Corporal John Sebastian Helmcken
Corporal John Sebastian Helmcken attested with the Canadian Overseas Expeditionary Force on 16 May 1916. He was assigned Regimental #332905 and taken on strength 62nd Battery, 15th Brigade, Canadian Field Artillery in Victoria, BC. He received several months training and embarked Halifax on 11 September 1916. Eleven days later he disembarked at Liverpool and was transported to Witley for additional training. On 22 January 1917, the Canadian Field Artillery was reorganized with more gun detachments in each of the Batteries. This resulted in 15th Brigade being disbanded and the detachments transferred to other units. Gunner Helmcken was absorbed by the 58th Battery, 14th Brigade Canadian Field Artillery and landed in France on 22 August 1917. He was promoted Corporal on 4 March 1919, struck off strength to Canada on 10 May 1919 and discharged 24 May 1919. He returned to school to become an Osteopath and moved to the United States of America for permanent residency in January 1930, settling in Beverly Hills California where he passed away 14 Mar 1988.
His name may be familiar as his grandfather was the first speaker of the BC legistative assembly. His grandfather's house stands on the grounds of the Royal BC Museum.
The following stories are taken from his personal diary.... Cecilia is his sister.
His name may be familiar as his grandfather was the first speaker of the BC legistative assembly. His grandfather's house stands on the grounds of the Royal BC Museum.
The following stories are taken from his personal diary.... Cecilia is his sister.
Gunner J.S. Helmcken
332905
58th How. Battery
14th Brigade C.F.A.
In case I should lose this book kindly communicate and send this book to
Dr J.D. Helmcken
915 Moss St
Victoria, B.C.
Canada
332905
58th How. Battery
14th Brigade C.F.A.
In case I should lose this book kindly communicate and send this book to
Dr J.D. Helmcken
915 Moss St
Victoria, B.C.
Canada
WED. AUG. 8. 1917.
Got my tunic from the tailor, it is rather too tight. Cecilia sewed on some new colours.
THURS. AUG. 9. 1917.
Parcel from Edith and letter from Dad and P.P.C. from W.J.S.M.
Movies in Godalming in the evening. Every one is preparing to move at an early date.
FRI. AUG. 10 1917.
Spent the evening in Godalming with CVD. 5th Div horse show held and was a great success.
SAT. AUG. 11 1917.
Had dinner with Cecilia who is now ensconced in rooms on Peper Harrow Road. Was out as usual. Had a full mobilization order parade this A.M.
SUN. AUG. 12 1917.
Sergts mess closed up.
Mon. AUG. 13 1917.
Exercise ride in A.M. Drew four pounds from Cecilia and bought a fine pair of high boots for four guineas.
Paid 1/10/- today.
Had dinner with the kids.
Drew our full complement of horses.
Tues Aug. 14. 1917.
General fatigues all day. Cecelias birthday, so I had dinner with them.em.
Got my tunic from the tailor, it is rather too tight. Cecilia sewed on some new colours.
THURS. AUG. 9. 1917.
Parcel from Edith and letter from Dad and P.P.C. from W.J.S.M.
Movies in Godalming in the evening. Every one is preparing to move at an early date.
FRI. AUG. 10 1917.
Spent the evening in Godalming with CVD. 5th Div horse show held and was a great success.
SAT. AUG. 11 1917.
Had dinner with Cecilia who is now ensconced in rooms on Peper Harrow Road. Was out as usual. Had a full mobilization order parade this A.M.
SUN. AUG. 12 1917.
Sergts mess closed up.
Mon. AUG. 13 1917.
Exercise ride in A.M. Drew four pounds from Cecilia and bought a fine pair of high boots for four guineas.
Paid 1/10/- today.
Had dinner with the kids.
Drew our full complement of horses.
Tues Aug. 14. 1917.
General fatigues all day. Cecelias birthday, so I had dinner with them.em.
Wed. Aug. 15. 1917.
Fatigues in A.M.
Went on divisional guard in evening. The first fine night we have had in ages. Roll call at 11.30 p.m. to allow the men to see the Birth of a Nation which is running in the Tintown Cinema
The second battle of Ypres is being staged by the famous producer Griffiths on Thursday Common. Yesterday the 13th Brigade C.F.A. took part in it.
THURS. AUG. 16. 1917
Guard all day.
Went down to Godalming in evening.
FRI. AUG. 17. 1917.
Clipped horses all day. There has been a general mix up and change among the teams today.
Had dinner with Cecilia and Douglas. The latter gave me a beautiful wrist-watch and lasp knife. He would give you his soul if he could detach it. George Lomas fixed my high boots, put two heel plates and big hobnails on the soles.
Sat. Aug. 18. 1917.
Oiled my boots.
Douglas told me a while back that only one How Battery was to leave with the bunch, consequently I am was very scared lest we should be left behind, but today we took over two of the 51st Hows so I am greatly relieved. Needless to say the 51st boys are very depressed.
Sun. Aug. 19. 1917
C.B. was placed on the camp about 10.00 A.M. I was put on that delightful job of mess hog. Had a very easy job. The 13th Brigade – 51st Battery are pulling out tonight. The D.A.C. also. We expect to leave tomorrow night. Cecilia and D on hearing that we were C.B. came up to say goodbye.
Sold my bike for £1/-/- I had lots of pleasure out of the old machine.
A new number of the O-pip out today. Bullen who has been reduced about four times has again promoted to the rank of Bdr. There certainly are unfair promotions in the army.
Aug 20. 1917
Clearing up the whole camp preparing to leave tomorrow. As there is a great scarcity of food en route we decided to buy a bit more to eat. We got extra sandwiches of potted meat and cheese and jam and a couple of biscuits which will help out considerably.
Aug. 21. 1917
Pulled out at 8.00 AM from the camp and then started by train at 10.00 AM arriving at S.Hampton at 1.00 p.m. It was a lovely day. We loaded the horses immediately, then after wandering around the docks we boarded the S.S. ----------- at 3.00; pulling out at 4.00. When we got into the stream we were escorted by a cruiser, several sea planes which kept us amused by their easy method of landing and rising from the water, and also by a few little T.B.D. This ship is a terribly dirty one, but if it wasn’t for the horses it would be much better. The animals are packed in like sardines and are raising the luce. So far no accidents have occurred.
Fatigues in A.M.
Went on divisional guard in evening. The first fine night we have had in ages. Roll call at 11.30 p.m. to allow the men to see the Birth of a Nation which is running in the Tintown Cinema
The second battle of Ypres is being staged by the famous producer Griffiths on Thursday Common. Yesterday the 13th Brigade C.F.A. took part in it.
THURS. AUG. 16. 1917
Guard all day.
Went down to Godalming in evening.
FRI. AUG. 17. 1917.
Clipped horses all day. There has been a general mix up and change among the teams today.
Had dinner with Cecilia and Douglas. The latter gave me a beautiful wrist-watch and lasp knife. He would give you his soul if he could detach it. George Lomas fixed my high boots, put two heel plates and big hobnails on the soles.
Sat. Aug. 18. 1917.
Oiled my boots.
Douglas told me a while back that only one How Battery was to leave with the bunch, consequently I am was very scared lest we should be left behind, but today we took over two of the 51st Hows so I am greatly relieved. Needless to say the 51st boys are very depressed.
Sun. Aug. 19. 1917
C.B. was placed on the camp about 10.00 A.M. I was put on that delightful job of mess hog. Had a very easy job. The 13th Brigade – 51st Battery are pulling out tonight. The D.A.C. also. We expect to leave tomorrow night. Cecilia and D on hearing that we were C.B. came up to say goodbye.
Sold my bike for £1/-/- I had lots of pleasure out of the old machine.
A new number of the O-pip out today. Bullen who has been reduced about four times has again promoted to the rank of Bdr. There certainly are unfair promotions in the army.
Aug 20. 1917
Clearing up the whole camp preparing to leave tomorrow. As there is a great scarcity of food en route we decided to buy a bit more to eat. We got extra sandwiches of potted meat and cheese and jam and a couple of biscuits which will help out considerably.
Aug. 21. 1917
Pulled out at 8.00 AM from the camp and then started by train at 10.00 AM arriving at S.Hampton at 1.00 p.m. It was a lovely day. We loaded the horses immediately, then after wandering around the docks we boarded the S.S. ----------- at 3.00; pulling out at 4.00. When we got into the stream we were escorted by a cruiser, several sea planes which kept us amused by their easy method of landing and rising from the water, and also by a few little T.B.D. This ship is a terribly dirty one, but if it wasn’t for the horses it would be much better. The animals are packed in like sardines and are raising the luce. So far no accidents have occurred.
Aug. 22. 1917
I slept in a box which was supposed to contain life preservers, but as they were all being used was empty. I didn’t sleep very well. As I said before, we left port at 4.00 p.m. yesterday and never dropped anchor until 6.30 this morning. It is a terribly small boat. The harbour at Havre is just crowded with ships waiting to tie up. From where I am sitting on the boat I can see no less than 28 boat all of a good size whilst there are more coming in. A boat which was torpedoed just outside the nets and was unable to make port can be seen, at least its mast and funnel can be seen just above the surface. It is a perfect morning the sun shining beautifully. I knew that they wouldn’t let me go on the boat without doing a guard or fatigue of one sort. I am now on guard on one of the hatches, preventing men from going amongst the guns and baggage. We pulled up anchor at 11.00 A.M. and very slowly crept to the quay. We tied up at 1.00 p.m. and unloaded immediately. We find the French customs very peculiar also the coin. The cobblestone roads are terrible. We pulled out to the camp about three miles distant at 4.00. Tents were supplied but there too many in them for comfort. Nevertheless I had a mighty go. We got to bed about 10.00 p.m.
Thurs. Aug. 23. 1917
I had a mighty good sleep last night. Today we are to draw all kinds of new kit. It rained quite a bit during the night but the tents are good covering. Cigarettes are good and cheap here. 2 1/2d for ten Players. I of course am a Mess Hog. The rations are O.K. and lots of them. The officers are all drawing nice light little English saddles. There are a lot of B.W. Indes blacks in this camp who are all supposed to be invalids but in reality are just swinging the lead. During the afternoon we drew some new horses. About 3.15 p.m. we were all hooked it ready to leave when it began to rain harder than I have ever seen. We waited until it was over which consequently made us late. We slid over the cobbles once again to the station where we loaded the horses & wagons. Two men stayed in each horse car and kept them amused by feeding hay. Base cars were the last the men had. I suppose we were lucky to get even them. We didn’t pull out of the station until 9.30.
Fri. Aug.24.1917
We stopped at one place about 2.00 A.M. and watered the horses and had good hot tea served us. I had to get up an hour or so later wishing I had never seen any tea. We travelled all day with very few stops. We arrived at the point of disembarking at 4.00 in the afternoon and it wasn’t very long before we were ready to move off. We struck our rendezvous at 7.00 p.m. I went with a G.S. Wagon to draw supplies which made it very late before we got back. I went to our billet and turned in. The billet isn’t so bad as far as billets go. The place where we are is about 12 miles from the nearest part of the firing line but the place where we are going is about 20 miles away. We will most likely be here about a week. The 61st battery had a smash up today with their train. Three cars were derailed and turned over but nobody was hurt luckily.
Sat.Aug.25.1917
Instead of getting up at 5.00 we slept in until 5.30 then you bet we had to move some fast. Lieut Gen Currie visited the camp today and during his tour of inspection he saw me and recognized me shaking hands with me. You may be sure I was greatly impressed. He spoke a few words to me then passed along. Issued sun shades for our necks.
Sun.Aug.26.1917
Were issued with cigarettes this A.M. The sights on the gun were tested. We had a bath today which was just what was needed. I changed my underwear much to my delight. Tonight we had an inspection of gas helmets. We were told that gas causes the majority of casualties which I quite believe. Tom Adam died today or yesterday.
Mon.Aug.27.1917
This morning we woke to find the horses covered with clay and slime the result of the nights rain. I was mighty glad I had my high boots. We went through gas today to test our new helmets which we got at Havre. Capt Gillipsie was offered his Billet proprietors daughter as bed mate but the capt turned it down. Rather an hospitable landlord. It has rained all this afternoon and evening so the horse lines are nothing but slosh. We had an exercise ride at 6.00 this evening during a devil of a rain. The major, several subalterns and sergeants went up to the front line to be initiated into gunfire and modern warfare. English mail arrived toady but only three letters for this battery. I had a quid changed today & got 27 francs and 25 centimes.
Tues.Aug.28.1917
This morning we awoke to find the horse lines one mass of slop & slush caused by the nights heavy rain. We had great fun tearing around in the mud. Again I thanked myself for bringing my heavy boots & slicker which kept me absolutely dry. We changed our horse lines to a place almost a mile away, so it is very inconvenient for us from our abode. Wrote to C. today. Am billet orderly this afternoon, a cushy job. Rained hard all day, but the sun has come out this evening much to our delight. Those poor fellows who went up the line last night will have rather a wet reception.
I slept in a box which was supposed to contain life preservers, but as they were all being used was empty. I didn’t sleep very well. As I said before, we left port at 4.00 p.m. yesterday and never dropped anchor until 6.30 this morning. It is a terribly small boat. The harbour at Havre is just crowded with ships waiting to tie up. From where I am sitting on the boat I can see no less than 28 boat all of a good size whilst there are more coming in. A boat which was torpedoed just outside the nets and was unable to make port can be seen, at least its mast and funnel can be seen just above the surface. It is a perfect morning the sun shining beautifully. I knew that they wouldn’t let me go on the boat without doing a guard or fatigue of one sort. I am now on guard on one of the hatches, preventing men from going amongst the guns and baggage. We pulled up anchor at 11.00 A.M. and very slowly crept to the quay. We tied up at 1.00 p.m. and unloaded immediately. We find the French customs very peculiar also the coin. The cobblestone roads are terrible. We pulled out to the camp about three miles distant at 4.00. Tents were supplied but there too many in them for comfort. Nevertheless I had a mighty go. We got to bed about 10.00 p.m.
Thurs. Aug. 23. 1917
I had a mighty good sleep last night. Today we are to draw all kinds of new kit. It rained quite a bit during the night but the tents are good covering. Cigarettes are good and cheap here. 2 1/2d for ten Players. I of course am a Mess Hog. The rations are O.K. and lots of them. The officers are all drawing nice light little English saddles. There are a lot of B.W. Indes blacks in this camp who are all supposed to be invalids but in reality are just swinging the lead. During the afternoon we drew some new horses. About 3.15 p.m. we were all hooked it ready to leave when it began to rain harder than I have ever seen. We waited until it was over which consequently made us late. We slid over the cobbles once again to the station where we loaded the horses & wagons. Two men stayed in each horse car and kept them amused by feeding hay. Base cars were the last the men had. I suppose we were lucky to get even them. We didn’t pull out of the station until 9.30.
Fri. Aug.24.1917
We stopped at one place about 2.00 A.M. and watered the horses and had good hot tea served us. I had to get up an hour or so later wishing I had never seen any tea. We travelled all day with very few stops. We arrived at the point of disembarking at 4.00 in the afternoon and it wasn’t very long before we were ready to move off. We struck our rendezvous at 7.00 p.m. I went with a G.S. Wagon to draw supplies which made it very late before we got back. I went to our billet and turned in. The billet isn’t so bad as far as billets go. The place where we are is about 12 miles from the nearest part of the firing line but the place where we are going is about 20 miles away. We will most likely be here about a week. The 61st battery had a smash up today with their train. Three cars were derailed and turned over but nobody was hurt luckily.
Sat.Aug.25.1917
Instead of getting up at 5.00 we slept in until 5.30 then you bet we had to move some fast. Lieut Gen Currie visited the camp today and during his tour of inspection he saw me and recognized me shaking hands with me. You may be sure I was greatly impressed. He spoke a few words to me then passed along. Issued sun shades for our necks.
Sun.Aug.26.1917
Were issued with cigarettes this A.M. The sights on the gun were tested. We had a bath today which was just what was needed. I changed my underwear much to my delight. Tonight we had an inspection of gas helmets. We were told that gas causes the majority of casualties which I quite believe. Tom Adam died today or yesterday.
Mon.Aug.27.1917
This morning we woke to find the horses covered with clay and slime the result of the nights rain. I was mighty glad I had my high boots. We went through gas today to test our new helmets which we got at Havre. Capt Gillipsie was offered his Billet proprietors daughter as bed mate but the capt turned it down. Rather an hospitable landlord. It has rained all this afternoon and evening so the horse lines are nothing but slosh. We had an exercise ride at 6.00 this evening during a devil of a rain. The major, several subalterns and sergeants went up to the front line to be initiated into gunfire and modern warfare. English mail arrived toady but only three letters for this battery. I had a quid changed today & got 27 francs and 25 centimes.
Tues.Aug.28.1917
This morning we awoke to find the horse lines one mass of slop & slush caused by the nights heavy rain. We had great fun tearing around in the mud. Again I thanked myself for bringing my heavy boots & slicker which kept me absolutely dry. We changed our horse lines to a place almost a mile away, so it is very inconvenient for us from our abode. Wrote to C. today. Am billet orderly this afternoon, a cushy job. Rained hard all day, but the sun has come out this evening much to our delight. Those poor fellows who went up the line last night will have rather a wet reception.
Wed.Aug.29.
Today broke boisterous and rainy making every thing worse than it was yesterday. AT 9.45 p.m. we pulled out for a spot about three miles away where the whole 5th Div Art. assembled and were inspected by Major General Morrison during a devil of a rain storm. I fortunately had my slicker so kept perfectly dry. The mail is coming in now but so far I have not received any. They are putting chemicals in the water now so that the tea is very nasty. More sugar would improve it. We have our first casualty, Corp Dixon who has been taken to hospital with a temp. of 104.
Thurs Aug.30.1917
Got my first mail, a letter from Cecelia. Today for a change has been ever so much better sun shine nearly all day. The ground is drying up beautifully. Had to shoot a horse today which was suffering from pneumonia. I had the pleasure of digging its grave. I was given an hour notice to get ready for a gun park guard. In England we heard say, “Wait till you get a guard in France then you will have to watch out” Now that we have arrived in France and I am on guard I find that without a doubt this is the easiest done. Am wearing a new pr. of green socks which Edith sent me and they are O.K.
Fri. Aug.31.1917
Guard all day, very easy. The guns were taken out in the afternoon to have the sights tested so the guard was dismissed for a few hours.
Today broke boisterous and rainy making every thing worse than it was yesterday. AT 9.45 p.m. we pulled out for a spot about three miles away where the whole 5th Div Art. assembled and were inspected by Major General Morrison during a devil of a rain storm. I fortunately had my slicker so kept perfectly dry. The mail is coming in now but so far I have not received any. They are putting chemicals in the water now so that the tea is very nasty. More sugar would improve it. We have our first casualty, Corp Dixon who has been taken to hospital with a temp. of 104.
Thurs Aug.30.1917
Got my first mail, a letter from Cecelia. Today for a change has been ever so much better sun shine nearly all day. The ground is drying up beautifully. Had to shoot a horse today which was suffering from pneumonia. I had the pleasure of digging its grave. I was given an hour notice to get ready for a gun park guard. In England we heard say, “Wait till you get a guard in France then you will have to watch out” Now that we have arrived in France and I am on guard I find that without a doubt this is the easiest done. Am wearing a new pr. of green socks which Edith sent me and they are O.K.
Fri. Aug.31.1917
Guard all day, very easy. The guns were taken out in the afternoon to have the sights tested so the guard was dismissed for a few hours.
Sat Sept. 1
A lovely night last and also a lovely morning but by noon it commenced to drizzle. I am detailed as regt. Police which appears to be a very easy job. I am exempt from all duties from now until we go up the line which I suppose will be very shortly.
Sunday Sept. 2
As my duties for the day don’t commence until 6.00 tonight I have managed to pass the day some how or other. The first church parade was held today, but being a duty man I didn’t attend. The day, although rather windy has been lovely and sunshiny drying up the road beautifully. Tonight is extremely clear with a very full moon. You can hear the guns distinctly tonight.
Mon. Sept .3. 1917
On duty for the morning. Those men who were on guard last night state that an awful bombardment took place, a neighbouring town was bombarded. Today is just beautiful the sun shining beautifully and not a cloud in the sky. It is très chaud. The aeroplanes are thick today causing a constant humming. Alex Goldie who has been suffering from “almost” boils on his face is to be sent to hospital. I think it is from overeating & not enough execise. He is a regular glutton. Last evening I got my first Canadian mail since arriving in Froggies land. Two from Dad, ne from mother, one from Cecilia, one from Douglas and one from Elmose. The latter has been in hospital for three weeks.
Tues Sept. 4.1917
Today at 1.30 AM we moved off for our wagon lines. No gunners were allowed to ride consequently my feet are very sore tonight. We passed through several villages all of which were crowded with soldiers resting.
MONT ST. NAZAIRE
Wed Sept.5.1917
Had a very cold night. I doubled up with Gilson who was very restless. At midnight a bomb was dropped right behind our lines. AT noon today we got word to be ready to leave for the front at about 3 o’clock. Which after a little preparation we did. We rode a little way then walked about here miles with shovels etc to our gun positions and immediately set to work. We worked steadily until midnight then broke off for a sleep.
LEAVIN
Thurs. Sept. 6
At 3 o’clock this morning two guns and wagons and a D.A.C. G.S. Wagon arrived with stores etc. The moment they arrived Hiney shelled this joint with every known shell. Mr. Chatwin ordered us out to unload, but before we could do much the shells were coming so fast that most of us had to stand to their horses. I had hold of the lead team of mules on the S. wagon. We were forced to put on our box respirators when they put over a few gas shells. We got the wagon unloaded eventually and then tried to urn the wagon around but the road was too narrow so we unhooked the teams and told them to ? back without the rig until they could get behind a wall. Eventually they were so frightened both horses & mules that the drivers dismounted and let their mules go. They were caught later by the sergt. Major. The left section suffered badly. On the way back to the lines four men out of E-sub were wounded. One of them very badly. Murray, Bomb Marshall, Dunham, Peterson. Six horses were killed whilst two had to be shot when they got back to the lines. We worked on our gun pit all day and only got the smallest bit to eat all day.
Fri Sept. 7.1917
We worked pretty darn hard all day. I was detailed for a fatigue at “rail head” and didn’t get through until 1.30 the next morning. I can tell you I was pretty tired on my return to the battery. Gilson and I had to pack about 20 yds 60 boxes of ammunition. My hands were so sore that it pained me every time I lifted. We didn’t get into bed until 2.30 A.M. but before doing so I opened a parcel from Cecilia with some very good eats in it. We of course had a little supper before turning in.
A lovely night last and also a lovely morning but by noon it commenced to drizzle. I am detailed as regt. Police which appears to be a very easy job. I am exempt from all duties from now until we go up the line which I suppose will be very shortly.
Sunday Sept. 2
As my duties for the day don’t commence until 6.00 tonight I have managed to pass the day some how or other. The first church parade was held today, but being a duty man I didn’t attend. The day, although rather windy has been lovely and sunshiny drying up the road beautifully. Tonight is extremely clear with a very full moon. You can hear the guns distinctly tonight.
Mon. Sept .3. 1917
On duty for the morning. Those men who were on guard last night state that an awful bombardment took place, a neighbouring town was bombarded. Today is just beautiful the sun shining beautifully and not a cloud in the sky. It is très chaud. The aeroplanes are thick today causing a constant humming. Alex Goldie who has been suffering from “almost” boils on his face is to be sent to hospital. I think it is from overeating & not enough execise. He is a regular glutton. Last evening I got my first Canadian mail since arriving in Froggies land. Two from Dad, ne from mother, one from Cecilia, one from Douglas and one from Elmose. The latter has been in hospital for three weeks.
Tues Sept. 4.1917
Today at 1.30 AM we moved off for our wagon lines. No gunners were allowed to ride consequently my feet are very sore tonight. We passed through several villages all of which were crowded with soldiers resting.
MONT ST. NAZAIRE
Wed Sept.5.1917
Had a very cold night. I doubled up with Gilson who was very restless. At midnight a bomb was dropped right behind our lines. AT noon today we got word to be ready to leave for the front at about 3 o’clock. Which after a little preparation we did. We rode a little way then walked about here miles with shovels etc to our gun positions and immediately set to work. We worked steadily until midnight then broke off for a sleep.
LEAVIN
Thurs. Sept. 6
At 3 o’clock this morning two guns and wagons and a D.A.C. G.S. Wagon arrived with stores etc. The moment they arrived Hiney shelled this joint with every known shell. Mr. Chatwin ordered us out to unload, but before we could do much the shells were coming so fast that most of us had to stand to their horses. I had hold of the lead team of mules on the S. wagon. We were forced to put on our box respirators when they put over a few gas shells. We got the wagon unloaded eventually and then tried to urn the wagon around but the road was too narrow so we unhooked the teams and told them to ? back without the rig until they could get behind a wall. Eventually they were so frightened both horses & mules that the drivers dismounted and let their mules go. They were caught later by the sergt. Major. The left section suffered badly. On the way back to the lines four men out of E-sub were wounded. One of them very badly. Murray, Bomb Marshall, Dunham, Peterson. Six horses were killed whilst two had to be shot when they got back to the lines. We worked on our gun pit all day and only got the smallest bit to eat all day.
Fri Sept. 7.1917
We worked pretty darn hard all day. I was detailed for a fatigue at “rail head” and didn’t get through until 1.30 the next morning. I can tell you I was pretty tired on my return to the battery. Gilson and I had to pack about 20 yds 60 boxes of ammunition. My hands were so sore that it pained me every time I lifted. We didn’t get into bed until 2.30 A.M. but before doing so I opened a parcel from Cecilia with some very good eats in it. We of course had a little supper before turning in.
Sat. Sept 8. 1917
Gilson and I slept until 9.00A.M. Then joined the others getting the gun pit ready for the gun which we put in at 1.30 A.M. Fritz has been exceptionally good for the last few days, so we are expecting an attack any day or night as long as it is after the wagons have left. As they were putting over a gas attack we didn’t bring up the ammunition from the rail head. I am on sentry at the speaking tube, improvised from rain pipes, from the office to the court yard in rear of the guns.
Sun. Sept 9 1917
Got on the battery bicycle and rode down to the horse lines to get my kit which has been laying there ever since I came up here. Got back here about 9.00 p.m. and took up my position with the sergt on the gun. I fired about 10 rounds all together. They shelled all around here yesterday but fortunately did no damage to our position. I haven’t written home for such a long time I am wondering if they are worrying. I hope not. I know if they knew how hard I have been working that my dear folks would not be looking for mail.
Mon Sept 10 1917
Stayed on the gun with John Goldie during the night. We had two S.O.S. calls. Letter from Evan Hanbury.
Tues Sept. 11. 1917
Gun pit work all day. In the evening I was on an empty ammunition box fatigue hauling them down to rail head. Today F sub gun fired on an ammunition dump and blew it all to nothing. The brigade has been congratulated by Col. Warden of the 102nd Batt. For its excellent shooting during the night, not one shell fell short. Had quite a good sleep last night.
Wed Sept. 12. 1917
The 60 Bty were shelled pretty heavily today but only a small amount of ammunition was lost.
Thurs. Sept 13. 1917
Tuesday I had to get up at 4.00 A.M. in order to report to the sergt-major at 4.30 to take some firing reports to 2nd Canadian Heavy Hqtrs to which we are attached. I afterwards went to the wagon lines & had breakfast. I repeated the trip at 10.45 but stayed at the horse lines all afternoon. Before going down the second time I looked up the 48th How Bty and found Kelly, a chap who was with us in the 62nd Bty. He is now a bombdr. I looked up the 11th Battery and saw Don Thomson who is a gunner there. I fortunately got a letter from Cecilia today with one from mother enclosed. A G.S. wagon helped us with the amn. In the evening. I was up from 4.00 AM. to 12.30 PM
Fri Sept. 14. 1917
Slept in till noon as I had a long day of it yesterday. I didn’t do much even in the afternoon but in the evening I was put on ammunition fatigue, but the ammunition didn’t arrive much to our delight. After I got back from rail head I went on the gun team in Yelsan’s place as he was feeling sick. Fortunately we didn’t get a call all night.
Gilson and I slept until 9.00A.M. Then joined the others getting the gun pit ready for the gun which we put in at 1.30 A.M. Fritz has been exceptionally good for the last few days, so we are expecting an attack any day or night as long as it is after the wagons have left. As they were putting over a gas attack we didn’t bring up the ammunition from the rail head. I am on sentry at the speaking tube, improvised from rain pipes, from the office to the court yard in rear of the guns.
Sun. Sept 9 1917
Got on the battery bicycle and rode down to the horse lines to get my kit which has been laying there ever since I came up here. Got back here about 9.00 p.m. and took up my position with the sergt on the gun. I fired about 10 rounds all together. They shelled all around here yesterday but fortunately did no damage to our position. I haven’t written home for such a long time I am wondering if they are worrying. I hope not. I know if they knew how hard I have been working that my dear folks would not be looking for mail.
Mon Sept 10 1917
Stayed on the gun with John Goldie during the night. We had two S.O.S. calls. Letter from Evan Hanbury.
Tues Sept. 11. 1917
Gun pit work all day. In the evening I was on an empty ammunition box fatigue hauling them down to rail head. Today F sub gun fired on an ammunition dump and blew it all to nothing. The brigade has been congratulated by Col. Warden of the 102nd Batt. For its excellent shooting during the night, not one shell fell short. Had quite a good sleep last night.
Wed Sept. 12. 1917
The 60 Bty were shelled pretty heavily today but only a small amount of ammunition was lost.
Thurs. Sept 13. 1917
Tuesday I had to get up at 4.00 A.M. in order to report to the sergt-major at 4.30 to take some firing reports to 2nd Canadian Heavy Hqtrs to which we are attached. I afterwards went to the wagon lines & had breakfast. I repeated the trip at 10.45 but stayed at the horse lines all afternoon. Before going down the second time I looked up the 48th How Bty and found Kelly, a chap who was with us in the 62nd Bty. He is now a bombdr. I looked up the 11th Battery and saw Don Thomson who is a gunner there. I fortunately got a letter from Cecilia today with one from mother enclosed. A G.S. wagon helped us with the amn. In the evening. I was up from 4.00 AM. to 12.30 PM
Fri Sept. 14. 1917
Slept in till noon as I had a long day of it yesterday. I didn’t do much even in the afternoon but in the evening I was put on ammunition fatigue, but the ammunition didn’t arrive much to our delight. After I got back from rail head I went on the gun team in Yelsan’s place as he was feeling sick. Fortunately we didn’t get a call all night.
Sat Sept. 15. 1917
Was up bright an early. In fact I washed and shaved before breakfast. Aircraft is very active today. Mr. Hatwin tells me that one of the Bell-Irvings takes a squadron of aeroplanes over the enemy lines in the morning and doesn’t return until evening. If that is the case, Bell-Irving is a remarkable smart man also those under him. This afternoon I layed and fired four or five rounds. This A.M. I was packing a dixie of tea from the cook house when I caught my foot and tripped. My hands went right into the dope and scalded my wrists. I wrapped them up after doping Zam-Buck on them so now I look like a real battle scarred veteran. We now have a lot of gas shells so are ready for the worst. The weather is and has been really beautiful. It seems a crime that such slaughter should be carried out in such a beautiful atmosphere. I was in ammunition hauling tonight and we handled 400 rds of gas in no time. We fortunately had lots of wagons. One G.S. one small arm ammunition and a heavy how. wagon. The artillery was very busy tonight. We put over about 50 gas shells, but only tear gas not the killing stuff. Paid tonight 15 francs.
Sun Sept 16.1917
I went on guard today at noon and find it very cushy. The nearer the firing line you get the easier the guards are.
Monday Sept 17.1917
Came off guard at noon then took up my position in our dug out helping to put up a new stove which we successfully stole. Subsequently I made myself cook, washing dishes, etc.
Tues Sept 18.1917
Alex. Goldie came up last night so I have a most unpleasant outlook for the future, having to contend with a glutton. Hayman who has worried himself to a shadow has gone to the horse lines. A wireless operator from the R.F.C. is attached to us now. So I guess we are going to do a little aeroplane observing. Laid the gun today. Today is Alex Goldie's birthday. I understand he is well on his 20th, but to listen to him one would think he was just past ten years. Got a parcel last night from Cecilia with a birthday cake.
Wed Sept. 19. 1917
Fired the gun both lays today. Just worked around the gun pit. a beautiful day as all days have been. Wrote a lovely long letter to Dad.
Thur. Sept. 20. 1917
Got orders at 8.00 AM to have all our kit ready so as to leave in an hour for our new gun positions which we are to occupy during the taking of Lens, which commences on Thanksgiving Day. We worked on the new pit all day. We are in full view of the Boche nearly all the time, so we have a time hiding.
Fri Sept. 21. 1917.
We were laying in it 8.00 AM, when Chatwin called us out. We filled sandbags until breakfast which was at 10 00 A.M. Tossed dirt pretty well all day very poor meals and lots of work Fritz sent us a few Whiz Bangs today but didn't do any damage. Got a letter from Cecilia, Dad and mother which came just at the right moment. The extravagant ones at home have got rid of the Chalmers and bought an Overland “four” on August 19th. If I don't get some oil pretty soon for my slicker the darn thing will crack. A bunch of ten men and a sergt. came up today to lend a hand. The digging is very slow indeed.
Was up bright an early. In fact I washed and shaved before breakfast. Aircraft is very active today. Mr. Hatwin tells me that one of the Bell-Irvings takes a squadron of aeroplanes over the enemy lines in the morning and doesn’t return until evening. If that is the case, Bell-Irving is a remarkable smart man also those under him. This afternoon I layed and fired four or five rounds. This A.M. I was packing a dixie of tea from the cook house when I caught my foot and tripped. My hands went right into the dope and scalded my wrists. I wrapped them up after doping Zam-Buck on them so now I look like a real battle scarred veteran. We now have a lot of gas shells so are ready for the worst. The weather is and has been really beautiful. It seems a crime that such slaughter should be carried out in such a beautiful atmosphere. I was in ammunition hauling tonight and we handled 400 rds of gas in no time. We fortunately had lots of wagons. One G.S. one small arm ammunition and a heavy how. wagon. The artillery was very busy tonight. We put over about 50 gas shells, but only tear gas not the killing stuff. Paid tonight 15 francs.
Sun Sept 16.1917
I went on guard today at noon and find it very cushy. The nearer the firing line you get the easier the guards are.
Monday Sept 17.1917
Came off guard at noon then took up my position in our dug out helping to put up a new stove which we successfully stole. Subsequently I made myself cook, washing dishes, etc.
Tues Sept 18.1917
Alex. Goldie came up last night so I have a most unpleasant outlook for the future, having to contend with a glutton. Hayman who has worried himself to a shadow has gone to the horse lines. A wireless operator from the R.F.C. is attached to us now. So I guess we are going to do a little aeroplane observing. Laid the gun today. Today is Alex Goldie's birthday. I understand he is well on his 20th, but to listen to him one would think he was just past ten years. Got a parcel last night from Cecilia with a birthday cake.
Wed Sept. 19. 1917
Fired the gun both lays today. Just worked around the gun pit. a beautiful day as all days have been. Wrote a lovely long letter to Dad.
Thur. Sept. 20. 1917
Got orders at 8.00 AM to have all our kit ready so as to leave in an hour for our new gun positions which we are to occupy during the taking of Lens, which commences on Thanksgiving Day. We worked on the new pit all day. We are in full view of the Boche nearly all the time, so we have a time hiding.
Fri Sept. 21. 1917.
We were laying in it 8.00 AM, when Chatwin called us out. We filled sandbags until breakfast which was at 10 00 A.M. Tossed dirt pretty well all day very poor meals and lots of work Fritz sent us a few Whiz Bangs today but didn't do any damage. Got a letter from Cecilia, Dad and mother which came just at the right moment. The extravagant ones at home have got rid of the Chalmers and bought an Overland “four” on August 19th. If I don't get some oil pretty soon for my slicker the darn thing will crack. A bunch of ten men and a sergt. came up today to lend a hand. The digging is very slow indeed.
Sat Sept. 22. 1917.
At four this morning two car loads of building material arrived so we had to turn out to unload. Last night Fritz put over some gas which kept us awake for two hours or more.
At 6.00 I was told to get back to the old position to take the place of a fellow who had come up. I had to pack up and walk about half a mile with a lot of loose kit until I got to the wagon which I was to take back. The old horse who was partly gassed took me back. I didn't know the way. On the way I ran against an Archie battery which was firing at a Heiny plane but of course didn't get it. Fortunately the horse wasn't a bit frightened. I got to the battery at 7.00 A.M. and after a wash in hot water & a shave I felt very much better. As one of the fellows had to go away, back to the horse lines it left Goldie V's to do the firing.
This certainly is a small way to spend ones 21st birthday.
I got a letter from Aunt Helen and Auntie Thomson, which were very welcome. There are two cuts on my hands which have festered and are causing me no end of trouble. I hope I don't develop blood poisoning. Fritz is busy shelling all arond us.
Sun Sept. 23. 1917
I went down to the dressing station and an orderly there put a poultice arrangement on my cuts.
Mon. Sept. 24. 1917
Went to the M.O. in the morning and had my hand fixed up. He put some ointment on it. Wrote letters to Violet W. Erean H. and Auntie T. Fired about 67 rounds today.
Tues Sept. 25. 1917.
Had rather a soft day. Fired a devil of a lot in the afternoon. A beautiful day and a perfect night until some idiot queered the works by firing .
Wed. Sept. 26. 1917.
Nothing unusual happened on the Western front today. Got a parcel from Cecilia. On guard from noon. My hands are healing up well.
Thurs Sept. 27. 1917.
Tonight a Heiny plane after setting fire to two of our obs. balloons, was tackled just over our horse lines and brought down by one of our flying boys. Letter from Cecilia, announcing that she was to give birth to a child at some future date.
Fri Sept. 28. 1917.
Letters this evening from mother, Feenty, & Ainslie the latter bawls me out for ? out about his hair. He will learn sense someday.
At four this morning two car loads of building material arrived so we had to turn out to unload. Last night Fritz put over some gas which kept us awake for two hours or more.
At 6.00 I was told to get back to the old position to take the place of a fellow who had come up. I had to pack up and walk about half a mile with a lot of loose kit until I got to the wagon which I was to take back. The old horse who was partly gassed took me back. I didn't know the way. On the way I ran against an Archie battery which was firing at a Heiny plane but of course didn't get it. Fortunately the horse wasn't a bit frightened. I got to the battery at 7.00 A.M. and after a wash in hot water & a shave I felt very much better. As one of the fellows had to go away, back to the horse lines it left Goldie V's to do the firing.
This certainly is a small way to spend ones 21st birthday.
I got a letter from Aunt Helen and Auntie Thomson, which were very welcome. There are two cuts on my hands which have festered and are causing me no end of trouble. I hope I don't develop blood poisoning. Fritz is busy shelling all arond us.
Sun Sept. 23. 1917
I went down to the dressing station and an orderly there put a poultice arrangement on my cuts.
Mon. Sept. 24. 1917
Went to the M.O. in the morning and had my hand fixed up. He put some ointment on it. Wrote letters to Violet W. Erean H. and Auntie T. Fired about 67 rounds today.
Tues Sept. 25. 1917.
Had rather a soft day. Fired a devil of a lot in the afternoon. A beautiful day and a perfect night until some idiot queered the works by firing .
Wed. Sept. 26. 1917.
Nothing unusual happened on the Western front today. Got a parcel from Cecilia. On guard from noon. My hands are healing up well.
Thurs Sept. 27. 1917.
Tonight a Heiny plane after setting fire to two of our obs. balloons, was tackled just over our horse lines and brought down by one of our flying boys. Letter from Cecilia, announcing that she was to give birth to a child at some future date.
Fri Sept. 28. 1917.
Letters this evening from mother, Feenty, & Ainslie the latter bawls me out for ? out about his hair. He will learn sense someday.
Sat. Sept. 29. 1917
Relieved a man on guard.
Sun. Sept. 30. 1917
Letter from Cecelia. An aeroplane which was observing for us, was attacked by three Hun planes but escaped safely.
Mon. Oct. 1. 1917
Tues. Oct 2. 1917
Wed. Oct. 3. 1917
Got a letter and a parcel from Cecilia. The days are drawing short, and also a bit dull.
Thu. Oct. 4. 1917
It rained today. Was put on guard. Tonight between 7.30 pm and 8.30. Fritz put over quite a number of shells. Have not fired the gun for two whole days. Ammunition came in at 5.30 this A.M. Everybody had to turn out.
Fri. Oct. 5. 1917.
Rather a cold day rather groty(?) and bleary. Dad sent home a P.O.O. for $10 payable at Yodalming, so I am going to send it back to Doug as to cash and give to Cecilia to keep for me.
Relieved a man on guard.
Sun. Sept. 30. 1917
Letter from Cecelia. An aeroplane which was observing for us, was attacked by three Hun planes but escaped safely.
Mon. Oct. 1. 1917
Tues. Oct 2. 1917
Wed. Oct. 3. 1917
Got a letter and a parcel from Cecilia. The days are drawing short, and also a bit dull.
Thu. Oct. 4. 1917
It rained today. Was put on guard. Tonight between 7.30 pm and 8.30. Fritz put over quite a number of shells. Have not fired the gun for two whole days. Ammunition came in at 5.30 this A.M. Everybody had to turn out.
Fri. Oct. 5. 1917.
Rather a cold day rather groty(?) and bleary. Dad sent home a P.O.O. for $10 payable at Yodalming, so I am going to send it back to Doug as to cash and give to Cecilia to keep for me.
Sat. Oct 6. 1917.
Sun. Oct 7. 1917.
A devil of a dark night, rained this afternoon & evening. I was on kitchen fatigue. 600 rds of Amm in evening. Letters from Mother & Cecilia. Mothers letter answers my cable of Cecilias.
Mon. Oct 8. 1917.
Thanksgiving day and such a cold sloppy one. Ritchie had to get up at 5 o'clock in order to get our kits on the wagon which will take them to the new position where we are to spend a few days. The mud is terrible. Our sleeping quarters in A Sub gun pit is carpeted with sandbags which surround us on every side. I work on day shift until noon then go on night shift. It was so dark at night that we only worked for a few hours.
Tues Oct. 9. 1917.
Turned out at five AM and worked for a few minutes, then turned in for the day. Got letters from Edith and Allan.
Wed Oct. 10. 1917.
It has been raining terribly lately which has made this position terrible.
Thurs Oct 11. 1917.
Expected a train to come up and get the ammunition but it didn't arrive. As I was going down tonight I put my kit on the wagon so when I came to get a bit of sleep, all I had was a bunch of sandbags to put over me. Needless to say I nearly froze.
Fri. Oct 12. 1917
Had a bath and put on clean heavy underwear which scratches badly. Bomb Ubright is transferred from B Sub to A Sub. Juggled about 50 rounds tonight, and tripped with each load on account of the rain and pitch darkness.
Sun. Oct 7. 1917.
A devil of a dark night, rained this afternoon & evening. I was on kitchen fatigue. 600 rds of Amm in evening. Letters from Mother & Cecilia. Mothers letter answers my cable of Cecilias.
Mon. Oct 8. 1917.
Thanksgiving day and such a cold sloppy one. Ritchie had to get up at 5 o'clock in order to get our kits on the wagon which will take them to the new position where we are to spend a few days. The mud is terrible. Our sleeping quarters in A Sub gun pit is carpeted with sandbags which surround us on every side. I work on day shift until noon then go on night shift. It was so dark at night that we only worked for a few hours.
Tues Oct. 9. 1917.
Turned out at five AM and worked for a few minutes, then turned in for the day. Got letters from Edith and Allan.
Wed Oct. 10. 1917.
It has been raining terribly lately which has made this position terrible.
Thurs Oct 11. 1917.
Expected a train to come up and get the ammunition but it didn't arrive. As I was going down tonight I put my kit on the wagon so when I came to get a bit of sleep, all I had was a bunch of sandbags to put over me. Needless to say I nearly froze.
Fri. Oct 12. 1917
Had a bath and put on clean heavy underwear which scratches badly. Bomb Ubright is transferred from B Sub to A Sub. Juggled about 50 rounds tonight, and tripped with each load on account of the rain and pitch darkness.
w Sat. Oct 13. 1917.
Letter from Cecilia. Outside of being a dull day nothing else occurred.
Sun. Oct.14.1917.
Am detailed as battery runner for a week, have to do lots of walking. I have to call at the third siege bty every day for a dispatch. Today I got there just at noon and as the dispatch wasn't there they asked me in for lunch. I had a mighty fine lunch too. They are certainly a fine bunch of boys.
Got three parcels from home. They were indeed very welcome. One from Mother, one from Edith & a cake from the family. I found out today that Victor Sutherland is in the 3rd Siege Battery. He at present is in elock(?) with dyphtheria.
Mon. Oct. 15. 1917.
Letters from Edith, Daisy F. & Douglas B. Was out most of the day.
Tues. Oct. 16. 1917.
This morning when I took the dispatches to Bdge Hq, I was caught by Heineys shells. Two of them landed not more than 15 yds from me, and bits of shell casing landed all around me. I ran until I was completely out of breath. I very wisely came back by way of the trenches. Got a tin of Black Currant from Mother.
Wed. Oct. 17. 1917.
On Friday, Oct 12. I forgot to say that on account of other plans, we are to abandon the new position. Everyone is tickled to death, as that position is anything but pleasant.
Today, I was bawled out by Sergt McGrath who is noted as a cold footed cad. I went through a gate way which in his estimation was out of bounds. He was going to report me if I did it again. He, the cold footed cad, was sitting in a field with a blade or two of grass near him trying to make himself look like a daisy. I would like to plug him between the eyes. This morning as I was going to Bdge Hq Heiney dropped two shells just beside me. I was on the bicycle so you can bet I went like Hell over shell holes and through barbed wire. The Brigade Hq is moving back beside us so now it will be a little bit better. I am reading a book now which is nothing more than extracts from a ladies diary. If I was to keep a diary in that manner Great Br. would not be able to keep me supplied with paper.
Thurs. Oct. 19. 1917.
Tonight as I was going to get my dispatches, I had to go through a shelled area. I had to seek shelter in a dug out with a big bunch of Lancashire fellows who were all crumly(?). I got through about 10. o'clock p.m.
Fri. Oct. 19. 1917.
I didn't leave for my dispatches till pretty late on account of severe shelling. he has made the place very unhealthy the last two or three days by shelling.
Letter from Cecilia. Outside of being a dull day nothing else occurred.
Sun. Oct.14.1917.
Am detailed as battery runner for a week, have to do lots of walking. I have to call at the third siege bty every day for a dispatch. Today I got there just at noon and as the dispatch wasn't there they asked me in for lunch. I had a mighty fine lunch too. They are certainly a fine bunch of boys.
Got three parcels from home. They were indeed very welcome. One from Mother, one from Edith & a cake from the family. I found out today that Victor Sutherland is in the 3rd Siege Battery. He at present is in elock(?) with dyphtheria.
Mon. Oct. 15. 1917.
Letters from Edith, Daisy F. & Douglas B. Was out most of the day.
Tues. Oct. 16. 1917.
This morning when I took the dispatches to Bdge Hq, I was caught by Heineys shells. Two of them landed not more than 15 yds from me, and bits of shell casing landed all around me. I ran until I was completely out of breath. I very wisely came back by way of the trenches. Got a tin of Black Currant from Mother.
Wed. Oct. 17. 1917.
On Friday, Oct 12. I forgot to say that on account of other plans, we are to abandon the new position. Everyone is tickled to death, as that position is anything but pleasant.
Today, I was bawled out by Sergt McGrath who is noted as a cold footed cad. I went through a gate way which in his estimation was out of bounds. He was going to report me if I did it again. He, the cold footed cad, was sitting in a field with a blade or two of grass near him trying to make himself look like a daisy. I would like to plug him between the eyes. This morning as I was going to Bdge Hq Heiney dropped two shells just beside me. I was on the bicycle so you can bet I went like Hell over shell holes and through barbed wire. The Brigade Hq is moving back beside us so now it will be a little bit better. I am reading a book now which is nothing more than extracts from a ladies diary. If I was to keep a diary in that manner Great Br. would not be able to keep me supplied with paper.
Thurs. Oct. 19. 1917.
Tonight as I was going to get my dispatches, I had to go through a shelled area. I had to seek shelter in a dug out with a big bunch of Lancashire fellows who were all crumly(?). I got through about 10. o'clock p.m.
Fri. Oct. 19. 1917.
I didn't leave for my dispatches till pretty late on account of severe shelling. he has made the place very unhealthy the last two or three days by shelling.
Sat. Oct. 20. 1917
Today I got news that I was to go to the wagon lines tonight. I have certainly worked a very nice stay up here and am very sorry to hear that I have to go down the line where one has to shine all day long.
Sun. Oct 21. 1917.
I came down last night much to my disgust. After putting the horses away I was guided by one of the fellows to the billet, just a galvanized iron structure with a ledge running along the side just wide enough for two men to sleep lengthways. I bunked with our amiable Corporal Archie Wills. The place is dry enough but it is going to be cold ere long. I suppose I am to be here here 10 days at the least. The place where I am now is called Sainsen-cahelle the limit of Heineys shelling and they say he puts one here just when he feels like it. This morning we had church parade, the first I have attended in months. We have been kept going the whole day long not a minute to ourselves. They make me absolutely tired. I wish I was back at the guns where you never have a fall in and where you are doing a lot of good for your country. I got a parcel from Cecilia today with some oil for my slicker and heavy boots.
Mon. Oct. 22. 1917
Am sick of the horse lines. I wish I could get back to the guns.
Tues. Oct. 23. 1917
Hung around the stables and got completely fed up. This evening at four o'clock I drove back up to the gun position. It is a beautiful moonlight night which was a great help. There was hardly a shot fired all the time we were up there. I was mighty thankful. I got back at 9.00 and went on picquet at 10.00. Got two letters from Dad, and one each from Teints & Edith (?) my first letter from France. Daisy Henley sent me a picture of herself in her nursing uniform.
Wed. 24 Oct 1917
Had a bath today much to my delight. Last night on picquet I nearly froze. It was terribly cold to say the least. I never got warm until after breakfast.
Thurs. Oct. 25. 1917
About four thirty this afternoon about 20 of us mounted rode up to the guns and relieved 20 others. Just as we got there they opened fire on this position. Everyone got away but Sergt Edgecomb who was last to leave and he was just mounting when a shell landed close by and literally filled him with wounds and iron. The horse he had a beautiful beast belonging to the Sergt-Major got its leg broken so it had to be shot. They shelled this place from about 3.00 p.m. until about midnight. The cookhouse was blown to pieces and all the pots and pans with it. We are out of luck for breakfast. While we were getting a few rounds of ammunition off the train, Heiney opened up again. Everyone started to run and we ran for about a mile. he let up soon after and we got the ammunition in. We had to pack it about 200 yards and all across the shelled ground. The fuses were 106 very sensitive ones, used for wire cutting. Altogether, it was a dirty night.
Fri Oct 26 1917
I forgot to say in my yesterdays writings that the team with the G S wagon ran away and the coal oil spilled over all our kits and rations so today we had to use emergency rations.
Today I got news that I was to go to the wagon lines tonight. I have certainly worked a very nice stay up here and am very sorry to hear that I have to go down the line where one has to shine all day long.
Sun. Oct 21. 1917.
I came down last night much to my disgust. After putting the horses away I was guided by one of the fellows to the billet, just a galvanized iron structure with a ledge running along the side just wide enough for two men to sleep lengthways. I bunked with our amiable Corporal Archie Wills. The place is dry enough but it is going to be cold ere long. I suppose I am to be here here 10 days at the least. The place where I am now is called Sainsen-cahelle the limit of Heineys shelling and they say he puts one here just when he feels like it. This morning we had church parade, the first I have attended in months. We have been kept going the whole day long not a minute to ourselves. They make me absolutely tired. I wish I was back at the guns where you never have a fall in and where you are doing a lot of good for your country. I got a parcel from Cecilia today with some oil for my slicker and heavy boots.
Mon. Oct. 22. 1917
Am sick of the horse lines. I wish I could get back to the guns.
Tues. Oct. 23. 1917
Hung around the stables and got completely fed up. This evening at four o'clock I drove back up to the gun position. It is a beautiful moonlight night which was a great help. There was hardly a shot fired all the time we were up there. I was mighty thankful. I got back at 9.00 and went on picquet at 10.00. Got two letters from Dad, and one each from Teints & Edith (?) my first letter from France. Daisy Henley sent me a picture of herself in her nursing uniform.
Wed. 24 Oct 1917
Had a bath today much to my delight. Last night on picquet I nearly froze. It was terribly cold to say the least. I never got warm until after breakfast.
Thurs. Oct. 25. 1917
About four thirty this afternoon about 20 of us mounted rode up to the guns and relieved 20 others. Just as we got there they opened fire on this position. Everyone got away but Sergt Edgecomb who was last to leave and he was just mounting when a shell landed close by and literally filled him with wounds and iron. The horse he had a beautiful beast belonging to the Sergt-Major got its leg broken so it had to be shot. They shelled this place from about 3.00 p.m. until about midnight. The cookhouse was blown to pieces and all the pots and pans with it. We are out of luck for breakfast. While we were getting a few rounds of ammunition off the train, Heiney opened up again. Everyone started to run and we ran for about a mile. he let up soon after and we got the ammunition in. We had to pack it about 200 yards and all across the shelled ground. The fuses were 106 very sensitive ones, used for wire cutting. Altogether, it was a dirty night.
Fri Oct 26 1917
I forgot to say in my yesterdays writings that the team with the G S wagon ran away and the coal oil spilled over all our kits and rations so today we had to use emergency rations.
Sat Oct. 27. 1917.
At noon was detailed to go with six others up to Happy Valley to help the 51st man two guns of the Imperials who are out at rest. It is an awful palce to say the least. I went on a ration pary in evening. The place where we are sleeping is in a tunnel under a slag heap which is on fire. The tunnel is terribly hot. One does not require a blanket, The place is crumby and lousy. Most of the boys have got the bugs on them so I suppose our turn will come. I wish I could get back to the battery already. Girl born in the Walter Fraser family.
Sun. Oct 28. 1917
The guns we have got are so old that one fires over 1000 yds short and the others so erratic that its not safe to fire at least(?). still they use it for wire cutting purposes the shots being observed from 35 yds from the target am frightened today for fear that I will be the means of illing our own men. I did a three hour guard tonight which went remarkably fast. I got letters from C V D and one from Mother.
Mon. Oct 29. 1917
Today we fired (?) rounds with much better success than yesterday we had a new trail bed. Only about 20 shots were effective. Instead of stopping when communication went out the Capt. carried on with gunfire. The range dropped by some unknown reason and nearly got our own signallers who were fixing the wire. Tonight is perfect a full moon shining making it as light as day.
Tues. Oct 30 1917
A day or two ago I got a parcel from home with all sorts of goodies. The packing will come in useful as it is “Ammunition” paper. We fired about 200 rounds today and at each report of the gun my head was nearly split . I am quite deaf tonight. Tonight we put in a new trail leed(?) and also dug out the front of the pit, so now we hope the report of the guns won’t be so bad. We worked all night. No 1 which was replaced by a better one fired nearly all night.
Wed. Oct 31. 1917.
Slept all day but at night worked around the gun firing about 25 rds as we are duty gun. I had to do a couple of shifts on gas guard. Got a parcel from home containing candy and a jar of Hamstirley Farm jelly. Got a lovely long letter from Kitty the first for a very long time. She is very cut up about Al joining the R.F.C.
Thurs Nov 1. 1917.
On looking back I find that I have now been in the army eighteen months. Oh what a long time under such conditions.
Wed Nov. 7. 1917.
Since Nov. 1, I have not had time to write a single word in this journal of mine. We have either been firing or packing ammunitionall day long. It has been very hazy lately so we are able to keep out of the trenches and walk in the open. Drew two prs. Drawers and a pair of gloves when I went down to the battery in evening. Also got two letters from Mother & one each from Dad & Edith.
Sat Nov. 10. 1917.
At 8.55 this morning we began to fire about one round per minute for an hour. Every battery in the Lens sector opened up and put up a fine barrage. The infantry went over the top, but whether they were successful is unknown. We handed over the guns to the Imperials in the evening and then went back to the battery. I got three parcels when I got there. One from Cecilia, Aunt Helen & hane(?)
At noon was detailed to go with six others up to Happy Valley to help the 51st man two guns of the Imperials who are out at rest. It is an awful palce to say the least. I went on a ration pary in evening. The place where we are sleeping is in a tunnel under a slag heap which is on fire. The tunnel is terribly hot. One does not require a blanket, The place is crumby and lousy. Most of the boys have got the bugs on them so I suppose our turn will come. I wish I could get back to the battery already. Girl born in the Walter Fraser family.
Sun. Oct 28. 1917
The guns we have got are so old that one fires over 1000 yds short and the others so erratic that its not safe to fire at least(?). still they use it for wire cutting purposes the shots being observed from 35 yds from the target am frightened today for fear that I will be the means of illing our own men. I did a three hour guard tonight which went remarkably fast. I got letters from C V D and one from Mother.
Mon. Oct 29. 1917
Today we fired (?) rounds with much better success than yesterday we had a new trail bed. Only about 20 shots were effective. Instead of stopping when communication went out the Capt. carried on with gunfire. The range dropped by some unknown reason and nearly got our own signallers who were fixing the wire. Tonight is perfect a full moon shining making it as light as day.
Tues. Oct 30 1917
A day or two ago I got a parcel from home with all sorts of goodies. The packing will come in useful as it is “Ammunition” paper. We fired about 200 rounds today and at each report of the gun my head was nearly split . I am quite deaf tonight. Tonight we put in a new trail leed(?) and also dug out the front of the pit, so now we hope the report of the guns won’t be so bad. We worked all night. No 1 which was replaced by a better one fired nearly all night.
Wed. Oct 31. 1917.
Slept all day but at night worked around the gun firing about 25 rds as we are duty gun. I had to do a couple of shifts on gas guard. Got a parcel from home containing candy and a jar of Hamstirley Farm jelly. Got a lovely long letter from Kitty the first for a very long time. She is very cut up about Al joining the R.F.C.
Thurs Nov 1. 1917.
On looking back I find that I have now been in the army eighteen months. Oh what a long time under such conditions.
Wed Nov. 7. 1917.
Since Nov. 1, I have not had time to write a single word in this journal of mine. We have either been firing or packing ammunitionall day long. It has been very hazy lately so we are able to keep out of the trenches and walk in the open. Drew two prs. Drawers and a pair of gloves when I went down to the battery in evening. Also got two letters from Mother & one each from Dad & Edith.
Sat Nov. 10. 1917.
At 8.55 this morning we began to fire about one round per minute for an hour. Every battery in the Lens sector opened up and put up a fine barrage. The infantry went over the top, but whether they were successful is unknown. We handed over the guns to the Imperials in the evening and then went back to the battery. I got three parcels when I got there. One from Cecilia, Aunt Helen & hane(?)
Sun Nov. 11. 1917.
Day before yesterday I was totally deaf, but today I can hear a little. I went to the M.O. just to see if there was anything ruptured, but he assured me there isn’t. I came down to the Wagon lines in evening so I could rest my ears.
Mon. Nov. 12. 1917
I was mess orderly today. Went to the paymaster and drew my pay 25 francs. Some artillery General inspected the horses today. Tonight my ears are ringing terribly and I have an awful head ache so I am going to bed early.
Tues Nov.13. 1917
On road fatigue today. My wouldn’t it be lovely sight to see me sweeping the streets at home.
Wed. Nov. 14. 1917
Went on picquet tonight. I was very unlucky in getting third shift, which means only four hours sleep.
Thurs. Nov. 15. 1917.
As I have been on a duty every day since coming down here, I thought advisable to put myself on a duty so I made myself hut orderly a lovely cushy job.
Fri. Nov. 16. 1917
Today Cecil Maloy came down to see us. He was partially lit up but was as fine as ever. Got two letters on Saturday. E.P. and a small parcel from home.
Sat. Nov 17. 1917.
Letter from Evan. Also a parcel of soda crackers from Mother. A beautiful day.
Sun. Nov. 18. 1917
Had beastly luck at Banker this evening. Got a letter from Cecilia. Hiney shelled the fosse just beside the horse lines today and started an awful fire. Was paid 70 francs today.
Mon. Nov. 19. 1917.
From today one man per sub is to be allowed to go to Bethune daily.
Tues. Nov. 20. 1917.
On picquet tonight, a fellow from Victoria who used to be with Hintans and is now with the 29th Batt came down to see us and told us a lot about Ypres.
Wed. Nov. 21. 1917.
Today I got a pass to Bethune. After walking most of the way there we arrived about noon. Made a couple of purchases then went to the Pierrets in the evening. The performers were all soldiers and I should think professional actors. They put on a beautiful 2 hour show. A great big orchestra played lovely stirring music such as I like. I hardly heard any of the jokes because of my bum ears. The big opera house was crowded, officers and all. Got a call during the afternoon for fourteen more men to dig new emergency positions so I had to go up to the battery in evening.
Thurs. Nov. 22. 1917.
Last night I received a wooly coat from Cecilia and a pair of mittens from Douglas. We went up to the new position today and started in on two pits A & F. We are digging right in the backyard of the Lens Hospital, a very fine battery position.
Fri. Nov. 23. 1917.
Worked on the pits all day. Got back to the battery about 5.00 p.m.
Sat. Nov. 24. 1917.
Worked on the pits. As my ears are still ringing from my recent deaf spell I am going to dig every day.
Sun. Nov. 25. 1917
Last night and this morning have been very cold. While we were working on the pits today a storm passed over, a little snow fell. There is word around that we will get news tonight whether we go north or not. A & F sub pits are finished.
Mon. Nov. 26. 1917.
In spite of the rumours that are prevalent, we went to the forward position again today, but two fellows came along about 2.30 p.m. and told us to cease operations as we were pulling out of Lievin in a day or two for distant lands or country.
Tue. Nov. 27. 1917.
Tonight the centre section guns were dragged out of the pits and taken to the horse lines. We are to pull out tomorrow night. On gun guard tonight. Fritz shelled Whiz-Bang corner for the first time for weeks, because the first div. artillery are coming in. The 61st Bty are coming in to take over our positions. Lucky dogs I call them.
Wed. Nov. 28. 1917.
The centre & right sections pulled out tonight without a hitch. Goldie & I and five others remained behind to clean up.
Thurs. Nov. 29. 1917.
Slept in until about 9.00 A.M. and had a very good breakfast. Two wagons came up in the afternoon and after loading we pulled out for the horse lines at Sains-en-Gohelle. Received a parcel of cake from Cecilia.
Fri. Nov. 30. 1917.
Had an inspection in the morning & in the afternoon. A & F subs got word to pull out at 4.00 p.m. for the Le Basse front. We got there about 6.30 p.m. and put our gun into an old pit. We found a lovely clean pit painted white and also some old buds so we had a good old sleep.
Day before yesterday I was totally deaf, but today I can hear a little. I went to the M.O. just to see if there was anything ruptured, but he assured me there isn’t. I came down to the Wagon lines in evening so I could rest my ears.
Mon. Nov. 12. 1917
I was mess orderly today. Went to the paymaster and drew my pay 25 francs. Some artillery General inspected the horses today. Tonight my ears are ringing terribly and I have an awful head ache so I am going to bed early.
Tues Nov.13. 1917
On road fatigue today. My wouldn’t it be lovely sight to see me sweeping the streets at home.
Wed. Nov. 14. 1917
Went on picquet tonight. I was very unlucky in getting third shift, which means only four hours sleep.
Thurs. Nov. 15. 1917.
As I have been on a duty every day since coming down here, I thought advisable to put myself on a duty so I made myself hut orderly a lovely cushy job.
Fri. Nov. 16. 1917
Today Cecil Maloy came down to see us. He was partially lit up but was as fine as ever. Got two letters on Saturday. E.P. and a small parcel from home.
Sat. Nov 17. 1917.
Letter from Evan. Also a parcel of soda crackers from Mother. A beautiful day.
Sun. Nov. 18. 1917
Had beastly luck at Banker this evening. Got a letter from Cecilia. Hiney shelled the fosse just beside the horse lines today and started an awful fire. Was paid 70 francs today.
Mon. Nov. 19. 1917.
From today one man per sub is to be allowed to go to Bethune daily.
Tues. Nov. 20. 1917.
On picquet tonight, a fellow from Victoria who used to be with Hintans and is now with the 29th Batt came down to see us and told us a lot about Ypres.
Wed. Nov. 21. 1917.
Today I got a pass to Bethune. After walking most of the way there we arrived about noon. Made a couple of purchases then went to the Pierrets in the evening. The performers were all soldiers and I should think professional actors. They put on a beautiful 2 hour show. A great big orchestra played lovely stirring music such as I like. I hardly heard any of the jokes because of my bum ears. The big opera house was crowded, officers and all. Got a call during the afternoon for fourteen more men to dig new emergency positions so I had to go up to the battery in evening.
Thurs. Nov. 22. 1917.
Last night I received a wooly coat from Cecilia and a pair of mittens from Douglas. We went up to the new position today and started in on two pits A & F. We are digging right in the backyard of the Lens Hospital, a very fine battery position.
Fri. Nov. 23. 1917.
Worked on the pits all day. Got back to the battery about 5.00 p.m.
Sat. Nov. 24. 1917.
Worked on the pits. As my ears are still ringing from my recent deaf spell I am going to dig every day.
Sun. Nov. 25. 1917
Last night and this morning have been very cold. While we were working on the pits today a storm passed over, a little snow fell. There is word around that we will get news tonight whether we go north or not. A & F sub pits are finished.
Mon. Nov. 26. 1917.
In spite of the rumours that are prevalent, we went to the forward position again today, but two fellows came along about 2.30 p.m. and told us to cease operations as we were pulling out of Lievin in a day or two for distant lands or country.
Tue. Nov. 27. 1917.
Tonight the centre section guns were dragged out of the pits and taken to the horse lines. We are to pull out tomorrow night. On gun guard tonight. Fritz shelled Whiz-Bang corner for the first time for weeks, because the first div. artillery are coming in. The 61st Bty are coming in to take over our positions. Lucky dogs I call them.
Wed. Nov. 28. 1917.
The centre & right sections pulled out tonight without a hitch. Goldie & I and five others remained behind to clean up.
Thurs. Nov. 29. 1917.
Slept in until about 9.00 A.M. and had a very good breakfast. Two wagons came up in the afternoon and after loading we pulled out for the horse lines at Sains-en-Gohelle. Received a parcel of cake from Cecilia.
Fri. Nov. 30. 1917.
Had an inspection in the morning & in the afternoon. A & F subs got word to pull out at 4.00 p.m. for the Le Basse front. We got there about 6.30 p.m. and put our gun into an old pit. We found a lovely clean pit painted white and also some old buds so we had a good old sleep.
Sat. Dec. 1. 1917.
We cleaned out B Sub pit for them so they could get in tonight. I put quite a nice little stove into the funk hole which warms the place beautifully. I really don’t know what to make of this position because directly Behind us here is civilization and in front of us is war. If it wasn’t for the presence of our guns one would think they were out at rest. It is going to be a cushy position. We can buy eggs, etc. at a house about 75 yds up the road from here. The G. S. Wagon comes up in broad daylight with provisions.
Sun. Dec. 2. 1917
Gee, it was cold last night. It is getting colder every night. Nothing unusual occurred during the day. I got a letter from Cecilia telling me about Douglas and Jen and D’s resignation. I only wish a tommy(?) could tell a high bug off.
Mon. Dec. 3. 1917
Worked around the gun all day. Voted for Union government and conscription in the afternoon.
Tue. Dec. 4. 1917.
Am on gas guard tonight. It is freezing hard tonight but with my nice warm coat and cap. I should worry. Tonight we got our first S.O.S. We were told today that the guns were not to be fired under any circumstances. There is a sort of mutual agreement between fritz and ourselves that if we leave them alone they will leave us alone.
Wed. Dec. 5. 1917.
I did my second shift in bed last night because it was too cold to go out. Ritchie tried to throw a fit this morning and went to bed. The Dr. came along later and sent him to the hospital. It was terribly cold last night. Thomas who was sleeping on the gun nearly froze. The place we are in now is called Annequin. Two limbers full of ammunition came up about eight o’clock.
Thu. Dec. 6. 1917.
Last night the sergt VX slept in the gun pit but we had so many blankets we couldn’t get cold, although it was freezing hard. Was battery orderly all day. Made only three trips to brigade.
Fri. Dec. 7. 1917.
It was comparatively warm last night. On account of the pig headed Captn bawling out Sergt. Conyers for not shaving we were ordered to parade this morning all shaved, washed and shined by 9.00 o’clock which we did. Hayman came up last night so we are not so short handed.
Sat. Dec. 8. 1917.
Today we started putting up wire entanglements in front of the battery but put down our tools about 11.00 AM when we drew our pay. In the afternoon I cleared out for the horse lines at Verquin a placed which is shelled & bombed all the time. A six inch howitzer battery pulled into the gun pits on our right today. They are South African Heavy Artillery.
Sun. Dec. 9. 1917.
As our billets are not large enough to accommodate all the right section John Goldie and I doubled up in the field(?) room which is a lot better than the hut. Got a letter from Dad & Teents(?) and a plum pudding from Aunt Aimie. The horse lines are in an awful condition. Mud up to the eyes and the horses stink terribly. I am glad to say things are being put in much better shape now.
Mon. Dec. 10. 1917
Got a cake this evening from mother. This morning I drove to haril shade to help cover up the mud and this afternoon I drove about three miles away to bring a portable hut, which makes the sixth hut now. We will be much better off with one sub in each hut. Tonight I am on picquet. Today I drew a pair of ankle boots and a pr. of puttees from the QM. I will now be able to let my high boots dry and then oil them.
Tues. Dec. 11. 1917.
Worked around the stables all day. Got a nice parcel from Emilie containing a pair of socks, some chocolate, sugar, & cigarettes. How she finds time to think of anyone beside her children gets me.
Wed. Dec. 12. 1917.
Hauled shale all day. Got a parcel from Jeenty a tin of black currant jelly.
Thurs. Dec. 13. 1917.
Went for a bath today and I certainly needed it for I haven’t had one for six weeks. Got a letter from Mrs. Jordan tonight. Last night Heiny came over with about three planes and dropped bombs all over the place. I thought that gas was about the worst thing in modern warfare but after last nights experience I changed my mind. You are absolutely helpless when he drops them and you never know where the next is going to hit.
Fri. Dec. 14. 1917.
Got a parcel from Aunt Debbie tonight. Also letters from Dad, Edith and Cecilia.
Sat.Dec. 15. 1917.
Scrubbed harness during the morning but I had to drive the manure cart in the afternoon. Heiney dropped bombs all around us tonight but I am frightened of them. One was dropped very close to a lorry park and it took just a very few minutes to get their ears away. On picquet tonight and drew first shift which is a great advantage. Wrote to Cecilia, Feinty & Dorothy and sent them each a hanky for Christmas.
Sun. Dec. 16. 1917.
Haued shale all day. It tried its best to snow today, but only for a very few minutes. Sergt Conyers and two men left today for Boulagne to get new horses for the battery. They have gone down by train but will have to ride back. It is raining or cold it will be most unpleasant.
Mon. Dec. 17. 1917.
Tonight I got a letter and parcel from Douglas. He is greatly tickled about his coming family. Let’s hope the kiddie will be able to grow up and not know a single thing about this war. Today is very cold. When I got up in the morning there was quite a thick coating of snow over everything. We were paid today 20 francs, but 5 francs were taken out for the Xmas dinner and one franc for coal.
Tue. Dec. 18. 1917.
Today frosty as usual was taken up with the usual routine.
Wed. Dec. 19. 1917.
Today four of us were sent up to Lievin to get fire wood. We stayed up there the day and in the late afternoon two wagons came up and we loaded them and away we went but we didn’t make very fast time on account of the slippery conditions of the roads.
Thurs. Dec. 20. 1917.
Today is my red letter day. I was put on stableman until about 11.00 A.M. when Jed King came to me that I was one of the four lucky fellow to have xmas leave in Blighty. I could hardly believe him when he told me and from that minute I was and still am the happiest man on earth. We had to go to the bath, and then to the M.O. who gave us each a certificate of cleanliness. We had to foot it, and it surely was four miles each way. Gee my feet were tired. We were told to report at Brigade HQ at 11.00 AM tomorrow where we will get our money and all particulars. I can tell you that I don’t want to foot it either. The weather is extremely cold all the trees and everything else is just coated in frost. It makes everything look beautiful but outside of that it is “no ban”(?) for it is terribly cold.
Fri. Dec. 21. 1917.
This morning we got news that only two of us were to go, so my luck was still with me and I was told to go so off I went at 9.00 A.M. or a little later to Bdge HQ where Capt. Gillespie paid me fifty francs, and I am to get the remainder in England. I got to Bethune about 12.00 and as the train didn’t leave until 1.00 I went into the town. We were lined up outside the station at 1.00 and after being inspected for ammunition were told to file onto the train. We clambered to a compartment which only had one door. At 1.30 we pulled out for Boulange where we arrived about 9.30 after the slowest and coldest ride that I have ever had. We were marched to a big wharehouse where we were given blankets and something to eat, then we went to sleep, only to get up at 6.30 the following morning.
Sat. Dec. 22. 1917.
At 9 o’clock we were marched to the quay where after showing our warrant about a dozen times to dozen different people we were allowed on the boat. We pulled out about 11.15 A.M. being escorted by two destroyers. We arrived in Folkestone about 1.30 and immediately boarded the train for London which didn’t leave until four o’clock arriving about 6.00 at Victoria where we changed our money and were taken to the pay office where much to my disappointment I only got six pounds. However I wandered around the town got to Waterloo at 8.00 where I had to wait until 8.30 for the train to Godalming. I arrived there about 10 and immediately went to the kids house where I found Kellie in bed lieing attended by a nurse. She was very sick about ten days ago. However after jabbering for two hours I turned into D’s camp bed as that was the only place to sleep.
We cleaned out B Sub pit for them so they could get in tonight. I put quite a nice little stove into the funk hole which warms the place beautifully. I really don’t know what to make of this position because directly Behind us here is civilization and in front of us is war. If it wasn’t for the presence of our guns one would think they were out at rest. It is going to be a cushy position. We can buy eggs, etc. at a house about 75 yds up the road from here. The G. S. Wagon comes up in broad daylight with provisions.
Sun. Dec. 2. 1917
Gee, it was cold last night. It is getting colder every night. Nothing unusual occurred during the day. I got a letter from Cecilia telling me about Douglas and Jen and D’s resignation. I only wish a tommy(?) could tell a high bug off.
Mon. Dec. 3. 1917
Worked around the gun all day. Voted for Union government and conscription in the afternoon.
Tue. Dec. 4. 1917.
Am on gas guard tonight. It is freezing hard tonight but with my nice warm coat and cap. I should worry. Tonight we got our first S.O.S. We were told today that the guns were not to be fired under any circumstances. There is a sort of mutual agreement between fritz and ourselves that if we leave them alone they will leave us alone.
Wed. Dec. 5. 1917.
I did my second shift in bed last night because it was too cold to go out. Ritchie tried to throw a fit this morning and went to bed. The Dr. came along later and sent him to the hospital. It was terribly cold last night. Thomas who was sleeping on the gun nearly froze. The place we are in now is called Annequin. Two limbers full of ammunition came up about eight o’clock.
Thu. Dec. 6. 1917.
Last night the sergt VX slept in the gun pit but we had so many blankets we couldn’t get cold, although it was freezing hard. Was battery orderly all day. Made only three trips to brigade.
Fri. Dec. 7. 1917.
It was comparatively warm last night. On account of the pig headed Captn bawling out Sergt. Conyers for not shaving we were ordered to parade this morning all shaved, washed and shined by 9.00 o’clock which we did. Hayman came up last night so we are not so short handed.
Sat. Dec. 8. 1917.
Today we started putting up wire entanglements in front of the battery but put down our tools about 11.00 AM when we drew our pay. In the afternoon I cleared out for the horse lines at Verquin a placed which is shelled & bombed all the time. A six inch howitzer battery pulled into the gun pits on our right today. They are South African Heavy Artillery.
Sun. Dec. 9. 1917.
As our billets are not large enough to accommodate all the right section John Goldie and I doubled up in the field(?) room which is a lot better than the hut. Got a letter from Dad & Teents(?) and a plum pudding from Aunt Aimie. The horse lines are in an awful condition. Mud up to the eyes and the horses stink terribly. I am glad to say things are being put in much better shape now.
Mon. Dec. 10. 1917
Got a cake this evening from mother. This morning I drove to haril shade to help cover up the mud and this afternoon I drove about three miles away to bring a portable hut, which makes the sixth hut now. We will be much better off with one sub in each hut. Tonight I am on picquet. Today I drew a pair of ankle boots and a pr. of puttees from the QM. I will now be able to let my high boots dry and then oil them.
Tues. Dec. 11. 1917.
Worked around the stables all day. Got a nice parcel from Emilie containing a pair of socks, some chocolate, sugar, & cigarettes. How she finds time to think of anyone beside her children gets me.
Wed. Dec. 12. 1917.
Hauled shale all day. Got a parcel from Jeenty a tin of black currant jelly.
Thurs. Dec. 13. 1917.
Went for a bath today and I certainly needed it for I haven’t had one for six weeks. Got a letter from Mrs. Jordan tonight. Last night Heiny came over with about three planes and dropped bombs all over the place. I thought that gas was about the worst thing in modern warfare but after last nights experience I changed my mind. You are absolutely helpless when he drops them and you never know where the next is going to hit.
Fri. Dec. 14. 1917.
Got a parcel from Aunt Debbie tonight. Also letters from Dad, Edith and Cecilia.
Sat.Dec. 15. 1917.
Scrubbed harness during the morning but I had to drive the manure cart in the afternoon. Heiney dropped bombs all around us tonight but I am frightened of them. One was dropped very close to a lorry park and it took just a very few minutes to get their ears away. On picquet tonight and drew first shift which is a great advantage. Wrote to Cecilia, Feinty & Dorothy and sent them each a hanky for Christmas.
Sun. Dec. 16. 1917.
Haued shale all day. It tried its best to snow today, but only for a very few minutes. Sergt Conyers and two men left today for Boulagne to get new horses for the battery. They have gone down by train but will have to ride back. It is raining or cold it will be most unpleasant.
Mon. Dec. 17. 1917.
Tonight I got a letter and parcel from Douglas. He is greatly tickled about his coming family. Let’s hope the kiddie will be able to grow up and not know a single thing about this war. Today is very cold. When I got up in the morning there was quite a thick coating of snow over everything. We were paid today 20 francs, but 5 francs were taken out for the Xmas dinner and one franc for coal.
Tue. Dec. 18. 1917.
Today frosty as usual was taken up with the usual routine.
Wed. Dec. 19. 1917.
Today four of us were sent up to Lievin to get fire wood. We stayed up there the day and in the late afternoon two wagons came up and we loaded them and away we went but we didn’t make very fast time on account of the slippery conditions of the roads.
Thurs. Dec. 20. 1917.
Today is my red letter day. I was put on stableman until about 11.00 A.M. when Jed King came to me that I was one of the four lucky fellow to have xmas leave in Blighty. I could hardly believe him when he told me and from that minute I was and still am the happiest man on earth. We had to go to the bath, and then to the M.O. who gave us each a certificate of cleanliness. We had to foot it, and it surely was four miles each way. Gee my feet were tired. We were told to report at Brigade HQ at 11.00 AM tomorrow where we will get our money and all particulars. I can tell you that I don’t want to foot it either. The weather is extremely cold all the trees and everything else is just coated in frost. It makes everything look beautiful but outside of that it is “no ban”(?) for it is terribly cold.
Fri. Dec. 21. 1917.
This morning we got news that only two of us were to go, so my luck was still with me and I was told to go so off I went at 9.00 A.M. or a little later to Bdge HQ where Capt. Gillespie paid me fifty francs, and I am to get the remainder in England. I got to Bethune about 12.00 and as the train didn’t leave until 1.00 I went into the town. We were lined up outside the station at 1.00 and after being inspected for ammunition were told to file onto the train. We clambered to a compartment which only had one door. At 1.30 we pulled out for Boulange where we arrived about 9.30 after the slowest and coldest ride that I have ever had. We were marched to a big wharehouse where we were given blankets and something to eat, then we went to sleep, only to get up at 6.30 the following morning.
Sat. Dec. 22. 1917.
At 9 o’clock we were marched to the quay where after showing our warrant about a dozen times to dozen different people we were allowed on the boat. We pulled out about 11.15 A.M. being escorted by two destroyers. We arrived in Folkestone about 1.30 and immediately boarded the train for London which didn’t leave until four o’clock arriving about 6.00 at Victoria where we changed our money and were taken to the pay office where much to my disappointment I only got six pounds. However I wandered around the town got to Waterloo at 8.00 where I had to wait until 8.30 for the train to Godalming. I arrived there about 10 and immediately went to the kids house where I found Kellie in bed lieing attended by a nurse. She was very sick about ten days ago. However after jabbering for two hours I turned into D’s camp bed as that was the only place to sleep.
Sun. Dec. 23. 1917
I never woke up until 11.15 this morning had a good shave and wash and felt ever so much better. I hung around in the house all day but in the afternoon I went to the Kitchener Club to try to see Mrs. Henderson but as she wasn’t the entertainment she wasn’t there. I saw a couple of chaps I knew, but otherwise it was very uninteresting.
Mon. Dec. 24. 1971.
Today the nurse and I went to town shopping and had great fun. Then again I went to town in the afternoon and sent a cable home. Which I am sure will cheer the folks up at home. I bought a pr boots & puttees and new underwear etc so I am quite the finest Xmas Day.
Tues. Dec. 25.
Today was just beautiful sun shining most of the day. I walked through Godalming this afternoon and saw Gosie Stinson and a couple of other boys whom I knew in Victoria. I thought I would go up to town tomorrow but I changed my mind as I want to go up to camp to see some chaps. I went to the Borough Hall to see Mrs. Henderson but as she was late arriving I didn’t stay but came back to the house for xmas dinner.
Wed. Dec. 26. 1917.
Went up to the camp this morning but failed to see many of my old pals. Have developed an awful cold. The nurse i/c of Cecilia got me a hot lemonade just as I got into bed so was sweating heavily during the night.
Thurs. Dec. 27. 1917.
Got the 10.30 from Godalming which brought me to Waterloo about noon. While I was waiting for the train at Godalming I met Ginny Coots who was all dressed up in his flying colours. My he looked well to say the least. I got my noon meal at the Y.M.C.A. and immediately set out afterwards for Croyden to see Sergt. Edgecombe, who is in the Crescent Hospital there. He looks pretty well washed out, but I was surprised to see him looking so well after his terrible wounds. His hand is very bad indeed. I spent most of the afternoon there. Mrs. Maclaren paid a visit while I was there, she is an awfully nice lady. I came back to town and went directly to the Pell house and after securing a bed I had dinner. I don’t think I am going to enjoy my leave a lot as I have an awful cold and can’t find any pals.
Fri. Dec. 28. 1917.
I took a walk into the strand this morning and ran across Skinny Vacher who was at UCC when I was there. I went out to Hampstead to see Mrs Jordan, but I am sorry to say she was out so I left a note and came back to town. I dropped into the Australian Y.M. in the London Opera house where they have music and entertainers every afternoon & evening. It was very nice indeed. My what a lot of trouble they go to in order to provide amusement for the troops. This evening I went to see zig-zag but was greatly disappointed with it all.
Sat. Dec. 29. 1917.
Stayed in all morning and read a book. But this afternoon I went into the strand to look for a good show. After paying 12.3 for a seat I witnessed “the 13th seat (or chair}” which I enjoyed very very much indeed. It was exceedingly well acted, with Mrs. Patrick Campbell as the leading light. I think I would go again if I could. Sent a wire to Kelly just to let her know I would be back tomorrow. I have my nerve to go back without seeing Uncle Dany but he lives so far away I am scared to go. What on earth made him go away out to the east end.
Sun. Dec. 30. 1917.
I woke up this morning with a terrible pain in my shoulder, caused through sleeping in a draught. I had breakfast and lunch at Peel House then got the 2.10 p.m. from Waterloo. While waiting for the train I met Jack Cambie who is in the pay office also Dr Bell who left our Battery after an awful accident at Witly, he thinks he will be going back to Canada. I got down here at 3.30. After going to the house and finding Douglas washing towels, and having tea with Kellie and the nurse I went over to the Sunday concert which although I didn’t hear much I enjoyed very much.
Mon. Dec. 31. 1917.
I saw Stanley Hudson today who I think is quite the dude of Godalming. Did a bit of shopping with nurse in the morning but stayed in all afternoon. Cecilia is allowed to sit up in a wicker lounge today. I guess she is very much better. It was terribly cold today. Went to bed about 11.00 pm, so didn’t see the old year out and the new year in.
I never woke up until 11.15 this morning had a good shave and wash and felt ever so much better. I hung around in the house all day but in the afternoon I went to the Kitchener Club to try to see Mrs. Henderson but as she wasn’t the entertainment she wasn’t there. I saw a couple of chaps I knew, but otherwise it was very uninteresting.
Mon. Dec. 24. 1971.
Today the nurse and I went to town shopping and had great fun. Then again I went to town in the afternoon and sent a cable home. Which I am sure will cheer the folks up at home. I bought a pr boots & puttees and new underwear etc so I am quite the finest Xmas Day.
Tues. Dec. 25.
Today was just beautiful sun shining most of the day. I walked through Godalming this afternoon and saw Gosie Stinson and a couple of other boys whom I knew in Victoria. I thought I would go up to town tomorrow but I changed my mind as I want to go up to camp to see some chaps. I went to the Borough Hall to see Mrs. Henderson but as she was late arriving I didn’t stay but came back to the house for xmas dinner.
Wed. Dec. 26. 1917.
Went up to the camp this morning but failed to see many of my old pals. Have developed an awful cold. The nurse i/c of Cecilia got me a hot lemonade just as I got into bed so was sweating heavily during the night.
Thurs. Dec. 27. 1917.
Got the 10.30 from Godalming which brought me to Waterloo about noon. While I was waiting for the train at Godalming I met Ginny Coots who was all dressed up in his flying colours. My he looked well to say the least. I got my noon meal at the Y.M.C.A. and immediately set out afterwards for Croyden to see Sergt. Edgecombe, who is in the Crescent Hospital there. He looks pretty well washed out, but I was surprised to see him looking so well after his terrible wounds. His hand is very bad indeed. I spent most of the afternoon there. Mrs. Maclaren paid a visit while I was there, she is an awfully nice lady. I came back to town and went directly to the Pell house and after securing a bed I had dinner. I don’t think I am going to enjoy my leave a lot as I have an awful cold and can’t find any pals.
Fri. Dec. 28. 1917.
I took a walk into the strand this morning and ran across Skinny Vacher who was at UCC when I was there. I went out to Hampstead to see Mrs Jordan, but I am sorry to say she was out so I left a note and came back to town. I dropped into the Australian Y.M. in the London Opera house where they have music and entertainers every afternoon & evening. It was very nice indeed. My what a lot of trouble they go to in order to provide amusement for the troops. This evening I went to see zig-zag but was greatly disappointed with it all.
Sat. Dec. 29. 1917.
Stayed in all morning and read a book. But this afternoon I went into the strand to look for a good show. After paying 12.3 for a seat I witnessed “the 13th seat (or chair}” which I enjoyed very very much indeed. It was exceedingly well acted, with Mrs. Patrick Campbell as the leading light. I think I would go again if I could. Sent a wire to Kelly just to let her know I would be back tomorrow. I have my nerve to go back without seeing Uncle Dany but he lives so far away I am scared to go. What on earth made him go away out to the east end.
Sun. Dec. 30. 1917.
I woke up this morning with a terrible pain in my shoulder, caused through sleeping in a draught. I had breakfast and lunch at Peel House then got the 2.10 p.m. from Waterloo. While waiting for the train I met Jack Cambie who is in the pay office also Dr Bell who left our Battery after an awful accident at Witly, he thinks he will be going back to Canada. I got down here at 3.30. After going to the house and finding Douglas washing towels, and having tea with Kellie and the nurse I went over to the Sunday concert which although I didn’t hear much I enjoyed very much.
Mon. Dec. 31. 1917.
I saw Stanley Hudson today who I think is quite the dude of Godalming. Did a bit of shopping with nurse in the morning but stayed in all afternoon. Cecilia is allowed to sit up in a wicker lounge today. I guess she is very much better. It was terribly cold today. Went to bed about 11.00 pm, so didn’t see the old year out and the new year in.
uesday 1 January 1918
Hurrah for New Year. Let's hope this year will see the end of this terrible war. I hope it will.
This morning a nurse & I went to town and made some purchases. Glory but it is cold out of doors.
Frank Bernard was mentioned in the new year's honours is being made a K.C.M.G. Currie and Maj. Gen. Watson we're also mentioned. Norman Hall who is a prisoner of war in Germany is promoted from flight sub Lieutenant to a full Flight Lieutenant. The nurse rub me with camphorated oil & gave me a hot drink when I went to bed. I really have quite a nasty cold.
Wednesday January 2 1918
I didn't get up until 11.00 A.M. and then didn't go out all day. The nurse rubbed me again tonight gave me a hot whiskey and two pills to open me.
Douglas didn't get in until fairly late on account of a lecture which William le Quex gave in camp an at which the Gen. had to preside.
Thursday January 3 1918
I didn't get up until 11.00 this morning and then had to stay in doors on account of the pills I took last night which have kept me pretty busy. Went out this afternoon for a few minutes. It was quite nice but cold. Purchased a new pocket book which will serve several purposes.
First draft of conscripts called up today.
Had a hot bath, then was rubbed, given a hot drink & put to bed.
Friday January 4th 1918
Had breakfast in bed. I could easily have got up but as it was my last morning I layed in. As Gen. had to go to town I went as far as the train then came back and stayed all day. I sent my diaries home today. They are not very interesing but they hold quite a lot of information.
The nurse, through an invitation of C’s has her daughter here today. She is an awful giggling girl so there is the devil to play with three giggling girls in the house. The kid can certainly play the piano well, that is classics. Left Godalming at 9 P.M. Got a Supper and bed set. I said goodbye to Killie whose eyes began to water. Lord I hope she doesn't worry about me for it won’t do her a bit of good considering the condition she is in.
Saturday January 5 1918
The porter woke me at 4:30 A.M. so I am immediately got up, washed, and went into breakfast. I got to the station at 5:45 A.M. but was told the train via Calais wouldn’t leave until 8.00 A.M. I went to the Y.M. and had another meal. I climbed into the train at 7:15 but instead of leaving at 8.00 it left at 7:30. We got to Dover about 10.00 but had to wait until 1.00 P.M. before we boarded the boat. Left about 2.00 and got to Calais about 3:15. We then marched to a camp and were put in tents. Light in each we were given a very light tea and one blanket. I turned in very early and slept fairly well.
Sunday January 6 1918
I woke up this morning feeling very stiff after the soft beds in Blighty. It’s mighty cold this morning. Had to fall in about 10:30 and were giving a church service in the Y.M. hut. this is intercession Sunday a Day of prayer for the whole allied nation. We had a good meal at 11.00 and at 12.00 away we went to the train where we were herded into box cars en route for the big camp at Etaples where are we arrived at 7.00. We were put into tents and given two blankets. My, I have been cold all day. I don't think I will ever get warm.
Monday January 7 1918
Slept fairly warm last night. It has been raining almost all night and nearly all yesterday. We got to the station about 7.00 A.M. but the train did not leave until 8.30. We travelled all morning freezing all the time.
We got to Bethune about 2:30 P.M. and waited about half an hour for a train to Noeuse-les-meme. We got back to the battery at 4:30 P.M. after a long and cold trip. I got parcels from mother, Edith, Auntie, Finlaysons also letters from almost all.
Tuesday January 8 1918
As I didn't really feel extra well in the morning I slept in until after breakfast. When I got up and had a good wash and shave then wrote to mother & Cecilia. It is terribly cold today end snowing and blowing a hurricane. I am glad I am inside today beside a fire. In the evening I went to the Y.M.C.A. to see a concert party and given by the “Pamblers” of the Canadian Corps. The roof inside is covered with a thick layer of frost.
Wednesday 9th January 1918
Got news last night that I was to go up to the battery. So at 9:20 this AM I set out. I was detailed immediately for Brigade orderly so I won't see much of the battery for a time. It is very cold today as usual but not quite as bad as yesterday. The battery is not in the old position as I expected but in the old 21st battery pos. We took over the 48th Bty guns which were in the posns. They are poor guns. Tonight I have to sleep on the cold stones because Ivor White who I relieved never had the energy to rustle a bed during the week he was here.
Thursday 10th January 1918
Baby boy born to the wife of Capt D.B.F.B. at 4 p.m. Had to buck wood today. Only went on two messages all day. The weather is completely changed today, not exactly warm but yet not cold. The roads which are not cobbled are getting extremely muddy. It rained all night so today nearly all the snow has gone much to my delight. I got a letter from Deenty? last night. And wrote one to Daisy Finlayson today. Tonight the weather is really beautiful, a lovely fresh wind blowing which puts real “pep” into you. Heiney is unusually quiet on his front which is most uncomfortable as you never know what he is up to.
Friday 11th January 1918
Was orderly for the Colonel today who went to the 60th and 61st batteries through all sorts of sticky mud and corruption. The colonel was highly elated when I told him who I was. Went to the battery for a few minutes. Today is very mild, about noon it began to rain quite hard which produced quite a lot of delicious mud. Have been trotting around quite a lot today. The Brigade is arranging plans for a retreat if necessary, but I guess it is just “in case”. Dad bought Victory loans for every member of the family on Nov. 12. 191. A good investment I call it. Canada rained $400,000,000.
Saturday 12 January 1918
This morning just as I was about to go into the street a shell burst not ten yards away from me, covering me with dirt & bricks. About noon he opened up strong and kept it going for about an hour, then just about tea time he gave us another terribly straff. No one was hurt but he made the surroundings look sicker than they originally were. The 58th Bty closed them up with gas. Got a parcel with a pair of socks, a trench cap and a tin of after dinner mints.
Sunday 13th January 1918
Ran around as usual today. Met one of the Parfitt boys, who is in the 8 siege bty. Rather a nice day to say the least. Quiet today compared with yesterday. Parfitt told me that Robin Cram is in the same battery as he is.
Monday 14th January 1918
Office orderly today. Had to go to the Infantry HQ at noon. so I went up to the battery and got two letters, one from mother and one from Dad, so I afterwards sat down and wrote a good long letter to the latter. Snow on the ground this morning after such a nice day as yesterday, but the weather is not very cold at that. Several of the men and officers have heard a picking sound going on under their dugout and are wondering if Heiney is tunnelling under here. When we were in our original position we heard the same sound but it was taken as a joke. Time will tell.
Hurrah for New Year. Let's hope this year will see the end of this terrible war. I hope it will.
This morning a nurse & I went to town and made some purchases. Glory but it is cold out of doors.
Frank Bernard was mentioned in the new year's honours is being made a K.C.M.G. Currie and Maj. Gen. Watson we're also mentioned. Norman Hall who is a prisoner of war in Germany is promoted from flight sub Lieutenant to a full Flight Lieutenant. The nurse rub me with camphorated oil & gave me a hot drink when I went to bed. I really have quite a nasty cold.
Wednesday January 2 1918
I didn't get up until 11.00 A.M. and then didn't go out all day. The nurse rubbed me again tonight gave me a hot whiskey and two pills to open me.
Douglas didn't get in until fairly late on account of a lecture which William le Quex gave in camp an at which the Gen. had to preside.
Thursday January 3 1918
I didn't get up until 11.00 this morning and then had to stay in doors on account of the pills I took last night which have kept me pretty busy. Went out this afternoon for a few minutes. It was quite nice but cold. Purchased a new pocket book which will serve several purposes.
First draft of conscripts called up today.
Had a hot bath, then was rubbed, given a hot drink & put to bed.
Friday January 4th 1918
Had breakfast in bed. I could easily have got up but as it was my last morning I layed in. As Gen. had to go to town I went as far as the train then came back and stayed all day. I sent my diaries home today. They are not very interesing but they hold quite a lot of information.
The nurse, through an invitation of C’s has her daughter here today. She is an awful giggling girl so there is the devil to play with three giggling girls in the house. The kid can certainly play the piano well, that is classics. Left Godalming at 9 P.M. Got a Supper and bed set. I said goodbye to Killie whose eyes began to water. Lord I hope she doesn't worry about me for it won’t do her a bit of good considering the condition she is in.
Saturday January 5 1918
The porter woke me at 4:30 A.M. so I am immediately got up, washed, and went into breakfast. I got to the station at 5:45 A.M. but was told the train via Calais wouldn’t leave until 8.00 A.M. I went to the Y.M. and had another meal. I climbed into the train at 7:15 but instead of leaving at 8.00 it left at 7:30. We got to Dover about 10.00 but had to wait until 1.00 P.M. before we boarded the boat. Left about 2.00 and got to Calais about 3:15. We then marched to a camp and were put in tents. Light in each we were given a very light tea and one blanket. I turned in very early and slept fairly well.
Sunday January 6 1918
I woke up this morning feeling very stiff after the soft beds in Blighty. It’s mighty cold this morning. Had to fall in about 10:30 and were giving a church service in the Y.M. hut. this is intercession Sunday a Day of prayer for the whole allied nation. We had a good meal at 11.00 and at 12.00 away we went to the train where we were herded into box cars en route for the big camp at Etaples where are we arrived at 7.00. We were put into tents and given two blankets. My, I have been cold all day. I don't think I will ever get warm.
Monday January 7 1918
Slept fairly warm last night. It has been raining almost all night and nearly all yesterday. We got to the station about 7.00 A.M. but the train did not leave until 8.30. We travelled all morning freezing all the time.
We got to Bethune about 2:30 P.M. and waited about half an hour for a train to Noeuse-les-meme. We got back to the battery at 4:30 P.M. after a long and cold trip. I got parcels from mother, Edith, Auntie, Finlaysons also letters from almost all.
Tuesday January 8 1918
As I didn't really feel extra well in the morning I slept in until after breakfast. When I got up and had a good wash and shave then wrote to mother & Cecilia. It is terribly cold today end snowing and blowing a hurricane. I am glad I am inside today beside a fire. In the evening I went to the Y.M.C.A. to see a concert party and given by the “Pamblers” of the Canadian Corps. The roof inside is covered with a thick layer of frost.
Wednesday 9th January 1918
Got news last night that I was to go up to the battery. So at 9:20 this AM I set out. I was detailed immediately for Brigade orderly so I won't see much of the battery for a time. It is very cold today as usual but not quite as bad as yesterday. The battery is not in the old position as I expected but in the old 21st battery pos. We took over the 48th Bty guns which were in the posns. They are poor guns. Tonight I have to sleep on the cold stones because Ivor White who I relieved never had the energy to rustle a bed during the week he was here.
Thursday 10th January 1918
Baby boy born to the wife of Capt D.B.F.B. at 4 p.m. Had to buck wood today. Only went on two messages all day. The weather is completely changed today, not exactly warm but yet not cold. The roads which are not cobbled are getting extremely muddy. It rained all night so today nearly all the snow has gone much to my delight. I got a letter from Deenty? last night. And wrote one to Daisy Finlayson today. Tonight the weather is really beautiful, a lovely fresh wind blowing which puts real “pep” into you. Heiney is unusually quiet on his front which is most uncomfortable as you never know what he is up to.
Friday 11th January 1918
Was orderly for the Colonel today who went to the 60th and 61st batteries through all sorts of sticky mud and corruption. The colonel was highly elated when I told him who I was. Went to the battery for a few minutes. Today is very mild, about noon it began to rain quite hard which produced quite a lot of delicious mud. Have been trotting around quite a lot today. The Brigade is arranging plans for a retreat if necessary, but I guess it is just “in case”. Dad bought Victory loans for every member of the family on Nov. 12. 191. A good investment I call it. Canada rained $400,000,000.
Saturday 12 January 1918
This morning just as I was about to go into the street a shell burst not ten yards away from me, covering me with dirt & bricks. About noon he opened up strong and kept it going for about an hour, then just about tea time he gave us another terribly straff. No one was hurt but he made the surroundings look sicker than they originally were. The 58th Bty closed them up with gas. Got a parcel with a pair of socks, a trench cap and a tin of after dinner mints.
Sunday 13th January 1918
Ran around as usual today. Met one of the Parfitt boys, who is in the 8 siege bty. Rather a nice day to say the least. Quiet today compared with yesterday. Parfitt told me that Robin Cram is in the same battery as he is.
Monday 14th January 1918
Office orderly today. Had to go to the Infantry HQ at noon. so I went up to the battery and got two letters, one from mother and one from Dad, so I afterwards sat down and wrote a good long letter to the latter. Snow on the ground this morning after such a nice day as yesterday, but the weather is not very cold at that. Several of the men and officers have heard a picking sound going on under their dugout and are wondering if Heiney is tunnelling under here. When we were in our original position we heard the same sound but it was taken as a joke. Time will tell.
Wednesday 16th January 1918
After a lighting of the fire this morning I never did a stroke of work until this afternoon when I helped a fellow cut some wood. An orderly from the 66th put in an appearance about 3.00 p.m. but where he is going to sleep is beyond me as the cellar is pretty well crowded. As it is, he is a sloppy sort of fellow just like the ordinary run of the 66th Bty. Rain on and off all day. I hit my head against a beam this morning so now have a rotten headache. Wrote my letter of congratulations to Cecilia.
Thursday 17th January 1918
Was orderly room orderly today. Very drizzly all during the daylight hour but cleared up after dark. Wrote to Gnr Thompson who is in hospital I n Blighty having been gassed at Ypres. No mail tonight. Didn't get up until very late this morning so everything was behind.
Friday 18th January 1918
Hiney is beginning to get very nasty now. All day long he has been putting shrapnel all over which makes it difficult to walk around. Played Rhum in the evening. Had quite a good game. A fair day but not so dry as one would like. After playing cards went up and sat with “Labrador” (the cook) who having had a big issue of rum was in high spirits. He kept me there until nearly one o’clock a.m.
Saturday 19th January 1918
Acted as orderly for the Colonel in the morning. He wanted to know if I had heard from Mrs. Bullen so I was able to tell him all about it. Heiney is firing quite heavily again today. He strafed a battery beside our position with 8” inch as fast as he could put them over. A big 9.2 How soon shut them up.Most of the fellows were up by 7:30 A.M. but I didn't move until about 8:30. Went up to the Bty in evening and got three parcels from mother. tin of soda crackers, tin of jam and another of goodies in which was 100 Turkish cigarettes from Mr. and Mrs. Macklin. Letter from Douglas.
Sunday 20 January 1918
Bucked quite a lot of wood in the morning. Tonight two men were killed and three wounded at Napoo corner. I never go by that corner now and I've never done so for the past few 3 days because of his firing around. Went up to the battery in the evening. Two guns were expected to be put into our original position tonight. They have been firing it up for the last past few days.
Monday 21 January 1918
Paid today. 20 Francs. I have now got practically 80 Francs. Got a letter from Evan who has just been on leave in Blighty. I am wondering whether he was over there when I was. Today the battery was heavily shells from 8.00 A.M. until 4:30 P.M. Two gun pits were driven in but no one was hurt although three men were buried and fortunately got out unhurt.
Tuesday January 22nd 1918
Tthe battery is moving to its original position today much to the delight of all. Heiney planes were very busy nearly all day but his artillery was dormant. A beautiful sun shiny day. Quite hot in fact. Tonight a G.S. Wagon of the 61st Bty had one horse killed and four wounded from a 4.1 shell which landed only a foot away from the team. Fortunately not one of the drivers got a scratch. Dr. Herb Brown came up to inspect the wound. I took him over but as he had his wind up so badly he got away “toot suit”. He is an awful coward.
Wednesday 23rd January 1918
The Battery got in safe and sound last night and were in action today. Captain Brown told me last night that Robin Watt was one of General Currie’s A.D.C’s. He has three wound stripes up and wears the MC ribbon. Some boy, eh. Today is rather dull with the sun shining now and then. It has on the whole been quite pleasant. Just like a spring day. Got a package from Beales from Hariana containing some Spanish smokes. I can't say I like them very much.
Thursday 24rd January 1918
Was relieved at 9 A.M. by Hunt of B sub. After taking my dope back to the battery I walked back to the WH. A beautiful day, quite hot, Spring weather. A lovely clear moonlight night.
Friday 25th January 1918
This afternoon I went to the baths and had quite a good one. I really think I have developed scabies so if I can get baths often I should be able to get rid of them. Got a letter this evening from Cecilia the first since the arrival of the youngster. I was very pleased to get it. Fritz bombed Nevus Mines and neighbouring towns very heavily tonight. He also shelled Hersin with the heaviest stuff he had. The most beautiful moonlight night. Lamas put some wadding in his ears yesterday which contained mustard gas. His right ear is badly blistered
Saturday 26th January 1918
This morning I was detailed to go to Les Brebis with two other man to load a truck with elephant iron and pit props. But when we got there the cars have been already loaded so we killed time until about 1:30 when we came back and sat in the “Y”. Got a letter from Douglas. A beautiful hot spring day.
Sunday 27th January 1918
Today the big race between a Soule and Barnes came off. They walked a20 miles but spoilt the last 50 yards by running. It was a well walked race. They did it in 16 minutes less than 5 hours. A beautiful day. “A” sub had a half holiday.
Monday 28th January 1918
Poor old Soule couldn't get up today on account of an injured foot which he received in yesterday's race so I had to take the water wagon in the morning. But in the afternoon we started out for the guns. Goldie Black & I relieved Bomb. Goldie and Gilson. It was very quiet today but Fritzy came over in the bright moonlight and dropped a wagon load of bombs and down Calonne way.
Tuesday 29th January 1918
Today we woke to find everything covered with frost but a fire in the dugout soon warmed us up. We are mining all the subs together by tunnels so we worked all day on that. I got two letters from Edith, one from mother and one from Kitty. Mother was acknowledging my cablegram from Blighty which she received on Xmas day. Kitty bawled me out about saying I insinuated that Allen joined up to avoid conscription. A beautiful warm day. Lievin is quite a beautiful place in spite of its destruction.
Wednesday 30th January 1918
We almost finished the tunnel today. Just requires shoaring up. Heinie very quiet all day. On guard tonight, sat in the dugout during my first shift.
Thursday 31 January 1918
Today was very misty. Observation bad so no shooting. Got a parcel from Douglas tonight treats, magazines and a pair of gloves. Was working out in the open hauling wood all day.
After a lighting of the fire this morning I never did a stroke of work until this afternoon when I helped a fellow cut some wood. An orderly from the 66th put in an appearance about 3.00 p.m. but where he is going to sleep is beyond me as the cellar is pretty well crowded. As it is, he is a sloppy sort of fellow just like the ordinary run of the 66th Bty. Rain on and off all day. I hit my head against a beam this morning so now have a rotten headache. Wrote my letter of congratulations to Cecilia.
Thursday 17th January 1918
Was orderly room orderly today. Very drizzly all during the daylight hour but cleared up after dark. Wrote to Gnr Thompson who is in hospital I n Blighty having been gassed at Ypres. No mail tonight. Didn't get up until very late this morning so everything was behind.
Friday 18th January 1918
Hiney is beginning to get very nasty now. All day long he has been putting shrapnel all over which makes it difficult to walk around. Played Rhum in the evening. Had quite a good game. A fair day but not so dry as one would like. After playing cards went up and sat with “Labrador” (the cook) who having had a big issue of rum was in high spirits. He kept me there until nearly one o’clock a.m.
Saturday 19th January 1918
Acted as orderly for the Colonel in the morning. He wanted to know if I had heard from Mrs. Bullen so I was able to tell him all about it. Heiney is firing quite heavily again today. He strafed a battery beside our position with 8” inch as fast as he could put them over. A big 9.2 How soon shut them up.Most of the fellows were up by 7:30 A.M. but I didn't move until about 8:30. Went up to the Bty in evening and got three parcels from mother. tin of soda crackers, tin of jam and another of goodies in which was 100 Turkish cigarettes from Mr. and Mrs. Macklin. Letter from Douglas.
Sunday 20 January 1918
Bucked quite a lot of wood in the morning. Tonight two men were killed and three wounded at Napoo corner. I never go by that corner now and I've never done so for the past few 3 days because of his firing around. Went up to the battery in the evening. Two guns were expected to be put into our original position tonight. They have been firing it up for the last past few days.
Monday 21 January 1918
Paid today. 20 Francs. I have now got practically 80 Francs. Got a letter from Evan who has just been on leave in Blighty. I am wondering whether he was over there when I was. Today the battery was heavily shells from 8.00 A.M. until 4:30 P.M. Two gun pits were driven in but no one was hurt although three men were buried and fortunately got out unhurt.
Tuesday January 22nd 1918
Tthe battery is moving to its original position today much to the delight of all. Heiney planes were very busy nearly all day but his artillery was dormant. A beautiful sun shiny day. Quite hot in fact. Tonight a G.S. Wagon of the 61st Bty had one horse killed and four wounded from a 4.1 shell which landed only a foot away from the team. Fortunately not one of the drivers got a scratch. Dr. Herb Brown came up to inspect the wound. I took him over but as he had his wind up so badly he got away “toot suit”. He is an awful coward.
Wednesday 23rd January 1918
The Battery got in safe and sound last night and were in action today. Captain Brown told me last night that Robin Watt was one of General Currie’s A.D.C’s. He has three wound stripes up and wears the MC ribbon. Some boy, eh. Today is rather dull with the sun shining now and then. It has on the whole been quite pleasant. Just like a spring day. Got a package from Beales from Hariana containing some Spanish smokes. I can't say I like them very much.
Thursday 24rd January 1918
Was relieved at 9 A.M. by Hunt of B sub. After taking my dope back to the battery I walked back to the WH. A beautiful day, quite hot, Spring weather. A lovely clear moonlight night.
Friday 25th January 1918
This afternoon I went to the baths and had quite a good one. I really think I have developed scabies so if I can get baths often I should be able to get rid of them. Got a letter this evening from Cecilia the first since the arrival of the youngster. I was very pleased to get it. Fritz bombed Nevus Mines and neighbouring towns very heavily tonight. He also shelled Hersin with the heaviest stuff he had. The most beautiful moonlight night. Lamas put some wadding in his ears yesterday which contained mustard gas. His right ear is badly blistered
Saturday 26th January 1918
This morning I was detailed to go to Les Brebis with two other man to load a truck with elephant iron and pit props. But when we got there the cars have been already loaded so we killed time until about 1:30 when we came back and sat in the “Y”. Got a letter from Douglas. A beautiful hot spring day.
Sunday 27th January 1918
Today the big race between a Soule and Barnes came off. They walked a20 miles but spoilt the last 50 yards by running. It was a well walked race. They did it in 16 minutes less than 5 hours. A beautiful day. “A” sub had a half holiday.
Monday 28th January 1918
Poor old Soule couldn't get up today on account of an injured foot which he received in yesterday's race so I had to take the water wagon in the morning. But in the afternoon we started out for the guns. Goldie Black & I relieved Bomb. Goldie and Gilson. It was very quiet today but Fritzy came over in the bright moonlight and dropped a wagon load of bombs and down Calonne way.
Tuesday 29th January 1918
Today we woke to find everything covered with frost but a fire in the dugout soon warmed us up. We are mining all the subs together by tunnels so we worked all day on that. I got two letters from Edith, one from mother and one from Kitty. Mother was acknowledging my cablegram from Blighty which she received on Xmas day. Kitty bawled me out about saying I insinuated that Allen joined up to avoid conscription. A beautiful warm day. Lievin is quite a beautiful place in spite of its destruction.
Wednesday 30th January 1918
We almost finished the tunnel today. Just requires shoaring up. Heinie very quiet all day. On guard tonight, sat in the dugout during my first shift.
Thursday 31 January 1918
Today was very misty. Observation bad so no shooting. Got a parcel from Douglas tonight treats, magazines and a pair of gloves. Was working out in the open hauling wood all day.
Friday, 1 February 1918
Finished the tunnel during the day. Some General of the first division inspected all the Fourteenth Bgde batteries today. A very raw and foggy day. Heiney has been suspiciously quiet today and yesterday. I don't think this is on account of the fog either. We are getting barbed wire around everything so if Heiney should pay us a visit he would have a hot reception.
Saturday, 2 February 1918
I can't say work was hard today. Firstly because I burnt my fingers fairly badly in the morning. Secondly because there wasn't very much to do. It has been rather a nice day. Aeroplanes have been quite active.
Sunday, 3 February 1918
Was on sanitary fatigue today. In the evening I went to the ? gun and with seven others we hauled ammunition after the wagon had got up there which was about 9.00 p.m. because the darn thing got stuck in the mud causing a long delay. I was very tired when I got back.
Monday, 4 February 1918
This afternoon we fired about seventeen rounds registering three targets, one of which we fired on about 7:30 in the evening. The gas from the shells just lodged in the pit and made us all feel groggy. Goldie (Bomb) was completely laid out and had to be packed out of the pit. We fired 60 odd rounds. Black went down and Percy Wills Gilson came up.
Tuesday, 5 February 1918
We fired again today calibrating and registering a target for a shoot tomorrow. We also hear that there is to be another raid tomorrow night. We fired about 42 rds in the evening I went as guy taking a wagon to the ? gun. There's a good-sized house burning merrily tonight just beside Fosse 3. It has been a beautiful day and is a beautiful night.
Wednesday, 6 February 1918
Sergt Conyers came up today so Bdr Goldie has gone back again. Ritchie who has been sort of out of his mind for the past week has completely gone off his head. I think he is to be taken away tonight. Fortunately he was at the wagon line. Heiney straffed the 61st bty today. Was paid today 25 francs. Worked all day on the A-B sub tunnel.
Thursday, 7 February 1918
Today was nice and dull, very quiet. It sprinkled a little this morning and is doing so this evening. Ritchie I hear has gone to hospital, but I guess by now he is in an asylum. One of our boys who knew him before says that he was in an asylum once before. Amon gas guard tonight first shift.
Friday, 8 February 1918
Last night at 12:30 A.M. we had a stand to and fired ten rounds on a target. Worked in the tunnel all day. Lord, the mail is slow in arriving. I haven't had any for a long time not even from England. Ritchie was taken away yesterday and Bomb Goldie & Barnes who escorted him to the hospital had to stay there in charge all night. When he left the battery he was completely bugs and threatening to kill.
Saturday, 9 February 1918
Today the 2nd bty was straffed heavily. The fellows were driven out of their dugouts and some came up here. One of the corporals had supper here. Sergt Conyers went down and corp Wills came up, so now we feel a little less anxious because Sergt Conyers would never pay attention to anyone. Got a long letter from Evan.
Sunday, 10 February 1918
Thank the Lord the tunnel between A-B sub sections is finished. We spent most of the day heaping bricks & cobble stones on the top of it. Got a letter from Dan Thompson & also one from Uncle Tony. Rather windy today.
Monday, 11 February 1918
Today was very windy. There was a bit of a straffe about 6:45 p.m. north of Lens. Flares were going up merrily. Was relieved this afternoon so came down immediately. Got two letters this evening one from Violet Walker and the other from Douglas inviting me to be one of the godfathers. Will I accept the proposal? I well, I guess. Violet arrived in England on New Year's Day. She's really home sick so she says.
Tuesday, 12 February 1918
Today I was detailed to help Percy Mattin who is to drive a team in a G-S wagon contest shortly. I am to help him all week. Got a tin of jam from mother. Also a couple of packages of smokes but of course not players.
Wednesday, 13 February 1918
The harness and horses are looking ever so much better today. Rained quite hard most of the day making the beautiful roads of yesterday a sea of mud.
Thursday, 14 February 1918
Tonight I got a letter from Cecilia thanking me for the money I sent to the youngster on his arrival into this world. She enclosed a letter from mother telling about Chester getting married to an old flame of his, a Miss Spray. He was married on the QT in Vancouver. On picquet tonight.
Friday, 15 February 1918
Hut orderly in the morning as they wanted all the drivers on their harness for an inspection by the Colonel which didn't come off. Went back to the harness job in the afternoon. Got a pair of socks and a box of figs from ?
Saturday, 16 February 1918
Got a letter from Edith, inclosing one from Eric telling her that he had enlisted in the Yankee army and from all accounts has become a naturalized American. Terribly cold this morning, everything frozen.
Sunday, 17 February 1918
John Goldie and I took the show team out and had a good ride in the G-S Wagon. Got a letter from Cecilia enclosing three or four snaps which I had left in my camera. They are very good to say the least.
Monday, 18 February 1918
O’Hanlan who has been cooking in the officers mess has got two months leave in Canada. All first contingent men have got it also. All the transport of the first division and the 5th Div train were inspected in Cite de Gosse 10 by General Currie this afternoon. Goldie & I left for the guns early and having horses we rode up and saw it all. The most wonderful sight. Received a letter from Douglas. He has had his Instep broken buy some quack. (This crack turned out to be a very celebrated Sir ? Burser a few years later) so now expects to have good feet. Ainsley starts work at Yarrows.
Tuesday, 19 February 1918
Today frosty as usual. I worked on the new narrow gauge railway which we are putting in.
Wednesday, 20 February 1918
Fatigues all day. Rained quite hard during the night.
Thursday, 21 February 1918
This morning Heinie opened up on the 56th Bty just in our rear and shelled continually from 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. One of his shells fell short and landed by F sub gun pit. The splinters went far and wide getting Corp Wright in the stomach and Bomb. Lowe on the heal. I helped pack Corpl. Wright down, who is ina very bad condition. They’re not giving much chance for him. Lowe was taken away later. Corpl Whright died a few hours after being hit.
Friday, 22 February 1918
Today I worked on that never-ending job of camouflaging the light rail road with
Which we did perfectly. It is a regular pergoda and quite pretty. Got a letter from mother and Aunt Ellen. Clifford Kilpatrick was married to Vera Hume today in Vancouver.
Saturday, 23 February 1918
Ballasted that ? railway before laying any more track. Corpl. Wills goes down & Sergt. Conyers comes up. Our shelled area canteen opened up tonight and took in about 80 francs. Lots of beer was sold. Got letters from mother dad, and “Old nurse” Mrs. Monroe.
Sunday, 24 February 1918
The rail is almost completed. Tomorrow we'll finish it. Bge Sergt Major Puttick has come up to stay for a few days and gain a little useful information. Got a paper tonight from H.W: Toronto. I think it must be Mrs. Walker as mother has sent her my address.
Monday, 25 February 1918
Bomb Wright came up this evening and Harry Hunt went down. I can see where we have a rotten time now this old granny is up he's about as welcome as a skunk.
Tuesday, 26 February 1918
This morning we expected the Boche would come. Everybody had their wind up. The left and center section signalers etc had their kit ready to pull out. The right section didn't get any such order. In fact we were quite ignorant of what was going on. There was a stand-to at all wagon lines. GS wagons packed and ready to move off. An army order called for a six-horse team to be ready all night for immediate action. The paper of Sunday 24th announced that the Hunt is shelling Paris with a wonderful long-range gun which fires over 75 miles. We are storing all sorts of ammunition around in the gun pit. No one would be surprised if the Hun opened up from Ypres to Switzerland he is making one great ? to make a German ?
Wednesday, 27 February 1918
Thursday, 28 February 1918
Has been windy all day.
Finished the tunnel during the day. Some General of the first division inspected all the Fourteenth Bgde batteries today. A very raw and foggy day. Heiney has been suspiciously quiet today and yesterday. I don't think this is on account of the fog either. We are getting barbed wire around everything so if Heiney should pay us a visit he would have a hot reception.
Saturday, 2 February 1918
I can't say work was hard today. Firstly because I burnt my fingers fairly badly in the morning. Secondly because there wasn't very much to do. It has been rather a nice day. Aeroplanes have been quite active.
Sunday, 3 February 1918
Was on sanitary fatigue today. In the evening I went to the ? gun and with seven others we hauled ammunition after the wagon had got up there which was about 9.00 p.m. because the darn thing got stuck in the mud causing a long delay. I was very tired when I got back.
Monday, 4 February 1918
This afternoon we fired about seventeen rounds registering three targets, one of which we fired on about 7:30 in the evening. The gas from the shells just lodged in the pit and made us all feel groggy. Goldie (Bomb) was completely laid out and had to be packed out of the pit. We fired 60 odd rounds. Black went down and Percy Wills Gilson came up.
Tuesday, 5 February 1918
We fired again today calibrating and registering a target for a shoot tomorrow. We also hear that there is to be another raid tomorrow night. We fired about 42 rds in the evening I went as guy taking a wagon to the ? gun. There's a good-sized house burning merrily tonight just beside Fosse 3. It has been a beautiful day and is a beautiful night.
Wednesday, 6 February 1918
Sergt Conyers came up today so Bdr Goldie has gone back again. Ritchie who has been sort of out of his mind for the past week has completely gone off his head. I think he is to be taken away tonight. Fortunately he was at the wagon line. Heiney straffed the 61st bty today. Was paid today 25 francs. Worked all day on the A-B sub tunnel.
Thursday, 7 February 1918
Today was nice and dull, very quiet. It sprinkled a little this morning and is doing so this evening. Ritchie I hear has gone to hospital, but I guess by now he is in an asylum. One of our boys who knew him before says that he was in an asylum once before. Amon gas guard tonight first shift.
Friday, 8 February 1918
Last night at 12:30 A.M. we had a stand to and fired ten rounds on a target. Worked in the tunnel all day. Lord, the mail is slow in arriving. I haven't had any for a long time not even from England. Ritchie was taken away yesterday and Bomb Goldie & Barnes who escorted him to the hospital had to stay there in charge all night. When he left the battery he was completely bugs and threatening to kill.
Saturday, 9 February 1918
Today the 2nd bty was straffed heavily. The fellows were driven out of their dugouts and some came up here. One of the corporals had supper here. Sergt Conyers went down and corp Wills came up, so now we feel a little less anxious because Sergt Conyers would never pay attention to anyone. Got a long letter from Evan.
Sunday, 10 February 1918
Thank the Lord the tunnel between A-B sub sections is finished. We spent most of the day heaping bricks & cobble stones on the top of it. Got a letter from Dan Thompson & also one from Uncle Tony. Rather windy today.
Monday, 11 February 1918
Today was very windy. There was a bit of a straffe about 6:45 p.m. north of Lens. Flares were going up merrily. Was relieved this afternoon so came down immediately. Got two letters this evening one from Violet Walker and the other from Douglas inviting me to be one of the godfathers. Will I accept the proposal? I well, I guess. Violet arrived in England on New Year's Day. She's really home sick so she says.
Tuesday, 12 February 1918
Today I was detailed to help Percy Mattin who is to drive a team in a G-S wagon contest shortly. I am to help him all week. Got a tin of jam from mother. Also a couple of packages of smokes but of course not players.
Wednesday, 13 February 1918
The harness and horses are looking ever so much better today. Rained quite hard most of the day making the beautiful roads of yesterday a sea of mud.
Thursday, 14 February 1918
Tonight I got a letter from Cecilia thanking me for the money I sent to the youngster on his arrival into this world. She enclosed a letter from mother telling about Chester getting married to an old flame of his, a Miss Spray. He was married on the QT in Vancouver. On picquet tonight.
Friday, 15 February 1918
Hut orderly in the morning as they wanted all the drivers on their harness for an inspection by the Colonel which didn't come off. Went back to the harness job in the afternoon. Got a pair of socks and a box of figs from ?
Saturday, 16 February 1918
Got a letter from Edith, inclosing one from Eric telling her that he had enlisted in the Yankee army and from all accounts has become a naturalized American. Terribly cold this morning, everything frozen.
Sunday, 17 February 1918
John Goldie and I took the show team out and had a good ride in the G-S Wagon. Got a letter from Cecilia enclosing three or four snaps which I had left in my camera. They are very good to say the least.
Monday, 18 February 1918
O’Hanlan who has been cooking in the officers mess has got two months leave in Canada. All first contingent men have got it also. All the transport of the first division and the 5th Div train were inspected in Cite de Gosse 10 by General Currie this afternoon. Goldie & I left for the guns early and having horses we rode up and saw it all. The most wonderful sight. Received a letter from Douglas. He has had his Instep broken buy some quack. (This crack turned out to be a very celebrated Sir ? Burser a few years later) so now expects to have good feet. Ainsley starts work at Yarrows.
Tuesday, 19 February 1918
Today frosty as usual. I worked on the new narrow gauge railway which we are putting in.
Wednesday, 20 February 1918
Fatigues all day. Rained quite hard during the night.
Thursday, 21 February 1918
This morning Heinie opened up on the 56th Bty just in our rear and shelled continually from 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. One of his shells fell short and landed by F sub gun pit. The splinters went far and wide getting Corp Wright in the stomach and Bomb. Lowe on the heal. I helped pack Corpl. Wright down, who is ina very bad condition. They’re not giving much chance for him. Lowe was taken away later. Corpl Whright died a few hours after being hit.
Friday, 22 February 1918
Today I worked on that never-ending job of camouflaging the light rail road with
Which we did perfectly. It is a regular pergoda and quite pretty. Got a letter from mother and Aunt Ellen. Clifford Kilpatrick was married to Vera Hume today in Vancouver.
Saturday, 23 February 1918
Ballasted that ? railway before laying any more track. Corpl. Wills goes down & Sergt. Conyers comes up. Our shelled area canteen opened up tonight and took in about 80 francs. Lots of beer was sold. Got letters from mother dad, and “Old nurse” Mrs. Monroe.
Sunday, 24 February 1918
The rail is almost completed. Tomorrow we'll finish it. Bge Sergt Major Puttick has come up to stay for a few days and gain a little useful information. Got a paper tonight from H.W: Toronto. I think it must be Mrs. Walker as mother has sent her my address.
Monday, 25 February 1918
Bomb Wright came up this evening and Harry Hunt went down. I can see where we have a rotten time now this old granny is up he's about as welcome as a skunk.
Tuesday, 26 February 1918
This morning we expected the Boche would come. Everybody had their wind up. The left and center section signalers etc had their kit ready to pull out. The right section didn't get any such order. In fact we were quite ignorant of what was going on. There was a stand-to at all wagon lines. GS wagons packed and ready to move off. An army order called for a six-horse team to be ready all night for immediate action. The paper of Sunday 24th announced that the Hunt is shelling Paris with a wonderful long-range gun which fires over 75 miles. We are storing all sorts of ammunition around in the gun pit. No one would be surprised if the Hun opened up from Ypres to Switzerland he is making one great ? to make a German ?
Wednesday, 27 February 1918
Thursday, 28 February 1918
Has been windy all day.
Friday 1 March 1918
Got two letters this evening from Cecilia and Douglas. On account of not having a pen I have kept putting off writing in this journal until now. I can't think what has happened. Blowing like the mischief causing our dugout to be a regular ice house instead of the usual snug little room.
Saturday to March 1918
The wind has gone down quite a lot today and I am very glad for it has been the cause of the extremely cold weather. Tonight we answered an S.O.S call. Sergeant Conyers and I wrote an account of the battery Xmas dinner for the O-pip. The funny part about it is that neither of us were at the big affair. It has snowed on and off all day.
Sunday 3 March 1918
had to stand to at 6:30 this morning and fire two rounds. We now have two Lewis guns attached to the battery. One at the horse lines and one up here at the battery to be used as an anti-aircraft gun.
Monday 4 March 1918
Last night as I couldn't sleep owing to a bad toothache I did guard from midnight until four o’clock this morning. I crawled into bed and was soon asleep, but at 6.00 A.M. we were ordered to stand to on account of a Heiney coming over. We fired an S.O.S for one and a half hours wearing our gas masks for about half an hour as he put over sneezing gas.
Tuesday 5 March 1918
Went to the dentist today who partly cured my toothache. As all Gunners have a day off when they come down to the W.L. I naturally had a holiday. Sains-en-Gohelle is crowded with sammies who are up here on a cooks tour. Legg, Richetts & Fryer have all been arrested and are guarded day and night, for being concerned in a plot in which they stole tons of our rations. Q.M. Salisbury & O’Hipps were kicked out of the Q.M. stores. Corporal Burchell takes over until Sergt Harrington gets back from leave.
Wednesday 6 March 1980
Washed wagons all day as I am limber gunner. Band concert at the “Y” in the evening.
Thursday 7 March 1918
I put in a hard day today trying to keep out of the ? sight. It is the hardest job I ever had. Tonight I went on guard looking after the criminals. As Corporal Legg never had any evidence against him he was acquitted and before doing so he was obliged to revert to gunner. He is now a driver in A sub. A beautiful day to say the least.
Friday 8th March 1918
Guard all day. Got a letter from Cecilia and enclosing ? frames and a letter from mother. I went to a concert in evening at the “Y” but as we were forced to stay outside and look through the windows it got mighty cold so I parted tout de suite. The sergt major of a second div battery came to the lines today to look over our lines as they expect to take over in a few days, when we go out to rest. Our airplanes were very busy bombing last night.
Saturday 9 March 1918
the 5th Div concert party held their first performance tonight and I can tell you it was a fine show. My limber gunner job is just okay. Nothing at all to do. It's been a beautiful day. Tonight the clock is to be advanced one hour. This summer time is a great idea.
Sunday 10 March 1980
I painted all the tools that go with the gun limber. Sat in the sun most of the day. The weather is just sublime. A Canadian mail today but no letters for me.
Monday 11 March 1918
A beautiful day. Too hot to be pleasant. John Peterson came in to see me last night. He is a runner in the 25th Batt.
Tuesday 12 March 1918
Last night a huge Gotha came down on account of no petrol just outside ? mines. A couple of our boys saw it during the day. Cecilia sent me a fountain pen. Much too good for my use. Oiled the vehicles today. Two of our balloons were set on fire this morning by a Heiney airman.
Wednesday 13th March 1918
The Americans were paid today. The first time for about three months. They were nearly all drunk. Lord knows what has happened to our Canadian mail. None has come from the west so far. Another beautiful day. I am more than pleased with my new pen. We are preparing to pull out on Friday. I saw Chris Essex who is a Lieut in the 3rd Battalion.
Thursday 14th March 1918
Worked on the vehicle all day packing etc. Got a lot of Canadian mail today. Two letters from Edith, one from mother, Geents & Kitty. The latter never mentioned a word about my insinuations in my last letter.
Friday 15 March 1918
About 10:15 A.M. we left our wagon lines at Sains-en-Gohelle to pull out for our rear horse lines in Hallicourt where we are to spend a few weeks resting after our heavy work on the Western Front. The billets are worse than those we struck when we first arrived in France. Goldie GA & Goldie GE & Gilson & I obtained a room over an estaminet, which is much better than the sub’s billet. Got a nice long letter from Douglas.
Saturday 16 March 1918
I worked around the gun park in the morning and afternoon. It is a lovely day but the stink arising from the backyards of the houses spoils it. This morning young mademoiselle gave me a hot cup of coffee which went mighty well.
Sunday 17th March 1980
It wasn't until I began writing this that I found out it was Saint Patrick's day. One day is the same as the other out here. I act as the men's orderly today and an awful job it is on account of the very slim rations. Was on town pick up tonight, after clearing the troops out of the estaminets at 8.00 p.m. we hung around till 9.00 then broke off. It has been a beautiful day. The whole French population was on a spree tonight and a half of them were drunk.
Monday 18 March 1980
We slept in until 6:20 this morning and naturally were late to fall in. I thought we would be up for office but it all blew over thank goodness. Got a parcel this evening from Mrs. Walker of Toronto. I had forgotten all about her. The court-martial of Rickets and Fryerr was promulgated today. They both got two years with hard labour. They deserved a good punishment but not nearly as much as two years. The war will be over by that time and they will most likely be paroned. A beautiful day.
Tuesday 19 March 1918
Aunt A’s birthday. The sun was so poor when it rose this morning that I felt sure it was going to rain and sure enough at 7.00 A.M. down it came and some wet to. Ricketts has squealed on the QM and everybody else. He told Mr. Armstrong and Sergeant Maiman everything he knew. Something is sure to arise out of it. Later, Ricketson & Fryer were later pardoned.
Wednesday at 20 March 1918
It rained on and off until noon today and then the sun came out and made things beautiful. Nothing unusual has happened today.
Thursday 21 March 1918
A beautiful day. Went through gas and had foot drill.
Friday 22 March 1918
Left Hallicourt about 12:30 a.m. for Grand Serrins. Men that had gone on courses the day before were all recalled. We arrived at Grand Serrins at 4:30 or a little earlier. I was immediately put on gun guard. A perfect day and a perfect night.
Saturday 23 March 1918
We left Grand Serrins at 9:15 for our old wagon lines at Sains-en-Gohelle. At 3 p.m. four men per sub left mounted for Loos where we relieved the 48th Bty. The gun pits are not up to much, that is, there is not very much covering over them. The dug outs are under a crassier and very deep all of which are lighted by electricity certainly. It certainly saves candles. In my haste to get away from Heiney shells I got caught in barbed wire and tore my breeches very badly. Alex Goldie reports to Bge Hq as orderly.
Sunday 24 March 1918
We had a stand to at 5.00 a.m. but as the raid was on the Lens front we did not fire. It was quite sharp at this hour. This noon as I was scratching a lot I took off my shirt and caught over 100 grey backs. They were on my under drawers, top and undershirt. Put all three articles into a pot and boiled them. Tonight I am without any underwear. Wouldn’t my mother call me down if she only knew. I had a good wash so feel ever so ever so much better. Dvr Grieve came up tonight.
Monday 25 March 1918
This morning at 3:15 we got to orders to turn and haul ammunition which was brought up by the ammunition wagons. We packed until 6.00 A.M. when we covered up what remained and after an early breakfast turned in and slept until 12:30 A.M. I can tell you it was my cold without underwear this A.M. There's an awful battle in progress around San Quentin and Cambrai. The Hun is attacking on masse but so far our gallant troops have held their own. Most of the Canadian artillery has left here and gone down there.
Tuesday 26th March 1918
I slept in the gun pit last night and at 1.00 A.M B sub got firing orders so I helped Bobby Travis who is on their gun. At 4.00 A.M. I got firing orders and fired half a dozen rounds by myself before they came out of the dug out to give me a hand. The fumes lodged in the pit so badly that you could hardly breathe. I had an awful headache so I slept all the morning. We have made our pit so that we can get out in a very few minutes. Got a pair of pliers from the Cecilia this evening.
Wednesday 27th March 1918
To start the day we stood to at 5.00 a.m. just as a sort of precaution. Nothing happened. About 11.00 A.M. we received orders to pack up everything as we were going to move. Then a later order came to stop. John G & I took a walk and when we got back we found the right section getting ready to pull out so we got to work. Drivers pulled up about 9.00 and away we went. The other sections are to come out tomorrow night. I presume we are going to Cambrai where the Hun is making his last stab. Baby girl born to Rita Hughes at St Joseph.
Thursday 28th March 1918
Was up at reveille but was very tired. We got the vehicles ready for a long march. I wanted to get a bath today but no luck. The newspaper accounts of the war are very encouraging but at the same time there are two sides to the question. Later. We lost miles of territory during this retreat. The gallant 5th Army was the cause of it all. A Brigadier General saved the situation by putting every man into the line. Railway troops, Engineers, American engineers, and men from labour battalions were used. Most of the ground was won back in August.
Friday 29th March
Today we had a full marching inspection by the Captain. Had a bath this morning and a clean change of underwear, so feel very much better.
Saturday 30 March 1918
Left Sains-en-Gohelle for a point just to the right of the Mericourt front. It started to rain just after we left and kept it up pretty well all night. We were issued with a couple of tarpaulins per sub so we put them up and had eight men in each where there is only room for about five. We never stopped for a midday meal but carried on until about 3:30 when we pulled into open horse lines. The guns pulled out about 5.00 but I stayed behind.
Sunday 31 March 1918
The battery is being provided with all kinds of ammunition so that it is necessary for all the teams and the D.A.C. to haul all day long. We had two more tents issued today which makes it better. Rained quite hard at 6.00 p.m. but we were ready for it. Gilson comes back from Boulogne with remounts
Got two letters this evening from Cecilia and Douglas. On account of not having a pen I have kept putting off writing in this journal until now. I can't think what has happened. Blowing like the mischief causing our dugout to be a regular ice house instead of the usual snug little room.
Saturday to March 1918
The wind has gone down quite a lot today and I am very glad for it has been the cause of the extremely cold weather. Tonight we answered an S.O.S call. Sergeant Conyers and I wrote an account of the battery Xmas dinner for the O-pip. The funny part about it is that neither of us were at the big affair. It has snowed on and off all day.
Sunday 3 March 1918
had to stand to at 6:30 this morning and fire two rounds. We now have two Lewis guns attached to the battery. One at the horse lines and one up here at the battery to be used as an anti-aircraft gun.
Monday 4 March 1918
Last night as I couldn't sleep owing to a bad toothache I did guard from midnight until four o’clock this morning. I crawled into bed and was soon asleep, but at 6.00 A.M. we were ordered to stand to on account of a Heiney coming over. We fired an S.O.S for one and a half hours wearing our gas masks for about half an hour as he put over sneezing gas.
Tuesday 5 March 1918
Went to the dentist today who partly cured my toothache. As all Gunners have a day off when they come down to the W.L. I naturally had a holiday. Sains-en-Gohelle is crowded with sammies who are up here on a cooks tour. Legg, Richetts & Fryer have all been arrested and are guarded day and night, for being concerned in a plot in which they stole tons of our rations. Q.M. Salisbury & O’Hipps were kicked out of the Q.M. stores. Corporal Burchell takes over until Sergt Harrington gets back from leave.
Wednesday 6 March 1980
Washed wagons all day as I am limber gunner. Band concert at the “Y” in the evening.
Thursday 7 March 1918
I put in a hard day today trying to keep out of the ? sight. It is the hardest job I ever had. Tonight I went on guard looking after the criminals. As Corporal Legg never had any evidence against him he was acquitted and before doing so he was obliged to revert to gunner. He is now a driver in A sub. A beautiful day to say the least.
Friday 8th March 1918
Guard all day. Got a letter from Cecilia and enclosing ? frames and a letter from mother. I went to a concert in evening at the “Y” but as we were forced to stay outside and look through the windows it got mighty cold so I parted tout de suite. The sergt major of a second div battery came to the lines today to look over our lines as they expect to take over in a few days, when we go out to rest. Our airplanes were very busy bombing last night.
Saturday 9 March 1918
the 5th Div concert party held their first performance tonight and I can tell you it was a fine show. My limber gunner job is just okay. Nothing at all to do. It's been a beautiful day. Tonight the clock is to be advanced one hour. This summer time is a great idea.
Sunday 10 March 1980
I painted all the tools that go with the gun limber. Sat in the sun most of the day. The weather is just sublime. A Canadian mail today but no letters for me.
Monday 11 March 1918
A beautiful day. Too hot to be pleasant. John Peterson came in to see me last night. He is a runner in the 25th Batt.
Tuesday 12 March 1918
Last night a huge Gotha came down on account of no petrol just outside ? mines. A couple of our boys saw it during the day. Cecilia sent me a fountain pen. Much too good for my use. Oiled the vehicles today. Two of our balloons were set on fire this morning by a Heiney airman.
Wednesday 13th March 1918
The Americans were paid today. The first time for about three months. They were nearly all drunk. Lord knows what has happened to our Canadian mail. None has come from the west so far. Another beautiful day. I am more than pleased with my new pen. We are preparing to pull out on Friday. I saw Chris Essex who is a Lieut in the 3rd Battalion.
Thursday 14th March 1918
Worked on the vehicle all day packing etc. Got a lot of Canadian mail today. Two letters from Edith, one from mother, Geents & Kitty. The latter never mentioned a word about my insinuations in my last letter.
Friday 15 March 1918
About 10:15 A.M. we left our wagon lines at Sains-en-Gohelle to pull out for our rear horse lines in Hallicourt where we are to spend a few weeks resting after our heavy work on the Western Front. The billets are worse than those we struck when we first arrived in France. Goldie GA & Goldie GE & Gilson & I obtained a room over an estaminet, which is much better than the sub’s billet. Got a nice long letter from Douglas.
Saturday 16 March 1918
I worked around the gun park in the morning and afternoon. It is a lovely day but the stink arising from the backyards of the houses spoils it. This morning young mademoiselle gave me a hot cup of coffee which went mighty well.
Sunday 17th March 1980
It wasn't until I began writing this that I found out it was Saint Patrick's day. One day is the same as the other out here. I act as the men's orderly today and an awful job it is on account of the very slim rations. Was on town pick up tonight, after clearing the troops out of the estaminets at 8.00 p.m. we hung around till 9.00 then broke off. It has been a beautiful day. The whole French population was on a spree tonight and a half of them were drunk.
Monday 18 March 1980
We slept in until 6:20 this morning and naturally were late to fall in. I thought we would be up for office but it all blew over thank goodness. Got a parcel this evening from Mrs. Walker of Toronto. I had forgotten all about her. The court-martial of Rickets and Fryerr was promulgated today. They both got two years with hard labour. They deserved a good punishment but not nearly as much as two years. The war will be over by that time and they will most likely be paroned. A beautiful day.
Tuesday 19 March 1918
Aunt A’s birthday. The sun was so poor when it rose this morning that I felt sure it was going to rain and sure enough at 7.00 A.M. down it came and some wet to. Ricketts has squealed on the QM and everybody else. He told Mr. Armstrong and Sergeant Maiman everything he knew. Something is sure to arise out of it. Later, Ricketson & Fryer were later pardoned.
Wednesday at 20 March 1918
It rained on and off until noon today and then the sun came out and made things beautiful. Nothing unusual has happened today.
Thursday 21 March 1918
A beautiful day. Went through gas and had foot drill.
Friday 22 March 1918
Left Hallicourt about 12:30 a.m. for Grand Serrins. Men that had gone on courses the day before were all recalled. We arrived at Grand Serrins at 4:30 or a little earlier. I was immediately put on gun guard. A perfect day and a perfect night.
Saturday 23 March 1918
We left Grand Serrins at 9:15 for our old wagon lines at Sains-en-Gohelle. At 3 p.m. four men per sub left mounted for Loos where we relieved the 48th Bty. The gun pits are not up to much, that is, there is not very much covering over them. The dug outs are under a crassier and very deep all of which are lighted by electricity certainly. It certainly saves candles. In my haste to get away from Heiney shells I got caught in barbed wire and tore my breeches very badly. Alex Goldie reports to Bge Hq as orderly.
Sunday 24 March 1918
We had a stand to at 5.00 a.m. but as the raid was on the Lens front we did not fire. It was quite sharp at this hour. This noon as I was scratching a lot I took off my shirt and caught over 100 grey backs. They were on my under drawers, top and undershirt. Put all three articles into a pot and boiled them. Tonight I am without any underwear. Wouldn’t my mother call me down if she only knew. I had a good wash so feel ever so ever so much better. Dvr Grieve came up tonight.
Monday 25 March 1918
This morning at 3:15 we got to orders to turn and haul ammunition which was brought up by the ammunition wagons. We packed until 6.00 A.M. when we covered up what remained and after an early breakfast turned in and slept until 12:30 A.M. I can tell you it was my cold without underwear this A.M. There's an awful battle in progress around San Quentin and Cambrai. The Hun is attacking on masse but so far our gallant troops have held their own. Most of the Canadian artillery has left here and gone down there.
Tuesday 26th March 1918
I slept in the gun pit last night and at 1.00 A.M B sub got firing orders so I helped Bobby Travis who is on their gun. At 4.00 A.M. I got firing orders and fired half a dozen rounds by myself before they came out of the dug out to give me a hand. The fumes lodged in the pit so badly that you could hardly breathe. I had an awful headache so I slept all the morning. We have made our pit so that we can get out in a very few minutes. Got a pair of pliers from the Cecilia this evening.
Wednesday 27th March 1918
To start the day we stood to at 5.00 a.m. just as a sort of precaution. Nothing happened. About 11.00 A.M. we received orders to pack up everything as we were going to move. Then a later order came to stop. John G & I took a walk and when we got back we found the right section getting ready to pull out so we got to work. Drivers pulled up about 9.00 and away we went. The other sections are to come out tomorrow night. I presume we are going to Cambrai where the Hun is making his last stab. Baby girl born to Rita Hughes at St Joseph.
Thursday 28th March 1918
Was up at reveille but was very tired. We got the vehicles ready for a long march. I wanted to get a bath today but no luck. The newspaper accounts of the war are very encouraging but at the same time there are two sides to the question. Later. We lost miles of territory during this retreat. The gallant 5th Army was the cause of it all. A Brigadier General saved the situation by putting every man into the line. Railway troops, Engineers, American engineers, and men from labour battalions were used. Most of the ground was won back in August.
Friday 29th March
Today we had a full marching inspection by the Captain. Had a bath this morning and a clean change of underwear, so feel very much better.
Saturday 30 March 1918
Left Sains-en-Gohelle for a point just to the right of the Mericourt front. It started to rain just after we left and kept it up pretty well all night. We were issued with a couple of tarpaulins per sub so we put them up and had eight men in each where there is only room for about five. We never stopped for a midday meal but carried on until about 3:30 when we pulled into open horse lines. The guns pulled out about 5.00 but I stayed behind.
Sunday 31 March 1918
The battery is being provided with all kinds of ammunition so that it is necessary for all the teams and the D.A.C. to haul all day long. We had two more tents issued today which makes it better. Rained quite hard at 6.00 p.m. but we were ready for it. Gilson comes back from Boulogne with remounts
Monday 1 April 1918
This morning at 9.00 A.M. all the ? pulled out with ammunition for the battery. We hauled all day making two trips which kept us going until 10.00 P.M. As we were coming from the dump on the last trip to the horse lines an officer riding a motorcycle ran bang into a motor lorry. He escaped with a big gash in his forehead and pretty well shaken up. Got thru Saturday ? from home w/a letter from D & a regstd letter from Cecilia with 60 francs in it.
Tuesday 2 April 1918
Today was spent fixing up our Huts etc as we expect to be here for quite a time. Got two letters from mother and one from Dad & ?. George Lomas & I walked to a near by town & had eggs. Last night one of Heinneys planes came over and shut down four of our observation balloons. It was pretty neat work.
Wednesday 3 April 1918
Got letters from mother and dad today. Am on stable picquet tonight. Put up harness today. Got two letters from Jetty the first bawling me out about telling Allan off and the other apologizing. She must have been mad. Washed the vehicles today.
Thursday 4 April 1918
Today between a showers I oiled the vehicles.
Friday 5 April 1918
Got a tin of jam and four packages of cigarettes from mother. A S.E.P from Edith. Was paid today 25 Francs. Repacked the vehicles.
Saturday 6 April 1918
Washed G. S. Wagons. Got a letter from Old Hurse and a parcel from Edith with a pair of socks and 100 cigs from Max Leicer. I took a pack horse up the line this evening and packed ammunition. Made 9 trips from the dump to the battery about 14 miles. The last two trips was so dark that I couldn't find the battery, but fell into trenches and shell holes. Coming back In the rain I couldn't see the road so let the horse have his head. He took us right back over a shortcut through fields full of trenches end shell holes without going off the road once. Never guided him once. He was wonderful. Really tired, so was I.
Sunday 7th April 1918
As we were out very late last night we were allowed to sleep in. At 8:30 we pulled out for the baths but were unable to get one. It is a little cold today but not raining.
Monday 8th April 1918
About 5.00 pm we pulled out for ? lines on the Arras-Bethune Rd at La Targette. We have huts to sleep in so consider ourselves jake.
Tuesday 9 April 1918
Received a lovely parcel from mother today. Heiney shelled billets and horse lines. He didn't bother us until evening. When I was down in the morning after the show, I came out and found our boys leading the horses out. Just before I arrived upon the scene four horses were killed and another wounded instantly by one shell which also killed Gnr McDaniels, badly wounded Bomb McGreer and Dr. Yulbarton. The former is not expected to live, and Sammie Gilbertson has one foot blown off and the other badly damaged. We pulled out for our old horse lines immediately. I slept in a sub harness-room with about 20 others.
Wednesday 10 April 1918
We went back to the hurriedly vacated horse lines this morning and got all our belongings. We had dinner at the old lines then on to another place just at the corner of the Arras-Houdain. We have a cellar to sleep in and hard horse lines. Not so bad on the whole. I am terribly tired tonight. Heiney is very busy shelling back areas and doing a lot of damage.
Thursday 11 April 1918
Had a most beautiful sleep last night from 8.15 p.m. until 6.00 a.m. this morning. About noon it cleared up wonderfully. The sun coming out strong. I had a great shirt inspection today but only got a very few. We hear that the McGeer has passed away. Sergt Sid White got a letter saying so from Alf Dowell who is in Blighty having got there through a bad foot, most likely poisoned. Tunny Davis came in to see me today. He is in the 1st Field Ambulance. Ian Games is in the 3rd, not far from here.
Friday 12 April 1918
Worked around the gun park all day. Chatwin & Maiman, the officer & N.C.O. I/C of wagon lines have got on everyone's nerve. They are both raising hell around here. I wrote in my entry yesterday that Bomb McGeer had passed away, but today I hear one of our boys had seen him. His sister is nursing him and he is doing very well.
Saturday 13th April 1918
Washed the vehicles today.Went down for a bath and got a little real estate off, but we didn't get any clean clothes. Sergt goes up and Ricketts, Cpl Wills & Bdr Goldie come down. Two shells landed quite close to the Chinese labour company camp just the other side of the road. In about two seconds down came two chinks into our dugout. John Goldie got sore and grabbed one by the collar and dragged him outside. The other followed him tout sweet.
Sunday 14th April 1980
There was a battery church service today in the gun part. The singing was very pitiful. Mr Chatwin, who has made himself most unpopular, tried his best to ‘get in’ with the boys by buying a keg of beer. Only about two of the battery bums drank it. You may be sure I wouldn’t drink his beer not after the way he carried on.
Monday 15 April 1918
Washed and oiled those never clean vehicles in the evening Gilson and I came up to the battery. the first time for many days. I was immediately put on gas guard. The position now is on Petit Vimy just a few yards north of the Artillery Monument. The Sergt & I slept in the gun pit. Mr Chatwin, who was called down by the Capt. for ragging the men was terribly nice today. You would hardly think he was the same person of yesterday
Tuesday 16th April 1918
This morning we had a personal inspection at 9.30 and we're informed that tomorrow we are to wear bandoliers. If we were very busy it would be punk but as it is we're not at all overworked. We are in a hell of a salient here, and the only reason he doesn't tackle us is because the Canadians are holding it and he is scared of them. Hunt from B sub and I went up with the rations tonight. Got a drink of rum up at the sniper and one when we got back. I was talking very fluently.
Wednesday 17th April 1918
This morning we were hauled out of bed at 6.30 to haul ammunition which we did until breakfast. After breakfast Gilson and I were two of a party of ten to go to the sniper to haul ammunition. We got back to the battery at 12:30 and heard that we were to relieve the sniper crew which we did at 6.00 in the evening. The gun is right outside a slag heap the dugouts being mainly fit under it. It is jake to say the least. Mr. McCutcheon is up here and last night as we sat beside the fire he told me that he was in St Joseph's at the same time as I was.
Thursday 18th April 1918
I had a fine sleep last night. Never got up until 8.30 this morning. About noon today Fritz opened up on us and gave us hell. One shell landed right in front of the gun covering it with mud. A big splinter went right through the part of the shield that protects the dial sight and made a bulge in the main shield. The heavies opened on the hostile battery and so did the first sniper which is right beside us. Wright and I were on duty tonight. Fired 50 rds before midnight. Got a letter from John Peterson ce soir.
Friday 19th April 1918
Fired 50 rounds between 3:30 and 5.00 this morning. It was snowing most of the time. Terribly funny weather we are getting. I slept in until noon then washed and shaved and help the boys put ammunition into the pit. Five of our men are manning an old 15 pdr gun which is to be used against tanks and mass formations. Only about two shells were landed anywhere near the guns today. Got a letter from Edith this evening. She speaks of nothing else but Mr Watson, a very great friend. Tonight between 9:30 & 12.00 the Sergt & I got off 107 rounds after which I was very tired.
Saturday 20th April 1918
A beautiful day. I slept in until noon when the Sergt told me to get up as I was to go down to the battery to look after the interests of “A” sub. I didn't leave until 4:30 as I was kept busy passing orders. I got down here in due. It was a very hot walk with all my kit.
Sunday 21 April 1918
This morning we dug an ammunition dump, the only stroke of work all day as Sergt Bullen went down last night. Bomb Little came up this morning.
Monday 22 April 1918
Today we had the usual morning inspection after which we slunk into the dug out and remained there for the day. Received a letter from Bury telling me that Wendy Tolmie & Ola Balsam have been married. I don't think it is correct I hope not. There was a very big game of banker in the hut tonight I was in luck.
Tuesday 23 April 1918
The only bit of work I did today was to pack rations up to the forward gun. I slept or read a book the remainder of the day. The hardest work during the day is to go & draw your meals. Tonight at 8.00 Fritz started searching around our position. Maiman of course got his wind up and jumped into a trench, & sprained his ankle. He dropped one about ten feet or more from the front of our gun.
Wednesday 24 April 1918
Nothing doing as usual. Cpl Dixon, Bomb Lowe Dvr MacLellan & Dr Collie all returned today after being in the hospital for various causes.
Thursday 25 April 1918
Today breaks fine and hardly any wind at all. So after lunch I got a pail of hot water and some guyes fluid and had a of a good sponge bath. I was very lousy so afterwards I put my shirts and underwear on the fire to boil. I hope I can remain clean for a little time now.
Friday 26th April 1918
A sub was relieved at the sniper today so we are together once more. Sergt Conyers goes sick immediately so he is no use to Goldie & I. Received letters from mother, Dad, Feenty & Alf Dowell. Mother is suddenly very worried about my me but shucks we ain't done nothing.
Saturday 27th April 1918
As usual nothing doing all day. I received a parcel from mother tonight. Also letters from Cecilia, Douglas & Feenty. Douglas was on his draft leave when written but when Cpl Wells came up with 100 rounds of a new gas and relieved Sergt Conyers he handed me a note from D who had given it to a 1st man. He was in Aubian when he wrote.
Sunday 28th April 1918
This morning we fired 10 rounds of a new gas which came up last night. This was at 3.00 a.m. I don't feel at all well tonight. My head aches and my bones ache. But in spite of this I packed rations to the forward gun. Deep sea Burnett comes up to see us. He is just come over with the 11th Siege battery.
Monday 29th April 1918
I feel very sick indeed. Can't eat a thing. Several promotions and changes have been published in battery orders. Cpl Wills to be Sergt of B sub. Alex Goldie to be Bomb in E sub. Bomb Whalen to be Cpl in A sub. Scott Mason to be orderly room sergt. Gnr O’brien to be Bomb “C” sub.W. Robertson to be Bomb M.M. Gunner.
Tuesday 30th April 1980
Didn't sleep very well last night. Dr. Fowler came up today and gave me some dope, and a big dose of Salto. Bomb Goldie came up tonight as Corp now Sergt Wills has gone to B sub. I feel a lot better tonight but I'm terribly weak.
This morning at 9.00 A.M. all the ? pulled out with ammunition for the battery. We hauled all day making two trips which kept us going until 10.00 P.M. As we were coming from the dump on the last trip to the horse lines an officer riding a motorcycle ran bang into a motor lorry. He escaped with a big gash in his forehead and pretty well shaken up. Got thru Saturday ? from home w/a letter from D & a regstd letter from Cecilia with 60 francs in it.
Tuesday 2 April 1918
Today was spent fixing up our Huts etc as we expect to be here for quite a time. Got two letters from mother and one from Dad & ?. George Lomas & I walked to a near by town & had eggs. Last night one of Heinneys planes came over and shut down four of our observation balloons. It was pretty neat work.
Wednesday 3 April 1918
Got letters from mother and dad today. Am on stable picquet tonight. Put up harness today. Got two letters from Jetty the first bawling me out about telling Allan off and the other apologizing. She must have been mad. Washed the vehicles today.
Thursday 4 April 1918
Today between a showers I oiled the vehicles.
Friday 5 April 1918
Got a tin of jam and four packages of cigarettes from mother. A S.E.P from Edith. Was paid today 25 Francs. Repacked the vehicles.
Saturday 6 April 1918
Washed G. S. Wagons. Got a letter from Old Hurse and a parcel from Edith with a pair of socks and 100 cigs from Max Leicer. I took a pack horse up the line this evening and packed ammunition. Made 9 trips from the dump to the battery about 14 miles. The last two trips was so dark that I couldn't find the battery, but fell into trenches and shell holes. Coming back In the rain I couldn't see the road so let the horse have his head. He took us right back over a shortcut through fields full of trenches end shell holes without going off the road once. Never guided him once. He was wonderful. Really tired, so was I.
Sunday 7th April 1918
As we were out very late last night we were allowed to sleep in. At 8:30 we pulled out for the baths but were unable to get one. It is a little cold today but not raining.
Monday 8th April 1918
About 5.00 pm we pulled out for ? lines on the Arras-Bethune Rd at La Targette. We have huts to sleep in so consider ourselves jake.
Tuesday 9 April 1918
Received a lovely parcel from mother today. Heiney shelled billets and horse lines. He didn't bother us until evening. When I was down in the morning after the show, I came out and found our boys leading the horses out. Just before I arrived upon the scene four horses were killed and another wounded instantly by one shell which also killed Gnr McDaniels, badly wounded Bomb McGreer and Dr. Yulbarton. The former is not expected to live, and Sammie Gilbertson has one foot blown off and the other badly damaged. We pulled out for our old horse lines immediately. I slept in a sub harness-room with about 20 others.
Wednesday 10 April 1918
We went back to the hurriedly vacated horse lines this morning and got all our belongings. We had dinner at the old lines then on to another place just at the corner of the Arras-Houdain. We have a cellar to sleep in and hard horse lines. Not so bad on the whole. I am terribly tired tonight. Heiney is very busy shelling back areas and doing a lot of damage.
Thursday 11 April 1918
Had a most beautiful sleep last night from 8.15 p.m. until 6.00 a.m. this morning. About noon it cleared up wonderfully. The sun coming out strong. I had a great shirt inspection today but only got a very few. We hear that the McGeer has passed away. Sergt Sid White got a letter saying so from Alf Dowell who is in Blighty having got there through a bad foot, most likely poisoned. Tunny Davis came in to see me today. He is in the 1st Field Ambulance. Ian Games is in the 3rd, not far from here.
Friday 12 April 1918
Worked around the gun park all day. Chatwin & Maiman, the officer & N.C.O. I/C of wagon lines have got on everyone's nerve. They are both raising hell around here. I wrote in my entry yesterday that Bomb McGeer had passed away, but today I hear one of our boys had seen him. His sister is nursing him and he is doing very well.
Saturday 13th April 1918
Washed the vehicles today.Went down for a bath and got a little real estate off, but we didn't get any clean clothes. Sergt goes up and Ricketts, Cpl Wills & Bdr Goldie come down. Two shells landed quite close to the Chinese labour company camp just the other side of the road. In about two seconds down came two chinks into our dugout. John Goldie got sore and grabbed one by the collar and dragged him outside. The other followed him tout sweet.
Sunday 14th April 1980
There was a battery church service today in the gun part. The singing was very pitiful. Mr Chatwin, who has made himself most unpopular, tried his best to ‘get in’ with the boys by buying a keg of beer. Only about two of the battery bums drank it. You may be sure I wouldn’t drink his beer not after the way he carried on.
Monday 15 April 1918
Washed and oiled those never clean vehicles in the evening Gilson and I came up to the battery. the first time for many days. I was immediately put on gas guard. The position now is on Petit Vimy just a few yards north of the Artillery Monument. The Sergt & I slept in the gun pit. Mr Chatwin, who was called down by the Capt. for ragging the men was terribly nice today. You would hardly think he was the same person of yesterday
Tuesday 16th April 1918
This morning we had a personal inspection at 9.30 and we're informed that tomorrow we are to wear bandoliers. If we were very busy it would be punk but as it is we're not at all overworked. We are in a hell of a salient here, and the only reason he doesn't tackle us is because the Canadians are holding it and he is scared of them. Hunt from B sub and I went up with the rations tonight. Got a drink of rum up at the sniper and one when we got back. I was talking very fluently.
Wednesday 17th April 1918
This morning we were hauled out of bed at 6.30 to haul ammunition which we did until breakfast. After breakfast Gilson and I were two of a party of ten to go to the sniper to haul ammunition. We got back to the battery at 12:30 and heard that we were to relieve the sniper crew which we did at 6.00 in the evening. The gun is right outside a slag heap the dugouts being mainly fit under it. It is jake to say the least. Mr. McCutcheon is up here and last night as we sat beside the fire he told me that he was in St Joseph's at the same time as I was.
Thursday 18th April 1918
I had a fine sleep last night. Never got up until 8.30 this morning. About noon today Fritz opened up on us and gave us hell. One shell landed right in front of the gun covering it with mud. A big splinter went right through the part of the shield that protects the dial sight and made a bulge in the main shield. The heavies opened on the hostile battery and so did the first sniper which is right beside us. Wright and I were on duty tonight. Fired 50 rds before midnight. Got a letter from John Peterson ce soir.
Friday 19th April 1918
Fired 50 rounds between 3:30 and 5.00 this morning. It was snowing most of the time. Terribly funny weather we are getting. I slept in until noon then washed and shaved and help the boys put ammunition into the pit. Five of our men are manning an old 15 pdr gun which is to be used against tanks and mass formations. Only about two shells were landed anywhere near the guns today. Got a letter from Edith this evening. She speaks of nothing else but Mr Watson, a very great friend. Tonight between 9:30 & 12.00 the Sergt & I got off 107 rounds after which I was very tired.
Saturday 20th April 1918
A beautiful day. I slept in until noon when the Sergt told me to get up as I was to go down to the battery to look after the interests of “A” sub. I didn't leave until 4:30 as I was kept busy passing orders. I got down here in due. It was a very hot walk with all my kit.
Sunday 21 April 1918
This morning we dug an ammunition dump, the only stroke of work all day as Sergt Bullen went down last night. Bomb Little came up this morning.
Monday 22 April 1918
Today we had the usual morning inspection after which we slunk into the dug out and remained there for the day. Received a letter from Bury telling me that Wendy Tolmie & Ola Balsam have been married. I don't think it is correct I hope not. There was a very big game of banker in the hut tonight I was in luck.
Tuesday 23 April 1918
The only bit of work I did today was to pack rations up to the forward gun. I slept or read a book the remainder of the day. The hardest work during the day is to go & draw your meals. Tonight at 8.00 Fritz started searching around our position. Maiman of course got his wind up and jumped into a trench, & sprained his ankle. He dropped one about ten feet or more from the front of our gun.
Wednesday 24 April 1918
Nothing doing as usual. Cpl Dixon, Bomb Lowe Dvr MacLellan & Dr Collie all returned today after being in the hospital for various causes.
Thursday 25 April 1918
Today breaks fine and hardly any wind at all. So after lunch I got a pail of hot water and some guyes fluid and had a of a good sponge bath. I was very lousy so afterwards I put my shirts and underwear on the fire to boil. I hope I can remain clean for a little time now.
Friday 26th April 1918
A sub was relieved at the sniper today so we are together once more. Sergt Conyers goes sick immediately so he is no use to Goldie & I. Received letters from mother, Dad, Feenty & Alf Dowell. Mother is suddenly very worried about my me but shucks we ain't done nothing.
Saturday 27th April 1918
As usual nothing doing all day. I received a parcel from mother tonight. Also letters from Cecilia, Douglas & Feenty. Douglas was on his draft leave when written but when Cpl Wells came up with 100 rounds of a new gas and relieved Sergt Conyers he handed me a note from D who had given it to a 1st man. He was in Aubian when he wrote.
Sunday 28th April 1918
This morning we fired 10 rounds of a new gas which came up last night. This was at 3.00 a.m. I don't feel at all well tonight. My head aches and my bones ache. But in spite of this I packed rations to the forward gun. Deep sea Burnett comes up to see us. He is just come over with the 11th Siege battery.
Monday 29th April 1918
I feel very sick indeed. Can't eat a thing. Several promotions and changes have been published in battery orders. Cpl Wills to be Sergt of B sub. Alex Goldie to be Bomb in E sub. Bomb Whalen to be Cpl in A sub. Scott Mason to be orderly room sergt. Gnr O’brien to be Bomb “C” sub.W. Robertson to be Bomb M.M. Gunner.
Tuesday 30th April 1980
Didn't sleep very well last night. Dr. Fowler came up today and gave me some dope, and a big dose of Salto. Bomb Goldie came up tonight as Corp now Sergt Wills has gone to B sub. I feel a lot better tonight but I'm terribly weak.