Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 384
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[Page 384]
Demys and Ravine Woods thence back to Wytschaete via HQrs. 4th Battalion at Prince Ruprecat's Farm.
Received word from John Halford that a little daughter arrived at their house on Jan. 20th both Edith and infant doing well.
Sunday 27th January
Stayed in all day attending to administrative matters and writing usual weekly letters. Quite mild weather in fact almost indication of the arrival of Spring.
Monday 28th January
During the morning I visited all four batteries of 2nd F.A. Brigade going round with Major Edwards who is temporarily commanding the Brigade. Later I visited 1st and 3rd Batteries of 1st Aus Div F.A. Bde. with Major Selmer who is acting in Command.
Saw quite a number of original 1st Divisional Artillery men including two from my old 44th Battery. Advance parties from "G" & "Q" Staffs 5th Aus. Division arrived at our HQrs.
Tuesday 29th January
Visited remaining batteries of 1st Aus. F.A. Brigade with Major Selmer. All the men are very comfortable and after their strenuous battles of September and October last in the Third Battle of Ypres they are having a comparative rest here. General Birdwood asks that all Divisional Commanders may meet him on 2nd Feby. to discuss some important A.I.F. matters. He is visiting Gen. Lester's Brigade today.
Wednesday 30th January
During morning went through original and alternative Defence Schemes and maps. All are ready for incoming Division. In afternoon visited 57th Divisional HQrs. at Steenwerck. The 14th Brigade 5th Aus. Division relieved 1st Inf. Bde. in Left Sector. Relief completed at 11 PM. Received Agenda Papers for Conference on 2nd Feby.
Thursday 31st January
During morning in company with Corps and 3rd Division Commanders watched the march of 9th Brigade through Ballieul. Exceedingly good show. Passed 1st Bde. Transport on the road. Very straggly and unsatisfactory. Generally discreditable.