Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 248
Primary tabs
Transcription
[Page 248]
in our new temporary mess, situated off a Pork butchers shop, and not at all inviting. Hope to get sufficient material to build our requirements on the grounds attached to our Head Quarters.
Wednesday 30th August
An exceedingly wet day. Ground saturated and streams running "bankers". Decided to thoroughly reconnoitre some country and visit O.Ps. the day being so thick with rain that the Boche could see very little behind our lines. Walked for 5 hours, totalling about 15 miles. Visited O.Ps. of Colonel Hughes sector and inspected country thoroughly. Sopping wet by the time I reached home and very tired. Arranged for timber for officers mess.
Thursday 31st August
Called on Engineers yard in early morning re making of sign boards for trenches and boards for O.P Stations. Then visited Colonel Hanney at his Head Qrs. (British Div Arty Group attached to me) inspected his batteries and OPs., also walked down WATLING STREET and fixed positions for How. Batteries and 18 prs.
Called at Col. King's HQrs. at 4.30 and reached home at 5 PM. Again about 15 miles. Met Colonel Tovey temporarily CRA of 19th division adjoining us on the left. Hanney's group shooting a scheme this morning at 7.30 AM
Friday 1st September
Reconnoitred country north of Canal for gun positions walking about 10 miles. Called on General Hobbs to ask his permission to put batteries in his area. He promised to consult his General. Gen. Franks (Gocra 2nd Army) called at my HQrs. re cooperation of Heavy Artillery. Arranged to see him tomorrow.
Saturday 2nd September
Called on General Franks in his capacity of GOC Franks force, which includes 4th Can Division which we cover. Fixed up with him re Hanney's O.Ps. being incorrectly built by Sappers. He promised to adjust matters. Obtained drawing board from Sappers, and had a T square and set square made. Set to work on O.P. drawings, commencing with Ecluse 7. Canadian Division moved to Westoutre, and we took over mess temporarily.