Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 268
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[Page 268]
Monday 27th November
With Col. Fewtrel, Vernon, King and Waite made a reconnaissance for train routes to supply batteries with ammunition. Satisfactory arrangements made. Personnel of H.T.M. Battery will be divided between Nos. 3 and 4 groups for the construction of these connecting lines, and also to build new Howitzer positions, each for 6 Howrs., with dug outs complete at about 30 feet depth. Returned to HQrs. about 3 PM. With Vernon inspected Rail Head Ammunition depot and quarry. Made arrangements for certain improvements. Lamed Jack during my peregrinations so had to walk home. Roads in dreadful condition.
Tuesday 28th November
Remained in Camp all day. Attended to Office, the Brigade Major going round the Groups. Completed arrangements and syllabus for artillery School at Naours. Arranged with Col. Rabett to take over as Commandant. Got him in here during the afternoon and in the evening completed all details. Heard of casualties to DAC salvage party the information being that 5 men are killed, 15 wounded and 15 mules killed. Correct details not yet available. Arranged with Vernon re salving ammunition. Extremely cold night.
Wednesday 29th November.
Received full particulars regarding DAC casualties of yesterday. Four men killed, 8 wounded (four seriously), 24 mules killed and 4 horses. One of the mules kicked a "dud" shell with the above results. Rabett went off to Naours. Desperately cold day and night.
Thursday 30th November
In the morning rode out to Bazentin, our proposed new Head Quarters. Intensely cold day. Lt. Col. came in during the afternoon with his batman, prior to going to Naours. Did a good deal of writing during the afternoon.