Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 190
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[Page 190]
of hay lying on the platform. Everybody in rather bad temper and very dissatisfied with faulty staff arrangements.
Wednesday 9th February
Slept very comfortably during the night. Had early breakfast. Saw Aerodrome at this Station and watched two planes ascend. Quite a large number of troops camped here. Arranged with R.T.O. that we should again entrain and move off for Serapeum at 10 AM. We entrained, but for some inexplicable reason we did not leave Camp Station till 2.30 PM, and did not reach Serapeum till nearly dark. Both today and yesterday all the officers as well as men have had to ride in trucks without seats, and naturally the journey was exceedingly uncomfortable. On arrival at Serapeum I reported to D.H.Qrs, was told where our camp was to be pitched, got our tents erected, horse lines arranged for, and our evening meal prepared. Turned in early, but ground was uncomfortably hard.
Thursday 10th February
Went out early with my officers to the Left Flank of position held by 1st Australian Division and made a general reconnaissance. Saw three deer on the journey out. We are again to work with the 3rd Infantry Brigade, and the Battalion Officers made us very welcome, giving us lunch and watering our horses. Returned to camp about 5 PM.
Friday 11th February
Out on the front line again to day. Battery Commanders finally settled and marked the position for their batteries. I made a thorough reconnaissance of country in front of position. Returned to camp at 5.30 PM.
Saturday 12th February
Again out to day. All ranges and prominent points recorded, and work completed. Lunched with General Maclagan. Also met General Birdwood at 3rd Bde. H Qrs. He expressed his pleasure at seeing me back again well and strong, and then gave me details of the proposed changes in 1st Aus Div. consequent on new Divisions being raised.