Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 286
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[Page 286]
Altogether not very satisfactory.
Interview with Gen. Napier (representing Gen. Birdwood) and Gen. Holmes.
Saturday 3rd February
Gen. Holmes discussed with me proposals for retaking last trench. He conferred with Gen. Birdwood and later gave definite orders that attack was to take place on night of 4th February. Prepared all necessary orders.
Naval Division 5th Army attacked north of the Ancre tonight.
Captured all their objectives and 200 prisoners. Artillery bombardment terrific.
Sunday 4th February
Round groups in the morning. Wrote letters in afternoon. Operation commenced at 28 PM Very busy night, the telephone ringing continuously. Turned in at 1.30 AM All objectives gained, 68 prisoners including 2 officers, and trenches I hope now securely held. Heard that America had broken off relations with Germany.
Monday 5th February
With Gen. Holmes visited 14th H.A. Group and 4th Inf. Bde H Qrs. He went on to captured trenches, while I went round my batteries and congratulated the men on the previous night's work. Expect possible counter attack tonight. Gunners all ready. Gen. Birdwood sent a very nice wire to all concerned.
Tuesday 6th February
Stayed in during morning. Left at 1.30 to visit La Chaussee Infantry School. First went to Corps to get certain timber approved, then to Amiens for certain purchases, then to School. Lectured on "Cooperation between Artillery and Infantry". I had brought ammunition with me to illustrate lecture. Returned home at 11 PM.
Wednesday 7th February
With Capt. Forrest inspected wagon lines and with Col. Vernon went on to new Ammunition Rail Head, Bazentin. Thence to our new Divisional HQrs., thence No. 1 Section D.A.C.,