Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 399
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[Page 399]
Saturday 23rd March
The Boche seem to have commenced their long talked of attack on a front of about 60 miles. Here one can get no details. This morning I spent in the grounds of the Hotel and after lunch walked on towards Monte Carlo calling at the Villa Roquiek where Australian nurses have a rest home. Both the Matron and all the nurses were out. Stayed at the Hotel during afternoon. Immediately after dinner I received a wire ordering my immediate recall so it has been decided that General Monash and myself return together tomorrow morning. As usual my luck is out – my leave seems further than ever from realisation.
Sunday 24th March
With General Monash left Menton at 10.15 AM Had a very comfortable journey.
Monday 25th March
Arrived at Parisat 9.15 AM. Generals ADC at the Station with car. Had breakfast etc. in town and left at 10.30 for the Division. Parisgreatly excited because of German long range shelling, estimated at 120 kilometres. Arrived at Amiens at 2 PM. Passed many refugees between Beauvais and Amiens. Many wounded passing through the latter town. Had an excellent lunch at the E.F.C. officers club, then motored on to Doullens. Ascertained the Division was about to move here so I decided to remain and endeavour to prepare the way for my Brigade. Motored out to Mondicourt and established a Brigade HQrs. in a Chateau in the town. Succeeded in getting a decent billet and a good night's rest. Our Bde. advance Parties (including Halford) arrived at Doullens today and is now with me here. Brigade due to arrive tomorrow.
Tuesday 26th March
10th Brigade first to arrive entraining at Mondicourt. At about 11 AM alarmist reports came in the Boche cavalry were in the village of Colincamps, and then commenced what can only be described as a disgraceful withdrawal. When military forces retire of course the civilians did the same – and very soon Mondicourt was deserted, the inhabitants having simply walked out and left everything behind them. At this juncture I heard my Brigade was arriving at Doullens so motored down in a train car and joined the Battalion, giving all the information