Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 294
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[Page 294]
Monday 12th March
Batteries moved forward to allotted positions. I watched them pass, and noted that still much improvement can be effected in turn out etc. During afternoon called at Divisional Head Quarters to meet the Right Hon. Walter Long, Secretary of State for the Colonies. Left sketch from Stormy Trench with General Holmes. Details out re the Dardanelles mission, but not yet fully available. Word received that General Maude had occupied Baghdad. Called at Corps, witnessed the amusing sight of Corps Chief Engineer, Col. of "Q" Branch and ADOS experimenting with 2" mortars against Tanks, represented by screens. Had afternoon tea with "A" mess at Corps. Overlooked the fact that General White was lecturing to our Division at 5 PM and in consequence failed to attend.
Tuesday 13th March
Heard from C.R.A. 2nd Aus. Divn. early this morning that the Boche had evacuated GreVillers Trench and Loupart Wood, so that the arrangements made for the attack in which our guns were cooperating came to naught. Our guns were ordered out, and late at night two of 11th Brigade batteries arrived back in training area, having been ordered by their Colonel to return independently.
Wednesday 14th March
Remainder of 11th Bde. and 10th Brigade detained in wagon lines pending further orders. Boche has definitely fallen back to Baupaume line, and Anzac batteries are moving forward.
Went for a long ride in the afternoon.
Thursday 15th March
Batteries and D.A.C. of 4th Aus Div came back under my orders from 2nd Aus Div Brigades reached Training area during afternoon. Col. Waite lunched with us and Col. King dined with us. In the morning called on Maj. General Uwaike [?] R.A. 5th Army and arranged to visit 6th Corps (3rd Army) near Arras to inspect disposition of artillery for coming offensive. Prepared Barrage schemes for 4th Aus Div for signal exercise on 19th inst., and took same to Division. Rabett called re reinforcements for his Brigade.
Received new of death of Duchess of Connaught. Two letters from Nell through Edith Halford. Letter from Denmark.