Item 01: James William Dains diary, 21 November 1916-4 June 1917 - Page 38

[Page 38]

We have been warned that the Germans are going to release gas, the wind is favourable. I hope it doesn't come off. It is frightful stuff.

Sunday Jan. 28th
I have no service this morning so had a lazy morning. My parade was at 2 oclock & it was very successful in point of numbers. I had the greater part of the Batt. present with Communion at the close. Went to Y.M.C.A. at night. Just as we were going to the Hall a heavy bombardment started. We were making a raid & for an hour & a half it was frightful. I cannot say much about the result of it. Some of our party met with disaster at the enemy's uncut wire. There was a fairly heavy death roll & some casualties also.

Monday
Went down to Houplines to Cocoa stall. It was fairly quiet but later on in the day the Hun put over several shells on