Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 455
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[Page 455]
The Army and Corps Commanders called during the afternoon and discussed proposals for the capture of Mont St. Quentin; the Army Commander being specially interested because of having operated in this area with 4th Army during first battle of the Somme.
Saturday 31st August
At 5a.m. this morning the 5th Brigade launched its attack against Mont St. Quentin. Adequate artillery support was available, but a formal barrage was not laid down. Instead a system of area shoots was arranged to assist the advancing Infantry. Mont St. Quentin was reached at an early hour and the village of Feuillaucourt was taken. The total casualties in the attack up to this time was 80, while about 1000 prisoners was taken. Later in the day Mont St. Quentin and Feuillaucourt were heavily shelled, forcing our withdrawal to the western edge of those villages. Meanwhile the 14th Brigade of 5th Aust. Div. who were to capture the high ground South East of Peronne, passed through our territory, it having been found impossible to establish bridges across the Somme in their own area. The 6th Brigade had already crossed and formed up in the vicinity of Halle as support Brigade. The 14th Brigade was unable to force its way round the North and North East of Peronne. Tonight found us with the 5th Brigade holding a line Feuillaucourt-Mont St. Quentin-Anvil Wood with the 6th Brigade in trench system immediately East of Halle, with 14th Brigade in rear. The exploit of the 5th Brigade was worthy of the highest praise. During last night a crossing was completed at the Canal du Nord, both tasks being carried out under a good deal of 5.9 shell fire. At night a conference was held at 6th Brigade Head Quarters and all details arranged between Staff, Gunners,