Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 191
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[Page 191]
He told me I should have to command a Division of Artillery and that my Brigade would form the neucleus of the 4th Artillery Division. The new 4th Division will be commanded by General Cox, an Indian officer. Fuller details I presume we shall soon receive. We left Serapeum by train at 7.38 PM reaching Tel el Kebir about 10 PM. Our men and horses are following by a later train. A set of 6 maps of country just East of the Canal was issued to me.
Today I pass my 41st milestone. How the years do fly. General Birdwood's information quite a nice birthday gift.
Sunday 13th February
Church parade this morning, but I was too tired to attend. Mail received from home. Letters from Alvord and Chris, also papers from Nell but no letter. Wrote letters all day. Capt. Rogers rejoined 8th Battery after being detached for some time with a mobiLe Section.
Monday 14th February
Gen. Cox who is to command 4th Division inspected camp. I did not see him. Batteries on manoeuvre area all day. Col. Heane 1st Battalion called to see me. Said Infantry Battalion had already been divided for new Divisions.
Tuesday 15th February
Batteries on manoeuvre area all day. Generals, Birdwood, Cox, Carruthers and Hobbs inspected lines. Gen. Birdwood and Cox gave me details of new 4th Division. It appears definite that my Brigade is to form the neucleus of the new 4th Divisional Artillery, so very shortly I shall have a heavy task before me, but as long as I am allowed to keep my old officers I think I shall be able to manage fairly well. Received letter from Chris (telling me he was not returning to HAYFIELD College) also papers from Nell, but still no letter. Received birthday greetings cable from Nell. Discussed new formations with General Hobbs. He desires to retain 8th Battery (W.A.) in his command, and proposes giving me the 2nd Battery (the old 44th) in exchange if Corps H Qrs. will agree. I personally do not mind, though I should very much prefer to keep my old Brigade intact. Several officers & men of 3rd Bde. mentioned in despatches.