Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 337
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[Page 337]
Thursday 2nd August
Car went into Boulogne and picked up Col. Vernon and Major Bates on their return from leave in Paris. Col. Vernon dined with us. Apparently they had a splendid time.
Conference at Div HQrs with GOC and Infantry Brigadier. This Division is to take over 37th Division Front and part of 3rd Aus Div The 4th Brigade commence moving into line tomorrow. Battle of Ypres being much hampered by continual wet weather. About 5,000 prisoners and a quantity of war material captured to date. French Army too appears to have been very successful. Interview with O.C. Signal company re officers etc. of Signal section and necessity for "understudy". Lt. Asche commenced Wireless Course at 2nd Anzac.
Friday 3rd August
Received word re promotion of Capt. Forrest and appointment of Lieut. Waite and Staff Captains. Made arrangements for Major Forrest to report to 10th Bde. tomorrow to take over command of 39th Battery. Informed that 4th Aus Div. Artillery is to come out of the line and have 10 days rest. Conference with Divisional Commander.
Saturday 4th August
Visited office of G.O.C. R.A. 1st Anzac. Strafed them about non return of the late Lt. Hobson's horses and saddlery. Heard of many casualties in 1st D.A. particularly Major Olding who is rather badly hit. Discussed details of promotions of some 4th Aus Div Arty officers. Informed by D.A.G., that I am shortly to take over command of 9th Infantry Brigade 3rd Australian Division and that Lt. Burgess will be my successor as Cra.
Sunday 5th August
Early visited Major Olding in Casualty Clearing Station at Proven. He has been badly wounded in the head by HE. fragment – but is progressing very favourably. He was able to recognise and talk to me. Brigade to commence withdrawal from line tonight. Wrote letters. Another Australian mail lost.
Monday 6th August
Early had an interview with GOC Division re my proposed transfer to 3rd Aus Div He had been advised of the impending move by General Birdwood some little time since. It is evidently intended that I shall be next for a Division. Balance of Brigades came out of the line. With Major Bates rode to La Motte.