soon after. He was buried near Steenwerke.

[Page 120]
1917
July 3rd
Saw "Madame Butterfly" at Drury Lane with Padre Wray. Rosina Buckman in title role.
July 4th
Afternoon tea with Adis, Billy and Stella. Evening at W. Cromwell Road
July 5th.
Lunch, matinee (His Excellency the Governor) and afternoon tea with Fanny Marks and Ella Goss. "Louise" (Charpentier) with Harold. Jeanne Brola in title role.
July 7th.
Had breakfast in bed at about 10.10 a.m. thought I heard the "Archies" firing. Hopped out of bed and with my glasses picked out a squadron of 20 German planes travelling from N.W. to N.E. through a heavy shrapnel fire. They commenced dropping bombs soon after. This has been the largest aeroplane raid to date. Only other of any size was on June 13th when 15 planes were over.
Afternoon to Wandsworth Hospital where I saw and Col. Pope.
Took the Aunts to see "Cavalleria Rusticana" and ‘Il Pagliacci." Frederick Blamey made a great hit as Canis in the latter. Enjoyed it immensely.

NOTE.
On opposite page:
July 5th. Major H.C. Howden , M.C. (Howdie) killed by a piece of shell which entered his chest.
July 6th. About 7.30 p.m. a shell burst outside 4th Bde. H.Q. Mess (a galvanised shed.) The Staff were at Mess and the General was wounded (slightly in the head) The B.M. and A/Staff Captain and Signalling Officer wounded and Lieut. G.M.M. Mills, M.C. (The Bde.I.O.) was killed. Howdie & Mills were buried side by side, near Genl. Holmes. (STEERNWERK.)
Result of Raid.
37 - Killed
141 – Injured
178 – TOTAL
AIR RAID TIME-TABLE, 7-7-17.
9,35 a.m. - Warning received in London.
9.40 a.m. - Sighted off Kent & Essex Coasts
10. 0 a.m. - Passed over a county town some miles from London
10.20 a.m. - Passed over suburban town N.E. of London
10.25 a.m. - Enemy machines and British machines in pursuit visible from
most parts of London.
10.30 a.m. - Bombs fell on City and Suburbs.
10.40 a.m. - Enemy returns
11. 0 a.m. - Passed over some county town 40 miles from London.
11.30 a.m. - "All Clear" Given
Total injured in previous raid – 439.

[Page 121]
1917
July 8th. (Sunday)
Raining all day. Tea with Phyllis and dinner at Hampstead.
July 9th.
Lunch at Club. Saw Madam and Keith leave by 7.30 p.m. for Euston. To Aida with Twynam, Feathers, and "Bomb" Wells. Rosina Buckman in title role and Frank Mullings as Radames.
July 10th.
Caught 1 p.m. to report at No. 1 Command Depot at Perham Downs. Arrived 4 p.m.
July 11th.
Reported to Commandant at 10 a.m. and left in his car to interview D.A.A.G. at Tidworth (Hants.) Ordered to Verre Citadell to relieve Major P.J. Higgins the Commandant at that Depot. Back to Perham, got my traps together and car to Andover. Caught 2.20. p.m. to Weymouth. Changed at Salisbury and Poole where I had tea with an old friend from "J’ ward and his wife. On arrival at Weymouth cab to No. 2 Command Depot (Mont Video) where I reported for duty. Gave me a car back to Weymouth. Caught 8.30. from Malcolm Hegio Station to Portland where the depot car was waiting for me.
Very pleased with first impression of my

[Page 122]
1917
July 11th (contd.)
new command. Splendid Mess and living quarters. Have about 2,000 men mostly light duty and Unfit. Outgoing Commandant a very decent sort and seems to have built up a good spirit in the depot.
July 12th.
Drive to Monte Video with Higgins to interview the Commandant (Colonel Spencer- Brown.) Adjutant and Q.M. both to be relieved immediately, although I am much against such a course.
The Citadel is full of interest for me. It stands on a cliff which dominates Portland and has a splendid outlook. Very subject to fogs and generally cool at night.
July 13th.
Y.M.C.A. brought over a concert party from Weymouth. In the absences of Major Higgens I returned thanks and we gave the artists super in the mess.
July 14th.
Ran over to Monte Video to the dentist. In the afternoon to Weymouth and tea with Higgens at the "Trocadero." Afterwards to see Sarel, the British A.P.M. He lives in a caravan with his wife and five children and seems a thorough Bohemian. A journalist in civil life.

[Page 123]
1917
July 15th.
Church parade at the Garrison Church. I read the lesson for the first time. Tea with Mrs. Commander Bouverie and Mrs. Roach at the Portland Roads Hotel. Dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Bostock at the Royal Hotel Weymouth.
July 16th.
Norton of Blackmore Battery came over to mess and we played bridge till very late.
July 20th.
Getting ready a draft for Australia. Wire from Colonel Durrant that he is at the Jermyn Court Hotel over on leave.
July 21st.
Up at 3 a.m. to see the draft off. 5 officers and 613 men sent away to "D" Transport (probably the "Eurypides") Band played them to the station and played "Home Sweet Home" as the train pulled out. Had to remove the Draft Mascot (a boy of 14) who tried to stow away on the train in the hope of getting to Australia. Placed the boy under the chief carpenter to learn his trade, and under a bugler to learn the calls. He says his father was killed at Mons, and his mother is also dead. He looks a queer little cuss in his Australian uniform.
July 22nd.
Sent off a further draft of 600 for Australia. I left for London by 5.10 p.m. train from Weymouth.

[Page 124]
1917
July 22nd. (Contd.)
Went straight to Jermyn Court on arrival and found the .C.O. with Colonel Jess. Stayed with the Aunts at 26 West Cromwell Road.
July 23rd.
Board at A.I.F. H.Q. First saw General Brand at Jermyn Court and owing to a few hints dropped by him, I persuaded to Board to let me off with only a fortnight’s Home Service. In the afternoon, with the Colonel to see "Within the Lines" and in the evening to the "Maid of the Mountains."
July 24th.
To Aldershot to see Senior Officers’ School.
July 25th.
Happy little river party at Hampton Court.
July 26th.
Caught midday train to Weymouth. Col. D. came down for a day at the Verne.
July 27th.
Tennis party at the Verne. Some nurses from Monte Video and Mrs. Bostock stayed to Mess.
July 28th.
Colonel for London by 10.30 a.m. train. Says he enjoyed the spin down. Tennis with Mrs. Bouverie.
July 29th.
Tea with Governor of Portland Gaol.
July 30th.
Padre Wray came down and stayed the night.

[Page 125]
1917
July 31st.
Padre Wray returned by mid-day train. Concert party from Bournmouth and Sisters from Monte Video.
August 1st.
A wet and miserable day.
August 2nd.
Caught 10.3 a.m. train from Weymouth. Arrived about 2 p.m. and looked up Col. D. at Jermyn Court. Found him all packed up and just pushing off for France. Went to Charring Cross and saw him off by the 4.20 p.m. Dinner with Uncle Fred.
August 3rd.
Early afoot and reported at Buckingham Palace at 10 a.m. Invested by the King. Lunch with Stella and then out to Taksowa House, Dulwich to tea with the Henleys. Stella to Frascati and then Theodore & Coy.
August 4th.
10 a.m. train to Eastbourne to see Col. Burnage and his wife. Raining heavily, train crowded with excursionists. After lunch the weather broke and we had a stroll along the parade. Caught 3.50 p.m. and then out to 120 Goldhurst. Put in a few hours at the Kilburn Theatre with Jane and Harman.

[Page 126]
1917
August 5th.
10.50 p.m. from Paddington. Dreadful train. Stopped all stations and then some.
Arrived at 6.45 p.m.
August 6th. (Bank holiday)
Looked in at the "Grand Patriotic Sports" Portland to which was lent "The Splendid Band of the Australian Imperial Force, by kind permission, etc. "
Picked up Mrs. Bostock at the Royal, Weymouth and then to tea with Sisters at Monte Video. Dinner at Trocadero. Evening with Mrs. B. and some sisters.
August 8th.
Bridge with Mrs. Bostock, Kelly & Laracey at the Royal.
August 9th.
Mrs. B. and Rita Warrington stayed to lunch & tea.
tea
August 10th.
Evening in Weymouth. Bridge at the Royal.
August 13th.
Received wire to hold myself in readiness to proceed overseas on short notice. Delayed by D.C.M. of which I am the President.
August 15th.
D.C.M. concluded. Strength of Verne Det. Now 2,600.

[Page 127]
1917
Aug.18th.(Saturday)
Being "open camp" over 2,000 men bought tickets to Weymouth, and the railway people "got the wind up" about getting them back. Two or three "specials" did the trick.
Aug. 19th. (Sunday)
Final sailing orders. Word from Harry that the Col. and Pulls wounded.
Aug.20th.
9.3 a.m. train to London
Aug, 21st.
12.50 boat express from Charing Cross to Folkestone. Arrived Boulogne about 6 p.m. & put up at Hotel Folkestone.
Aug. 22nd.
4.20 train to Bailleul. Arrived at Bn. Transport Lines near Neuve Eglise at 3 p.m. Battalion in front line.
Aug. 23rd.
Took over command of Bn. in the line from Harry. Caspard Sector near Messines.
Aug. 29/30
Relieved by 16th Manchesters & marched to Wheel Camp near Neuve Eglise.
Aug. 31st
Moved to Verte Rue near Vieux Berquin.Sept. 2nd.
By motor bus to Lisbourg near Bomy.
NOTE.
The following recorded on opposite page
Awards for Messines August
M.C. . . . . . . . 1 (Doust)
D.C.M. . . . . ..1 (Haley)
M.M. . . . . . . .4
Total awards to 31/8/17
V.C. 1
C.M.G. 1 D.C.M. 19 Serbian Medal 1
C.B. 1 M.S.M 1
D.S.O. 2 M.M. 86
Bar to Legion
D.S.O. 1 d’Honour 1
M.C. 17 White. E.
Eagle 2
Kara
George 1 Total 137
(see page 132)

[Page 128]
1917
Sep.8th
Major-Genl. Cox turned up on Church Parade for a word to boys of his old Division.
Sept. 12th.
Brigade Boxing Tourney commenced. General Sinclair- McLagan presented Cricket Cup won by the Battalion.
Sept.13th.
Finals of Boxing Tourney. Thiering (middle) and Andrews (light) put up splendid fights and won the Cup for us. General Brand presented the cup for best aggregate. The fifth Cup to be won by the Bn.
Regimental Dinner – huge success. Guests included Generals McLagan and Brand, Colonels Bernard, Herring & Follet, Majors Welch, Johnson, Powell, Allen etc. In all 50 sat down to quite a good spread in the Lisbourg "Cinema Hall." Band & Pierrots in attendance.
Sept. 14th.
Brigade Tactical Exercise. Watched by Army Commander (General Plumer).
Sept. 15th.
Dined at Brigade Headquarters. 15th beat us at Rugby.
Sept. 16th.
We played the 4th Field Ambulance Cricket at their Chateau and lost by an innings. 13th Band played for Mess. Very pleasant evening.

[Page 129
1917
Sept. 18th.
Moved to Staple area by motor busses.
Sept. 20th.
Brigade moved to Steenvoorde at 9 a.m.
Sept. 22nd.
Brigade moved again by motor busses to Canal Area (near Ypres) at 9a.m. Arrived 2 p.m. Started out immediately with Coy.Cmdrs and reconnoitred front line held by 23rd. Bn. East of Westhoek. Back in camp at 10 p.m.
Sept. 23rd.
Battalion moved out at 4 p.m. and rested for tea at China Wall (Gordon House.)

"C" Coy on left and "D" Coy on right from J 3 do.7. to J. 9 B. 7. "A" Coy. On left and "B" Coy. On right, in support on Anzac Ridge. Battalion Headquarters at J 8 b. 7. "A" & "B" Coys’ H.Q. at J 9. a.5.5.
Sept. 24th.
At 5 a.m. "D" Coy occupied a "Pill Box" that the enemy had used as an outpost until morning of 23rd. Heavy fog until about 9.30 a.m. At 8.45 a.m. Lieut Westwood took out a fighting patrol of 12 in a N.E. direction. 200 yds. out they surprised a party of 9 of the enemy, all of which they brought back to our lines. Prisoners belonged to 1st Bn. 49th. R.I.R.
NOTE
Noted on opposite page;
Casualties 23/27 Spt.17
Killed Wounded
23RD. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . - 8
24th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 6
25th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .4 11
26th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .9 57 ( 3 officers W.)
27th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .2 -
23 82
Officers wounded
(Lieut. A. Perray.
( " F. Doust, M.C.
( " T. Dwyer

[Page 130]
1917
Sept. 24th ( Contd)
The same patrol immediately went out again and after advancing 250 yds encountered an enemy strong point. About 20 Huns were also observed scattered round in shell holes. After killing 4 Huns & having two of his own men wounded Westwood withdrew without incident.
Sept. 25th.
At about 2 a.m. an enemy patrol encountered one of our outposts and retired leaving 2 killed and 1 wounded in our hands. The wounded man belonged to 3rd. Bn. 49th R.I.R. which had relieved the 1st Bn. that night.
Our Lewis gunners brought down three enemy planes during this day and the following.
( 2 on 25th. 1 on 26th)
Sept. 26th.
All Battalions ready for the "hop-over" by 4 a.m. 16th Bn. going for RED LINE (J4.a 3.5 to J 4 c 7.4.) 14th on left and 15th on right going for BLUE LINE (J 4 b 1.9 to J. 4 d 36). 13thBattalion to dig C.T. from old front line to Red Line. On the night 24/25th we completed the first 150 yds of the C.T. & when the Battalions were "forming up" the 13th "digging Companies" ("A" & "B" ) lay in the C.T. Zero hour was 5.50 a.m. &

[Page 131]
1917
Sept. 26th. (Contd.)
digging commenced immediately the waves moved. C.T. was completed 2 hours after zero. The Brigade took all its objectives as did the 13rd Bde. & 14th on right. The Brigade Forward Signal Party went "Phutt" when its officer (Perray) was wounded , and all the signal work devolved on the 13th. From midnight 25th to midnight 26th our Bn. Sigs. and Runners handled 111 messages containing 4,475 words. The work of our carrying parties and S.B. calls for the highest commendation.
Sept. 27th.
At 3 a.m. the Battalion moved back to Westhoek Ridge. Battalion H.Q. in extensive concrete dugout 300 yds. behind old position.
250 men on cable burying fatigue 7.30 to 10 p.m. & then the Bn. moved back to BELGIAN PLATEAU.
Sept. 28th.
Buckshee issue of beer from Regtl. Funds.
" 29th.
Moved to Monteal Camp at 11 a.m. 150 men left on Divisional Fatigues.
Sept. 30th.
By Motor Busses to western Steevoorrde area. (near Wineleele.)

[Page 132]
1917
Oct. 2nd.
Rode to Poperinghe to see "Yank." Delighted to find him propped up in bed and looking A.1.
Oct. 3rd. – 10th.
Company training. Men in excellent fettle.
Oct. 11th.
Moved to Halifax Area via Renenghelst(14 miles). Not any man fell out on the march & all finished in good spirits.
Oct. 12th.
Moved to cellars under old Infantry Barracks at Ypres. 13TH Bde. on right and 12th Bde. on left, attacked in conjunction with 3rd. Division (on left). Attack launched at dawn and progressed favourably so far as 4th Division was concerned.
By the afternoon however, it was found that people on left had not even reached their "Red Line" so 47th & 48th had to withdraw to "hop-off-line." By dusk on 12th it was clear that no progress had been made & that all units were back on the old line.
October 13th.
Day cold & very wet. During the afternoon reconnoitred the "kit and kat" area on Westhoek Ridge.
October 14th.
Moved into reserve on Westhoek Ridge (near "kit & kat"). Move completed by 4 p.m.
NOTE
Listed on opposite page:
Awards for stunt of 26th Sept. ‘17
M.C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 2 (Captain C.H. Kellaway. (R.M.O.)
2/Lieut. Westwood.
D.C.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 (C.S.M. Harber.
Bar to M.M. . . . . . . . . 2 (Falkiner & Corrack.)
M.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 (includes Cpl. Spicer att. Traffic Control.)

Totals to October 15th
V.C. . . .. .. . . . . . . . . .. . . 1
C.B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
C.M.G. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
D.S.O. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Bar to D.S.O. . . . . . . . . . 1
M.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 19
D.C.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . ..20
M.S.M. . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1
M.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Bar to M.M. . . . . . . . . .2
Legion d’ Honour . . . . . 1
Cross of Kara George. .1
Serbian Gold Medal . . . 1
White Eagle . . . . . . . . . 2
167
(See page136)

[Page 133]
1917
October 14 (Contd.)
From 9 p.m. 14th to 3 a.m. on 15th the enemy bombarded our reserve position with 5.9" Gas shells. Both mustard gas & phosgene were used & box respirators had to be worn almost all the time. Although the total casualties shown for the night 14/15 are shown as only 9, all these were due to Gas shells and all "gassed" cases shown on later dates are due to the same bombardment. Two of these cases shown as "wounded & gassed" & one "gassed", subsequently died.
Total evacuations due to gas, during the tour 1 Officer (Lt. Davis) and 53 other ranks. This was the Battalion’s first close association with gas in any form.
October 15th.
Reconnoitered the position occupied by the 15th Bn. in support in front of Zonnebeke. (14th Bn. in front line, 16th Bn. in reserve on 13th left).
October 16th.
15th Battalion relieved 14th Battalion in front line and the latter moved to deep-dugouts in Railway Wood. We relieved 15th Bn. in support. Bn. Headquarters near Moulin Farm. (Concrete Pill-box.) "B" & "C" Coys.in Zonnebeke, "A" & "D" Coys. in sunken road from Railway line to D23 a 1.8. Relief of 15th Bn. complete by 6.30 p.m. R.A..P. in Soda-Factory, Zonnebeke.

[Page 134]
1917
October 17th
Two hundred on carrying and cable-burying fatigues. Zonnebeke a "petty hot shop." Davis (I.O.) evacuated.
Had to send for "Son" Davis.
October 18th.
Relieved 15th in front line and were relieved in support by 15th Bn. 15th moved to Railway Wood and 14th to Westhoek. Our relief complete by 8.30 p.m. and without incident.
Headquarters at D16 d 8.1 (a deep dugout)
Front line - "A"Coy. (Railway line at D17b33 to D. 17d 5.7
"D"CoY. (Posts from D17 d 5.7 d 5.7 to Dairy Wood
(at D23 b. 2.9
Support - "B" Coy. (D17 b 2.2 to 17a 75.05 and concrete "pill-
boxes" D.17c 6.8
"C" Coy. (D17 C 83 to 08.
At 10 p.m. the Hun bombarded our position with "Blue Cross" Gas, at type of gas shell first used against us at Messines. It causes great sneezing and itching of the throat and is used to precede phosgene, as it destroys the olfactory nerve. Phosgene was not used in this case however. We suffered no ill effects till we came out of the line a few days later, when practically the whole Battalion contracted a form of laryngitis or inflammation of the trachea. All very sick, but few or not any, evacuations from it.
Our patrols active during the night.

[Page 135]
1917
October 19th.
Day fairly quiet, shelling growing heavier towards dusk. Most of the "stuff" going over to Zonnebeke and back areas, though the Broodseinde Ridge came in for a lot.
October 20th.
Ordered to take over the whole of the Divisional Front on a newly adjusted south Divisional boundary. At dusk sent "C" Coy up on right of "D" Coy to take over from 45th Bn. and part of 46th Bn. down to 100 yds. from Broodseinde – Droogenbroodhoek Road. 16th Bn. movedtheir two Zonnebeke Companies up in close support of right, on Broodseinde Ridge. "C" Coy. Holding a front of some 600 yards with a total of 57 rifles. Ground in front very marshy and no fear of attack.
October 21st.
14th Battalion relieved "A" "B" & "D" Coys and 16th Bn. relieved "C" Coy. Relief of front line complete by 7.45 p.m. Moved to Railway Wood Dugouts.
October 22nd.
Al starting to "Bark" from effects of "bluecross" gas.
October 23rd.
Moved to Infantry Barracks, Ypres, during the forenoon.
October 24th.
Moved to Reninghelst by motor bus.

NOTE
The following transcribed on opposite page:
CASUALTIES
Killed Wounded Wounded & Gassed Total
Gassed

October 14th. 2 - 4# 3* 9
" 15th. - 2 - 11 13
" 16th. 1 9 - 16 26
" 17th. - 2 - 19+ 21
" 18th. - 2 - 4 6
" 19th. 1 1 - 1 3
" 20th. 2 4 - - 6
" 21st. 3^ 9 - - 12

9 29 4 54 96

Total Casualties, 2 Officers, 94 other ranks
# 2 subsequently died
*1 " "
+includes Lieut. H.B. Davis
^ includes " J.J. Stewart

Strength of Battalion
Off. O’ranks
Going into line . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. . . . .. . . 20 396
Coming out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 290
At Caestre
Left behind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .7 132
Joined up on our return . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 193

[Page 136]
1917
August 24th(Contd.)
Personnel left at Caestre and a few reinforcements to the total of 9 officers and 193 rejoined.
October 26th.
Transport (less cookers, watercarts, mess cart and maltese cart) moved by road to Fontaine-lez-Boulains, a two days trip.
October 27th.
Battalion entrained at Brandhoek at 7 a.m. for Wizernes. Balance of transport entrained at Vlamertinghe for same station. Troops from Wizernes to Fontaine-lez-Boulains by motor- buses. Comfortable billets. Bn. headquarters in a fine old chateau.
October 29th.
Lt. Col. J.M.A. Durrant, D.S.O. rejoined and took over command of the Battalion.
October 31st
First night of Battalion Mess in the Chateau of Fontaine. This is the first Battalion Mess since Ribemont in May of this year.
Nov. 3rd.
Maxwell and Carter of Divisional Staff called for me at 8.30 a.m. with a Div. Car. Route via Anvin, St. Pol, Frevent, & Doullens to Amiens. Country very beautiful with Autumn tints. Arrived Amiens at 11a.m. and looked up Charlie Boccard immediately. Lunch on the station and then train to Paris at 12.30 p.m. Captain Galliface, Boccard’s French confrere made
NOTE
The following noted on opposite page:
Awards for stunt 18/21st October
Military Medal
Curtis
Burke
Townsend
Watson
Snowie
Hart
Cima

[Page 137]
1917
Nov. 3rd.
made a fourth at bridge on the trip down. Arrived at the Gare du Nord at 4.15 p.m. and set out in search of a hotel. Ritz and Meurice being full up we eventually registered at the Elysee Palace, in the Avenue des Champs Elysses.
After diner, a box at the Alhambra (a show somewhat on the lines of the Sydney Tivoli and under English management.)

Nov. 4th.
During the morning we reported to the Commandant’s Office and had our passes stamped; then leaving Carter & Maxwell I taxied up to the Gare de Lyon and booked through to Nice. To lunch with M. & Mme. Milde at 66 Boulevard Periere. Charming people. After lunch M. Milde drove us out to Verseilles in a powerful limousin car. The Bois de Boulogne one mass of orange, russet and yellow shades, and it is hard to imagine a more beautiful sight. Still, a more beautiful sight was yet to come. Out past Longchamps and St. Cloud we sped, through Versailles and then pulled up at the glorious old Palace. Down amongst the terraces, gardens and fountains one might be in fairy land. The time did not permit a view of the interior but we roamed

[Page 138]
1917
Nov. 4 (Contd.)
about the grounds and up to the Grande Trianon. Returning, we came via Vaucresson & St. Cloud, and pulled up for teat at the home of Milde’s brother (a French Army Doctor.) After tea a fruitless search for a Wagon-Lit on the Nice train and then they deposited me at the hotel.
Dinner with M. & C. at the Petit Durand in the Avenue Victor Hugo, called on some American ladies at the Hotel Brighton and after to the Folies Bergere. This latter is similar to the Casino de Paris of our early Cairo days though on a much larger scale and lacking the dancing as a finale.
Nov. 5th
M. & Mme. Milde called at 10.30 a.m. and ran me round the city. After much trouble they obtained for me a sleeping berth on 9.5 p.m. to Lyons. Lunch tout suel at Restaurant Henri. Met Colonel Peck at the Continental and accepted his invitation to diner at Café de Paris. Madame ? and her daughter very interesting people. Just beginning to enjoy the evening when I had to rush away to the Gare de Lyon.
Nov. 6th
Arrived at Lyon at 8 a.m. late of course.

[Page 139]
1917
Nov. 6th (Contd.)
Changed into an ordinary first-class carriage and continued the journey at the same snail’s pace. Train very crowded. Conditions said to be due to movement of troops into Italy. Arrived at Marseilles at 3.15 pm and dashed for Nice train. By dint of great perseverance obtained a seat in a crowded second class carriage. Just as the train was pulling out I heard a Frenchman remark that in all probability we would not reach Nice till midnight (usually takes 3 1/2 hours.) Grabbing my port I made a dash for it and alighted just in time. At 5 pm I sat down to tea and toast at the Splendide Hotel- the first food and drink since 8 last night. Shall try my luck on the "fast" train at 9 tomorrow morning. To the "Palais de Cristal" (Music Hall.)
Nov. 7th.
Obtained a seat on the Nice train with difficulty. The Military "Chef de Gare" gave me authority to occupy a seat in the "Supplimentaire". Due to leave at 9.40 am but did not pull out till after 11 am. Pleasant journey. Arrived Nice about 4 pm and put up at Hotel des Anglais and Rhul. Beautiful room overlooking the sea. The Riviers a delightful spot and quite up to expectations.

[Page 140]
1917
Nov. 7th (Contd.)
To "Guillaume Tell" at the Eldorado Theatre, with Lush of N.Z. Engineers.

Nov. 8th.
At 8 am we caught the tram to Monte Carlo from the Place Massena. After crossing the Paillon Torrent and climbing the hill the route descends to Villefranche and thereafter hugs the shore through Beaulieu and Eze Station to Monaco. The tiny Principality of Monaco is covered almost entirely by the three confluent towns of Monaco, Condamine, Monte Carlo. The former stands on a projecting rock with Condamine stretching East along the shore to Monte Carlo.
We alighted below Monaco and climbed the steep incline past the Palace; walked through the town and entered the Musee Oceanographique. A stroll through the Museum and into the Aquarium and then down hill again and through Condamine by cab. After lunch took the Rack-Railway to La Turbie, a journey of 20 minutes each way. The track is about 11/2 miles long and ascends 1600 feet above sea level. The view from the Tour d’Auguste (ancient Roman ruin) baffles description. One can see Bordinghera in Italy and Monaco and Monte Carlo lay spread out in all their splendour.
Returning we took the train from the Casino for Menton or Mentone as the Italians have it.
Route past Roquebrune and Cap Martin and a journey of

[Page 141]
1917
Nov. 8th. (Contd.)
an hour brought us to the terminus at Garvan. From the terminus we walked about half a mile to the Pont. St. Louis. Here a stone bride crosses a deep narrow gorge, and standing on the far side of the bridge, we were across the Italian frontier. An old dame with a Postcard stall supplied Italian stamps and undertook to post our cards in Italy. Without lingering in Menton we were both back in Monte Carlo at 5.30 pm and strolled along the terraces and looked down on the Tir au Pigeons. In the Casino we were allowed into the first room and permitted to peep into the Gaming rooms. The Holy of Holies is out of bounds to we poor soldiers! At the Café de Paris next the casino we obtained a perfect (though expensive) meal and hit out for Nice.
Nov. 9th.
In the morning we took the train to the Roman Arena at Cimiez and walked back past the Monastery and down a steep winding path to the Pallion. Following the river bank we turned into the flower market and back along the water front to the hotel.
Saw Lush off the Paris after lunch and then sauntered down to La Jetee-Promenade for afternoon tea.
Dinner at the Café de Paris and then to "Le Voyage en Chine" at Le Theatre des Varieties.

[Page 142]
1917
Nov. 10th.
Caught the Paris Express to Cannes at 2.20 pm. Troop trains still passing through to Italy every hour. The trains all decked with flowers and men in high spirits.
Arrived Cannes about 3pm and was met by Miss Paget’s grocer (An Englishman.) Cab to Chateau de Garibondy. Beautiful home standing amidst cypress and umbrella pines high up on the slopes of the "Alpes Maritimes." Hearty welcome from Miss Paget and pleased to find the General installed and looking very well.
Nov. 11th.
Took a stroll round the grounds and read for a while on the Terraces. Afternoon tea at the Hotel des Anglais with Colonel and Miss Brett.
Nov. 12th.
Afternoon tea with the Mallets on the hill behind Garibondy.
Nov. 13th.
General left for Nice at 10.30 am. Lloyd drove and I went along for the trip. Lunch at the Negresco Hotel and back in Cannes by 4 pm. Afternoon tea with Mme. And Mlle. De Bode.
Nov. 14th.
Mrs. Sydney Paget gave a luncheon party at the Grand Hotel. Fearful excitement getting in. Everyone late and cars buzzing round at quite a loss.

[Page 143]
Nov, 15th.
Planted a "Blue Gum" in the Allee de la Victoire to commemorate the Battle of Gaza.
At 1.30 pm said au revoir and went off in the car with Mrs. Paget and Dallas. When the "Rapide" arrived found the General comfortably ensconced and holding on to a couchette for me. Arrived at Marseilles at 7.30 pm and Paris at 11.30 am on 16th (four hours late.)
Nov. 16th.
Took rooms at the Continental and did a lot of shopping during the afternoon.
Nov, 17th
To the Hotel des Invalides, Trocadero and Tour Eiffel. To dinner at the Grand Hotel and to "Les Cloches de Cornville" at the Gaite Lyrique with Mme. Noe and Mlle. Timmermans.
Nov. 18th
Took the General to lunch at 66 Boulevard Percire. As before, an excellent lunch after which we had a spin out to Versailles and back by St. Germain. Tea with Mne. Milde’s sister-in-law. Dined with the General at Grand Hotel. Code wire from Harry to say Battalion on the move.

Nov. 19th.
Caught 9.10 am to Amiens and arrived 10.55 am. Found wire which instructed us to go to Abbeville as the Division was on the move.
Lunch at La Cathedral Restaurant with Charlie Boccard and the "G".
NOTE
Two notes on opposite page:
(Nov. 17th Battalion moved to Ruisseauville at 9 am &
arrived at 1.30 P.M.)
(Nov. 18th. Battalion moved to Wambecourt & Cevron-St. Martin at 9.30 pm arriving 1t 1.15 pm)

[Page 144]
1917
Nov. 19th (Contd)
Through the good grace of Charlie and his confreres we were given a reserved compartment on a French troop train which left at 1.22 pm & arrived in Abbeville at 3 pm. Tea at the "Tete de Boeuf" Hotel. Met Tucket at D.A.D.O.S. at about 5 pm and got aboard his car bound for Brigade Headquarters. We took the main road passing west of the Foret de Crecy and turned off to Divisional H.Q. at Rergniere Ecluse. Then back onto the high-road as far as Montreuil, then along the Authie River to Beautainville and finally to Brigade Head Quarters in the Chateau de Royon. Distance travelled about 48 miles. Battalion billeted at Cavron-St. Martin and Wambecourt. Decided to spend night at Bde. H.Q.
Nov. 20th
By moor-lorry with the Colonel to New Bde. H.Q. at Douriez and walked from there to join Battalion at Tortefontaine.

Nov. 21st
Moved to Fontaine-sur-Haye at 9 am and arrived 11.30 am. Ten minutes along the road to Crecy we came across a very old monument supposed to have been erected in1346 and re-erected 1846. Evidently the battlefield of Crecy.
NOTE
On opposite page:

(Nov.20th 13th moved to Tortefontaine at 9 am and arrived 1 P.M.)

CETTTE CROIX
RAPELLE
LA FIN HEROIQUE
de JEAN
de LUXEMBOURG
ROI de BOHEME
MORT POUR LA FRANCE
Le 26 AOUT 1346
"Je vous requess tres especialement que vous me mainiez si avant je puisse ferie un coup d’epee (denier parole de Roi Jean)

[Page 145]
1917
(Nov. 21st (Contd.)
"Son" Davis met with a slight accident while out cycling this afternoon. He will go to hospital. Am doing his work till "Little Mac" comes back from Brigade.
Nov. 22nd.
Moved to Hautvilliers at 9 am and arrived 11.45 am. "Little Mac" joined us on the march.
With the C.O. Ted, Bone & "Little Mac" played a most wonderful game of five-handed French billiards. Table 4` + 6`, no pockets, cloth darned with black darning wool, and cushions perished. Ivory balls twice the size of our billiard balls and cues very unwieldy.
Nov. 23rd.
Moved to Franleu at 8.40 am and arrived at 1 pm. H.QTrain pulled out at 3.28. . is chateau on outskirts.
Nov. 24th.
Moved to Woincourt at 9 am and arrived at 11 am. Our final destination. Comfortable billets for all ranks. With the Colonel billeted at the Burgomaster’s house.
Dec. 3rd
Word received of impending move.
Dec. 4th.
Colonel received orders at 3 pm to report immediately to 2nd. Aust. Division for duty as A.A. & Q.M.G. Farewell diner at H.Q. mess. Move orders received.

[Page 146]
1917
Dec. 5th.
Band and a big crowd of fellows collected at the station to see the Colonel off at 7 am.
We entrained at Woincourt station and train pulled out at 2.4 pm. Stopped at Abbeville at 3 pm & were given 30 minutes halt. I managed to hop on an empty flat truck but Harry Murray and Plunkett were left behind. Rode for an hour on this bleak eminence with very heavy frost on the ground and extremely chilly wind blowing. Route via Amiens, Chaulnes, and detrained at Chappellette (Peronne) at 8.30 pm. Marched to Hutmet Camp (Leger Camp) in Moislains, arriving at 2 am. Hun plane welcomed us by " laying eggs in the vicinity of the camp. No damage.
Dec. 8th.
Rugby, "Soccer" and Australian Rules matches during the afternoon.
Dec. 10th
Received orders to prepare for a move on an hour’s notice.
Dec. 11th
Voting day – referendum.
Dec. 12th
Visit to 1st Anzac Corps School, Averly. Car from division at 8.30 am. Returned about midnight.
Dec. 13th.
Brigade "open warfare" exercise. Rotten performance.

[Page 147]
1917
Dec. 15
Brigade Tactical Exercise. "Peter" tripped in nasty post-hole and gave me a nasty spill. Rugby match against 45th. Played a draw.

Dec. 16th.
Kellaway ("Dadda") and Maxwell to Mess. Moch C.M. on Moseley. Heavy snow fall.
Dec. 18th.
Farewell tea to Lt. Col. D.K. Bernard, D.S.O. at Bde. H.Q.
Dec. 19th.
Moved to tents nearTempleux La Fosse at 9 am. Snow still thick on the ground. Hard work for transport on the frosty roads.
Dec.22nd.
"Soccer" in the snow. Played a draw with 4th Field Ambulance. Hun bomb raid at 5 pm.
Dec. 25th.
A very happy Xmas in spite of adverse conditions. Men had an excellent 3 course dinner with plumb pudding & rum-sauce & a bottle of beer each. Cold ham & vegetables for their tea. H.Q. Mess had quite a star turn-out. Plenty of drink available but everyone played the game.
Dec. 28th.
Brigade manoeuvres. Open warfare exercise. 13th & 14th doing rearguard action in face of 15th & 16th as Advanced Guard. High wind & driven snow. Men stuck it well, but were almost frozen stiff.

[Page 148]
1917
Dec. 29th.
Soccer team played a draw against 15th. Bn. Score 8 all. Webster (new Reinf. Officer) joined.
Afternoon church parade.
1918
Jan. 1st.
Another good spread in spite of conditions. Bde. stunt had to be postponed owing to bad weather.
Jan. 2nd.
Bde. Tactical Exercise. Word received that Brigadier was awarded C.B. He had tea with 13th H.Q. Mess. Murray, Wallach and self mentioned in dispatches.
Jan. 3rd.
16th Bn. beat "soccer’ team by 1 to nil. First defeat.
Jan 4th.
Major H.J. Pulling, M.C. returned.
Jan. 5th.
Word of M.C.s for Davis & Wallach. Lecture at 7th. Corp H.Q. by Dr. Cornish on the Strategic situation.
Jan. 6th. (Sunday)
Asked to nominate officers for a "Foreign Mission." Great competition for the honour.
Jan. 10th.
Marched to Peronne Station at 9.30 am & entrained for Bailleul. Left at 12.30 pm via Albert, Arris & St. Pol. Harry Murray got off at Longeau on a month’s blighty leave.
Jan. 11th.
Detrained at Bailleul at 3 am and marched to billets west of Meteren ( six kilos.)

NOTE.
On opposite page:
NEW YEARS GAZETTE
MILITARY CROSS: Capt. A.W. Davis
" N. Wallach
M.I.D. Lt. Col. J.M.A. Durrant, D.S..O.
Major D.G. Marks, M.C.
" H.G. Murray, V.C., D.S.O., D.C.M.
Capt. N. Wallach
Sgt. A.W. Curtis
AWARDS TO 11TH JAN. ‘18
V.C. . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1
C.B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .1
C.M.G. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .. 1
D.S.O. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2
Bar to D.S.O. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 1
M.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
D.C.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
M.S.M. . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . 1
M.M. . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Bar to M.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Legion d’ Honneur . . . . . . . . . .1
White Eagle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Kara George . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Serbian Gold Medal . . . . . . . . .1
176

1 Belgian Croix de Guerre notified 1st Feb ‘18

[Page 149]
1918
Jan. 12th.
Roy Withers left for England on Secret Mission.
Jan. 15th.
Visit from General Birdwood.
Jan. 16th.
Farewell diner for Hugh Pulling leaving for Indian Army. Colonel Durrant came over from 2nd. Div. Headquarters. Excellent dinner.
Jan. 17th
Colonel Durrant called in his car at 10 am & drove Hugh & I into Bailleul. Saw Hugh off at 11 am & then took a spin through Ploegsteert Wood & back to lunch with "A" Mess at 2nd. Div. H.Q. (Ravelsberg). Home by car at 2 pm. At 3.30 pm rode up to reconnoitre sector held by 48th Bn. & got back about 10 pm. A strenuous day. Nolan, Gowing & Jones rejoined.
Jan.20th.
Moved into Front line in relief of 48th Bn.
Hollebeke Bn. H.Q. - Bow Dugouts 05 a.2.1.
Front Line (Posts) 012a0.7 to o6c.8075. "C" Coy.
Support (Hollebeke Ch.) 0.11b.27 to 0.5 d 5.5 "D" Coy.
Reerve – White Chateau 0 4.d.1.7. "A" & "B" Coys.
R.A.P.
0.P. 0.5C.73.
Companies from Kilmarnock Siding (Laclytte) to Spoil Bank by Light Railway.

[Page 150]
1918
Jan. 23rd.
"A" Company relieved "C" Coy in front line at dusk and "C" Coy moved to White Chateau.
Jan. 25th.
"A" & "D" Coys changed over at dusk. Bde. H.Q. very anxious for an identification.
Jan. 26th.
Party of enemy approached No. 9 post (on Canal) in the mist at 8 am. N.C.O. in charge opened fire and claims to have hit seven. One dead hun found by patrol at dusk. Identification normal (93rd. Regt)

Jan 27th.
"B" Coy relieved "D" Coy in Front line at dusk. Latter to White Chateau.
Jan. 29th.
Battalion relieved by 16th Bn. and moved back into support.
H.Q. & B. Coys - Crater Dugouts 1.34 c. 1.2.
"D" Coy _ Gaspers " 0.4b.6.4.
"C" " - Canal " 0.5.b.1.6.
9 Lewis guns on A.A. work.
Total casualties for 9 day’s tour – 1 wounded no Trench Feet.
Jan. 30th.
Dinner at Bde. H.Q. followed by a few rubbers of bridge. Working parties caught in some mustard gas shelling. 18 evacuated gassed as a result (on 1st Feb.) 14th Bn. evacuated over 60.

[Page 151]
Feb. 3rd. (Sunday)
Owen’s G.C.M. at Div. H.Q.
Feb 5th.
Relieved by 48th Bn. and moved back to Curragh Camp. All in by 4 pm.
Feb. 10th.
Band played in Bailleul Square (Sunday.)
Rugby team played 1st Battalion at Meteren. H.Q. sent 4 lorries to convey team and barrackers. Our team played an excellent game but were beaten 13 to 6 – mainly by superior condition. Was our first game for three months.
Dinner (8 of us) in Bailleul.
Feb. 14th.
Boxing elimination tests for Corps Tourney. Theiring won Middles, Andrew light, and Evans featherweight. Woolfe beaten by Ramsay of 14th.
Feb. 15th.
Rugby team beat 10 A.F.A. by 15 to 3.
Feb. 20th.
Moved into line astride Ypres-Comines Canal. Same sector as last tour. Relieved 48th Battalion.
March 1st.
Relief by 10th Battalion. Front Line & Reserve relieved & only waiting for Support Line when (at 9.45 pm) I heard a great number of T.M. Shells falling on Front Line. Rang up the relieving O.C. who said "Everything O.K. Only a few pineapples." Early in the evening we received a warning of an

[Page 152]
Mch. 1st. (Contd.)
expected raid and I had sent off Captn. Wallach to ensure all posts were properly warned. Not satisfied that things were O.K. I asked the artillery to "Stand to" and two seconds later the S.O.S. was fired from Front Line. Wallach was at No. 4 post when T.M. Barrage opened and immediately rushed to Coy. H.Q. and himself fired the S.O.S. Then rushed back to Bn. H.Q. He says some posts on left of Coy. H.Q. left their positions.
All lines were cut by the bombardment but support Coy. counter-attacked and a tour later brought out that Nos.4 & 5 Posts and Coy. H.Q had been surrounded. No. 3 post under Lt. Scott held out and did much execution with its Lewis gun. About 4 prisoners (including two wounded officers) were left in our hands and at least 30 dead were counted.
Browning & his signaller (Turner) had not left when the raid took place. Major Henwood (relieving O.C.) & Browning were taken before they could get out of Coy. H.Q. Both were hit on the way back to enemy lines. Former was killed & the latter seriously wounded. Turner still missing. (Body recovered later.)
"C" Coy. (Front Line) were caught in Oak Avenue
1918

[Page 153]
when enemy barrage opened.
Our casualties:
1 officer (Luscombe) & 3 other ranks killed.
1 " (Browning) " 4 " " wounded.
Turner, missing (Found & buried later.)
Prisoners taken say Raiders numbered 170 infantry & 20 Pioneers. Latter carried Bangalore Torpedoes with which they dealt with the wire.
Mch 2nd.
Car from Brigade Headquarters to Tournai Camp at 3 am.
Battalion moved at 11 am to billets in Neuve Eglise.
Witnessed finals of Anzac Boxing Tourney at Bailleul Aerodrome.
March 4th.
Car to Steenwerke. Saw Humphrey Browning & Sister Parrish at No. 2 Aust. C.C.S.
4 pm Leave Train to Calais. Rook with me.
Arrived 8 pm. Stayed Terminus Hotel.
Mch. 5th.
For Dover at 9 am per s.s. Dieppe. Arrived 11 am and train to Victoria.
Mch. 7th.
Left Iron Box & parcel of maps with Austn. Records, Chancery Lane (for safe custody.)
Mch. 8th.
Left decorations with Ldn. Bk. Of Australia, Old Broad St.
1918

[Page 144]
Mch. 9th.
(Bn. Rugby Team beat 113th How. Btty. AIF 6 to Nil.)
Mch. 11th.
At Hattonburn
1030 pm from King’s Cross for Milnathort. Mc Dowell to leave for Australia following day. Tea at Trocadero with he & "Doc" Kellaway.
Mch. 12th.
(Corporal Andrews (13th) beat Pte Copeland (4th Field Amb.) Light Weights, 15 rounds.)
(Sgt. Wolfe (13th) lost to Driver Perry (4th Field Amb.) Welters – 12 rounds.)
Mch. 13th.
(Rugby, 13th & 15th. 15th won by 5 to nil.)
(Soccer, (Semi –final.) 13th beat 14th 1 to nil.)
Mch. 16th.
(Rugby – 13th beat 15th 61 to 3.)

Mc h. 21st.
Spent the day sightseeing in Glasgow
(Soccer (Final.) 13th beat 15th 3 to 1 and carried off Bde. "Soccer" Cup.")
Mch. 22nd.
Left Hattonburn in the morning and called on St. John Martin in Edinburgh. Lunch at Country Golf Club and Box for "Too much money." A very clever farce by Israel Zangwill. Stayed the night at Caledonian Hotel.
(Bn. sports at Neuve Eglise. "Jack" Brown killed. Moved out of billets to Vauxhall Camp.)
Mch. 23rd.
9.45 pm Midland for St. Pancras. Clocks put forward 1 hour at midnight.
(13th beat 15th Rugby team, 15 to nil and carried off Bde. Rugby Cup.)
Mch. 24th.
Arrived at Porchester Terrace to find wire from Division to be ready to return immediately. Wired for Rook to return from Scotland.
(Transport move out on route for Busnes about 10 am.)
Mch. 25th.
Recall came at 1 am. Caught 12.15 pm boat express for Folkestone and crossed to Boulogne. Chirnside offered a lift in Genl. Birdwood’s car, but had to stand down for Genl. Glasgow whose car did nor arrive. At 11 pm found a car of 13th Corps which was leaving

[Page 1550)
1918
Mch. 25 (Contd.)
immediately as I knew the Div. had moved in their direction and I accepted a lift.
(Bn. embussed at Vauxhall Camp at 8 am & arrived at Laherliere at 5 pm)
Mch. 26th.
Arrived at 13th Corps Headquarters (Ecoivres near Arras) at 2 am & given a shake down. At 9 am the G.S.O. very kindly supplied another car and I set off to find the Brigade. Met Battalion in billets at Laherliere at noon. Had been hurried down by bus from Vauxhall Camp. Transport still to arrive. Hardly alighted from car when a message was received from Brigade which read "Enemy have broken through at Hebuterne. Move to line Sqastre-Bienvillers." A cyclist brought the officers hacks forward from the transport which was still a mile out and the Battalion moved off almost immediately. "A" Coy led off as Advanced Guard followed by H.Q. "B" "C" & "D" Coys in that order. Evidence of rout were not wanting & along the road to Humbercamp we passed an endless stream of retreating trans port & refugees. At times some of them warned us that the enemy were into Souastre with

[Page 156]
1918
Mch 26th
(Contd)
armoured cars. Entering Humber Camp we encountered the "armoured cars" which were nothing more than motor ploughs driven by French soldiers in blue-gray.
At 2 p.m. we were into position on the Souastre line and there received orders to concentrate immediately at Windmill on Bienvilliers-Fonzuevillers road as 4th Brigade were allotted the task of driving the Boche out of Hebuterne.
By 3.30 pm the Brigade was concentrated and all were busily engaged in preparing for the coming attack. Ammunition & tools had yet to arrive and meanwhile plans of action and reconnaissance were gone ahead with.
At 5 pm the Brigadier rode in from the direction of Fonquevillers calling "Colonels, Colonels get your men assembled here just as they are." All hands rallied round and the General opened his remarks with "I’ve just ridden into the place we are to attack."
This placed a different complexion on affairs, and it was decided to bring up the cookers and feed the men before any move was made. Outposts were pushed

[Page 157]
1918
Mch 26th
(Contd)
forward accordingly and the march on Hebuterne did not commence till about 7.30 pm when 13th Bn. led off.
At 9.15 pm the advanced Guard of the Battalion reached the northern edge of the village and patrols reported enemy in southern outskirts. This Coy. ("B") was therefore ordered to push forward and drive the enemy patrols back. At 10 pm a platoon of "C"Coy closely following "B" Coy encountered an enemy patrol of which they captured two. 2/Lt. J. O’M Jones wounded in the scrap.
By 11.40 all Companies had reported "in position".
Front Line "B" Coy X Roads k a 54 to KI6a 0.0.
"C" " K 16a o.o. to K.15 b. 33.
(15th Battalion just moving in on left but no sign of 16th Bn. on right)
"A" Coy in close support K16a 37 to K15.b.65
"D" Coy in reserve K15b 2090 to K 9.9. d909o.
2/Lt M.K. Nolan was fatally wounded just about this time.
Battalion Headquarters took up their abode in a cellar near K 9 d.3.8 and R.A.P. at K.9 b.6.1.
Village had been evacuated by civilians only that day and many ownerless fowls & rabbits went to swell the rations.

[Page 158]
1918
Mch 27
At 2.20 am McKillop reported the Cemetery strongly held by the enemy.
At 11.2 am aeroplanes reported the enemy massing in squares K 23 & 14 & at 1.45 pm the left of our front line & 15th Bn. right caught him attacking in 12 waves (estimated) across our front in direction of New Zealanders. We did great execution with Lewis Guns & those of the enemy that were left hastily retreated towards X.23 & 24. Moseley wounded by aeroplane bullet. During the afternoon I had a visit from Capt. Meikle, commanding the left Coy of the 3rd Bn. N.Z.R.B. (on right of the Brigade.) He agreed with me that 16th were not connecting his left to my right, & consequently I made certain proposals to G.O.C. Bde. Brigadier ordered 16th to fill the gap with one Coy but this was delayed so long that at 1.20 am the
Mch 28th
following morning after a short preliminary bombardmentwith Stokes Mortars "C" Coy commenced to bomb forward along trench in direction of Cemetery. Simultanesly other sections (of "B" Coy) worked from X roads K 16 a 5.4 along two trenches leading to Cemetery.

[Page 159]
1918
Mch 28th (C ontd.)
At the confluence of the three trenches at X16C25.8.O. a light M.G. had to be dealt with. Two enemy were killed but remainder escaped with gun. Bombing party then cleared round as far as Y 16c. 10.55. and a platoon of "D" Coy (under Swinbourne) was put in to " mop up" the Cemetery. At K 15d 9570 there was evidence of an enemy M.G. having decamped after having one of its crew killed.
Cemetery position occupied by "C" Coy.
Our casualties – one killed.
Results of this minor operation were:-
(1) N. Zealanders walked into Quarrie (K21 b 7.8.) unopposed and 16th linked up with "C" Coys right flank at 15 d 8.6.
(2) Complete observation of forward slope and command of Quarries.
(3) Eight prisoners who came by ones ant twos to K 15d 9570 not knowing we were in possesstion. These included men of 49th I.R. 126th I.R. & 140th I.R.
Mch. 29th
Major R.T.C raig (R.M.O.) wounded during afternoon. Replaced temporarily by Capt. Graves of 2.3rd West Riding F. Amb.
Mch. 30th
"D" Coy tookover portion of"C" Coy’s front (on right)

[Page 160]
1918
Mch 30th
Lieut. H. Simpson fataly wounded near church in Hebutene, 5.15 pm.
Capt. S.M. O’Riordan reported for duty as R.M.O. Graves returned to his unit.
Mch 31st
At 9 pm "D" Coy were relieved by a Coy of 16th Bn. & went in on the left of "B" Coy relieving a Coy of 15th Bn.
Bn. boundaries now K 16a 85.50. About 9 pm "C" Coy wounded & captured two "runners" of 8th Coy 126th Regt. near Cemetery. They were the bearers of an important despatch which they attempted to destroy. Message pieced together & translated at Bde. H.Q. Gave details of a refief at 3 am Apl. 1st. Artillery warned & we hear from prisoners taken on 1st that the relief was attended with many casualties.
Apl 1st
"C" Coy co-operated with 16th Bn. in minor operation which resulted in capture of 71 prisoners (20 by 13th) and 4 M.G.s (1 by 13th) . We established posts at K16c.3.3 ( result of above operation) & K 16 c 65. "C" Coy had two wounded.
Also established posts at at Fork Road K 16 central & K 16 b along trtench to junction with 15th Bn. at K 16b 70 without opposition.

[Page 161]
1918
April 5th
63rd Inf. Bde. ( on left of 15th Bn.) made an attack on Rossignol Wood. We arranged small raid in order to create a diversion. At 4.25 am moved to an advanced Bn. headquarters with "D" Coy in front line at K 16a 9.5.
At 5.30 am (zero hour for attack on left) our Stokes Mortars put over about 30 rounds on K 16d2.0. after which two bombing sections of "B" Coy (covered by two of "D" Coy on their left) worked along to that point from K16 d 50 & two sections of "C" Company worked down C.T. from K16c 05.50. Very little opposition was encountered owing to effective work by Stokes & junction was effected at K 16 d 15.20 at which point we captured 1 prisoner 3rd Coy. 140th I. Regt. and 1 Light M.G.
Our casualties – two slightly wounded.
April 8th
"A" Coy relieved "B" Coy in front line. Latter went into reserve in Catacombs near Bn. H.Q.
April 9th
15th Bn. (left) relieved by 10th Royal Fusiliers.
April 10th
"A" Coy captured wounded prisoner of 5th Coy 7th Bavarian Res. Regiment at K 16d. 19 4.45am. Prisoner was an N.C.O. who going to inspect his posts, lost his way & was shot by our men.
NOTE
A sketch of Hebuterne on opposite page.

[Page 162]
1918
April 10th (Continued)
Intense bombardment of front line from 6.25 am to 9.30 am. At 8 am the enemy put down a box barrage and raided "D" Coy’s post at K16b. 55. 05. Attack developed down front line from left (through 10th R.F. Section) We have 5 men missing.
April 11th
"B’" Coy relieved "C" Coy in front line and latter moved to Catacombs.
April 13th
Releived by 13th Bn. the Rifle Brigade. Complete by10.30 pm. Moved to bivouacs & shelters at Coigneux.
April 15th
Visit from Major General Williams commanding 37th Div. to which Bde. was attached ( 19th Div. then 62nd, 37th and later 42nd.) Dinner at 37th Div. H.Q. Couin.
April 17th
130 reinforcements (13th of 56 Bn. ) joined up. Good stamp & keen.
April 20th
Relieved 14th Battalin in close reserve near Sailly.
April 23rd
Releived by 2nd Aukland Bn. during afternoon & moved back to old poition at Coigneux.
NOTE:
On opposite page:
Strength of Battalion 26/3/18
In Line 33% Total
(Include. att. exclud. det.) 20 off. 506 9 & 154 29 & 690
" " 13/4/18.) 24 " 414 7 & 184 31 & 598
Casualties: 26/3/18 to 13/4/18.
1 off. 13 0’ranks killed.
1 " 1 " D. of wounds
4 " 75 " wounded
- " 5 " missing.
- " 39 " Sick.
6 " 133 " Total

[Page 163]
1918
April 24th
Embused on Couin-Souractre road AT 2 pm & moved via Henu, Pas, Theivres & Rubempre to Rainneville. Debussed to the accompaniment of Fan-fare of a Rgt. of Chasseurs Alpino &
, & marched to Bois de Mai near Allonville. Battalion in tents in the wood. Bn. H.Q. in the village. Wood & Chateau the property of Hennessey of Brandy fame.
13th Bde. co-operated in counter-attack on Villers-Bretonneux at 10 pm.
April 25th
(Anzac Day) Impressive serviceunder the treesin Bois de Mai in the afternoon.
April 26th
With Harry Murray & Colonel H. by car to Amiens & lunch with Charlie Boccard in basement of Hotel de Ville. Amiens much knocked about.
April 27th
Reconnaissance of Villers-Brettoneux. Battalion moved to Dours under Wells at 1 pm.
April 28th
Marched out from Daours at 6pm & relieved 59th Bn.east of Villers-Brettoneux. Complete at 11.15 pm.
April 29th
At 5 am "A" Coy captyred a Prisoner of 9TH Coy 26 R.I.R.Complete at 11.15 pm. 119th Div. just brought from Romanian front.
NOTE.
The folowing details on opposite page:
DISPOSITIONS OF BATTALION ON TAKING OVER FROM 59TH.
28-4-18
Front Line. "A" Coy (Right.)
(Coy H.Q. - 0.30.d 60.70.
(No. 1 Ptn. - Posts 0.30d.50.30(Composite with 46th Bn.) &
- 0.30d.60.40
(No. 2 Ptn. - 0.30 d 75.50.
(No. 3 Ptn. - P 25c.00.60.
- "B" Coy (Left)
(Coy. H.Q. - P25c10.70.
(No. 5 Ptn. - P25c. 25.75.
(No. 6 Ptn. - P25c.30.80.
(No. 7 Ptn. - P25c. 50. 95.
46th Close touch on right, 14th close touch on left.

Support Line: "C" Coy.
(Coy H.Q. - 0.30d. 30. 80.
(No. 11 - 0.30d. 00.30. – 25.70.
(No. 10 - 0.30d. 25.70 – b. 30.00
(No. 9 - 0.30b. 300 – 20.30.
Reserve lIne: "D" Coy.
(Coy H. Q. - House at 0.30c. 30.45
(No.13 Ptn. - 0.30c.50.40.
(No. 14 " - 0.30c. 50 80.
(No. 15 " - 0.30a. 50. 20.
Bn.H.Q. - Chateau 0.30.c.0.4.
R.A.P. - 0.29D. 95.40.

[Page 154]
1918
April 30th
At 3.30.am took over from two right Platoons of 14th Bn. & inter-battalion boundary is now at 25a. 76.30.
Front line posts are now all East of Road running through P 25a. & C.
Wiring support line every night.
May 1st
Captain N. Wallach M.C. (" Dos") killed & Watson & Smith wounded at 6 pm. 46th relieved by 47th Battalion. Captain W.S. Bone & Lt. Russell-Jones hit earlier in the day.
May 2nd.
With the objective of advancing the Battalion front on a line pivoting near P25a 85.20 with its right resting on Battalion boundary at P25c. 80.25 & in order to co-operate with 47th Bn. the following minor operation eventuated.
Similataneously with advance of 47th at 2 am rifle grenadiers engaged enemy posts at P25d.00.75. R 25c. 90.40 (approx.) and P25c.70.20. thus covering the advance of two platoons which worked up & which dug in on the line previously arranged.
Very heavy M.G. fire was encountered but only two or three casualties occurrred amaongst covering & digging parties and 47th Bn. were enabled to attain their objective on their left.
Disposition of front line now:
"A" Coy. No. 1 Ptn. P.25c.50.40.)
No. 2 " P.25c.50.50.) L. G. & Bombing post at P25c.70.60.
No.3 " P.25c.50.60 )
NOTE.
On opposite page:
TRENCH STRENGTH AS AT 28.4.’18
"A" Coy . . . . . . . 4 Off. - 107
"B" ". . . . . . . . . 4 off. - 107
"C" " . . . . . .. . . 4 " - 109
"D" ". . . . . . . . . .5 " - 108
H.Q. . . . . . . . . . . . 8 " - 89
TOTAL 25 - 520

[Page 165]
1918
May 2nd.
(Contd.)
"B" Coy in close touch with "A" Coy & holding line of posts from P.25c.8570 to P25a.85.20 in touch with 14th Bn.
Bob Henderson severely wounded byM.G. bullet at daylight. He put up a very gallant show.
"D" Coy changed with "A" & "C" with "B" Coy. Relief complete by 11 pm.
May 3rd.
German message dog captured at P. 25c8.6. Message related to a relief but was of no value. At midnight "A" Coy went into the line on right of "D" Coy and Coy frontages were re-organised as follows:
McKillop took over both C & D Coys & extended his line to junction with "A" Coy where grid line cuts road through P.31a (S. end of Nissen Huts.) "A" Coys down to Southern Brigade Boundary, road in36d (inclusive.)
"C" Coy of 16th relieved a Coy of 46th in support in 0.30d & 0.36a.
Complete by 4 am 4/5/18.
May 4th
At 1.15 am posts of "D" & "C" Coys were pushed forward to Trench running from P.25c. 80.30 to P. 25c6575. At the same time a patrol with Lewis Gun was pushed forward to P.25c 5515 (beteen 2nd. & 3rd. Hangar) to try & advance posts on south of Main Road.
NOTE
On opposite page a sketch of Rouen Dispositions.

[Page 166]
1918
May 4th.
(Contd.)
Patrol reached this point & were then opened on by machine guns and rifle fire & with bombs from about P.25c 6 0.15. Lewis Gun came into action and fired two magazines but was then rushed by fully 30 enemy. Sgt. Wolff was killed & 2 men wounded. Unableto fit another magazine, the No. 1 (L/Cpl. Stewart "D" Coy) dropped the gun andc shot two enemy with his revolver.
Later the enemy attempted to raid our posts North of Main Road, but without success. Releived by 15th Bn. & moved to Right Support Area in Squares 0 27 & 28. Complete at 11.20 pm.
May 5th.
Feeling very seedy as a result of the Blue Cross Gas. Brigadier sent for Bomb to releive me. Resting at Transport Lines, La Motte.
May 7th.
Brought 2 officers & 60 from 33% Neucleus at Allonville to La Motte.
May 9th.
Bn. releived by 45th. Bn. & moved into Reserve Bde. Area on Aubigny Switch. Bn. H.Q. at Mon. du Bois l’Abbe.
May 10th.
Called at Forward Bn. H.Q. 11-5-18.

[Page 167]
1918
May 11th.
Conference at Bde. HQ. (Blangy-Tronville) during the morning. Lunch with "Dave" in the village & then to take over from"Bomb" at Monastery du Boisl l’ Abbe.
May 12th.
Reconnaissance of left Bn. Sector of Right Bde. Bn. Headquarters in Chalk Pit near Villers Bretonneux.
May 13th.
Relieved 51st Battalion. "B" Coy front line right, "A" Coy left. "D" Support right, "C" Coy left. Rercommenced the salvage of wool of which we had cleared many thousands of pounds during previous tour. Relief complete 12.3 am.
May 14th.
Moved Battalion headquarters to Cellars in two-storied house 100 yds. east of Main Amiens-Peronne Road.
May 15th.
Support & front line Coys. changed over. Complete by 11.30 pm. Tovell (B.M.) played Bridge at Bn. H.Q. till 2 am (16th) when we made a tour & narrwoly escaped a nest of 8 light bombs dropped by a plane.

[Page 168]
1918
Battalion relievedby 16th Bn. & moved back to support on Cachy Line.
Dispositions after relief:
Bn. H.Q. - Monastry at Bois l’ Abbey.
"A" " - P.27d & 28a
"B" " - P 34a
"C" " - 28c
"D" " - 24a & c.
May 19th.
White wounded by Aeroplane bomb about 10 am.
May 20th.
Relieved by 42nd Battalion & moved back to Blangy Line (N28 & 29.)
Bn. H.Q. at Petit Blangy Cabaret.
Relief completed at 11.3 pm.
May 21st.
Dinner at Bde. H.Q. (Glisy). Farewell to Col. Follet of 4th Fd. Ambulance
May 22nd.
Relieved by 38th Battalion at mid-day & moved to Corps Reserve Area (Allonville) Men marched well - Swimming Parade at La Motte Chateau en route (River Somme).
May 25th.
Submitted recommendations which caused a deal of heartburing to one or two.
General Birdwood presented Medals & Ribbons & said farewell to 4th. Bde. Leaving to command 5th Army. Bn. have never marched so well.

NOTE.
Recorded on opposite page;
(1) Strength of Bn. 20th May. 1918
Total incl. att. but less than det. – 32 off. - 666 or
Actually engaged: -------A Coy . . . .4 off. . . . .. 82 or
B " . . . .. 2 " . . . . . 80 or
C " . . . . .4 " . . . . 92 or
D " . . . .4 " . . . . . 84 or
H.Q. . . . . 5 . . . . . . . 83 or
(11) Casualties 18th – 22nd May
Killed . . .. . . . . .. . . . . … .. . 2 or
Wounded . . . . . . .. .. . . . . . Lt. White . . . . . .. . . . .9 "
Missing .. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . - . . . . . . . . . .. 1 "
Hospital . . . . . . . . .. .. . . . .. - . . . . . .. . . . . .17 "

[Page 169]
1918
May 28th
Mess with 45th Bn. at Rivery Hospice.
May 29th
To Mess with 2nd. Div. H..Q. at St. Gratien. Genl. Rosenthal in command.
Col. "D" sent carat 7 pm & landed me back at 11 pm. Lorry picked up our band for the occasion.

May 30th
Reconnoitered transport lines for new area. Bert Welsh & Hyman to Mess. Good show at Divisional "Smart Set". Allonville shelled from about 11.30 pm to 2 am. Two shells fell in barns occupied by 14th Bn. causing nearly 100 casualties.
May 31st
Moved out at 6.30 am & relieved 59th in reserve Bn. area (South of Daours) before 9 am. Bathing parties in Somme. Moved at 8.45 pm & relieved 53rd Bn. in 0.12c & d – S. of Hamelet & East of Fouilloy. Our role is that of Reserve Battalion of Right Brigade. 14th, 16th & 15th in line from right to left. Relief complete after 11 pm.
June 1st
left the Battalion under Wells at mid-day & went to transport lines (just west of Baours.)
NOTE.
Recorded on opposite page:
Awards notified to 26: 5:18
For Hebuterne
M.C. . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . Capt. R.A. McKillop.
Lt. H.B. Brown, D.C.M., M.M.
" R.S. Swinbourne.
D.C.M. . . . . . . . . . . . .. .Cpl. F.E. Massey, M.M.
L/Cpl. E.Rawdon.
Sgt. W.F. Hughes
M.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Bar to M.M. . . . . . . . . .. . 1
Total Aawards to Date
V.C. . …. . . . . . . . . . . .. .1
C.B. . . . … . . . . . . . . . . . .1
C.M.G. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 1
D.S..O. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 2
Bar to D.S.O. . . . . . . . . . 1
M.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . … 24
D.C.M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
M.S.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
M.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .143
Bar to M.M. . . . . . . . . .. .3
Legion d’ Honneur . . . . .. 1
White Eagle . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Xara George . . . . . . . . . . ..1
Serbian Gold Medal . . . . .1
Belgian Croix de Guerre . 1
Total . . . . . . . . . . . ..206
(See 170)

[Page 170]
1918
June 2nd
Division sent car at 2 pm. To 5-days C.O.’s course at Montieres Chateau. Tanner left earlier with the horses.
June 3rd-7th.
Tactical schemes at Montieres Chateau – quiet comfortable surroundings. Course comprised Davies- commandant, Salisbury, James, Freeman, Ferris, Rockcliffe and self. Word of D.S.O. on 5th.
June 8th.
Returned to transport lines after lunch.
June 9th.
Visited the Bn. & Brigade Headquarters.
June 10th.
Notice in A.I.F. List 340 about award of D.S.O. & Mention in Despatches, also the following:
"The Minister for Defence, on the recommendation of the General Commanding Australian Military Force, has approved of the undermentioned promotions being made in the A.M.F. for speciously meritorious work rendered whist on active service during the present war, to date from 3rd. June 1918.
To be Hon. Captains, & to be noted for promotion to the Brevet rank of Major on attaining the substanticve rank of Captain in the A.M.F.
Lieut. (Major T/Lt. Col)A.I.F.) D.G. Marks M.C. 29TH Inf. (Australian Rifles.) "
June 14th.
To Forward Area & sent Wells back to Transport Lines.

NOTE.
Following recorded on opposite page:
Awards since 26:5:18 & to 10:6:18
Villers-Bretoneux:
1st Time Bar to M.C. Capt. R.J. Henderson
2nd Time M.M. 2
Birthday Honours D.S.O. -- Major (T/Lt. Col)
D.G.Marks
(Later.) 17/6/18 M.S.M. -- Sgt. Strumey

[Page 171]
1918
June 16th
Relieved 14th Battalion in Right Bn. Sector of Bde. front. Dispositions etc. as shown on opposite page.
June 19th
"D" Coy relieved "C" Coy in Front Line. Latter moved back to support.
June 20th
Capt. C. D’Arcy-Irvine killed & Lt. A.B.Lilley wounded. They went forward to Quarry near Vaire Wood & were sniped.
"B" Coy relieved "A" Coy which moved back to Reserve Line.
June 22nd
Conference at Bde. H.Q. Closed down on wiring parties & concentrated on communications.
June 26th
Relieved by 50th Bn. & moved to Reserve Bde. Area. Bn. in shelters in 0.7c. Unlucky shell caught Hall’s Platoon coming out. 1 killed, 1 died of wounds, & 5 wounded (including Johson, the aboriginal Lewis Gunner.)
June 28th
Party of 30 visited Tankadrome, Vaux near Amiens, to witness Tank demonstration.
June 29th
60 others, including myself, to further tank demonstration.
11 pm Co. "A" 132ND Regt. U.S.N.G. joined up for attachment. Capt. Weaver, o.c. Coy (7 officers, 237 o’ranks.)
NOTE
Opposite page:
Dispositions 6 am 17:6:18
Bn. H.Q. & R.A.P.
Front Line:
A. Coy H.Q.
From To
"C" Coy H.Q.
From To
Support
"D"Coy H.Q.
Reserve
"B" Coy H.Q.
Casualties: K. W Total
Reserve – May 31st to June 16th 3 1* Off 13 1 & 16
June 16 " " 26th 1 O. 1 1 " 12 2 & 13
3 & 29
Sick from May 31st to June 26th = 17

[Page 172]
1918
June 30th
Capt. Edwards O.C . No. 3 Sect. 8th Tank Bt. & Subaltern to dinner with Bn. H.Q. Final conference at Bde. H.Q.
July 2nd
Conference at Bn. H.Q. of all officers of the battalion, all officers of Co. "A" 132ND U.S.N.G. of 4TH M.G. Coy, 4th Field Coy, A.E. & 4th T.M. Battery (Waterford.)
Settled final details as to formation for attack, allotment of frontages, asssembley positions, approach march, supply arangements etc.
Relieved part of 50th in front line. as follows:
"D" Coy (less Player’s Platoon) front line from Pioneer Switch to S. Div. Boundary.
"A’ Coy support & Reserve Lines do.
Bn. H.Q. & R.A.P. at 0.24a.3.8.
Relief complete at 1am 3-7-18.
July 3rd
10 pm. Bn. H.Q. moved to Battle Headquarters.
Midnight. "A" Coy moved into front line with "D" & into position to move on to tapes.
July 4th
"C" & "B" Coys arrived in that order at Junction of Pioneer Switch & Reserve Line at 1.45 am & were met by guides.
2.15 am All Coys. & attached details in position on tapes. Tanks drawn up on assembly position just in rear of crest.
NOTE
Following recored on opposite page:
Attack made by ( from right to left) :-
23RD Bn. -- 6th Bde.
21st Bn. --
13th Bn.
14th Bn.) – 16th Bn.
15th Bn.
11th Bde. (3 Bns)

[Page 173]
1918
July 4th (Contd.)
3.2 am Harrassing fire on Vaire Wood under cover of which tanks moved.
3.10 am (Zero.) Barrage opened with a crash Tanks just passing Bn. H.Q. Immediately the barrage fell the Bn. moved forward to within 60 yds. of it. Tanks not heard during preliminary 8 minurtes of bombardment & enemy taken by surprise on our sector.
3.14 am Tanks caught the Infantry at first lift & enemy’s first line of posts was met on the road running north through P. 20a & 14d.
3.37 am Message by telephone from Bn. Forward party that they were established in Quarry P 20a 9.4.
4 am "D" Coy reported by ‘phone that they were digging in from P21 a 2530 to P21a 0065 & that all their area had been mopped up. No serious oppositionwas met by"C" Coy until they arrived at the road running north through P20 a central. The Male Tank opertating on the right received a direct hit from an 18 pounder which put it out of action, wounded some of the crew & killed the Bn. scout riding with it ( no.3770 Pte. Parrish) – (This tank moved a day or so later under its own power.)
In turning the S.E. corner of the wood "A’ Coy were opened on by a conealed M.G. & suffered a few casualties but a rush

[Page 174]
1918
July 4th (contd.)
led by Capt. Marper took the gun , & the wheel was performed without confusion. Arriving at the clearing about P.15c.3.4. opposition was again met & most of the Coy. took to a well camouflaged trench no t previously reported. The attention of a Tank was qickly drawn. The Tank trampled out the crews of 2 M.G.s & the advance was continued. Marper wounded here & Dwyer (also wounded) carried on.
4.18 am. "A" Coy on final objective & in touch with 15th Bn. on their left.
"B" Coy followed "A" as arranged, & were nor engaged until on the final objective when two platoons were drawn in on the right of "A" to connect with"C".
5.25 am. In touch with all Corps by phone.
6 am. Re-adjusted front on 3 Coy. frontage.
Estimate Bn’s gains at 200 unwounded prisoners, 14 M.G. & 2 T.M.s.
July 5th.
All American personnel withdrawn at 11 pm.
July 6th
"C" Coy bagged 3 more prisoners.
July 7th
12.10 am. Relieved by 16th Bn. & moved to Terraces 012c & 18a. "B" Coy in old position in Pioneer Switch.
12.30 pm. Clemenceau addressed members of the Div. at Div. H.Q.
Bean to afternoon tea at Transport Lines.
N OTE
Transcribed on opposite page:
Total Casualties in the Operation
AUSTRALIAN
Off. . . . . .O’Ranks . . . .. . .Total
Killed . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2* . . . . . . . .24 . . . .. . . . .. .. 26
Wounded . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .6 . . . . . . . . .93 . . . . . .. . . . . 99
Missing . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. . .- . . . . . .. . . . .1 . . . . . . . .. . .. 1
8 . . . . .. .. .118 . . . . . .. . . .126
Strength engaged . .. . . .. . .22 Off. .. . . .488 o’ranks . . . 24.7%
*
K ( Lieut. G. Nuggent – died of wounds 7/7/18
K(2/Lt. A.J. Hall, M.M. – Killed.

(Capt. G. Marper.
(Lieut. T. Dywer.
( " W.H. Merrifield
w( " L.M. Player
( 2/Lt. R. M. Smith, M.M.
( " C.W.James, M.M.
AMERICAN . . . . . . . . . . .. Off. . . . . . O’Ranks . . . . . . . .Total
Killed .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .--. . . .. . . . . . 7 . . . .. . . . . . . . .. 7
Wounded . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .4 . . . . . . .. .42 . . . . . . .. . . .. . .46
Missing . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . -- . . . . … .. .4 . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . 4
4 . .. . .. . .. .53. . . . . . . .. . . . . .57
Strength engaged . . . . . . .. . . 5 off. . . . . . 222 o’ranks . . .. . 25.1%
(Jeffries. M.O.
(Squires
(Tubb
(Markuson

[Page 175]
1918
July 11th.
Moved back to position vaccated by 37th Bn. in the Querrieu Area.
July 13th.
Band returned from tour of Rouen, Dieppe etc.
July 14th.
Anniversary of fall of Bastille. First word of substantive promotion to date 5:12:17.
July 15th.
Lost cricket match to 14th Bn.
July 16th.
Bn. held Aquatic Sports in pool at Querrieu.
July 17th.
Cricket team beaten by 16th Bn.
July 18th.
Bn. sports. Went with a swing all the time.
6 pm. Court of enquiry at 14th Bn. lines. 32,000 francs stolen on night of 17/18th. News of successful French counter-attack.
July 19th
Cricket team beaten by Bde. H.Q.
July 20th
Brigade Group Sports. Aquatic in the morning & Athletic in the afternoon. Best show the Brigade has ever had. Features were ‘Bookies", "A.S.C. Circus", and Band Contest. Gowing won 50yds. and Officers’ 50. Weatherall won 100 swimming. Sproule of M.G. Coy won 100yds & 440 running. 13th got 1st, 2nd & 3rd in Fancy Costume. Ran in the winning team in the Flag Race. Band contest – 15th, 13th, 16th, 14th. Music did not count. Americn Band (132nd Regt.) rendered a number of items & troup from 108th Eng. gave a show at 8 pm.

[Page 176]
1918
July 21st.
Church parade in Querrieu Chateau grounds. Corps. Cmdr. (Gen. Monash) presented medal ribbons & prizes won at Sports.
July 22nd.
Race meeting at G.2 Central. ( near Altonville.) Everyone was there. Dibbs (2nd Sqdn.) flew down from Nieppe in a S.E. 5. Hinton’s "George" won two races. Kemis & Smith killed in first race. Our Donk "Jack" stalled-off while leading in 2nd. Div. of Villers-Bretonneux Sprint.
July 23rd.
Call from Charlie Boccard who is now attached to 3rd.Army
July 24th.
12th Bde. Races at G2 Central. "Jerry" (7th A.A.S.C.) won 1st race.
July 25th.
M.G. Bn.Sports at Allonville.
July 26th
Davis to 4th Army Coy. Cmdr’s Course. "Doc" O’Riordan to Paris on leave.
July 29th.
Reconnoitred 74th French Brigade Area. 13th to relieve 5th Bn. Zouaves in support in Cachy Line.
July 31st.
Marched out at 6.30 am & moved via Dours to staging place in Western edge of Bois l’ Abbe. Dined with C.O. 5TH Bn. 3rd. Zouves. Relief commencesd 8 pm & completed 10 pm

[Page 177]
1918
Aug 1st.
Capt. Graniuel (cmdg. the Bn.) remained till 6 am as did all his Coy Cmdrs. Excellent relief. French are very methodical in their trench organisation. Best relief we have had. Sanitation is their weak point. Secret conference at Brigade Headquarters as a result of which on
Aug 2nd.
we moved in to the relief of 24th Bn. in Front Line Monument Wood Sector. Complete at 1.30 am 3rd.
Aug 4th
50th Bn.relieved 13th. with 3 Coys & 14th (on our right) with 1 Company. 13th Bn. holding whole Divisional Front. Canadians percolating in. We moved to Vaire Sous Corbie, arriving about dawn on 5th.
Aug 6th.
At about 4 am the enemy put down a heavy concentration on Bde. Area. McSharry died of wounds.
We (13th) had one killed (Corpl. Hewitt, by gas) & 11 wounded.
To McSharry’s funeral at 6 pm. Stafford (Draughtsman) later died from gas.
August 7th.
All details of stunt were finalised. "D" Coy" 4th Pioneers under Capt. Bingle to be atached to Bn. Also 1 section of 18 pounders from 37th Battery A.F.A. under Lt. Smith, 2 Vickers under Richards (24th A.M.G. Coy.) 2 Stokes (Waterford) & two troopers from 13th A.L.H. 3 Mark 5 tanks for each 13th, 14th, and 15th , & 3 extra between13th. & 14th. 9 mark V star to carry 10 Vickers of the 4th. M.G. Coy & 16 lewis Guns of 16th. Bn. under Lynas.

[Page 178]
1918
Aug. 8th.
At 2.40 am the Battalion moved out of Vaire-Sous-Corbie & at 3.30 am the Brigade was formed up in the vircinity of the front line before Hamel offensive just west of Hamel Village. (Following copies from my official account by Pte. Martin.)
Morning very quite; weather fine.
4.20 a.m. (Zero hour.) The barrage opened for the assault. Troops of the 3rd.Aus.Div. & flanking troops. At this time the ground was covered with a fog of moderate intensity which gradually thickened with the smoke from bursting shells. There was little or retaliation, but one or two chance 77 M.M. shells caused the Bn. 4 casualties on the first forming up position.
5.50 a.m. With all tanks in position in the rear, Bde. moved forward to second forming up position. Much difficulty owing to the density of the fog, but the Bde. quickly readjusted itself on the 2nd position near Record Wood.
7.20 a.m. The adance continued, & at 7.30 a.m. the Bde. halted in rear of the green line, the 13th. Bn. having junctioned on its right with the left of 45th. Bn. near Kate Wood.
8.20 a.m. The Bn. moving in conjunction with the 45th. Bn. crossed the Green Line in formation as shown in diagram. A good deal of machine gin fire was heard from the direction of Cerisy & possibly by reason of this, the 14th Bn. was a few minutes late in starting.
Of the 3 Tanks of No. 8 Section one had failed to appear, but the remaining two were now in front of the Bn. One

NOTE.
On opposite page is a sketch of the above operations.

[Page 179]
1918
Aug. 8th. (Contd)
fouled a stump in Hamilton Wood, & thereafter remained, the third continued right to the final objective. Nothing was seen of the 3 tanks detailed for liasion work though they may have done good work with 14th Bn.
At 8.25 a.m. Bn. H.Qrs. was established in Hamilton Wood Valley. A few prisoners were taken by moppers-up in Hamilton Wood Valley & thereafter followed a continious stream.
The two Light Horse troopers were utilised as despatch riders to Brigade which had been established at old German H.Q. In addition the Light Horsemen escorted seversl batches of prisoners, one batch comprising 387 officers & O’Rs.
After crossing Susan Wood Valley at about 9 a.m. the attcking troops came under the fire of field guns ( we have learnt later that ther were 16) from the vircinity of Chipilly. No casualties were occasioned ot the 13th Bn.however, from the first forming up position until Dudgeon Wood Valley had been crossed at 9.50 a.m.
The 14th Bn.cleared Moorcourt without any trouble, but on a report that they had sent two companies to assist the 15th Bn. at Cerisy, "C" Coy 13th Bn. was moved up to fill the gap between "D" Coy, 13th Bn. & the right of the 14th Bn.
At 10 a.m. the Red line was being consolidated by "B" Coy on the right & "D" Coy on the left. "C" Coy was withdrawn to support in the vircinity of Q.23a.5.5.

NOTE
Follwing details recorded on opposite page:
Casualties from 7th-10th Aug.
Off. O/Ranks Total
Killed . . . . .. . . . 2 . . . . . . . . 11 . . . . . . . .. 13
Wounded . . . .. . . . . . . .. . .61 . . . .. . . . . 61
Missing . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. –
2 . . . . . . . . 72 . . . . .. . . .. 74
Strength on the night 7/8/18 28 Off. 590 0/R.
Strength on night of 10/11th/8/18 28Off. 548 O/R.
Including Transport Lines . . . .. . . .. 4 Off. 75 O/R.
Including Nucleus 335 . . . . . . . . . .. . 3 Off. 76 O/R
Strength of Battalion coming out of line night
10/11th Aug. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 21 Off. 397 O/R

[Page 180]
1918
Aug 8th
(Contin.)
& "D" Coy. Pioneers were moved up to assit in the consolidation of the Red line. H.Q. established at Q.16.d.7.4. but moved soon after to Q.23.a.4.5.
About 57 casualties, including Capts. Pattrick & Geary killed, were occasioned immediately prior to & during consolidation. The vircinity of the Red line was the only spot where opposition was met with by the Bn. a few of the casualties being by M.G. fire, but the greater majority being occasioned by field guns from Chippily. The two mobile 18 pndrs, came into action against the Chippily guns at about 10.15 a.m. & though unable to silence them drew a certain amount of fire from the Infantry.
Over 400 prisoners were taken from shelters in the vircinity of Dudgeon Wood. Total captures made by the Bn. as follows:
between 600 & 700 prisoners of 55 and 13th Inf. Regts. of various Art. Regts. & wireless operators.
2. 42 Howitzers
7. 77 M.M. Guns
20. Machine Guns
2. Trench Mortars
Over 40 horses & complete transport of a M.G. Coy. & complete wireless installation.
At 2 p.m. in answer to a an urgent request from the 16th Bn. the relief of the right half of the Blue line was commenced – "C" Coy. going in on the right,

[Page 181]
1918
Aug.8th (Contd.)
"A" & "D" Coys. on the left in that order. "B" Coy. remained in reserve on the right of the Red line. It was found that the line held by the 16th Bn. & taken over by us ran as follows:
R.13a.7.1. – 4.5. -1.3.Q 18b.7.9. –Q.12.d.2.1.
Aug. 9th.
On the night of 9/10 August the line was advance & re-adjusted as follows:
Bn. H.Q. moved to Q.24A.4.5.
"B" Coy. dug in in vircinity of Copse Q.18.c.
"C" Coy. from R.13a.7.1. along old trench system to R.7.c.5.0.
"A" & "D" Coys combined from R.7.c.5. 0 to R.7.c.3.7 with 1 platoon in vircinity of Q.12.d.7.4.
"D" Coy. Pineers Q.18.b.7.8. to 2.8.
In touch with 48th. Bn.on right & 16Bn. in touch with "D" Coy. H.Q. at Q.12.d.6.7. (approx.)
Aug. 10th.
At midnight on the night of 10/11th Aug. the Bn. was releived by 41st Bn. & moved via Sailly-Laurettte to bivouac in the vircinity of P.30.
Aug. 11th.
Bn. bivouaced near Sailly-Laurette. 3 Offs. & 114 O’Rs. 4th Pioneers also 2 Lt. Horsemen (attached for operations) reported backto their units.
Aug. 12th.
Bn. resting. Small parties bathed in Canal.
Aug. 13th.
At 6 p.m. Bn. moved to bivouacs at W. 16d. S.W. of Harbonnieres.

[Page 182]
1918
Aug. 14th
During the morning a reconnaissance was made by all Coy. Comanders & Coy. scouts of the trenchest to be taken over from 9th Bn. During the evening an advance party of 1 Officer, 3 platoon Sgts. & nos. 1 of each Lewis Gun Section also H.Q. Scouts moved to the line.

Aug.15th.
Bn. moved to line at 8 pm. Relief complete 11.25 pm.
Aug. 16th.
Nothing of note occured during day.
Aug. 17th.
On the night of 17th Aug. our patrols reported that the system of trenches on our immediate front were unoccupied but they showed signs of recent occupation by the enemy. It was then decided that the Bde. would occupy the old fron t line system of 1916 in order to give sufficient ground to hold the tactical features of Lihons, & the operation to be carried out by peaceful penetration. During the day enemy artillery was extremely active on our front. Support & Reserve lines, particular attention being paid to Auger & Crepey Woods.
At dusk front line Coys. ("B" & "D") moved forward & occupied Lihu Farm & Verger Trench. The 15th Bn. on right & 14th. on left, also conformed to our movement. Operation carried out without a casualty.
Aug.18th.
At dusk one platoon of "C" Coy. relieved one platoon of "B"Coy. The platoon of "C" Coy. came under orders of "B" Coy. & likewise the plsatoon of "B" Coy. came under orders of "C" Coy. Relief comleted 10.30 p.m.

[Page 183]
1918
Aug. 19th.
Enemy artillery active. Heavy barrage put down at 4.15 a.m. Enemy aircraft very active throughout the day.
At night inter-Coy. relief carried out. "C" Coy H.Q. & remaining platoon relieved "B" Coy. H.Q. & remainder of platoon of the Coy. in the front line, & the rear platoon of "A" Coy. relieved the right platoon of "D" Coy. in the front line. "B" Coy. H.Q. & remaining platoon moved to reserve & 1 platoon of "D" Coy. to Supports. Relief complete by 10.30 p.m.
On the same night a strong patrol of 1 off. & 15 O’R reconnoitered Satrape Alley in the vircinity of S.20.C.central & old 1916 line. The Off. i/c Patrol reported that the trenches showded signs of recent occupation by the enemy & he was of the opinion that enemy was holding his own old 1916 front line system by means of a number of posts in Chaurriou Alley. It was decided to wait until the Div. on our left conformed to our movement before the old front line could be occupied.
"A" Coy. H.Q. & the remaining platoon relieved "D" Coy. H.Q. &
remaining platoon in the front line (Left Coy.) Relief carried out by 10.20 p.m.
Aug. 20th. to Aug. 22nd.
Enemy artillery active. Considerable quantity of Blue Cross Gas shells were used in vircinity of X.23.b.9.6. on 23rd.Aug.

[Page 184]
1918
Aug. 23rd.
At 4.45 a.m. in conjunction with an operation by the Divn. on our left flank "C" Coy. occupied the old 1916 trench front line system, moving forward without opposition.
Two Stokes Mortars were allocated to the Bn. Their disposition on 23rd. Aug. were S.20 a.9.3. & S.14c.15.15.
At 7 p.m. Relieving Bn. advance party moved into the line. Relief completed at 12.45 a.m. 24th. Aug.

Aug. 24th.
Each Coy. moved independently to an assembly point on the Harbonnieres- Bayonvilles Road ( W. 10.6.9.1), where a hot meal was served. Motor lorries awaited at this point, & the Bn. embussed for Poulainville arriving there at7.30 a.m.
Having spent the night at the Bn. dump at Corbie with Ted Plunknett we rode into Allonville on the morning of the 24th & saw Col. Durrant. From there Ted pushed on to Poulainville while I turned off into Amiens with the Mess Cart. Had to wait till 4.30. for a train & in the meatime lunched at the Hotel de la Paix (the only one open) & mooned about. Train only went as far a Abbeville so put up at the familiar "Tete de Boeuf."
Aug. 25th.
Train at 5.30. Arrived at Boulogne in time or mid-day boat.
NOTE.
On opposite page a sketch of Dispositions of 13th Bn. 6a.m. 23.8.18

[Page 185]
1918
Aug. 30th.
To Friton-on Sea with "Dadda" Kellaway. Staying with Mrs. Walldock.
Sept. 2nd.
(Monday) Returned to London.
Sept. 3rd.
With Padre Wray to spend evening at "Kit Cotty," Nottingham (Taylor.)
Sept.4th.
Open air investitut e at Buckingham Palace. Received D.S.O.
Sept. 5th.
To Hattonburn by 10.30. from Kings X. Travelled up with the"Brig."
Sept. 9th.
Caught morning train to Manchester via Preston. Missed the best hotel & put up at the Victoria. To "Yes , U ncle."
Sept. 10th.
To London by mid-day train.
Sept. 12th.
Boat Express to Folkestone. Rough crossing. Those on board included Sir Douglas Haigh, Admiral Wemyss, Admiral Sims, & Billy Hughes. Met Joe Tuckett with expectation of car on arrival.
Started at 9.30.pm but car missed a turning. Added to this we had 5 punctures & no spare tubes, no headlights,

[Page 186]
1918
Sept. 12th (Contd.)
no oil for the side-lights, a big leak in the radiator, & a driver three parts fu’.
Sept.13th
At 7 am we were still huddled up icy cold in the car at Etaples while the driver tinkered with the tubes. Breakfast at Abbeville & lunch at Amiens, we arrived at Div. H.Q. for afternoon tea. Joined Battalion at Mons- en Chausee. Peronne badly knocked about but not so badly as I expected.

Sept. 14th.
Conference at Brigade Headquarters at 8 pm. Brigade to participate in an attack at an early date.
Sept. 15th.
Reconnaissance of 13th. Bde. area East of Vendelles.
Sept. 16th.
Battalion relieved "C" & portion of "D" Coy 49th. Bn. in the front line. "B" Coy front line, "C" support "D" in sunken road east of Vendelles & "A" in trenches west of that village. Battalion Headquarters in Railway cutting at R2b.2.3 (sheet 62cs.e.) 16th. Bn. on left,48th. on right.
Sept. 17th.
At 11 pm Battalion headquarters moved tentatively to McQuires Headquarters R.3ba80.90. Easts & his H.Q. Scouts had laid the tapes by midnight.
NOTE
On opposite page the following was detailed:
Awards. . . . . . . . . . . .. . .Announced to 30:9: 18.
Hamel ) . . .D.S.O ………… Capt. G. Marper
4/7/18 ) . . M.C…. . . . .. Lieut. T. Dwyer
D.C.M. . . . . . C.S.M. Meek
. . . . . Sgt. Phillips
. . . . . Cpl. Lihou
Bar to M.M. .. . 2
M.M. . . . . .. . 16

Aug. 18.
M.C. . . . . . . . .. 2/Lt. N.J. McQuire M.M.
Lt. L.M. Player
" L.W.H. Cleland
" A.D. Turnbull M.M.
Capt.S.M. O’Riordan (R.M.O.)
M.M. . . . . . . . . . .9
Lihons
M.M. . . . . . . . . . 6
Total Announced to 30:9:18
V.C. . . . . . . . . . . . ..1 Legion of Honour (F) . . . . . .1
C.B. . . . .. . . .. . . . 1 Belgian Croix de Guerre . . . 1
C.M.G. .. . . .. . . . . 1 Serbian White eagle . . . . . . 2
D.S.O. . . . .. . . .. . ..4 " Kara George . . . . . 1
Bar to D.S.O. . . . .. 1 " Gold Medal . . . . . .1
M.C. .. . . . . . .. . . . 30 Total . . . . .. . . . . .255
Bar to M.C. . . . . .. 1 Des. 43
D.C.M. . . . . .. . . . 26 Mentions Corps 8
M.M. . . . . . . . .. . . 177 Grand Total . . . .. . 306
Bar to M.M. . . . . . 5
M.S.M. . . . . . . .. . .2

[Page 187]
1918
Sept. 18th.
At 4.30 am H.Q. and all units were in position on the tapes. Rain had fallen during the night with occasional interva
ls of very bright moon light. The final forming up took place in a steady downpour which slackened off a little before zero. At 5.20 am the barrage opened, the M.G. barrrage sounding more intense than any which previously assisted us. 18 pounder barrrage inaccurate though intense. A number of guns short at each lift. Lt. N.J. McGuire, M.C. M.M. killed & a number of his Coy. Headquarters wounded by an 18 pounder shell at the opening of the barrage.
The attack followed close up under the barrage for the first lift & heavy wire was encountered. Luckily there was a heavy fog for by this time & the advanced enemy posts were rushed with comlete success & few, if any, casualties. Fog due entirely to the 10 to 15 % smoke shell used & was a little overdone. Damp atmosphere intensified the effect.
Breasting the ridge south of Le Verguier, the Battalion attacked what is shown by captured documents to have been the enemy first line of resistance.

[Page 188]
1918
Sept. 18th (Contin.)
Here he offered fight and a certain amount of time was spent in clearing up small posts, in the course of which Lt. (T/Capt.) W. Parsonage, M.C. was wounded by a stick bomb.
The fog still continued & cases occurred where small parties, one even including portion of Bn. H.Q. got ahead of the main line of advance & had to bomb their way back.
Continuing down the slopes past Verguier, "B"Coy. swung round to its left & succeded in junctioning with 15th Bn. at the spot intended. A gap however, occurred on the right & the 48th Bn. could not be located.
"A" Coy was ordered up to the right of "C" Coy. & thus estabilshed touch with the 48th whose left was swung back slightly.
On the western edge of Mill Spinney at approximately L.35a25. there was a field gun in action preventing the advance of "B’ Coy, and a large Minewerfer detachment with two heavy & two light Minewerfer. No. 6594, Sgt. Sexton has been recommended for his action in dealing with these, for the V.C.

[Page 189]
1918
Sept. 18th (Contd.)
One of the dugouts at Mill Spinney was a K.T.K. (front line Bn. H.Q.) of 58th I.R. & yielded a Bn. Commander. Was occupied by 13th H.Q. when the advance continued to Red Line.
At 7.30 am all sign of fog had disappeared, & the barrage covering the consolidation of the Brown line commenced to move. The Battalion continued the advance with D & A Coys leapfrogged over & followed by B & C Coys. It was found that the enemy had taken cosiderable advantage of the two hours halt & that there was a considerable increase in machine gun fire with the advance.
However, the barrage was good, & the troops advancing resolutely, assaulted individual posts with characteristic dash & initiative. From Ascension Farm, Coronet Post & the Post at G.25c25.55 fully 200 prisoners were obtained after a sharp encounter.
At 9.30 am "A","B","C" & "D" Coys. were in position on the Red Line from right to left in that order.
At about 10am 14th Bn. passed through the 13th & 15th to the Exploitition Objective.
NOTE
The following notes made on opposite page:
Captures. 18:9:18
2 . . . . . . .. .. . . .7.7m.m. Guns
6 . . . . . . . . . . . . .Light Minenwurfer
2 . . . . . . . . . . . . .Medium "
Over 30 . . . . . . ..M.G.
560 . . . . . . . . .. . Prisoners (including 2 Bn. Cmdrs.)
Strength . . . .. 18:9:18 . . . . .(Actually engaged)
"A" Coy . . . .. . . . ..3 off . . . . . . . .. 79
"B" Coy . . . . . . . . . 3 " . . . . . . . .. . 78
"C"Coy . . . . . . . . . . 3 " . . . . . . . . . .79
"D" Coy . . . . . . . . . .3 " . . . . . . . . . .80
Bn. H.Q. . . . . . . . . ..6 " . . . . . . . . . .81
18 . . . . . . . . . .397
Casualties . . . . . .18:9:18
Killed .. . . . . .. . . . Lt. McGuire . . . . .10 O’R
M.C.M.M.
Wounded . . . . . . .. 4 Officers* . . . . .94 O’R
5 officers . . . . . .104 "
*(Parsonage & Marsh evacuated.
(Baker & White remaining on duty.

[Page 190]
1918
Sept.20th
Relieved 14th Bn. in the Outpost System of the Hindenburg Line.
Sept. 21st
Relieved by 4th Leicesters & moved to Hamelet near Tincourt.
Sept. 23rd
By road to Bivouacs near Biaches.
Sept.24th
Plucknett, Falkiner & East to 27th American Div.
Sept. 26th
Had to turn down offer of leave toAustralia via America
Oct. 1st
Commanded the Brigade for one day. Plunknett & Coy returned very "fed up" with the Americans.
Oct 2nd
3rd
Brigadier returned from American Division. Accepted return to
Australia on leave with Dave, via America. All 1914 people left by lorry for Bray.

Oct. 4th
Div. Commander inspected Brigade. Farewells at Bn. & Brigade Mess.
Oct. 5th
Left by car with the Brigadier at 6.30 am &
arrived at Boulogne at 9 am. Lunch at Monys & 4pm boat to Morleys Hotel, Trafalgar Square.

[Page 191]
1918
Oct. 9th
3.25 pm from Fenchurch Station for Tilbury Docks. Found that our vessel had passed by Tilbury and so were taken on board "Pannonia" of same line.
October 10th
Sailed about 6 pm. Anchorfed for night near Portsmouth.
October 16th
Arrived at Plymouth 10 am and immediately transhipped to "Morvads" (B.I. Steamer.) Convoy sailed at noon. Only passengers, very comfortable.
COMPOSITION OF "MORVADA" PARTY.
Lt. Col. G.I. STEVENSON, C.M.G. - 3rd Army Bde. A.F.A.
" G.W. MACARTNEY - 10TH F. Amb.
Major J.C. SELMES, D.S.O. - 1ST D.A.
" A.B. SANDFORD, D.S.O. - 3RD D.A.
" H.R.BYRNE D.S.O. - 1ST D.A.
" C.C. RIDDEIL D.S.O. - 4TH Div. Eng.
" G.W. HALL - 4TH D.A.
" H.C. de LOW D.S.O. - "
" G.A. PIKE M.C. - 3RD D.H.Q.
Capt.
(T/Maj) A.W. DAVIS M.C. - 13TH Bn.
Q.M.H. Capt. L. JOHSON - 1ST C.C.S.
Major F.C. GILES. D.S.O. - 11TH Bn.
Capt. (T/Maj.) G.G. STEWART M.C. -3RD Army Bde.
Major J.E. HINDBAUGH - Corps Cyclists
" A.F. CRISP. D.S.O. - 3RD Army Bde.
" G.F. FINLAY - Vet.
" A.V. RICHARDSON - 4TH D.A.
" A. WYNYARD-ROSS - 2ND M.T. Coy
Capt. H.J. LANE - M.T. H.Q.
" J.D. ROGERS. M.C. - Corps H.Q.
"(T/Maj. H.E. WOODMAN. D.S.O.-1ST M.G. Bn.
" H.C./ PEARCE - 4TH Bn. (P.S.)

And SELF - 23

October 19th
Passed a number of large ice-bergs. Northern lights visible at night. At 10 pm sighted lighthouses at entrance to Straits of Belle Isle.

October 21st
Picked up Pilot in St. Lawrence River at 7 pm. Ship lit-up for first time.
October 22nd
All up at 7 am to see Quebec. Under the new bridge with 5,000 ton span which is forty feet longer that the Firth of Forth spans. "Theristocles" quarantined owing to influenza. Montreal said to be in same state. Arrived Montreal docks 7 pm. After dinner in car of one Cooper to Roma Club.
October 23rd
Disembarked finally about 11 am – Interviews with C.P.R. Arranged itinerary and use of private car. With Pyke to dinner at Michalsons on Mount Royal. Mrs. M. is Aunt Amy’s sister.
Train left at 10 pm for Toronto.
October 24th
Toronto 8 am and to Queens Hotel for breakfast. After lunch to Niagra by car arriving at 7 pm. Cliffton House. Mr. Major, the proprietor, arranged for the falls to be illuminated and for personally conducted motor-tour.
October 25th
Met Leo. on 9.30 am from New York. Left by car 12.30 and lunched at St Catherine en route. Left Toronto at 7 pm on sleeper "Ashcroft".
October 28th
Arrived Banff and to King Edward Hotel. Local residents arranging to entertain the party. Much talk with Luxton who was in Sydney on the Tilikan in 1906. (28’ Kiel made from solid cedar log by siwash Indians.- Tillicum – Siwash for "friend".)
October 29th
Tours round Banff including dip in "Dave and Basin, Sulphur Springs.

October 30th
12.30 am from Banff. Arrived Sieamouse 10 pm (2 hours late.) Slept on car "Ashcroft" on side of Shuswap Lake.
October 31st
Journey resumed 7.55 am – along Thompson and Fraser Canyons. Arrived Vancover 10.5 pm and to V. Hotel. Very seedy.
Nov. 1st to 7th
In bed with ‘flu at Hotel Vancouver.
November 9th
Sailed on R.M.S. "Makura" at 5 pm. Left Victoria at midnight.
November 16th
Off Honoulu at 11 pm but forced to cruise 10 miles off. First dance on board.
November 17th
Doctor at 7 am and alongside at 8 am. Motored to Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head and Pali. Sailed 3 pm. Funeral of 3rd passenger at 8 pm.
November 23rd
Fancy dress Ball. Captain Crawford gave dinner to commemorate cessation of hostilities.
November 25th
(Monday.) Mised out on crossing 180th degree of longitude.
November 27th
Arrived Suva 3am and left 9am. No one allowed to land.
1918
November 29th
Gymkhana – good day’s fun.
November 30th
Heavy fog. Anchored off Rongotiti (Aukland) 8 pm and moved later to Quarantine Motuiti.
Deceber 1st
Indignation Meeting. Passingers offer to coal ship if necessary.
December 4th
Second Indignation Meeting.
December 5th
Coal barges came alongside about 12. pm. Meeting of volunteers at 2.30 pm. Majority in favour of waiting for guarantee from Union Coy. Eventually decided to carry on and first shift started 3.30 pm.
December 6th
Stewards struck before lunch. Object to crew being taken off when sick while passengers who are sick remain and have to be attended to.
Ladies turned to and waited in the saloon. Diner a huge success. Stewards resumed after dinner.
December7th
Last of 600 tons of coal on board by 5.30 pm. New Zealand passengers sent to Quarantine Island.
December 8th
40 volunteers to act as Trimmers. Put on first shift (noon to 4 pm) with Selmes, Pyke, and Bardwell. Sailed about 1 pm without unloading Aukland cargo. 8 knots p.h. till dawn so as to cross mine field in daylight.
December 10th
Trimming noon to 4 pm.

December 12th
3rd and last shift trimming.
December 13th (Friday)
Entered Sydney Heads 6 am. Met by family flying Battalion colours. To Quarantine and landed at the station 6 p.m.
December 17th
Birthday party to V.R.
December 21st
By ferry from Quarantine Station to no. 5 Wharf and disembarked about noon.

C.M.F.
2/L Lieut………………………………………………………………………..27.6.14
Lieut. (Prov)……………………………………………………………………….1.7. 15
Hon. Capt. and noted for prom. to Brevet
Major on attaning substantive rank of
Capt. in Aust. Mil. Forces…………………………………………………….3.6. 18
A.I.F.
2/Lieut………………………………………………………………………………..20.11.14
Lieut…………………………………………………23.5.15(N.Z. & A.D.O. No. 120
Bde. O. 166)
A/Adgjt………………………………………………4.6.15 (Bde. O. 286)
T/Capt……………………………………………… 20.7.15 (N.Z. & A.D.O. No. 589
BO 265)
Capt……………………………………………………20.1.16 (A.I.F. List 19.)
Adjutant……………………………………………. 1.2.16 ( " List 21.)
Major……………………………………………… 11.11.16( " 120.)
T/Lieut.Col………………………………………..23.8. 17( " 242.)
Relinquished……………………………………..30.10.17
T/Lieut.Col………………………………………… 5. 12.17
nLieut. Col………………………………………… 5. 12.17(A.I.F. List 353
of 9.7.18.)
Temp. Command of Bn…………………………13th to 28th Oct. 1915(Bde 0.283)
" 9th to 20th Oct. 1916( " 246)
" 22nd Feb. to 7th March 1917.
" 22nd Aug. " 30th Oct. ’17.
" 3rd Dec ‘17
Command of Bn……………………………………….6th Dec. 1917
A/Cmd. 4th A.I. Brigade 1st Oct. 1918 (1 day only)
White Eagle of Servia (5th Class )
With swords) A.I.F. Orders 2/12/16
Military Cross………………………………………….New Year’s List 1/1/17
Mentioned in Despatches………………………1.Birthday June ‘17
2.New Year Jan. ‘18
(G.30706 of 28.5.18)
D.S.O………………………………………………………3. New Year Jan 1919
(G.30716 of 3.6.18)
EGYPTIAN GLOSSARY
Shem-el-Neseem. - "Smelling of the air" A non-religious
Festival
Shadouf. - Lever with rope and bucket.
Sa Kiya. - Native water wheel.
Takiya. - Native turban.
Tisht. ) -
Ibreek) - Brass washing vessels.
Gullah. - Earthern Carafe.
Tarbush - Fez.
Jebba. - White Egyptian Robe.
Arabeen. - Gharry.
Cassura. - Broken.
"Ma as-salamah" - Good-bye.
Katter Allah Kherak. - I thank you.
Letak sa"idah. - Goodnight.
Es-salam alekum - Peace be with you.
Maleeshe - Never mind.
Colosse. - Finished
Mafeishe - do.
Bajsheesh. - Alms
Faloosh. - Money.
Bosta. - Post Office.
Sook awam ana Mint I Gel. - Quickly, I’m in a hurry!
Enta awas kam? - How much do I owe?
Kam? - How much?
Talla-men-beena. - Go that way.
Talla heena. - Come here.
Cord-Heena. - Sit here.
Imshee or )
Roor impshee) - Go away
Bardeen. - Stop.
Mush Owze. - I don’t want anything.
Oukra. - Tomorrow.
Wahled. - Boy.
Bint. - Girl.
Khadim. - Servant.
Tayib. - Good.
Quise - Good. (Adjective)
Moosquise. - No good.
Yoasta )-
Arbaigish ) - Cabman.
Arabieh. - Voiture or Gharry.

[Transcribed by John Brooker for the State Library of New South Wales]