Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 103
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[Page 103]
Tuesday 4th May
At 3.30 AM this morning I engaged enemy's Infantry on Shrapnel ridge. At 4.30 AM party from 3rd Infantry Brigade landed on beach at Kaba Tepe, but were met by heavy machine gun fire.
Destroyers and my guns peppered the point thoroughly, but it appeared unwise to carry the attempt any further, so troops were returned in boats to the Destroyers. Bullets flew all around them, and from our gun positions we could see the whole drama. Altogether I Understand eight were killed including one officer and 18 wounded. I expect Kaba Tepe will eventually be taken from the land side. A battery came into action yesterday about 1700* distant, and let us have our first taste of shrapnel. Fortunately no harm was done. Mr Crisp located him again this morning. His men were busy making emplacements and their picks were visible. They did not remain there long. A pinnace went out about noon from the navy to bury dead from morning's operations, under cover of Red Cross flag. They were not fired upon. At 2.30 Turks carrying Red Crescent searched for the dead and wounded. They were also not fired upon by us. Major Hughes personnel resumed duty on their guns at 4PM. Major Burgess' personnel relieved for a few days. I heard unofficially today that Lieut Clowes and three gunners of 8th Battery had been wounded in action, but I have no definite details. There is also an unconfirmed rumour that Lieut Morgan is a casualty. A very quiet night. Both Lt Richards and myself had a good sleep.
Wednesday 5th May
Very quiet during last night and this morning. We know the Turks are busy entrenching. This morning I visited Section of our line where Major Browne has two guns. Saw Col Hobbs there also Colonel Johnstone. I think his position will turn out to be a good one and work in well with ours. On my return I met General Birdwood and Admiral Thursby. They wanted to see Kaba Tepe from landward. There has been a certain amount of activity on this point all day and No1 gun has been giving them attention. Deepening all our trenches for further security and improving approaches and exits for guns should they require to be moved. Today collected all 18pr shell cases for return to Ordnance. Operation order no 5 issued today. It provides for the transfer of two Brigades Infantry and details to Cape Helles tonight to assist 29th Division, our line in consequence being