Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 415
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[Page 415]
Wednesday 1st May
Inspected Transport during morning and arranged certain exchanges and pairing of horses. Called on C.O 34th Battalion re advancing his line, then moved on to Bde H Qrs. at Heilly.
Called on General McNicoll of 10th Bde. and visited new tunnelled HQrs. which are not progressing satisfactorily. Told the CRE such was the case. Relief by 34th Battalion completed and command passed to me at about an hour after midnight. Have arranged mess and sleeping quarters in a small house close to the cellars which constitute the Infantry and Artillery offices. At last liaison good between gunners and Infantry. Saw General Birdwood while calling on Gen. McNicoll.
Thursday 2nd May
With A/BM and I.O. visited all three Battalion HQrs. also Flank Battalion C.O. of 8th Bde., and 8th Bde H Qrs. at Corbie. Arranged final details for advance of 34th Battalion on night of 4th May and 35th ditto on night of 5th May, including working parties for wiring and digging of posts. Spoke to Divisional Commander re arrangements. A great deal of difficulty in securing necessary amount of pickets for wiring.
Friday 3rd May
Divisional Commander called during morning and discussed fully details for operations on 4th and 5th. Later went with him to see Gen. McNicoll on the same matter. The G.O.C. has allotted me certain working parties from the Pioneer Battn. Interview with CRE and CO 11th Field Co. re new Bde H Qrs. The 11th F. Coy. is to complete this work. Two Boche planes brought down in our area today. Used messenger dogs from Battalions to Brigade for first time. Dog took 33 minutes to bring a message 5000 yards. Discussed artillery programme for 5th inst. with Cra. Sent forward last night and tonight sufficient wire and pickets to do 2000 yards of double apron wiring.
Saturday 4th May
Went round the line and visited all Battalion HQrs. Discussed with Battalion Commanders proposals for operations on 4th and 5th insts. Visited Right Flank re new line of posts. Arranged that two companies of 33rd Battalion should take over Front line from 35th on night of 4th, thus leaving Col. Goddard's command fire in his own hands to be used as he thought best.