Letters from Long ‘un

Captain Robert James Henderson, MC and Bar 13th Battalion AIF 1915-1918

Bob Henderson in France, winter 1917

Compiled by David Garred Jones 1

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This compilation arose out of a wider study into the movements, actions and stories of the “Originals” of the 13th Australian Infantry Battalion in World War 1. Part of that work involved reviewing the hundreds of diaries and thousands of letters that had been donated to the various State libraries and the Australian War Memorial. Much of this first-hand material is now available on-line, and in some cases has been transcribed by the skilled and dedicated staff of those institutions. Amongst that wealth of material are the letters of Captain Robert James Henderson, MC and Bar, of the 13th Battalion. They encapsulate the thoughts and feelings of a man who started in 1915 as a private, saw action in Gallipoli, Fleurbaix, Pozieres, Mouquet Farm, Messines, Passchendaele and Villers-Bretonneux, rising through the ranks to Captain.

Henderson’s family donated his letters, postcards, certificates, awards and other ephemera to the Australian War Memorial (“AWM”). They have been digitised and posted on line under the accession code AWM2016.30.1 through to AWM2016.30.9. I am deeply grateful to the AWM for making this valuable historical archive so readily accessible.

As well as Henderson’s own photographs, I have included some relevant images from the AWM and other sources, all of which are acknowledged in the captions to the photos. I have also added, in italics, the locations from where each letter was written (if not already included in the original letter). These have been sourced by reviewing the relevant war diaries of the 13th Battalion, also available online at the AWM website.

Bob was fairly spartan in his use of punctuation, so I have added some punctuation where necessary to help in understanding his narrative. Occasionally some mis-spellings occur, and these have also been corrected

A few maps, drawn by me, have been added to clarify the locations and details of the actions described in Bob’s letters. The maps archived by the Imperial War Museums in England have been digitised by me, and registered to the World Geodetic System (“WGS84”) used by Global Positioning Satellite (“GPS”) mapping and MapInfo software. Although reasonably accurate, my maps should not be relied upon for navigation as they are designed for illustration only.

Following the evacuation from Gallipoli in December 1915, the AIF was reorganised in March 1916 and half of the 13th Battalion survivors were transferred to form the core of the new 45th Battalion. On 2nd June 1916 the 13th Battalion embarked from Alexandria on HMAT TRANSYLVANIA, landing in Marseilles on 7th June. They travelled by train across France to their initial destination, the town of Bailleul on the Belgian border, and marched to billets in nearby Steentje.

From then on Australian troops were part of the British Army and subject to a more stringent disciplinary regime than they had previously experienced. Amongst the edicts of the British General Staff was a complete ban on the keeping of diaries and the taking of personal photographs. All letters were censored.

The responsibility for censoring letters was given to the junior officers in each battalion, as explained by Lieutenant Robert Henderson in a letter to his mother in June 1916: “You may 2 think it queer signing my full name at the bottom of each letter but censoring is very strict in this country so that one cannot say very much. Then if you do they know who to blame etc for same. Each man’s letter has to be signed by an officer at the end and also on the envelope his full name so that one is kept very busy censoring letters which takes most of one’s spare time.” And to his brother “..we are always very busy censoring the lads’ letters etc in our spare time and I always make a point of putting them through for them as soon as possible.”

Most of the art, images and photographs included in the narrative are sourced from the Australian War Memorial (“AWM”) and duly acknowledged in the captions, as are the other sources.

Common abbreviations used in the narrative and captions include:

AAMC Australian Army Medical Corps ADBD Australian Divisional Base Depot AGH Australian General Hospital AIF Australian Infantry Force AWM Australian War Memorial CCS Casualty Clearing Station CO Commanding Officer DSO Distinguished Service Order GOC General Officer Commanding (very senior ranks, eg Army General) HMAT His Majesty’s Australian Transport HMT His Majesty’s Transport HS Hospital Ship MC Military Cross MM Military Medal NAA National Archives of Australia NLA National Library of Australia NLNZ National Library of New Zealand OC Officer Commanding (used for senior ranks, eg Lieut-Colonel) SLNSW State Library of New South Wales SLQ State Library of Queensland SLSA State Library of South Australia SLV State Library of Victoria VC Victoria Cross

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ...... 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS ...... 4 ART...... 6 IMAGES ...... 6 MAPS ...... 6 PHOTOS ...... 7 INTRODUCTION ...... 9 CAST OF CHARACTERS ...... 11 Captain Browning: ...... 11 Captain Pulling: ...... 12 Countess Brassey: ...... 12 “Dos” Wallach: ...... 13 Durrant: ...... 14 Father: ...... 16 Gerry Fox: ...... 16 Hugh: ...... 17 Jack Edgley: ...... 19 Jack Tivey: ...... 19 Jane: ...... 20 Ken Pattrick: ...... 20 Lee Scott: ...... 21 Len (“Nana”): ...... 22 “Les”: ...... 23 Lorna: ...... 23 Major Marks: ...... 23 Major Twynam: ...... 24 McKillop: ...... 25 “Mick”: ...... 26 Millie Henley: ...... 27 Mr Henley: ...... 27 Mrs Henley: ...... 28 Mum: ...... 29 Murray: ...... 29 Ralph Kell: ...... 32 Reg Bull: ...... 33 4

Sly: ...... 33 Toby Barton: ...... 33 Tony Barton: ...... 34 VENUES ...... 36 Ciro’s: ...... 36 Trocadero: ...... 36 THE LETTERS ...... 38 Voyage to Egypt 1915 ...... 38 Zeitoun, Egypt ...... 42 Lemnos Island ...... 52 Durrant’s Post, Gallipoli ...... 56 Ismailia ...... 62 Moascar ...... 66 Tel-el-Kebir ...... 71 Officer Training ...... 74 Serapeum ...... 79 Egypt to Northern France ...... 90 Mouquet Farm ...... 101 Hospital in London...... 110 London 1917 ...... 142 Scotland ...... 153 London ...... 155 Salisbury Plain Training ...... 161 France - Somme ...... 170 Belgium – Ypres Sector ...... 175 France - Lisbourg ...... 189 London on Leave ...... 193 France – in Reserve ...... 195 France - Somme ...... 202 Belgium – Ypres Sector ...... 205 France – Somme (Hébuterne) ...... 216 Villers-Bretonneux ...... 223

5

ART

Art 1. Sir Harry Murray VC, DSO & Bar, CMG ...... 31 Art 2. Depiction of the 1882 Battle of Tel-el-Kebir ...... 72 Art 3. Amiens Cathedral 1918 ...... 125

IMAGES

Image 1. Ciro’s restaurant, London 1917 ...... 36 Image 2. Trocadero Restaurant, Piccadilly ...... 37 Image 3. Commission Certificate, R J Henderson...... 77 Image 4. Congratulation Card from Major-General Cox, Aug 1916 ...... 107 Image 5. Hospital Report on Bob’s wound ...... 113 Image 6. Congratulation Card from Major-General Cox, Sep 1916 ...... 116 Image 7. “The Fourth” – magazine of 4 LGH, Dec 1916 ...... 117 Image 8. Postcard from “The Girl From Kays” ...... 122 Image 9. Billboard for “The Happy Day”...... 122 Image 10. Criterion Theatre poster, 1916 ...... 126 Image 11. Programme cover for The Bing Boys ...... 138 Image 12. Book & Lyrics for Puss in New Boots ...... 143 Image 13. Postcard of North British Station Hotel 1917 ...... 154 Image 14. Ragtime in London, 1917 ...... 156 Image 15. The Savoy Hotel Ballroom in World War 1 ...... 165 Image 16. Congratulatory card from GOC 4th Australia Division ...... 183 Image 17. Citation for Bob’s MC, awarded 25th Aug 1917 ...... 184

MAPS

Map 1. AIF camps around Cairo, 1915 ...... 42 Map 2. Lemnos and the Gallipoli Peninsula ...... 55 Map 3. Location of Durrant’s Post ...... 56 Map 4. 13th Battalion evacuation route from Durrant’s Post, 20th Dec 1915...... 59 Map 5. Location of AIF camps and Suez Canal ...... 62 Map 6. Tel-el-Kebir camps and the 1882 battlefield ...... 72 Map 7. Serapeum and the 4th Brigade Suez Canal lines of defence ...... 79 Map 8. The 13th Battalion march to the Bois Grenier sector June 1916 ...... 95 Map 9. Detail of 13th Battalion sector, Bois Grenier, Jun-Jul 1916 ...... 97 Map 10. 13th Battalion route from Brickfields to Mouquet Farm ...... 105 Map 11. The 29/30th Aug attack on Mouquet Farm ...... 109 Map 12. Location of 4th London General Hospital, Denmark Hill ...... 111 Map 13. AIF camps on Salisbury Plain, showing main rail links ...... 161 Map 14. AIF camps in the Tidworth area ...... 162 Map 15. Perham Down Camp, Salisbury Plain ...... 166 Map 16. Étaples Military Base, northern France ...... 170 Map 17. 13th Battalion rest at Ribemont ...... 172

6

Map 18. The 13th Battalion move from Ribemont to Doulieu ...... 175 Map 19. Location of Vauxhall Camp ...... 178 Map 20. 13th Battalion moves Bailleul (Jul) - Dranoutre (Aug) – Lisbourg (Sep) ...... 189 Map 21. 13th Battalion billets and camps in Oct 1917 ...... 195 Map 22. 13th Battalion march 90 km across France to Woincourt ...... 200 Map 23. 13th Battalion route from Woincourt to Moislains, 5th Dec 1917 ...... 202 Map 24. Curragh and other camps in the Bailleul-Kemmel area ...... 205 Map 25. 13th Battalion front line sector, 27 Jan 1917 ...... 208 Map 26. Neuve Eglise and the 4th Brigade defence area at Hollebeke ...... 212 Map 27. German map showing advances 21 Mar – 4 Apr 1918 ...... 217 Map 28. The 13th Battalion defend the line at Hebuterne ...... 218 Map 29. Coigneux huts in relation to Hebuterne sector ...... 220 Map 30. 13th Battalion reserve trenches, Sailly-au-Bois...... 221 Map 31. The 13th Battalion move south to Villers-Bretonneux ...... 223 Map 32. Location of “A” Company 13th Battalion and the German hangars, 2nd May ...... 224

PHOTOS

Photo 1. Captain Robert Browning 1916...... 11 Photo 2. Countess Brassey, seated front, with injured soldiers, 1916 ...... 13 Photo 3. Captain Neville Wallach ...... 13 Photo 4. Bugler James Durrant, aged 14 ...... 14 Photo 5. Major James Durrant ...... 14 Photo 6. Medals awarded to James Durrant in 2 World Wars ...... 15 Photo 7. Captain Arthur Fox in German POW camp ...... 17 Photo 8. Hugh Sylvester McLelland in 1917 ...... 18 Photo 9. Major Jack Edgley 1918 ...... 19 Photo 10. Jack Tivey as a young academic ...... 20 Photo 11. Lieut Ken Pattrick 1918 ...... 21 Photo 12. Lieut Lee Scott ...... 22 Photo 13. Lieut Leonard Alston, 1918 ...... 22 Photo 14. Lieut-Colonel Douglas Marks, 1918 ...... 24 Photo 15. Major Edward Twynam in 1916 ...... 25 Photo 16. Captain Robert McKillop in 1918 ...... 26 Photo 17. Thomas (left) and Millie Henley at work in the ACF office in London ...... 27 Photo 18. Millie Henley, Capt Hugh Pulling & Charlotte Henley, Egypt 1st Jun 1916 ...... 29 Photo 19. Harry Murray’s medals ...... 31 Photo 20. Lieutenant Ralph Kell in 1916 ...... 32 Photo 21. Captain Max Barton, 1916 ...... 34 Photo 22. Tony Barton in 1916 ...... 35 Photo 23. HMAT SHROPSHIRE ...... 38 Photo 24. Troops ready to board HMAT SHROPSHIRE at Port Melbourne, 25th Sep ...... 39 Photo 25. Troops relaxing on deck, HMAT SHROPSHIRE ...... 40 Photo 26. Australian troops travelling by train in Egypt ...... 43 Photo 27. The 4th Brigade march into Zeitoun camp ...... 44 Photo 28. Visiting the Pyramids Sep 1915 ...... 45 Photo 29. Groppi’s café, Cairo ...... 46 Photo 30. Bell tents at Zeitoun Camp ...... 47 Photo 31. Kursaal Music Hall, Heliopolis ...... 48 7

Photo 32. Reinforcements for 8th Machine Gun Company pose with Vickers gun ...... 49 Photo 33. HMAT ARGYLLSHIRE in 1915 ...... 52 Photo 34. Mudros Harbour, Lemnos 1916 ...... 54 Photo 35. SS TUNISIAN 1916 ...... 60 Photo 36. Main street of Ismailia, 1916 ...... 63 Photo 37. Air photo of Moascar Camp and Ismailia ...... 66 Photo 38. Australian soldiers swimming on the shores of Lake Timsah ...... 68 Photo 39. In camp at Moascar ...... 69 Photo 40. YMCA hut at Tel-el-Kebir ...... 73 Photo 41. The Officer’s Mess at the Zeitoun School of Instruction ...... 74 Photo 42. Hut interior, Zeitoun ...... 75 Photo 43. Officers’ Class, Zeitoun March 1916 ...... 78 Photo 44. The desert in front of the 4th Brigade forward trenches ...... 81 Photo 45. 4th Division soldiers swimming in the Canal at Serapeum ...... 83 Photo 46. The trenches before and after a sandstorm ...... 85 Photo 47. Forward camp on the line east of Railhead...... 86 Photo 48. HMT TRANSYLVANIA ...... 90 Photo 49. Departing Alexandria ...... 90 Photo 50. The 13th Battalion train journey from Marseilles to Bailleul...... 92 Photo 51. Farmhouse billet in the Steenje area ...... 93 Photo 52. Officers’ dugout (right) in support behind front line, Bois Grenier area ...... 98 Photo 53. Hope Davies ...... 98 Photo 54. The 13th Battalion moves by train to Candas, then marches to Pozieres...... 101 Photo 55. Bombing Section with chests containing 10 Mills bombs each ...... 103 Photo 56. German underground defence system, Mouquet Farm ...... 108 Photo 57. Main wing of 4th LGH in 1916 ...... 111 Photo 58. Rosina Buckman, NZ soprano, 1916 ...... 124 Photo 59. Maggie Sheridan, soprano from County Mayo ...... 125 Photo 60. Welsh tenor Ben Davies ...... 128 Photo 61. St Ermin’s Hotel, St James ...... 128 Photo 62. Dame Clara Butt, contralto, 1916 ...... 129 Photo 63. Lord Mayor’s Procession, London 1916 ...... 130 Photo 64. Cable tram, Edinburgh 1917 ...... 142 Photo 65. Millenium Mills after the explosion ...... 145 Photo 66. Lobby, Trocadero, London 1916 ...... 147 Photo 67. Opening of Parliament, 7th Feb 1917 ...... 151 Photo 68. LNER sleeping berth 1917 ...... 155 Photo 69. Chateau de la Motte au Bois ...... 180 Photo 70. Erecting new huts at Donegal Camp ...... 206 Photo 71. Henderson’s Grave at Étaples ...... 228

8

INTRODUCTION

Robert James Henderson, Service Number 2392, was born in December 1885 at Drummoyne, Sydney. Baptised on 2nd Jul 1886 into the Presbyterian Church, Robert was the eldest son of 5 children to James and Amy Violet Henderson (born Richardson). James was the General Manager of the City Bank of Sydney. James had migrated to Australia from Scotland in 1878 on the RMS CHIMBORAZO, enduring a rather difficult welcome to Australia when the ship was wrecked off Jervis Bay. Fortunately, all the passengers were rescued. Robert (his family nickname was “Long’un”) attended Fort Street School and Sydney Grammar School before training and working as an electrical engineer. He was a member of the Balmain District Cricket Club. The family lived at “Wahnfried”, 133 St George’s Crescent, Drummoyne, which had been the family home of Bob’s mother, a member of the Richardson & Wrench property dynasty.

Henderson applied to join the AIF on 23rd May 1915 at the age of 29. Robert worked for the Electric Light Company in Sydney, which generously supplemented his pay as a private to maintain his income at the level he was earning with the company. When Robert took the oath in Liverpool on 7th June 1915, he was 29 years old, 182 cm (5’11½”) tall, weighed 61 kg (135 lb) with an expanded chest measurement of 83 cm (35”). He had fair hair, brown eyes and dark brown hair. On 3rd August 1915 Bob, as he signed his letters, was assigned to the 7th Reinforcements of the 13th Battalion. His 26-year-old younger brother Leonard Alston Henderson (known as “Nana” by the family) joined in July 1915 and was also assigned to the 7th Reinforcements. The youngest boy, Stewart Hamilton Henderson (“Mick”), stayed home and later graduated in law at Sydney University. The eldest sibling, Lorna Violet Henderson, married John Proctor Tivey in 1910 and they also lived in Drummoyne. The second child, Isabel Jane Henderson, remained unmarried.

The two brothers embarked in Sydney on HMAT SHROPSHIRE on 20th August 1915 as privates, and after a month’s training in Egypt, Nana and the 7th Reinforcements left Alexandria for Gallipoli. Bob remained at Zeitoun in Egypt, completing a course to qualify as a machine gunner. He departed Alexandria on 14th November 1915 on HMAT ARGYLLSHIRE, languishing in Mudros Harbour until 8th December when Bob joined the 13th Battalion at Durrant’s Post, Gallipoli, and was reunited with his brother. After the evacuation from Gallipoli, the reorganization of the AIF in March 1916 saw Bob stay with the 13th Battalion while Leonard was transferred to the 45th Battalion.

Bob was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant in Ismailia on 16th March 1916. After assisting in the defence of the Suez Canal, the 13th Battalion embarked at Alexandria for France on 1st Jun 1916, disembarking in Marseilles a week later.

Promoted to Lieutenant in France on 19th August after surviving the battles at Pozieres, Bob was shot in the right thigh at Mouquet Farm ten days later. He was evacuated to London, where his wound took a long time to heal. Released from hospital in March 1917, Bob retrained at Perham Downs for a month before re-joining the 13th Battalion on 30th April 1917. On 11th June 1917 he was shot again in the right thigh, but the wound this time was slight and he returned to duty in less than 2 weeks.

Promoted to Captain and commanding officer of “A” Company, 13th Battalion, on 16th August 1917, Bob was severely wounded while attempting the capture of the Villers-Bretonneux 9 airfield on 2nd May 1918. He died in hospital at Étaples on 13th May 1918. Leonard survived the war, returning as a Lieutenant in January 1919 and becoming an accountant with the Bank of NSW.

10

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Other key characters mentioned in Bob’s letters home included (in alphabetical order of the mentioned name):

Captain Browning:

Robert Humphrey Browning was born in Sydney on 15th Nov 1886 to barrister Robert Jardine Browning and Beatrice Browning (born La Momie). Robert junior attended Tudor House and The Armidale School, commencing study at Sydney University (St Paul’s College) in 1905 and graduating BA in 1908. Robert worked as a solicitor with his father in Sydney until 20th Sep 1915 when, as a 28-year-old single man, he applied for a commission in the AIF. Assigned as 2nd Lieutenant and OC 11th Reinforcements of the 13th Battalion, he embarked from Sydney on HMAT PORT LINCOLN on 13th Oct 1915. On arrival in Egypt the 11th Reinforcements underwent training at the Garrison Camp in Zeitoun, and were taken on strength of the 13th Battalion at Tel-el-Kebir on 21st Mar 1916. Two weeks later Robert was promoted to Lieutenant.

The battalion embarked at Alexandria on 1st Jun 1916 for France, arriving in Marseilles a week later. Promoted to Captain on 19th Aug 1916, 10 days later at Mouquet Farm Robert was struck by machine gun bullets in the upper right thigh. For his conspicuous gallantry in this action, Robert was awarded the Military Cross in Jan 1917. Robert was hospitalized at the 4th London General Hospital in the same ward as Bob Henderson, and spent 6 months there until discharged to Perham Downs Camp on 23rd Mar 1917.Three months later he returned to join the battalion in France.

Photo 1. Captain Robert Browning 1916 Source: National Archives of Australia

On 1st Mar 1918, during the fighting at Hollebeke, Robert was hit again by machine gun bullets, in the back and left arm. One kidney had to be removed and he was classified as unfit for further general service. In Jun 1918 Robert was appointed Adjutant of the 1st Wing of the Australian Flying Corps Training Depot at Tetbury in Gloucestershire, with the honorary rank of Major, and saw out the war in that role. Robert embarked on HMAT ULYSSES in England on 22nd Jul 1919, and his appointment was terminated in Sydney on 14th Nov 1919.

Robert set up a legal practice in Bathurst after the war, and in 1922 married Eileen Margaret Meagher in St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney. They had one child, Barbara, who became a teacher. Eileen died in Dec 1957, while Robert continued to practise law in Bathurst until his death on 27th Jul 1964 at the age of 78.

11

Captain Pulling:

Hugh Douglas Pulling was born on 12th April 1894 in Bowral. His father, James Lee Pulling, taught at Sydney Church of England Grammar School (“Shore”) for 36 years, and was Acting Headmaster when he retired in 1938. Hugh’s grandfather was Master of Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, and later Vice-Chancellor of Cambridge University. As a 20-year-old engineering student at Sydney University, Hugh applied to join the AIF on 12th Nov 1914 and was appointed a 2nd Lieutenant in the 1st Reinforcements for the 1st Battalion. The 1st Reinforcements embarked from Melbourne on HMAT THEMISTOCLES on 22nd Dec 1914, disembarking at Alexandria on 1st Feb 1915 and moving to camp in Abbassia. On 25th Feb 1915, Hugh was promoted to Lieutenant and transferred to the 13th Battalion at Heliopolis. The 13th Battalion joined the landing at Gallipoli late on 25th April 1915, and Hugh fought through until Sep 1915 when he was evacuated to hospital in Alexandria with enteritis (typhoid), re-joining the battalion a month later. Hugh’s younger brother Charles, a lieutenant in the 13th Battalion, was killed in the attack on Hill 971 on 7th Aug 1915.

After the evacuation from Gallipoli, Hugh remained with the 13th Battalion and was promoted to Captain and officer commanding “D” Company on 20th Jan 1916 at Moascar. After the move to France in Jun 1916, Hugh “distinguished himself by his bravery and skilful leading” at Mouquet Farm, and was awarded the Military Cross. Promoted to Major on 28th Feb 1917, Hugh attended the Senior Officers’ School at Aldershot, where he was described as “A determined officer of great energy and most cheerful disposition. Self-reliant and tactful, with a smart and soldierly appearance”. He took over as temporary Commanding Officer of the 13th Battalion in July. A month later, Hugh was wounded at Messines on 10th Aug 1917 by a bomb (grenade), which left him with pieces of shrapnel in his back. He was treated at hospital in England, re-joining the 13th Battalion in Dec 1917. Shortly afterwards, Hugh applied successfully for a commission in the Indian Army, and was released by the AIF in Feb 1918. During his service in India, Hugh made a visit to Australia on leave in Jul 1920 to marry Mary Rankem Campbell in Sydney. The couple returned to India where Captain Pulling served out his 4-year term with the Indian Army in Burma, arriving back in Sydney on the SS MARELLA on 18th Aug 1922. The Pullings settled in Cowra, where Hugh was appointed Coroner in 1930 and a Trustee for the Cowra Racecourse in 1948. Hugh died in Cowra on 16th Jun 1970 at the age of 76.

Countess Brassey:

Sybil de Vere Brassey (born Capell), was the second wife of Thomas Brassey, the 1st Earl Brassey. Thomas, a keen sailor, held a master mariner’s certificate and sailed his yacht SUNBEAM around the world in 1886-87. His first wife, Annie, died of malaria on the yacht in 1887 just off Port Darwin after circumnavigating Australia, and was buried at sea. Thomas married Sybil in 1890, and served as Governor of the Colony of Victoria, Australia, between 1895 and 1900. At the age of 79, Brassey sailed SUNBEAM to Mudros Bay in 1915 to support the troops at Gallipoli as an auxiliary hospital ship. Sybil joined the YMCA Women’s Auxiliary Force in 1915 and ran the buffets for soldiers at Waterloo Station. Countess Brassey was also President of the National Union of Women’s Suffrage Societies, and founded the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to and Neglect of Children. As well as their house in Park Lane, Mayfair, the Brasseys owned a mansion at Normanhurst Court, Sussex, 1578 sq km of land on the banks of Lake Superior, Michigan USA, containing extensive iron mines, and land in Western Australia. Lord Brassey died in 1918, while Countess Brassey died in 1934 at the age of 76. 12

Photo 2. Countess Brassey, seated front, with injured soldiers, 1916 Source: UK National Archives

“Dos” Wallach:

The Wallach brothers were a family of eight boys born to Henry and Mary Ann Wallach of Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia toward the end of the 19th century. In the 1913 electoral roll Henry’s occupation was listed as “independent means”. The family was of German origin. The children were: Bernhard Wallach (1876–1946), Adolph Wallach (1878–1945), Henry Wallach (1879–1937), Florence Wallach (1881–), Emil Wallach (1884–1943), Henrietta Wallach (1886–), Stella Wallach (1888–), Clarence Wallach (1889–1918), Rupert Wallach (1893–), Neville Wallach (1896–1918) and Arthur Wallach (1899–). The brothers all attended Sydney Grammar School (“Shore”) and before the war were active in surf lifesaving at the Bondi and Maroubra Surf Life Saving Clubs.

Six of the brothers saw active service in World War I. The fourth and eighth brothers, Clarrie and Neville were both top-grade rugby union players before the War. Starting as privates, they both saw action at Gallipoli, Neville with the 13th Battalion and Clarence with the 19th Battalion. Both were promoted in Egypt and France ultimately to Captain, were both recipients of the Military Cross and each fell within a week of each other in France in fighting at Hangard Wood (Clarrie) and Villers-Bretonneux (Neville).

Photo 3. Captain Neville Wallach Source: Sydney Mail, 5 Jun 1918

The citation for Neville’s MC noted: He was a Platoon Commander in the attack on the Hindenburg Line near Bullecourt on 11 April 1917 and though he received a bullet through 13 his thigh within one minute of zero, he led his men over 1200 yards of ground swept by shell and machine gun fire...... Captain Wallace is a very capable officer and bears a high reputation for bravery. Neville was killed in action on 1st May 1918 in the Second Battle of Villers-Bretonneux. A shell burst at his company headquarters sending a splinter through his head as the officers were sitting down to tea. He is buried in the Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery.

Durrant:

James Murdoch Archer Durrant was born on 17th Mar 1885 at Glenelg, SA. He was a son of Jonathan William Durrant and Margaret Elizabeth Durrant (born Murdoch). James was educated at Goodwood Public School and the old Frome Road Agricultural School in Adelaide. In March 1900 James qualified for entry to the University of Adelaide, then took up a post with the Education Department as a teacher in North Adelaide in 1903, being promoted from 3rd to 4th grade in 1905.

At the age of 14 James had joined the Adelaide Rifles as a bugler, and four years later joined the No.1 Battery of Artillery, in which he rose to sergeant. In 1907 James commenced his career as a permanent soldier, when he successfully passed his examination for Staff Sergeant-Major and was appointed to the HQ staff, NSW, at Parramatta. Durrant was promoted to Lieutenant in July 1910. While he was stationed at Parramatta Barracks, James met and married a local girl, Clara Ellen Birk of Westmead, on 21st Jan 1911.

Photo 4. Bugler James Durrant, aged 14 Source: State Library of South Australia

Durrant was then transferred to Queensland, promoted to captain, and transferred to Victoria. In Oct 1914, Durrant was sent to NSW to be adjutant to the 13th Battalion. James’ only brother, Edgar Harry Durrant, joined the AIF aged 23 on 22nd Jan 1915, was allocated to the 3rd Field Ambulance but stayed in Sydney as Staff Sergeant of the School of Musketry

James was then amongst the first to proceed to France in June 1916, where he supervised the training of recruits for engagements at both Pozieres and Mouquet Farm. During the fighting Durrant was promoted to Lieut-Colonel and given command of his old battalion. His wife Clara was active in London with the 13th Battalion Comforts Fund.

Photo 5. Major James Durrant Source: AWM H00008

14

By December 1917, James had been appointed to assist the Adjutant and Quartermaster- General of the 2nd Australian Division. He held this position until shortly after the armistice when he was appointed to the Repatriation and Demobilisation department until December 1919. In 1920, Colonel Durrant was appointed assistant Quartermaster-General of the 1st Military District in Queensland, where he held high administrative appointments until 1926, when he was transferred to South Australia as Deputy Assistant-Adjutant and Quartermaster-General of field troops stationed of that district. In 1930 he was given the brevet rank of colonel, which was made substantive in July, 1935. Colonel Durrant was appointed Director of supply transport movements in the Quartermaster-General’s branch at Army Headquarters, Melbourne, in January 1935, and was also appointed ADC to the Governor-General in the same year. In 1939 Brigadier Durrant was appointed General Officer Commanding (“GOC”) the Western Command with the rank of Major-General, followed by appointment as GOC Northern Command in 1941. Durrant retired from the permanent forces in 1943 because of ill health, and he and Clara lived in Mortlake until his death on 18th Aug 1963 at Concord Repatriation Hospital at the age of 78. Surprisingly for such a distinguished soldier, James Durrant is not mentioned in the Australian Dictionary of Biography.

Photo 6. Medals awarded to James Durrant in 2 World Wars Source: Durrant family

The Decorations and Medals in order from the left are: Distinguished Service Order 1914-1915 Star British War Medal Victory Medal (with oakleaf for Mentioned in Despatches) War Medal 1939-45 Australian Service Medal 1939-1945 King George V Silver Jubilee Medal King George VI Coronation Medal 15

Order of the White Eagle - 4th Class (with swords) (Serbia) Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (Separate)

Father:

James Henderson was born in 1885 in Banffshire, Scotland. Baptised on 6th Feb1886 into the Presbyterian Church, James attended school in Aberdeenshire, and commenced as an accountant with a Glasgow merchant in 1870. For health reasons he left Scotland in 1878 on RMS CHIMBORAZO. His delicate state of health was not improved when the ship ran aground in Jervis Bay and the passengers had to swim ashore. Soon after arriving in Sydney, James secured a position with the Bank of NSW, then in 1881 joined the English, Scottish and Australian Bank. He accepted an offer of assistant manager at the City Bank of Sydney in 1887 and 10 years later became General Manager, a position he held until his retirement in 1916.

James married Amy Violet Richardson, of the Richardson and Wrench property dynasty, on 12th Oct 1882, and raised a family of 3 sons and 2 daughters at “Wahnfried”, 133 St George’s Crescent, Drummoyne, which had been the family home of Amy. The boys inherited their father’s excellent horsemanship, swimming and rowing skills, and love of amateur theatre, and all attended Sydney Church of England Grammar School (“Shore”).

Gerry Fox:

Arthur Gerard Fox was born on 26th Dec 1894 in Athelstone, South Australia, the only son of Arthur Aloysius Fox and Winifred Anne Fox (born Phillips). Fox was a great grandson of William Phillips, an early settler in Adelaide. His father had been a member of the South Australian Legislative Assembly before marrying Winifred Phillips in 1893. Arthur senior was a colleague of Charles Kingston (after whom the suburb of Kingston is named) and Winifred was a friend of Sister Mary McKillop. A sister, Helen Dymphna Fox (later McKenna), was born on 13th Jul 1896 in Athelstone.

The family moved to Manly in Sydney, and Arthur attended Sydney Church of England Grammar School (“Shore”). From school he went straight to the Royal Military College, Duntroon on 10th Mar 1913, but was discharged from RMC in Dec 1913 because of unsatisfactory progress with his studies. Arthur was appointed a 2nd Lieutenant in the militia (25th Infantry Australian Rifles) on 1st Apr 1914.

On 30th Jan 1915, Arthur applied for a commission in the AIF and was appointed a 2nd Lieutenant and officer commanding the 3rd Reinforcements of the 13th Battalion. The 3rd Reinforcements sailed from Sydney on HMAT SEANG CHOON on 11th Feb 1915. Arthur’s description on his application shows he was a 20-year-old student, single, 177 cm tall, weighed 68 kg, with a fair complexion, brown eyes and brown hair. The 3rd Reinforcements were taken on strength of the 13th Battalion on 29th Mar 1915 at Heliopolis, Egypt, and sailed to Gallipoli, landing at Anzac on 30th Apr 1915.

Suffering from influenza, Arthur was evacuated to the 1st Australian General Hospital in Heliopolis in June 1915, returning to the battalion late in August after the battles for Hill 971 and Hill 60. During the battalion’s brief rest on Lemnos in October, Fox was appointed acting Adjutant, and promoted to Lieutenant on 19th Nov. Following the evacuation from Gallipoli,

16 the battalion assisted in the defence of the Suez Canal, during which Arthur was promoted to Captain at Serapeum on 25th Feb 1916.

The 13th Battalion sailed for France from Alexandria on HMAT TRANSYLVANIA on 1st June, disembarking in Marseilles a week later. On 14th Aug 1916 the 13th Battalion were part of an attempt to capture the heavily fortified German position at Mouquet Farm, to the west of Pozières. Fox was severely wounded in the buttocks during the attempt and captured by the Germans. He became a prisoner of war and was interned firstly at Gutersloh, Germany and then Genfangenenlager Strohen, Germany. In late 1917 he was moved to hospital in Switzerland, where he met Dora Betschen, daughter of prominent Swiss banker Frederick Betschen. Arthur was finally repatriated to England in December 1918.

Photo 7. Captain Arthur Fox in German POW camp Source: AWM H00330

After recovering from the tuberculosis he contracted while a POW, Arthur was appointed to AIF HQ in Horseferry Road on 16th Jan 1919 to assist in the Repatriation and Demobilisation Department. During leave in October he re-joined Dora and married her in London on 2nd Dec 1919. The couple departed England on the SS MANTUA on 3rd Jan 1920 and after Arthur’s AIF appointment was terminated in Jun 1920, the couple moved to St Peters, a suburb of Adelaide, SA, and later to the old family farm “Maryvale” in Athelstone.

In 1939 when war was again declared, Captain Fox once more offered his services to his country. He was appointed Major in the 13th Field Regiment, and then was promoted to acting Lieutenant Colonel, on 13th May 1940, serving in the New Guinea campaign. After the war, in 1945 Colonel Arthur Fox was appointed Assistant Director of The United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration, and given the task of moving the 11 million non- German, displaced persons, who were living in camps in Germany. They had been used as forced labour during the war, and were from all over Europe. Arthur held that position for 18 months.

Arthur died on 8th Jul 1978 at the age of 84 and is buried in Centennial Park Cemetery, Adelaide.

Hugh:

Hugh Sylvester McLelland was born on 11th Oct 1889 in Lismore to Hugh Dawson and Ellen Clara McLelland. Hugh Dawson McLelland was born on 11th Sep 1860 at Shoalhaven to Hugh and Marion McLelland. Hugh (senior) had entered the NSW Dept of Education as pupil-teacher at his father’s school, resigning after 2 years to enter the University of Sydney, graduating BA with honours in science. Appointed an Inspector of Schools for Dungog District in 1882, on 1st Jan 1885 Hugh (senior) married Ellen Clara Apperley at Glebe. Their daughter Helen was born in late 1885 at Dungog, but died shortly afterwards. Clara was a fellow teacher, who had been born in Carlton, Melbourne in 1863. They moved to Lismore (where Mary Irene McLelland was born in 1887, followed by Hugh Sylvester McLelland on 11th Oct 1889 and Henry (“Harry”) Wellsteed McLellan in 1891), then Nowra, Wollongong, Wagga, Maitland (where Alec Robert McLelland was born in 1904), and finally Sydney. Hugh 17

(senior) joined the Chief Inspector’s Branch in 1909, was Deputy Chief Inspector in 1910, and became Chief Inspector of Primary Schools in 1920. He was also a member of the Board for Protection of Aborigines. Hugh senior retired on 12th Feb 1927 at the age of 67 and the couple toured Great Britain and Europe, returning to live in Drummoyne. Hugh loved sport, especially cricket, tennis, golf and bowls, and was an excellent chess player, skills he passed on to his children. Harry was NSW golf champion, and became a partner with Russell and McLelland, solicitors in Wollongong, in Jun 1915, joined later by brother Alec Robert McLelland. Their niece Jane Matthews in 1987 became the first female judge in the NSW Supreme Court. Hugh senior died on 10th Jan 1932 at the age of 72, while Clara died a year later and was buried beside him at the Field of Mars Cemetery in Ryde. They were survived by their 3 sons and 2 daughters.

Hugh Sylvester McLelland attended Maitland High School and Sydney Church of England Grammar School (“Shore”), matriculating in 1907, then to Sydney University Medical School where he graduated MB.BS in March 1913. On completing his residency at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Hugh volunteered for naval service on HMAS ENCOUNTER as medical officer from Dec 1914 to Jun 1915, re-joining RPA as Assistant Medical Superintendent until 11th Feb 1916 when he signed on to the Australian Army Medical Corps at Liverpool Camp. Assigned briefly to No.6 Australian General Hospital at Kangaroo Point, Brisbane, Hugh volunteered for Sea Transport service, and was given the temporary rank of Major in Sep 1916. He made 3 voyages back and forth to England in 1916-17, on HS KYARRA, HMAT AENEAS and HMAT BENALLA.

Photo 8. Hugh Sylvester McLelland in 1917 Source: Sydney University archives

Hugh married Isabella Parkinson, also a medical practitioner, in Sydney in 1917. Hugh’s application for transfer from Transport Services to General Service was granted in Apr 1917, he reverted to Captain and departed Sydney on 10th May 1917 as OC Troops on HMAT MARATHON, joining the 2nd Australian General Hospital in Wimereux as Registrar where he was promoted again to Major. Hugh moved to the 8th Field Ambulance Brigade in Sep 1918, later being appointed CO of the 14th Field Ambulance Brigade in March 1919. Hugh departed England on HMAT RUNIC on 27th Apr 1919. His appointment with the AIF was terminated in Sydney on 19th Aug 1919.

Hugh accepted the position of Government Medical officer in Maryborough, Queensland in 1919, where he and Isabella set up a medical practice. Hugh qualified as an obstetrician and moved to Brisbane in 1926. From 1939 until his death he was also Lecturer in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Queensland. Hugh died suddenly in his medical practice in Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, on 28th Aug 1953, and was survived by Isabella and their 2 children: Mary, a researcher at Sydney University, and Ian who had also qualified as a doctor and practised in Taringa, Brisbane.

18

Jack Edgley:

John Milton Edgar Edgley was born in Bathurst on 24th Dec 1882 to Louis and Elizabeth Edgley. Jack went to All Saints College in Bathurst, matriculating in 1900 and entering Sydney University to study law in 1901. He graduated BA in 1804 and set up practice as a solicitor, marrying Muriel May Robertson in 1909. Their first child, Margaret Robertson Edgley, was born in 1910 in Dorrigo, followed by John Louis Edgley in Jul 1912, and Nancy Robertson Edgley in Dec 1913, also in Dorrigo.

Jack applied for a commission in the AIF on 5th May 1915 at the age of 32, and was appointed a Captain and OC “D” Company in the newly formed 19th Battalion. The battalion embarked on HMAT CERAMIC in Melbourne on 25th Jun 1915, arriving in Alexandria a month later and entering Aerodrome Camp at Heliopolis. The battalion landed at Anzac on 21st Aug 1915, taking part in the latter stages of the attempts to take Hill 60, before moving to occupy the trenches at Pope’s Hill. Jack was evacuated to Mudros and then England in late Sep 1915, suffering from “debility”, returning to Egypt in mid-Feb 1916. He was transferred to the 46th Battalion in the reorganisation of the AIF in Mar 1916. That battalion sailed from Alexandria on HMAT KINFAUNS CASTLE on 2nd Jun 1916, arriving in Marseilles a week later. Promoted to Major on 15th Jul 1916, Jack suffered shell shock at Pozieres the following month, but remained on duty for 6 weeks until evacuated to England for treatment at the 3rd London General Hospital in Wandsworth. For his coolness under exceedingly heavy shell fire while marking out No Man’s Land at Pozieres, Jack was recommended for the DSO and it was awarded in Jun 1917. He returned to France and resumed duty with the 46th Battalion on 4th Dec 1916.

The following July, Jack was attached to HQ, 12th Training Battalion at Codford Camp, and in Sep 1917 appointed Permanent President of Courts Martial for AIF Depots in the UK. However, he returned to the 46th Battalion in mid-Feb 1918, but a month later was back in the 3rd London General Hospital with a displaced cartilage in his knee. Re-joining the 46th Battalion in Aug 1918, he stayed with the battalion until injured in a collision between his staff car and a truck in late Jan 1919, departing for Australia on HMAT COMMONWEALTH on 13th Apr 1919. His appointment to the AIF was terminated in Sep 1919.

Photo 9. Major Jack Edgley 1918 Source: Sydney University archives

After the war the family moved to Strathfield, where Jack practised law. John Louis joined him after graduating in law at Sydney University in 1935. Jack died on 28th Jan 1957, followed soon after by Muriel on 23rd Nov 1957.

Jack Tivey:

Sir John Proctor Tivey was born on 28th Apr 1882 in Balmain to parents Samuel and Margaret Tivey (born Proctor). The eldest of 8 children, John (known as ‘Jack” in the family and ‘Percy’ by his professional colleagues) went to Sydney Grammar School, matriculating in 1899 and winning a scholarship to Sydney University. In his first year he was awarded 1st 19

Class Honours in mathematics, graduating BA, BSc and BE in 1907 with 1st Class Honours in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering and being awarded the University Medal. Jack married Lorna Violet Henderson, Bob Henderson’s elder sister, in 1910 in Drummoyne. A year later he was appointed an assistant lecturer in Engineering at the University of Queensland.

Jane Proctor Tivey (later Mrs J D Davis), the first of their 2 daughters, was born in 1913, followed by Roberta Helen Proctor Tivey (later Mrs N Falk), known as Bobbie, who was born in 1916. In 1955 Jack was made a Knight Bachelor (KB) along with Sir William Hudson, the Chairman of the Snowy Mountains Hydroelectric Authority. Jack and Lorna made a number of trips overseas: to England in 1914, where he was elected a Member of the Institution of Civil Engineers, returning via the United States in 1915; to the United States in 1927, when he was appointed Chief Engineer of the Australian subsidiary of the General Electric Corporation; and again to London in 1954 at the age of 72. Jack died in November 1968 in Chatswood, having been pre- deceased by Lorna. At various times during his distinguished career, Jack was President of the Electrical Manufacturers' Association, Chairman of the Technical Standards Division, President of the Institution of Engineers (Australia), Director of Australian General Electric, President of the Associated Chambers of Manufacturers of Australia and a Councillor of the CSIRO.

Photo 10. Jack Tivey as a young academic Source: University of Queensland

Jane:

Isabel Jane Henderson was born in 1887, two years after her brother Bob Henderson. She served in the Australian Red Cross Society for 3 years until the end of the Great War, and remained a spinster, living with and caring for her mother Amy. Jane died on 26th Feb 1952, nine years after her mother, and is buried in the Field of Mars Cemetery in Ryde.

Ken Pattrick:

Kenneth Nunn Pattrick was the second child and eldest boy of 9 sons and 3 daughters born to William Nunn Pattrick and Leah Pattrick (born Levey). William was an officer of the Bank of NSW for 31 years until his death in 1913 at the age of 61. Born in Randwick on 12th Jan 1887, Ken was educated at Newington College. The other children (all Nunn Pattrick) were Beryl Doris (1884- ), Kenneth (1887-1918), Arthur Stuart (1888-1958), Errol McLeod (1889- 1915), William Harvey (1891-1992), George Alan (1893-1954), Madge Vida (1894-1980), Malcolm Reddall (1896- ), Bresford Septimus (1897-1916), Douglas (1899- ), Wallace (1901-1966) and Shelagh Nell (1902- ). Five of the boys joined the AIF:

20

Arthur (aged 26) joined 14th Sep 1914, assigned to the 1st Battalion, returned to Australia from Egypt in Feb 1915 due to poor eyesight and was discharged medically unfit in Dec 1915.

William (aged 23) joined 18th Sep 1914, assigned to the 6th Light Horse Regiment where he served at Gallipoli, transferred to the 51st Battalion in 1916 and rose to Captain, returning to Australia in Jan 1919.

Erroll (aged 25) joined 7th Oct 1914, assigned to the 6th Light Horse Regiment, shot in head at Braund’s Hill 28th May 1915, died on board HS GASCON 1st Jun and was buried at sea off Gallipoli.

Beresford (aged 18) joined 8th Jun 1915, assigned to 8th Reinforcements of 13th Battalion, rose to 2nd Lieutenant, killed in action at Mouquet Farm 29th Aug 1916

Kenneth (aged 31) joined 8th Jun 1915, assigned to 8th Reinforcements of 13th Battalion, rose to Captain, killed in action at Villers-Bretonneux 8th Aug 1918.

Ken was taken on strength of the 13th Battalion at Mudros in Oct 1915, and served alongside Bob Henderson at Durrant’s Post, Gallipoli. Following the evacuation, he was promoted to corporal at Ismailia, attended the Officers School at Zeitoun with Bob Henderson, and was appointed 2nd Lieutenant on 16th Mar 1916. At Pozieres on 10th Aug 1916 he received a shrapnel wound to his left buttock and was sent to the 3rd London General Hospital at Wandsworth. The wound was slow to heal, so Ken was repatriated to Australia, departing Southampton on HS KAROOLA on 16th Oct 1916. After recovery at No.4 Australian General Hospital in Randwick, Ken embarked in Sydney on HMAT RUNIC, disembarking in London on 24th May 1918. He was promoted to Captain in the field on 7th Jul 1918, and killed in action a month later. Ken is buried at Villers-Bretonneux.

Photo 11. Lieut Ken Pattrick 1918 Source: 12th Aust Training Battalion, Codford

Lee Scott:

Lee Scott was born in Tumut in 1892, the youngest son of Donald Allan Hyde Scott and Maria Caroline Scott (born Street). Donald was a country manager for the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney. Promoted to head office in 1897, Donald moved the family to Sydney where his 3 sons attended Sydney Church of England Grammar School (“Shore”). All 3 joined the AIF, the eldest (Major William John Rendell Scott) serving in the 20th Battalion, Lieut-Colonel Allan Humphrey Scott DSO was appointed CO of the 56th Battalion at the age of 25 in 1916 and was killed in action at Polygon Wood in 1917, while the youngest, Lee Scott MC, also served in the 56th Battalion.

21

A 25-year-old chemist in Eastwood, Lee joined the AIF on 3rd Mar 1916. The 56th Battalion embarked from Sydney on HMAT PORT SYDNEY on 4th Sep 1916, disembarking at Portsmouth on 29th Oct. The battalion moved to France on Christmas Eve 1916. Lee was sent to Trinity College Cambridge on 3rd Jan 1917 and appointed a 2nd Lieutenant in Jun that year.

Photo 12. Lieut Lee Scott Source: SMH 2 Nov 1917

He was awarded the Military cross in Nov 1917 for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in the Polygon Wood battle in Sep 1917, where he suffered phosgene gas poisoning. Promoted to Lieutenant in late Oct 1917, Lee saw out the war with the 56th Battalion in France. His only injury was a dislocated patella while playing football 4 days after the Armistice. Lee embarked on the SS TAKADA in England on Christmas Eve 1918, and his appointment was terminated in Sydney on 5th Apr 1919.

After the war Lee married Frances Gertrude Scott. They lived in Neutral Bay. Lee died on 20th Nov 1968, while Frances died on 29th Mar 1994 at the age of 96.

Len (“Nana”):

Leonard Alston Henderson, born on 27th Mar 1889, was the younger brother of Bob. Like his brother, he was educated at Sydney Grammar School (“Shore”), and joined the Bank of NSW in 1907. In 1910 he was posted to the Suva branch of the bank, back to head office the following year, and was an unmarried clerk at the Royal Exchange Branch when he applied to join the AIF on 6th Jun 1915 at the age of 26. Len was assigned to the 7th Reinforcements of the 13th Battalion, along with his brother Bob. The two brothers embarked in Sydney on HMAT SHROPSHIRE on 20th August 1915 as privates, and after a month’s training in Egypt, Len and the 7th Reinforcements left Alexandria for Lemnos. Len was taken on strength of the 13th Battalion at Mudros on 23rd Oct 1915. Shortly afterwards the battalion sailed for Gallipoli and took up the positions at Durrant’s Post, opposite the Turkish trenches west of Chunuk Bair. After the evacuation from Gallipoli, the reorganization of the AIF in March 1916 saw Bob stay with the 13th Battalion while Len was transferred to the 45th Battalion. Promoted to Lance Corporal at Serapeum in May 1916, a month later Len sailed with the 45th Battalion to France. On arrival he was promoted to Corporal and saw action at Fleurbaix and Pozieres before heading to England for officer training at Cambridge.

Appointed a 2nd Lieutenant in Jun 1917, Len re-joined his battalion in France on 29th Jun and a month later copped a fragment from a high- explosive shell in his right hand. The wound was minor and he returned to the front line 11 days later, only to receive another minor wound at the end of Sep 1917. Len remained on duty and was promoted to Lieutenant on 7th Oct 1917 during the battles at Passchendaele.

Photo 13. Lieut Leonard Alston, 1918 Source: Bank NSW archives

22

Len spent the next nine months attending various training schools, before being posted to the 12th Training Battalion at Tidworth in Sep 1918, where he saw out the war. Embarking on the CITY OF YORK in England on 14th Jan 1919, Len returned to Australia and married Lillias Kethel McCreadie in 1921. They had two daughters, Barbara Kethel Henderson (later Davis) and Phyllis Alson Henderson (later Loveday). Len and Lillias were still on the electoral roll in Strathfield in 1980. No date of death is known.

“Les”:

Harold Leslie Henley was born in Balmain in Nov 1893 to Sir Thomas and Lady Henley (see entries). The family lived at “Tudor House”, Drummoyne, close to the Henderson family. Les was educated at Sydney Grammar School, two years ahead of Bob Henderson. While at Sydney University’s St Andrew’s College, the 20-year-old Arts/Law student joined the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force on 13th Aug 1914 as a private and served in New Guinea until his return to Australia in February 1915. He then applied to join the AIF on 12th Jun 1915 and was appointed to the 7th Reinforcements of the 13th Battalion as a 2nd Lieutenant, along with Privates Bob and Len Henderson. The 7th Reinforcements joined the 13th Battalion on Mudros on 24th Oct 1915. Following the evacuation, Les was promoted to Lieutenant on 20th Jan 1916 at Moascar, and Captain on 1st Mar as part of the reorganization of the AIF. He was killed in action at Mouquet Farm on 15th Aug 1916.

Lorna:

Lorna Violet Henderson, the older sister of Bob, was born in 1883 and baptised into the Church of England on 7th Mar 1884. She married Jack Tivey at the age of 17 in 1910. They had two children, Jane and Roberta (“Bobbie”). Lorna died on 2nd May 1966, aged 82.

Major Marks:

“Douglas Gray Marks was born on 20th March 1895 at Junee, New South Wales, son of Montague Marks, storekeeper, and his wife Elizabeth Caroline, née Plunkett. He attended Fort Street Boys' High School, Sydney, becoming a bank clerk, and studied mining engineering part time at Sydney Technical College.” (Australian Dictionary of Biography).

In June 1914 Marks was commissioned second lieutenant in the 29th Infantry (Australian Rifles). The 29th was mobilised on 7th August 1914 and marched out to Bobbin Head where it was engaged in coastal defence. The regiment was demobilised on 28th August 1914. Douglas applied for a commission in the AIF on 21st November 1914 at the age of 19. His medical examiner certified that “he was not ruptured, has not been operated on for Hernia, and is capable of bearing the fatigue incident to the performance of military duty”. He was single, 172.7 cm (5’8”) tall, weighed 65 kg (10 stone 4 lb), with an (expanded) chest measurement of 97 cm (38”). His religious affiliation was Church of England. Douglas was appointed 2nd Lieutenant in G Company of the 13th Battalion on 21st December 1914. G Company was merged with E Company on 3rd February 1915 in Egypt in the reorganisation of the battalions, to form the new D Company.

23

The stellar career of Douglas Marks has been fully published in the excellent book “The Boy Colonel” (Davies, 2013). The rear cover of the book summarises his experience as follows:

“Landing on the Gallipoli Peninsula on the second day he remained until the evacuation in December 1915. Marks was at Pozières, Mouquet Farm and Bullecourt on the Somme, and around Ypres in Flanders. Back on the Somme in early 1918, he fought at Villers-Bretonneux, Le Hamel and in the Battle of Amiens, where finally the tide turned in the Allies’ favour.

Photo 14. Lieut-Colonel Douglas Marks, 1918 Source: Daily Telegraph

Wounded twice, and much Mentioned in Despatches, Marks was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, made commander of his battalion and decorated with a Military Cross, a Distinguished Service Order and the Serbian Order of the White Eagle.”

Unfortunately, when Marks returned to Australia a hero in 1919, the Army refused to continue his commission because he was not a graduate of Duntroon! Instead he was offered the title of “Honorary Captain” and discharged.

Tragically, he drowned while trying to rescue a swimmer in distress, in January 1920 at Sydney’s Palm Beach.

Major Twynam:

Edward Twynam was born on 30th Oct 1877 in Goulburn NSW, the second son of Edward and Emily Rose Twynam (born Bolton). Edward senior was a surveyor who rose to be Surveyor-General of NSW. One of his four daughters, Mary Emily, married Jim Cunningham, a wealthy grazier who owned “Tuggeranong”, the sheep station on which part of the Federal Capital of Canberra was built. His brother Andrew owned the adjacent “Lanyon”, now a National Trust property.

Edward joined the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force (“ANMEF”) as a single, 37-year-old grazier on 10th Sep 1915, and took part in the capture of German New Guinea. He returned to Sydney from Rabaul in Jan 1915 as an escort for the German prisoners, and applied for a commission in the AIF. Appointed as a Captain and officer commanding the 7th Reinforcements of the 13th Battalion, Edward embarked on HMAT SHROPSHIRE from Sydney on 20th Aug 1915, arriving in Port Suez 5 weeks later.

The 7th Reinforcements joined the 13th Battalion at Mudros on Lemnos Island on the 23rd Oct 1915, and served at Durrant’s Post on Gallipoli until the evacuation. Edward was promoted to Major at Moascar in Egypt on 20th Jan 1916. After taking part in the defence of

24

the Suez Canal in the first half of 1916, Edward embarked for France at Alexandria on HMAT IVERNIA on 1st Jun, arriving in Marseilles a week later. He suffered shell shock at Pozieres in early Aug 1916, spending a few weeks in hospital in France until evacuated to the 3rd London General Hospital in Wandsworth, where he was diagnosed with pleurisy. On recovery, Edward was posted to the 4th Infantry Training Battalion at Tidworth on the Salisbury Plain for 4 months, re-joining the 13th Battalion in France on 30th Apr 1917 after the Bullecourt battle. Unfortunately, his shell shock returned and he became unable to perform his duties as second-in-command of the battalion. An adverse report from the CO, Lieut-Colonel Durrant, led to Twynam being “allowed to resign”. He embarked on the SS METAGAMA from England on 4th Aug 1917, travelling at his own expense via Canada, arriving in Sydney on the SS VENTURA on 9th Oct 1917, on which date his appointment was terminated.

Photo 15. Major Edward Twynam in 1916 Source: National Archives of Australia 148061163-1

Edward returned to his grazing property at Taralga, near Goulburn. Although he never married, “Ned” (as his friends called him) was an active member of practically every public body in the district, much liked and respected. During World War II Major Twynam was involved with munition work in Sydney. While on a return visit to his property on 4th Jul 1943, Twynam was found dead near his homestead. The Coroner found that while getting through a wire fence, he had lost his balance and fallen on the shotgun he was carrying, one barrel of which exploded, the muzzle being just under his chin. Twynam was 65.

McKillop:

Robert Alexander McKillop was born in Tumut, in the Snowy Mountains of NSW, on 23rd Apr 1882. His father, Dr Robert McKillop, was a medical practitioner and part-time magistrate, married to Theresa Mary McKillop (born MacDonald). Robert junior was the second child and eldest son of 7 boys, the first-born being the only girl, Mary. Robert attended St Ignatius College (“Riverview”) in Sydney, and then entered Sydney University to study medicine. He left after 3 years and joined the City Bank branch at Braidwood. In 1910, Robert left the bank and set up business as a stock and station agent in Cooma. Robert married May Johnson in Gundagai, NSW in 1914. Their only child, Robert Ian McKillop, was born a year later.

Robert was 33 years old when he applied to join the AIF on 30th Jun 1915. He was 185 cm tall, weighed 79 kg with a dark complexion, grey eyes and brown hair. Appointed a 2nd Lieutenant on 1st Dec 1915, Robert was assigned to the 15th Reinforcements of the 13th Battalion at Liverpool Camp. The 15th Reinforcements embarked from Sydney on HMAT STAR OF ENGLAND on 8th Mar 1916, disembarking at Port Suez in Egypt. They were taken on strength of the 13th Battalion on 20th May at Serapeum. After assisting in the defence of the Suez Canal, the 13th Battalion embarked at Alexandria for France on 1st Jun 1916, disembarking in Marseilles a week later. 25

After the first stage of the Pozieres battle, in which the 13th Battalion lost 18 officers as casualties out of the 39 on strength, Robert was promoted to Lieutenant on 19th Aug 1916. In Jan 1917 he moved to Codford Camp on the Salisbury Plain in England on a 6-month assignment to the 4th Training Battalion, re-joining the 13th Battalion in France in mid-July. A month later, Robert was promoted to Captain and took part in the battles at Polygon Wood, Messines, Hebuterne and Villers-Bretonneux. He was awarded the Military Cross on 16th Sep 1918 for “his courage and devotion to duty” at Hebuterne on 26th Mar 1918, when he was “an inspiration to the men under his command”.

Photo 16. Captain Robert McKillop in 1918 Source: National Archives of Australia

Robert stayed with the 13th Battalion until demobilisation in 1919, when he was granted 3 months leave with pay to undertake stud cattle research in Cornwall. Robert embarked on HMAT EURIPIDES on 7th Sep 1919 to return to Australia. His appointment with the AIF was terminated on 16th Dec 1919.

Robert returned to his business in Cooma, and was granted an auctioneer’s licence in 1925. Following the foundation of Canberra as the Federal Capital, Robert established R a McKillop & Co Ltd, stock and station agents, estate agents and auctioneers, at Civic Centre in the 1930s. He remained a partner in the firm of Hain & McKillop, stock and station agents in Cooma. Robert also operated in Canberra the National Finance and Investment Co Ltd, a money lending and hire-purchase finance company. The business remained under the control of R a McKillop until it was sold around 1954.

For many years May McKillop had lived apart from Robert. their separation having been formalised in 1931, when a deed of separation was entered into and under which provision was made for her continued support by Robert. May was blind and was receiving a pension because of this blindness. She had moved to live in Melbourne with their son (Ian). When Robert died aged 85 on 14th Jun 1967 in Forrest, a suburb of Canberra, he left the bulk of his estate valued at $435,036 ($5.4 million in 2017 dollars) to St Ignatius College. The will was contested by his wife and son. The court awarded a $4,000 ($50,000 in 2017) a year annuity each to May and Robert Ian McKillop, as well as payment of a lump sum of $40,000 ($500,000) to Ian in recognition of the 10 years he had rendered services to his father, free of charge, including the management of Robert’s real estate holdings. May McKillop died in 1972.

“Mick”:

Stewart Hamilton Henderson, born in 1892, was the youngest brother of Bob. Like his brothers, he was educated at Sydney Grammar School (“Shore”), and in 1913 commenced the study of law at Sydney University. Mick graduated LLB in 1917 and set up practice as a 26 solicitor. He organised Probate in respect of the Will of Bob Henderson in 1919, and acted for the family of Sir Sydney Hordern of retail fame. In 1924 Mick married Kathleen Rose Vero Read. They lived in Woollahra until his death in Dec 1970.

Millie Henley:

Millicent Irene Henley was born in 1887, the eldest of the 5 children born to Thomas and Charlotte Henley. She accompanied her parents to Egypt and London where they all worked for the Australian Comforts Fund. Millie died a spinster in Killara in 1959.

Photo 17. Thomas (left) and Millie Henley at work in the ACF office in London Source: Remington Typewriter Company

Mr Henley:

Sir Thomas Henley, father of Les Henley, was born in 1860 at Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire, England, son of George Henley, agricultural labourer, and his wife Margaret, née Seagle. His mother was illiterate and, after National schooling only, Thomas worked as a farm-hand and for ten years 'carried the hod'. He migrated to Sydney about 1884 and was a plasterer when he married Charlotte Smith in Balmain Congregational Church on 2 July 1886.

Henley bought land at Balmain, Petersham, Five Dock and Drummoyne, building on some blocks and subdividing others for sale at £10 deposit, 6 per cent interest and repayment over five years. During the depressed 1890s he continued to buy, especially at Drummoyne, 27 where he built Tudor House for himself. In 1898-1905 he owned the Drummoyne, West Balmain and Leichhardt Steam Ferry Co., running three ferries. As alderman for Drummoyne in 1898-1934 and four times mayor, and as a member of the Metropolitan Board of Water Supply and Sewerage in 1902-33, Henley saw the tram-line extended to Drummoyne in 1902, its sewerage planned in 1903 and reticulation sewers laid by 1910, electricity supply introduced in 1910 and a beginning to sealing roads in 1916. As the solution to municipal indebtedness, he secured the amalgamation in 1902 of Five Dock and Drummoyne and the sale of municipal property. While an alderman for Lang Ward on the Sydney Municipal Council in 1902-06 Henley sought extended licensing powers for the council as a measure of additional revenue. He campaigned to have the abattoirs moved to Homebush, away from where he owned property. Henley was elected in 1904 to the Legislative Assembly as a Liberal and Reform candidate for Burwood which he represented until 1935.

In 1915 Henley volunteered to go to Egypt with his family as a commissioner for the Australian Comforts Fund which co-ordinated the distribution of small gifts to soldiers to make their life a little more pleasant. It was formed in August 1916 and co-ordinated the efforts made by various existing State based patriotic funds. In the field, its activities were overseen by commissioners who held honorary rank as officers. Organizing the distribution of comforts from Alexandria, Marseilles and Le Havre, France, and London, Henley personally accompanied the goods. He was gazetted lieutenant-colonel to overcome objections to civilians entering the battle zone and was appointed CBE and KBE in 1920.

Mrs Henley:

Lady Charlotte Henley was born in Wiltshire (England), and came to Australia as a girl. With her husband, she was associated with the development of Drummoyne in the early days of the district. During the war, Charlotte and her two daughters, Millicent and Elsie, accompanied her husband to Egypt and London, and all worked for the fund for three years. After Lady Henley returned to Australia, she was associated with the activities of the Children's Hospital, and the Home of Peace, and worked for many charitable organisations in Drummoyne.

28

Photo 18. Millie Henley, Capt Hugh Pulling & Charlotte Henley, Egypt 1st Jun 1916 Source: AWM2016.30.0 (Bob Henderson collection)

Mum:

Amy Violet Henderson was born in 1860 to Robert Pemberton Richardson and Violet Richardson (born Alston). Robert had founded the Richardson & Wrench estate agent firm, which still continues today. Amy married James Henderson on 12th Oct 1882, and died in Drummoyne on 5th May 1943 aged 83. Amy is buried in the Field of Mars Cemetery, Ryde.

Murray:

Henry (“Harry”) William Murray was born on 1st Dec 1880 at Evandale, Tasmania, son of Edward Kennedy Murray, farmer, and his wife Clarissa (born Littler). His father died when he was young and after leaving Evandale State School Harry helped to run the family farm. His military career began with six years’ service in the Australian Field Artillery (militia) at Launceston. At the age of 19 or 20 he moved to Western Australia, working as a mail courier on the goldfields, travelling by bicycle or on horseback. When he enlisted as a private in the AIF on 13th Oct 1914, describing himself as a 'bushman', he was employing men cutting

29 timber for the railways in the south-west of the State. He was handsome, tall, solidly built with dark hair, modest but strong-willed in character, resourceful and a natural leader.

Murray was posted to the 16th Battalion and belonged to one of the unit's two machine-gun crews when he landed at Gallipoli on 25th Apr 1915. Promoted lance corporal on 13th May, Harry won the Distinguished Conduct Medal for 'exceptional courage, energy and skill' between 9-31 May. Wounded on 30th May, Harry was evacuated and re-joined his unit on 3rd Jul 1915. He was wounded again on 8th August when the machine-gun section of the 4th Brigade, later described by Bean as 'possibly the finest unit in the AIF', covered the withdrawal after the attack on Hill 971. On 13th Aug 1915 Murray was promoted sergeant, commissioned second lieutenant and transferred to the 13th Battalion.

Following the evacuation of Gallipoli, on 20th Jan 1916, in Egypt, he was promoted lieutenant, and then Captain on 1st March. Late that month the 13th Battalion went to France where Murray took part in every major fight in which the unit was engaged. At Mouquet Farm in August, with fewer than 100 men, he stormed the remains of the farm, capturing his objective, but after beating off four German counter-attacks ordered his men to withdraw. The farm was eventually recaptured by 3000 men. Murray received the Distinguished Service Order, for, although twice wounded, he had commanded his company 'with the greatest courage and initiative'. Later when an enemy bullet 'started a man's equipment exploding he tore the equipment off at great personal risk'. Evacuated with wounds, he re- joined his battalion on 19th Oct 1916.

On 4-5 Feb 1917 Murray led his company in an attack on Stormy Trench, near Gueudecourt. The night attack was launched across frozen snow and Murray's men reached the objective trench and set up a barricade. The Germans counter-attacked, shattering the barricade, and Murray fired an SOS signal, which brought artillery support. The enemy continued attacking and were bombing heavily when Murray called on twenty bombers and led a brilliant charge which drove them off. From midnight to 3 a.m. fierce enemy bombing continued. Murray observed movement in an adjacent trench and called again for artillery support. By daylight his party had occupied the trench and held it until relieved at 8 p.m. For this work Murray was awarded the Victoria Cross.

In April, in the 1st battle of Bullecourt, Murray received a Bar to his DSO for heroism which the Australian commanders believed worthy of a bar to his VC. On 11th April, the day of the battle, he was promoted temporary major (confirmed on 12th July) and towards the end of the year he temporarily commanded the 13th Battalion. Promoted lieutenant-colonel on 8th May 1918, Murray was appointed to command the 4th Machine-Gun Battalion, a post he held until the end of the war. In January 1919 he was awarded the French Croix de Guerre and next May was appointed CMG. In 1917-19 he was mentioned in dispatches four times.

After the Armistice he toured Britain studying agricultural methods and on return to Australia began looking for a sheep-farming property. His AIF appointment ended on 9th Mar 1920. After discharge in Tasmania he moved to Queensland and became a grazier at Blairmack, Muckadilla. On 13th Oct 1921, at Bollon, he married an estate agent, Constance Sophia Cameron. They lived at Muckadilla until 1925 when they separated and Murray went to New Zealand. Their marriage was dissolved on 11th Nov 1927 and on 20 November, at the Registrar’s Office, Auckland, Murray married Ellen Purdon Cameron. They returned to Queensland and in April 1928 Murray bought Glenlyon station, Richmond, a 74,000-acre (29,947 ha) grazing property where he lived for the rest of his life.

30

In World War II he commanded the 26th Battalion in North Queensland until April 1942; in August he became lieutenant- colonel commanding his local battalion of the Volunteer Defence Corps. Murray retired from military service on 8th Feb 1944. Although a shy man who shunned publicity, he attended the VC centenary celebrations in London in 1956. Survived by his wife and their son and daughter, he died on 7th Jan 1966 in Miles District Hospital, Queensland, after a car accident. He was cremated with Presbyterian forms.

Art 1. Sir Harry Murray VC, DSO & Bar, CMG Source: AWM ART00101 (George Bell portrait)

The historian of the 16th Battalion wrote of him: 'To Murray belongs the honour of rising from a machine-gun private to the command of a machine-gun battalion of 64 guns, and of receiving more fighting decorations than any other infantry soldier in the British Army in the Great War'.

Photo 19. Harry Murray’s medals Source: AWM OL00666.001

The Medals in order from the left are: Victoria Cross Distinguished Service Order and 2 Bars Distinguished Conduct Medal 1914-1915 Star British War Medal Victory Medal (with oakleaf for Mentioned in Despatches) War Medal 1939-45 Australian Service Medal 1939-1945 King George VI Coronation Medal 31

Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Medal Croix de Guerre

Ralph Kell:

Ralph Hamish Kell, Serial No. 184, was born in North Sydney on 7th Aug 1892 to James Kell, Governor of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, and Ida Maud Kell. He was baptised into the Church of England on 4th Nov 1892. Ralph was a 22-year-old bank clerk when he applied to join the AIF on 18th Sep 1914 and took the oath that day at Rosebery Park Camp. At the time he was a diminutive 164 cm (5’4½”) tall (just within the acceptance limit), weighed 58 kg (9 stone 2 lb) with an expanded chest measurement of 90 cm (35½”). He had a dark complexion, grey eyes, and dark hair. Private Ralph Kell was assigned to “B” Company of the 13th Battalion. He was promoted to sergeant on 1st October 1914 at Broadmeadows Camp. The 13th Battalion sailed from Melbourne on HMAT ULYSSES on 22nd Dec 1914.

After training at Aerodrome Camp, Heliopolis in Egypt, the 13th Battalion embarked on HMAT ASCOT for Lemnos, and landed on Gallipoli on the evening of 25th April 1915. He survived unscathed through to 2nd Jun 1915 when he was evacuated with dysentery. After recovery and convalescence at the 1st Australian General Hospital in Heliopolis, Egypt, Ralph re- joined the 13th Battalion in Mudros on 28th Sep 1915. That same day he was promoted to Company Sergeant-Major. After the evacuation, Ralph was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant on 24th Feb 1916 at Tel-el-Kebir.

The 13th Battalion sailed from Alexandria on 1st Jun 1916, disembarking at Marseilles a week later. On 10th Aug 1916, Ralph suffered a gunshot wound to the left hand at Pozieres, evacuated to England and hospitalized in the 6th Auxiliary Hospital in South Kensington. He was promoted to Lieutenant on 19th Aug. After recovery, Ralph re-joined the 13th Battalion in France on 19th Oct 1916.

Ralph was shot again in the left arm on 5th Feb 1917, evacuated to England, promoted to Captain on 31st May 1917, and repatriated to Australia on 21 Jul 1917 on HMAT EURIPIDES. His appointment was terminated on 18th Mar 1918 as medically unfit.

Photo 20. Lieutenant Ralph Kell in 1916 Source: Reserve Bank of Australia archives

Kell became a planter in Singapore after the war, and married Doris Rita Kell there in December 1920. The couple returned shortly afterwards to Sydney where Ralph re-joined the Commonwealth Bank and rose to become manage of the Botany branch. Doris did not like living in Botany, returned to Singapore, and they were divorced in 1935. Ralph married Marjorie Isobel Miller in Sydney on 23rd Jul 1936 and the couple moved to Bowral. They had one daughter, Pamela Jean Kell (later Dunsmore).

32

Ralph served as a Captain in the 2/3rd Australian Infantry Battalion in the Middle East and New Guinea in World War 2. He was placed on the retired list in Feb 1944 at the age of 52. Ralph died on 31st Jan 1949.

Reg Bull:

Reginald Arthur Bull was born in Drummoyne on 4th Dec 1885, the second of four sons to solicitor Sidney John Bull and Josephine Bull. The four boys all attended Sydney Church of England Grammar School. As a 29 year-old dental surgeon, Reg applied to join the AIF on 8th Apr 1915. He was assigned to the AAMC and served initially on Lemnos in December 1915, being promoted to Lieutenant in the Dental Corps in Ismailia on 28th Jan 1916. Reg served out the rest of the war in Egypt, rising to Captain on 26th Jan 1917. He embarked on the HMT DORSET in Port Said on 29th Apr 1919 to return to Australia, where his appointment was terminated on the 10th Aug 1919. Reg joined the NSW Public Service as a dentist, retiring in 1958. He married Eveline Ann Fitzpatrick at Randwick in 1939.

Sly:

Dr George James Sly was born in Pitt Street, Sydney, in 1864, the son of a cabinet maker, Joseph Sly. He received his early education at Calder House, Redfern, where he showed exceptional promise, and he passed on to the University of Sydney, earning the degrees of BA, MA, LLB and LLD. George married Florence Jane Harriet Younger in Jul 1884. For a number of years, he engaged in private practice, and in 1888 entered into a partnership as Sly and Russell, which continued for 50 years. The partnership was later absorbed into the international law firm Deacons.

Dr Sly was a keen member of the Church of England in Strathfield, where he resided for many years, and at Bowral, where he had his country residence. He later had a home at Darling Point. One of his chief interests was the promotion of Freemasonry. He was a director of the Australian Bank of Commerce, which amalgamated with the Bank of NSW. George retired in 1928 and died in 1934, survived by Florence, a son (also George) and four daughters.

Toby Barton:

Francis Maxwell (“Max” to the family, “Toby” to his friends) Barton was born on 11th Aug 1893, the eldest son of Dr Henry Francis Barton, barrister and Master in Equity in the Supreme Court of NSW. Henry had married Sarah Jane Macansh, from a prominent Queensland grazing family, in 1883 in Warwick, Qld. Their first child, a daughter, died in infancy. The second daughter, Sarah Kate (“Kitty”) Barton, was born on 30th Jun 1885, and unfortunately her mother died 5 days later. Henry remarried, to Cecilia Flora Windeyer, on 20th Dec 1888, and they had 3 daughters and 4 sons. The family lived at “Nyrangie”, in Gladesville. Henry died of pneumonia at home on 20th Oct 1902, and Cecilia raised the family herself, dying at the age of 78 in 1943.

Max attended Sydney Church of England Grammar School (“Shore”), and went on to St Andrews College at Sydney University, where he studied law. As a 21-year old student he applied for a commission in the AIF on 18th Nov 1914, and was appointed a 2nd Lieutenant in “E” Company of the 13th Battalion. Max was 187 cm tall, weighed 74 kg. After initial training 33 at Rosebery, Rosehill and Liverpool camps, the 13th Battalion left Sydney on 24th November 1914 for Broadmeadows camp near Melbourne and embarked on HMAT ULYSSES to lead the second AIF convoy for Egypt via Albany and Colombo. “E” Company was merged with “G” Company on 3rd February 1915 in Egypt in the reorganisation on the AIF to form the new “D” Company. At the same time, Max was promoted to Lieutenant.

The 13th Battalion sailed from Alexandria aboard a broken-down tramp steamer, HMAT ASCOT, landing at Anzac Cove on the night of 25th April 1915. Ten days later he was shot in the left thigh during a futile attack on the Chessboard and evacuated to Egypt, then on to the 3rd London General Hospital at Wandsworth in England. Max returned to the firing line at Durrant’s Post on Gallipoli on 20th Nov 1915. The remnants of the 13th Battalion were amongst the last to leave Anzac at 2:15 am on Monday 20th December 1915. A month later, at Moascar, Max was promoted to Captain. After 5 months engaged in the defence of the Suez Canal, the 13th Battalion, now part of the 12th Australian Infantry Brigade, sailed for France from Alexandria aboard HMAT TRANSYLVANIA on 1st Jun 1916, disembarking in Marseilles a week later.

Once acclimatised, on 2nd July the 12th Brigade marched south to Fleurbaix, across from the German lines at Fromelles. The 13th Battalion manned the firing line until 12th July, followed by a long march back to Bailleul before entraining for Berteaucourt Les Dames in the Somme sector. This move saved the 12th Brigade from the carnage at Fromelles on 19th July in which the incompetence of British generals saw 5,533 Australian casualties in one night, the worst in Australian Army history to this day.

Photo 21. Captain Max Barton, 1916 Source: Barton family

In a series of eastward moves between 12th July and 7th August the 12th Brigade moved close to the front at Pozieres. During an attack on the German stronghold of Mouquet Farm on the night of 11th Aug 1916, Captain Barton and Sergeant Riordan went back across No Man’s Land to fetch some tools, and were never seen again. Initially listed as missing, both men were subsequently officially reported as killed in action.

Tony Barton:

Robert Anthony (“Tony”) Barton was born on 26th May 1895, the second son of Dr Henry Francis Barton, barrister and Master in Equity in the Supreme Court of NSW. Henry had married Sarah Jane Macansh, from a prominent Queensland grazing family, in 1883 in Warwick, Qld. Their first child, a daughter, died in infancy. The second daughter, Sarah Kate (“Kitty”) Barton, was born on 30th Jun 1885, and unfortunately her mother died 5 days later. Henry remarried, to Cecilia Flora Windeyer, on 20th Dec 1888, and they had 3 daughters and 4 sons. The family lived at “Nyrangie”, in Gladesville. Henry died of pneumonia at home on 20th Oct 1902, and Cecilia raised the family herself, dying at the age of 78 in 1943. 34

Tony attended Sydney Church of England Grammar School (“Shore”), and went on to St Andrews College at Sydney University, where he studied law. As a 20-year old student he applied for a commission in the AIF on 16th Aug 1915, and was assigned to the 14th Reinforcements of the 45th Battalion as a private. Tony was 173 cm tall, weighed 64 kg, with a 93 cm chest measurement, fresh complexion, grey eyes and dark brown hair. After initial training at Holdsworthy camp, the 14th Reinforcements embarked on RMS OSTERLEY in Sydney on 15th Jan 1916 and sailed for Egypt. The 14th Reinforcements were taken on strength of the 45th Battalion at Zeitoun, Egypt, on 6 Mar 1916. Ten days later, Tony was promoted to corporal at Tel-el-Kebir.

The 45th Battalion sailed from Alexandria aboard HMAT KINFAUNS CASTLE on 1st Jun 1916, disembarking in Marseilles a week later. The ship sailed via Sardinia across the Mediterranean Sea without incident, arriving in Marseilles on 9th June. The 45th Battalion immediately entrained for a journey across France to Bailleul, in the Ypres sector of the Western Front. Arriving in Bailleul on 11th June, the battalion marched to billets in Outtersteene, a village near Meteren.

On 2nd July the 12th Brigade marched south to Fleurbaix, across from the German lines at Fromelles. The 45th Battalion set up its headquarters at Foray’s Post, from which they manned the firing line until 12th July, followed by a long march back to Bailleul before entraining for Berteaucourt Les Dames in the Somme sector. This move saved the 12th Brigade from the carnage at Fromelles on 19th July in which the incompetence of British generals saw 5,533 Australian casualties in one night, the worst in Australian Army history to this day.

Photo 22. Tony Barton in 1916 Source: Barton family

In a series of eastward moves between 12th July and 7th August the 12th Brigade moved close to the front at Pozieres. On 5th August 1916 the 45th Battalion attacked the German lines at Pozieres and succeeded in capturing the main German defence line known as OG 1 (Old German trench 1). Holding on grimly through a series of counter-attacks, the 45th consolidated the advance by taking OG2 behind OG1 and also the strategic high ground around The Windmill east of Pozieres. As the Pozieres battle petered out, the 12th Brigade moved north to the Ypres sector, remaining there until the end of October when the brigade moved back to the Somme. Tony was promoted to Sergeant on 4th Nov 1916 at Vignacourt. Three weeks later he joined the Officer Cadet Training Battalion at Balliol College, Oxford, graduating late in March 1917 and being commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant. Crossing back to France in April, Tony re-joined the 45th Battalion on 27th Apr 1917. Two weeks later he was sniped through the head in Owl Trench at Messines, and died soon afterwards, on 9th Jun 1917.

35

VENUES

Ciro’s:

Ciro’s opened in Orange Street at the back of the National Gallery in London in May 1915 as a private club. The original building had been the Westminster public baths but had been converted into a handsome venue of beautiful proportions with a sliding roof that could be opened in the summer. There was a main large square room with a gallery flanked by imposing pillars to the ceiling with a delicate décor of lettuce green and old gold in Louis XVI style. On the ground floor there was a thicket of tables chairs and a platoon of waiters and a more decent dance floor than the Parisian establishment. There was also an American bar and grillroom decorated with chintz curtains and framed caricatures of the famous by French artist Sem. The bar was presided over by ‘Harry’ a Scotsman who had been a figure in Nice and Enghien and later became famous in Paris running Harry’s Bar.

The dance music was supplied by the unfortunately named seven-piece Ciro’s Club Coon Orchestra headed by Jamaica-born pianist and bandleader Dan Kildare and were initially paid £100 a week. Kildare was a pioneer of syncopated dance music, had worked with the famous James Reese Europe, and had been part of Joan Sawyer’s Persian Garden Orchestra in New York before being booked for Ciro’s London.

Ciro’s was the first of the dance clubs to compete with the smart restaurants in cooking, knowledgeable service and a brilliant, elegant setting. The chef came from the Ambassadeurs in Paris, the silver was supplied by the famous house of Cristofle, the china from Havilland and the stoves from Cubin cost £2,000.

One of the first true cabaret shows in London was staged at Ciro’s on 3rd Mar 1917. Produced by the young American producer Jack Haskell, it was an elaborate mini-revue starring the French born artist Odette Myrtil who scored a triple hit as a violinist, dancer and singer.

Image 1. Ciro’s restaurant, London 1917 Source: jazzageclub.com

However, it did not last long and Ciro’s was closed due to strong opposition from the press and the fact that Ciro’s had lost its license for serving alcohol out of hours. Neville Chamberlain, director of National Service, at a meeting of theatrical, variety and cinema representatives warned them against costly and elaborate productions in times of war where thrift was a necessity. Ciro’s was turned into a hospital for the rest of the war.

Trocadero:

The Trocadero Restaurant opened in 1896 on a site on Coventry Street, near the theatres of the West End, which had been formerly occupied by the notorious Argyll Rooms, where wealthy men hired prostitutes. The new settings were magnificent in an Opera Baroque style, and the various Trocaderos of the English-speaking world have 36 derived their names from this original, the epitome of grand Edwardian catering. Murals on Arthurian themes decorated the grand staircase, and the Long Bar catered to gentlemen only. During World War I, the Trocadero initiated the first "concert tea": tea was served in the Empire Hall, accompanied by a full concert programme. After the war cabaret was a feature of the Grill Room. The Trocadero closed in 1965.

Image 2. Trocadero Restaurant, Piccadilly Source: arthurlloyd.co.uk

37

THE LETTERS

Voyage to Egypt 1915

The 7th Reinforcements for the 13th Battalion embarked in Sydney on 20th August 1915 aboard His Majesty’s Australian Transport (“HMAT”) SHROPSHIRE. The master of the ship was Captain B G Hayward of the Federal Steam Navigation Company Limited of London, the ship’s owners. The ship was under lease to the Commonwealth of Australia The Officer commanding the troops on board was Gerald Ross Campbell, a 58-year-old barrister who had signed on to the Sea Transport Service for the voyage. Campbell was a Colonel in the militia and officer commanding the Sydney garrison.

Saturday 21/8/1915 HMAT SHROPSHIRE, off NSW

Photo 23. HMAT SHROPSHIRE Source: WA Museum MHK D13 473

My dear Mum and family,

Not much news for you yet but just a line to let you know everything is alright and we are all a happy family. The food on board is excellent, plenty of butter etc. Porridge, meat and rolls for breakfast, soup, meat and pudding for dinner and cold meat, pickles etc for tea. Corporals of our company also have a special supper every night by tipping the cook: fish and chips, chicken etc. So you see life on board ship is indeed a paradise after Liverpool. A great many on the ship were very sick yesterday and some had not yet recovered although the sea is like glass today. Nana is OK. He will write. Do not know our first port of call. Will write again soon.

Love, 38

Bob.

Thursday 26/8/1915

The SHROPSHIRE called in to Port Melbourne and embarked additional reinforcements for the 9th, 15th and 24th Battalions and the Australian Medical Corps.

Photo 24. Troops ready to board HMAT SHROPSHIRE at Port Melbourne, 25th Sep Source: AWM P80987

At sea, Indian Ocean.

Dear Mum,

Do not know when you will receive this letter as we appear to be having a through trip. The last few days through the Bight have been wet, cold and very rough. Suited me down to the ground but some of the lads say they will never leave Australia again. The food on board is still very good and the duties not too strenuous. Have been on guard, much the same as on land. Also in charge of fatigue parties getting frozen mutton, flour and other stores up from the hold etc. I believe there is to be a concert on deck tonight, will let you know later about it. We have all sorts of games etc and plenty of reading matter on board so as long as one is not seasick this is the life. A rather funny incident occurred at lunch time today; one of the mess orderlies slipped coming down to the mess deck with soup etc for dinner. I will leave you to imagine the result, amidst roars of laughter from the lads. You never saw such a muss in your life. 39

Photo 25. Troops relaxing on deck, HMAT SHROPSHIRE Source: AWM H04170

Nana is OK and is writing. We have a canteen on board at which you can buy all sorts of things: cigarettes 2 pence per packet, tobacco 5 pence for 2 oz tins, drinks, biscuits, sweets etc at very reasonable prices. So we have some great feeds between meals, then by spending 3d or 6d occasionally at the cooks galley you get a cup of soup or some cakes, coffee etc. No more news just at present, will finish this letter tomorrow.

27/8/1915: Had a great concert last night. Piano out on deck with full moon shining. Some of the items were very good indeed. Met nurses Fuller and Crouch (?), have had some talks to them, they are both very nice girls.

Today has again been very cold, rough and wet, in fact most uncomfortable, but suppose in a couple of days we will be running into hot weather. The officers on board are starting all sorts of sports and competitions for good prizes, boxing and all ship games and when the best of the companies are left in the finals it will be most exciting and interesting. Have not touched at any port yet and do not know when we will. Everything OK, love to all, Bob.

Saturday 11/9/1915 At sea, Indian Ocean.

40

Dear family,

Still going without any land in sight and the weather very hot but sea without a ripple. Some time back, just after entering the Indian Ocean, a large wave broke over the bow of the ship and broke our hatch and flooded our mess deck. For the time being we all got wet through; rifles, kit bags, plates, boots and other things all floating about. One of our chaps was carried off his feet and hurt his head, having to have about 18 stitches in same. We all more or less got a bit of a scare but it was some experience. I dried off in the stoke hold. Of course we lost a lot of gear and it all meant a lot of work, cleaning rusty rifles etc. Nana and self OK except for a bit of a cold. Same one has stuck to me since leaving Sydney. Expect to arrive at destination in about middle of Sept. Love, Bob.

Sunday 12/9/1915 At sea, Red Sea.

My dear family.

We are at present in the Red Sea and it is indeed some hot. After 14 days with nothing in sight but water we came along the east coast of Africa and everybody was very interested and cheerful. We have passed several steamers today and everything is very interesting and new. For instance, it is blowing a young gale tonight which seems to hit you in cold and hot blasts alternately. Up to the present we have not yet stopped since leaving Sydney. It is rumoured we go to Suez direct and finish our journey in the train.

Mumps are the order of the day on board the ship. Several of our chaps are under with them. I hope it will not mean quarantine when we land. I have not been able to get four to play auction bridge but play 500 every day and night. We get some great fun out of it. Have come across a chap named Perry from Queensland, brother to the dentist in Sydney. We have had some very interesting lectures on Egypt from one of the Sisters, the Parson and one of the Doctors. Places to see etc. No doubt you are wondering where we are and what is doing but since we have had a through trip of course the mails are still on board.

The OC is OK and seems to be having a good time. Tell Jane the wattle was alright. On 1st Sept the SM got his alright and was indeed proud. Our chaps are practising for their second concert. The first one was a huge success, in fact I have seen worse in Sydney at the Tivoli. The next time I write will be from Egypt as mails close on board on Tuesday next.

Well there is not much fresh news on the ship. Trusting you are all OK at home, love to all, Bob

41

Zeitoun, Egypt

The first convoy of Australian troops heading to the Great War had been destined for training in England before entering the fray on the Western Front. However, while they were in transit, two factors intervened. Sir George Read, the Australian High Commissioner in London, inspected the training facilities on the windswept Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire and concluded that they were totally unsuitable for Australians to spend a winter in the open. Secondly, the Ottoman Empire joined the Axis Powers in declaring war on the Allies, thus posing a serious threat to the vital Suez Canal in British-controlled Europe. So the convoy was diverted to Egypt, and a series of training camps established around Cairo.

Map 1. AIF camps around Cairo, 1915 Map compiled by D G Jones

These camps became the main support bases for the Gallipoli campaign, together with a range of hospitals established to treat the wounded. The base at Zeitoun, nearest to the centre of Cairo and next to No.1 Australian General Hospital at the Palace Hotel in Heliopolis, became the training ground for reinforcements for the 4th Brigade (including the 13th Battalion).

The 7th Reinforcements arrived at Port Suez on 16th September 1915 and travelled by train in open freight cars across the desert to Zeitoun.

42

Photo 26. Australian troops travelling by train in Egypt Source: SLNSW a5374115 (Donald MacDonald photo album)

Tuesday 14/9/1915 Port Suez.

To Mr James Henderson,

Dear Sir,

I am pleased to inform you that your sons Private L A and Corporal R J are in the best of health and spirits. We have had a very pleasant voyage and though it is getting rather hot as we approach its termination, everyone is looking forward with interest to the new land we expect to reach in a day or two. N L Henley, Lieutenant OC 7th Reinforcements 13th Battalion.

Sunday 19/9/1915 Zeitoun, Egypt.

Dear Mother,

We have arrived at our destination, for the present at least. Had a through trip from Sydney to Suez which took 4 weeks less 1 day. In previous correspondence I think I told you about trip as far as Suez. From there we took the train to Zeitoun, about 70 or 80 miles, a 6-hour trip. This run was most interesting, right along the Canal for some miles. Passed a P & O mail boat and several war boats. From the train these vessels appear to being running along the sand. The country for the first half of the journey was practically nothing but desert, but 43 later on the whole country was under cultivation and irrigation. The principal things grown seem to be dates, cotton and corn. The different people are most interesting and fascinating: Arabs, Greeks, and all sorts. For the most part they seem to be dirty brutes and they worry one so much that you carry a stick and use same with some language if they will not go away. We arrived at Zeitoun about 7 o’clock on Friday night and marched into camp about ¼ mile away and settled down for the night.

There are all sorts of chaps here, have seen plenty of fellows I know. Two Pattricks, Kirkwood, and others. Had a little trouble with the money business at first but after a trip to Cairo am quite proficient now, and what is more, do not think I have been taken in yet which is not bad for they are the biggest lot of rogues in the world here. There are plenty of shops in camp and the boundary is very large. Heliopolis for example is within bounds so that there is plenty of interesting things and places to see and plenty of cafes etc to spend money in.

Photo 27. The 4th Brigade march into Zeitoun camp Source: New Zealand History

There are plenty of wounded men in camp so have had great descriptions of the fighting etc. Men coming and going to the front every day. Everybody here have a terrible set on Kitchener’s Army at the front, say they are no good at all, in fact the Indians will not fight with them and all say that had there have been enough Australians in the first landing, things would have been very different there now. Do not know how long we will be here. May go away in a week or so. They give you 24 hours’ notice.

We get very little news here regarding the war and not any more reliable than in Australia. Yesterday had a great day in Cairo, it was indeed strange and fascinating. It would be indeed impossible to describe one’s wanderings without one was actually there. We went to all the bad places as well as the good but managed to keep safe and not too fascinated by the French girls etc. Went to the best hotels and cafes and had a good look round. Some of the buildings are fine but on the whole it is a dirty place, narrow streets, plenty of stinks and people of every nature. Hope to have several visits there to do museums, pyramids etc. We did not visit any of the instructive places yesterday but were just out for a good time generally. Sent a cable to father from there but the OC kindly sent one from Suez so suppose that you got some word that we were well as soon as it was possible to get same through. 44

The weather here is very hot in daytime but quite cool at night. We get up at 5 o’clock and drill from 6 until 9. Breakfast at 9. Lecture from 10:45 until 12 o’clock, dinner at 12, then more drill from 5 until 7 pm, tea at 7, then free until 10 o’clock. Of course that is if you have no other duties – guard, fatigues etc. We start work seriously tomorrow so will let you know later but from what I can hear, discipline is very strict and rigid which will probably hurt for a little. We wear short trousers and a shirt, boots and putties here, which look very cool but believe me the sand on the bare knees is not too god. Of course, the whole camp is sand. Have not seen one green place.

Will write you again. Hope you are all well. Remembrances and love to all and plenty for your dear self, Bob.

Sunday 10/9/1915. Postcard from Cairo

Dear Jane,

What do you think of our party on the back of this card? We had a most interesting afternoon at the Pyramids with lots of fun with donkeys and camels and guides etc. Am enclosing a couple of clean postcards in letter Nana is writing. Have been trying to find Reg Bull but so far have not been successful. He may have gone to front. Cairo and surrounds are very wonderful and most fascinating. Will write soon, lots of love, Bob.

Photo 28. Visiting the Pyramids Sep 1915 Source: AWM2016.30.7 Henderson Postcards

Saturday 9/10/1915 Soldiers’ Club Cairo.

Dear Mum,

Do not get very much time to write in this place. Plenty of duty and work and when one is off there is plenty to do and see. Nana and self are both well and looking forward to going to the front next Monday. We were warned this morning to be ready at any time now. Shall be glad to get away from here in lots of ways although everything is most interesting and instructive but am now keen to see action and also some other parts of this world. Cairo is 45 indeed a gay, wicked, fine city in parts. Of course it takes some time to get in to the way of things and find out the best cafes etc to visit. Then of course the difficulty of £.s.d arrives but on the whole have done very well. Have the whole of the day off so will be sight-seeing this afternoon and cannot say at present what we will be doing at night.

Received your letter and also one from Lorna a couple of days ago. We were very glad to hear from you, and all are well. Servant question still a trouble, shall have to bring back some of these niggers or a Frenchman to say nothing of the French lasses.

We are just going to have lunch at the St James Café, a real fine place, cost 20 piastres without drinks. A piastre is worth 2½ pence; one is very apt to treat them as pennies. Cabs and taxis are one of the few cheap things to be had in this city so use them quite a lot. Of course there are plenty of nice things, silks etc to buy, but shall probably be back here later if I have any luck.

Best love to all, Bob.

PS. Just called by a couple of the lads who are anxious to get away.

Sunday 17/10/1915 YMCA Cairo

Dear Mum and family,

The company are off to the front tomorrow without fail this time. Sailing orders are through. I am not going with them but hope to pick them up later. I shall be here for at least three more weeks having decided to go through the machine gun school which starts tomorrow. The work should be interesting and something new. There were about 30 applicants from our company and only 3 selected so that I feel quite hot stuff. Leslie Henley left this morning, saw him off and wished him all sorts of luck.

You had better address letters the same as usual although after going through this school I may or may not join my company. In fact do not know where, when or with whom I shall get into action with. However if I receive any letters shall forward them on to Nana and he will do the same during the next month at all events.

Have not heard from home for 2 weeks but still letters may have been sent on as we were supposed to have gone away some time ago.

Photo 29. Groppi’s café, Cairo Source: youtube.com

46

Having afternoon tea at Groppi’s, one of the hot stuff places in Cairo yesterday afternoon I met Major Herring who has charge of the 13th Battalion. He came across and spoke to me, said he was the only officer who went in with the original battalion who was left, and out of 1500 men only 270 remained. I advised him to take a ticket in Tatts, also felt a bit sorry about not going away with the company especially after meeting the man in charge. However was advised to have a go at this machine gun section so will have to buck in and do some work.

We are very comfortable; 12 in a large tent with a separate mess for NCOs which is very good. Have not seen the program yet but there are at least two lectures a day and extra work for the NCOs.

Photo 30. Bell tents at Zeitoun Camp Source: New Zealand History

Had a fine trip last Friday night. Went out to the Hospital which is situated on the banks of the Nile River to see some of the nurses who came over with us on the boat. Two of us took Sister Garven and Sister Heritage out on the river. We took our tea and had a great time. It was indeed a treat to talk with and be in the company of an Australian girl again, quite like times in Australia. The girls were very lively like all nurses are and with plenty of nice cigarettes, good things to eat and drink to say nothing of the sporting girls you can imagine we had a tip-top evening arriving back to camp at 11:30 pm. Never tell me South Australian girls are quiet and sedate again. Sister Heritage comes from Adelaide and she happened to be my mate that evening. We were not very quiet in fact I received many shocks. However if I know anything it will not be my last trip up the Nile in a sailing punt on a beautiful moonlight night.

47

The weather here seems to be always alike to me. Days the same, very hot, and nights the same, cool and beautiful. It never seems to rain in this country by any chance.

Last night we went to one of the flash music halls. Shall enclose the programme. Had a great night. Something similar to the Sydney Tivoli only much better. The two Australian artists were very good and received a great reception. You can smoke right through the performance and get anything to drink without moving from your seat. In fact after Sydney theatres the arrangements are excellent.

Photo 31. Kursaal Music Hall, Heliopolis Source: postcards of Cairo

Living at my present rate money seems to be getting low; 2/- a day being hardly enough to buy one ice-cream, to say nothing about taking cabs, boats and taking ladies out. Shall probably cable father through the Anglo-Egyptian Bank for £20 (equivalent to A$2,060 in 2018) or so shortly. Tell Mick to square the matter up if such a thing happens.

Had a long letter from Lucy Cowdery which was very nice of her. Also two letters from Gladys Reid. Do not know what I have done to deserve all this. Nana and self are keeping in excellent health, in fact I have never felt better in my life. Plenty of hard work and not too much to eat I suppose. We only get meat once a day, stewed fruit and rice or tinned fish for other meals, and when an ordinary tin of salmon or fruit has to do 5 hungry men, things are only middling if one has no money. However, I am not grumbling, it suits me alright. Then when you get up into the city everything is thoroughly appreciated.

Shall write again next mail and let you know how the school is going. Am at present very jealous seeing all my mates and friends whom I have been with for the last 3 months going

48 away to fight and not being with them. However I hope to be there shortly after them up again at Lemnos Island.

Kindest remembrances to all and lots of love to you all, Bob.

Sunday 24/10/1915 YMCA Cairo.

Dear Mum,

Nana and the crowd got away last Monday morning alright at 6 o’clock am but am unable to find out where they have gone to, either Lemnos Island or Salonica. I have just completed one week’s work at the Machine Gun School. It is very interesting but quite a bit of study to do as there is a great deal to get through in 3 weeks. We had our first examination yesterday morning which was on the care and description of the gun. I did fairly, gaining 79 and 82 marks out of 100 in each case. This week we carry on with the mechanism of the gun and stoppages. The work is very interesting, also the lectures on Map Reading, characteristics of the gun, history of the gun etc which we have so far received from Major Pardo, are indeed fine. He gives a great lecture having been in France fighting for the past nine months he has lots of points to bring into his lectures and being an Englishman has a nice voice and good flow of language.

Photo 32. Reinforcements for 8th Machine Gun Company pose with Vickers gun Source: AWM P04684.002

49

We get up at 5:30, work from 6:30 to 8:30, then from 10 until 1, and 2 until 4:30 with a half- holiday on Wednesdays and Saturdays and of course Sundays off. This gun (Vickers Maxim machine gun) I am starting to learn something about fires bullets at the rate of 500 per minute and has an all-round traverse so you can imagine the amount of damage done and the use an efficient machine gun section is in the army. There are six men to each section and of course each one has to be able to do the work of any of the six in case of accidents etc.

Last night I had another good trip on Nile taking Sister Garven out for a blow. The moon was full and the breeze just nice; we had plenty of nice things to eat and lots to talk about. While out at the hospital I was speaking to some of the lads there; was enquiring about Jack Edgley. Rumour has it that he has gone off his head and is not now at the front but this may not be true. Tell June Cocks that Jack Cowdery’s friend is very ill in the hospital. I did not see him but heard from Sister Garven. He is not in her ward but she seems to know something about everybody. Some of the sisters are riding out to the Pyramids on donkeys by moonlight tomorrow night. I was invited to join the party but decided not to as one cannot play around and work too. The trip should be great fun.

Have not received any letters for some time but do not expect to as things are a bit mixed here and they may have gone on to the battalion wherever they are. Nana will forward back to me if he receives any during the next 2 weeks as he knows where I am.

Had rather an unpleasant experience last week which lasted for about 3 days. I was broke and unable to get to Cairo for money then when I did get to the bank it was closed. Language was fierce for a while and if I remember aright it is the first time I have ever been without enough money to go on with. Very unpleasant in this country where you are not known or trusted. However I shall do my best to see that it does not occur again.

Best love and remembrances to all and of course plenty for the Wahnsfried Mob. Bob

Sunday 7/11/1915 Zeitoun

My dear Mum,

Have just completed my course at the school and am back at Zeitoun Camp among what they call the details. May go away at any time now. I did quite well, scoring 80% on the whole course and have received a certificate for a machine gun sergeant. Of course the next thing is to get an appointment as such. Whether there are any vacancies etc however, will find out when I get to the front. The last week at the school was all right, we had 2 days on the range with the guns and the rest of the time examinations, both practical and written papers.

Last Thursday night we had a great concert in the NCOs mess. Very select company; Prince Alexander of Teck sang to us the song Sister Sauce sewing socks for soldiers etc. We all joined in the chorus. Also our Major recited. We also had a girl from the Kursaal Music Hall to sing to us, and other artists. General Spence (Brigadier Reginal Spencer Browne, officer commanding Australian Details in Egypt) and several other officers of high rank were there. The whole thing was absolutely first class and most enjoyable.

50

Went to the Kursaal Music Hall last night. It was very good. Some of the items especially so. Sent a cable to father yesterday to send £15 (A$1,544 in 2018) to the Anglo-Egyptian Bank. Am not yet broke but am taking no risks. The longer I stay here the more extravagant I become. One commences to find out the decent places, also you seem to work the oracle so as to obtain more leave, take risks without passes etc.

I have not heard a word from Nana yet, or received any letters from Australia. As soon as I get a chance I shall find out from the base in Cairo where he is or if anything has happened to him. This base is not open on Saturdays or Sundays and closes at 5 o’clock on weekdays so being busy at the school have been unable to find out anything so far.

Have had a quiet day in camp today, reading and writing. Out on Friday afternoon and evening and all day Saturday and Saturday night so that I had to take life easily today. Do not know what I shall do here now, being a machine gunner now we consider ourselves too high and mighty to mix with the infantry to which we are attached here and as there are no machine gun sections formed here suppose we shall not do much more drill until we get to the front and become attached to a section. However there are 3 of us together here in a tent. We went through the school together so intend to have a good time and a thorough loaf now until sent away. Fancy we are supposed to instruct the lads on machine gun work but having no gun here do not see that we can do much good.

Ran across Jack Weedon and Docker here yesterday, they have just arrived and were off to Cairo to have a look around. Am very curious to hear some Australian news and how things are at home and all the news about Drummoyne folk but the mails here seem to get mixed up to blazes. However if lucky I may pick up a bunch of letters for me somewhere. Hope so. No more news at present, lots of love to all, Bob.

51

Lemnos Island

Bob Henderson, together with 35 other ranks re-joining the 13th Battalion from hospital, boarded the troopship ARGYLLSHIRE in Alexandria on 14th November, arriving at Lemnos Island two days later. They languished on the ship until 7th December, when they were transported to Gallipoli and went ashore at Williams Pier, marching up Chailak Dere to join the battalion at Durrant’s Post.

Photo 33. HMAT ARGYLLSHIRE in 1915 Source: National Library of Australia

Sunday 14/11/1915 At sea, HMAT ARGYLLSHIRE.

My dear Mum,

At present on board the ARGYLLSHIRE going to I do not know where, Lemnos Island I suppose. The sea is beautifully smooth and everything very peaceful.

Had a good trip down in the train from Cairo to Alexandria, about a 5-hour run, passing through miles and miles of country covered in corn and cotton. We embarked last night and got away early this morning. I hope to pick up Nana shortly but do not know whether he has left Lemnos Island for the front yet or not. Am anxious to see if he has any mail for me. Thank father for sending the money along so promptly; had no difficulty getting it and as I have had the last week free to do as I pleased it came in very handy.

52

I have been attached to what they call details. That is, men from the hospitals, wounded etc, who are ready to go back to the front. These men of course do not drill or do any work so that the past week has been a great loaf for me. However, I shall be in the real thing very shortly

It is great to be at sea again, so cool and nice after Egypt. It is as hot as the devil there and always sand, sand to gaze upon. Came away in a terrible hurry. Had dinner in Cairo on Friday night and made arrangements to go to the theatre on Saturday night and a trip out all day on Sunday with one of the Sisters but alas it was not to be. When arriving back in camp at 10:30 pm on Friday night we got notice to be ready to leave on Saturday morning at 6 o’clock. Took me until 1:30 am to pack and get ready but wished to do a great many other things if time had allowed. Left my black bag with spare clothing with a chap to take into Cooks so that if I ever get back again to Egypt I shall have some clothes to wear. Of course you cannot take much with you into the trenches, and whatever you take in, never comes out with you and naturally if your things you left behind are with the military that is the end of them.

Have no more news at present. Hoping you have an excellent Xmas at Wakefield and lots of joy. Shall be thinking of you all, lots of love, Bob.

Sunday 21/11/1915 Lemnos Island Harbour.

Dear Mum,

It is a great change from Egypt here. The weather has been bitterly cold with gales of wind blowing. We arrived here last Tuesday night and have been stuck on board in the one spot for 5 days doing nothing, awaiting further orders. Have been playing a lot of auction bridge and every other game one can think of. Will be glad to get a move on. Now it is getting monotonous stuck in the one spot doing nothing.

Had a rather exciting trip coming from Alexandria. Life boats all half lowered ready for trouble. We picked up 4 boatloads from a ship that was sunk by a submarine 3 hours ahead of us and you can imagine things were only middling that day. However we arrived here without any further trouble (The British cargo ship SS Orange Prince was torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine on 15th Nov 1915 85 nautical miles south of Crete en route Alexandria-Mudros – 3 casualties from crew).

There are all sorts of boats here, from the AQUITANIA which is a hospital ship, to the smallest destroyer. It is great to see these ships dodging in and out protecting and convoying ships etc.

53

Photo 34. Mudros Harbour, Lemnos 1916 Source: SLNSW Albert Savage collection

Someone thought they had a better right to my blanket than myself so that when his nibs went to bed about 11 o’clock all I had was an overcoat and a waterproof sheet. It was very cold, and hard on the bare boards. I expect someone else will be short tonight for I do not intend to be.

All sorts of money is being offered for tobacco and cigarettes on board but the money is no good. Nothing to sell in that line. Hope they will stock up again if we are to stay here much longer.

Well there is absolutely no more news this week but shall probably have some next letter. All good wishes for a bright and merry Christmas and New Year. Lots of love, Bob.

PS. Have you heard from Nana yet? Do not know where he is; also have had no letters since September, hope everything is OK.

54

Map 2. Lemnos and the Gallipoli Peninsula Source: annotated by D G Jones on German 1:250,000 map 1901

55

Durrant’s Post, Gallipoli

Following a welcome break on Lemnos Island, the 13th Battalion returned to Gallipoli on 2nd November and took over Durrant’s Post, on the front line opposite the Turkish trenches west of Chunuk Bair.

Map 3. Location of Durrant’s Post Source: map drawn by D G Jones Sunday 12/12/1915 Durrant’s Post, Gallipoli

Dear Mum and family,

Have at last reached my destination, and am agreeably surprised with it and the conditions existing. So far the weather has been glorious and the food good. I was very glad to see Nana again; he is looking excellent and getting as fat as a pig. Also Leslie is OK and looking well. And the rest of the boys in our company are all fit and doing well. Some have gone away sick and so forth but not so many as one might have expected. Have had some letters here for me which I have enjoyed having as you can imagine having had no news whatever since September. I am attached to the Machine Gun Section of the 13th Battalion and find the work very interesting. The gun positions and the country controlled by them and the 56 support given to the chaps in the trenches etc makes one think of the very excellent work these machine guns do. In fact it would be impossible to do without them.

Nana and self of course have different duties but my dugout is very close to his and we see quite a lot of one another. Of course one loses the temporary rank held when you arrive here but do not mind in the least. In fact it is quite nice to be a private again.

I must write to the office and get them to make my money up. Tell Mick I shall instruct them to pay any money due to me into my current account at Bank NSW Annandale.

Was very glad to get away from Lemnos Island, was only on shore 2 days and after being on guard 26 hours received 10 minutes notice to pack up and be ready to leave in half an hour, which did not leave one very much time. We had to march about 3 miles to the boat loaded with 48 hours rations, 120 rounds ammunition, rifle and other gear. Then when we landed on the peninsular had to climb hills for about 3½ miles from the beach to a point called Durrant’s Post, where the 4th Brigade are at present situated, with all our gear, so that when we arrived there at 3 o’clock in the morning everyone was quite glad to drop their blankets anywhere on the hill and turn in.

The noise of bullets and shrapnel, notwithstanding the closeness of same to one’s person, had not the slightest effect on one’s sleep. The bullets whizz all over the place here but one does not worry or take any notice of same.

Everybody doing their bit in a most cheerful manner. Have had a couple of games of bridge here already; played for 1/- (A$5.15 in 2018 dollars) per 100 and won 8/- the second night I was here. Then last night I taught the school how to play auction bridge and again was lucky enough to win 10/-. We played until midnight. I then went on duty until 3 o’clock in the morning and when that time arrived was feeling fit for a good sleep which I had. The boys enjoyed the auction bridge and reckon they will not play the ordinary game again.

Have not received any parcels or papers here yet but the things you have sent may yet come and will be greatly appreciated. A ship containing 2000 bags of mail for here was sunk recently so that losses of that nature, if they occur too often, would account for many things going astray. However, it is all in the game. When sending another parcel over I should be glad to have some paper, a pack of cards and bridge scorer, also some chocolate, but by the time this letter reaches you we might be anywhere. However you never know your luck and if Johnny Turk’s bullets go close only and one remains in the present state of good health I shall still be going strong.

Nana tells me Reg Bull is over here, away around on our right. If I can manage it, one of these days we are going to take a walk to see him. Leslie says he saw him, going strong but he has lost some weight but otherwise OK.

Well dear, I shall try and write regularly and let you know the news. Trust you are all OK. We are always talking and thinking of you all. Lots of love to everybody,

Bob.

Sunday 12/12/1915 Durrant’s Post, Gallipoli. 57

Mr Donoghue.

Dear Sir,

Have at last, after going through varied experiences, reached my destination for the time being and am now going strong against Mr Johnny Turk. I find things very interesting and at times most exciting. Here we are at present holding Durrant’s Post which is situated about 3½ miles (5.6 km) from the beach and although bullets and shrapnel whizz around close to one at times no-one takes any notice but just goes on doing his bit. We make ourselves very comfortable here while off duty, all living in dugouts which are let into the side of the hill, and they can be made very comfortable and nice with your own little fire-place etc. In fact we have had several visits to one another’s dugouts where we play bridge and have small suppers etc. Not quite same as an evening out in Australia but nevertheless most enjoyable and novel.

I am at present attached to the Machine Gun Section of the 13th Battalion and find the work most interesting and exciting. These guns are absolutely indispensable and the good work done here by them is astonishing. When joining their units here, all the reinforcement NCOs lose their rank and of course start over again as privates. This was not made clear to me in Australia but when reaching this side of the world one learns all sorts of things in connection with the military business that have never been heard of in Australia.

I joined my unit here on the 7th of December 1915 and from that date my pay will be that received by a private, namely 6/- per day. If I remember aright the company are making up the difference to £3-6-0 per week. This being so, I shall have some money due to me and shall be obliged if same is paid into my current account with the Bank of NSW Annandale Sydney. If of course I have the good fortune to improve my position and become a machine gun expert or a spare Colonel I shall have pleasure in letting you know of same. However I shall do my bit to the best of my ability in whatever capacity.

I had quite a good stay in Egypt before coming over here and some opportunities of getting around and seeing things. The place is most fascinating and interesting as well as instructive. Cairo is a wonderful place in many respects but in my opinion a most immoral place. In fact I have seen things which, unless one did actually see them, one would never believe such things went on. On the other hand the Pyramids, Sphinx, mosques, museums, the River Nile and such-like trips were simply great.

From Egypt we went to Lemnos Island where we were hung up for 3 weeks on the ship. Coming across from Alexandria we picked up 4 boat-loads of survivors from a torpedoed vessel which was only 3 hours ahead of us so that things were a bit exciting for a while. This vessel also had 2000 bags of mail for the peninsular, which was very bad luck for us all over here. Letters are scarce enough without losing some in this manner.

Kindly remember me to all my fellow employees and if Mr Turk’s bullets continue to go close only, one may some day have the good fortune to see you all again. Trusting the company will have a prosperous year ahead and also wishing you the compliments of the season,

I have the honour to be your obedient servant, R J Henderson.

58

From mid-December, after the British War Cabinet made the decision to abandon the Gallipoli campaign, the Anzac garrison was gradually reduced surreptitiously at night, until only 10,000 troops remained. These were evacuated on the night of 19th/20th December, with the last of the 13th Battalion departing Durrant’s Post at 2:15 am on the 20th. They were taken aboard the destroyer HMS PRINCE ABBAS and transported to Lemnos Island, where they spent a miserable Christmas. The entire evacuation was accomplished without a casualty.

Map 4. 13th Battalion evacuation route from Durrant’s Post, 20th Dec 1915 Map compiled by D G Jones

Thursday 30/12/1915 At sea HMAT TUNISIAN.

Dear Mum,

59

Photo 35. SS TUNISIAN 1916 Source: Allen Line archives

We are on our way to Egypt again, travelling on a boat about 11,000 tons belonging to the Allen Line. Suppose you have had all sorts of reports about the evacuation from the peninsular. Everything went off very well. About 140,000 troops being taken away in 2 days and nights without any casualties. The machine gun section were about the last to get off. It was a beautiful moonlit night and the last night there every section moved away at specified times and embarked. The Turk, all unconscious of the move, was blazing away. Would like to know what he thought when he discovered no-one was there. We had great fun setting bayonets, tins etc in the ground so that when anyone pulled them out, off would go a bomb. Then all sorts of messages were left in the dugouts wishing the Turks the compliments of the season etc in all sorts of language.

I had about a fortnight there. It is a dreary place and am glad to get away although it hurt some, sneaking away leaving all the graves of the fellows who fell before. Still suppose it was for the best.

Do not know where we will go next. All sorts of rumours about going to London, then France, also fighting on the Suez Canal, but so long as they leave us in Egypt for a few days so that one can have a good feed and clean up I do not mind where we go next.

We spent Christmas at Lemnos Island. Both Nana and myself were thinking about you all at home and discussing what you all would be doing. We had a very quiet day. Our dinner consisted of tea, biscuits and cheese, and a pint of beer. On Boxing Day we received billies from South Australia. They were very nice and appreciated greatly but we’re sorry we did not receive the ones from our own State. Goodness knows where they went to. We also received our parcels. The sheepskin vest is fine, one of the best I have seen, and the

60 chocolate, cigarettes, socks, soap etc was greatly appreciated. We have not received the hampers from home and the office. Suppose they are lost or gone to someone else. It was indeed nice of Joe Parry and his wife thinking of me, and very sorry I did not receive all the nice things which no doubt those hampers would have held.

Received letters at Lemnos from home: Mrs Dennis, Mrs Bull and Billy Bull. Will try and answer all later. Sorry to hear that Dad’s feet are bad again. Hope they will be OK again shortly. The surf must have been great at the good old spot on the peninsular.

We got about 2 pints of water every 3 days so you can imagine the state we were in. Then on the island things were very little better. However, hope to get a new rig out on getting to Egypt again.

Tell Dot old WA went away sick on the peninsular with cancer in the ear or some such thing. Do know where he is but will not be back with the company for some time yet. No more news at present. Will write soon again. Love to all,

Bob. PS. Nana and self in the best of health, feeling very fit.

61

Ismailia

The 13th Battalion disembarked from the SS TUNISIAN at 6:30 pm on 2nd Jan 1916 at Alexandria, and were taken by train to the port city of Ismailia, on the north shore of Lake Timsah on the Suez Canal. The Australians were to reinforce and regroup prior to taking part in the defence of the Suez Canal.

Map 5. Location of AIF camps and Suez Canal Source: map drawn by D G Jones Sunday 9/1/1916 Ismailia, Egypt My dear Mum,

We are both back again in Egypt and camped at Ismailia which is on the Suez Canal between Cairo and Suez. I think this particular part of the Canal is known as the Bitter Lakes. I received letters from you Mum – Lola, Mick, Vera Hoskins, Billy Bull, Percy Arnott, Mary Robb and Jean. Also Herbert Dennis. Nana received about 6 and myself 9 also some papers: Sunday Sun, Life Magazine, Herald, also parcel containing cigarettes and tobacco, soap, socks, cheese etc. All this came to us in one day here and everything, the reading matter, eatables and smoking material were very much appreciated. It was indeed a treat to hear all the news. Do not know when I shall be able to answer all those letters but shall try to eventually. You might let Lorna see the letters I send to you and thereby saving an extra letter to her. I am sure she will not mind. Tell Mick his letters are most interesting and to continue same. He does not say anything about business affairs. Did he buy those 100 62 shares for me in the Electric Light Company? I see they are paying well. Also I presume the Government are paying some money into my account. I also wrote the office to pay some money in as I am again a private. Will you kindly in future address my letters: Machine Gun Section 13th Battalion and Nana’s “B” Company 13th Battalion? You can put this in instead of 7th Reinforcements. This will make the sorting of the mail easier and less chance of letters going astray. These bags of mails for the Battalion come in batches of 800 to 1000 at a time so you can imagine the work. Nana is writing as soon as he gets a chance. He and another bank clerk have fallen in for some office work for a few days and today being Sunday, our letter writing day, he will miss his chance of writing this week. I cabled to father yesterday saying we were both well and in Egypt as I thought you might have imagined all sorts of things happening during our evacuation from the Peninsular. Expect you have had all sorts of reports regarding same. Gave you particulars in a previous letter. We had a good trip across from Lemnos but I seem to be in luck. Going across there a ship 3 hours ahead of us was torpedoed and sunk and coming back a ship was sunk that left 6 hours behind us. However, same old story, those who are born to be hanged will never be drowned. Coming in the train to this place we had a very dreary trip leaving Alexandria at 8 o’clock in the night and arriving here at 5:30 am the next morning. Then there was a shortage of tents and most of us slept out and I can tell you it is some cold here at night time. However, Nana, Blackall Wright and myself built a fairly comfortable dugout. We can buy all sorts of dainties here such as bread, butter, jam, beer, fruit, eggs etc so are having the time of our lives for all the world like a picnic on Thirroul Beach without the ocean to look at.

Do not know what our next move will be. Inclined to think we will put the winter in here and have a go against the Germans in France next summer, however no-one knows. We may have to fight on the Canal yet. We have a fairly strenuous time here, drill etc, marching over this sand, and practice coming into action with horses and limbers etc. So that we are all agreed the best place to be is actually in the firing line and shall not be sorry when we are at it again.

Photo 36. Main street of Ismailia, 1916 Source: postcards of Egypt 63

This place is very pretty, that is the town portion. Right along the Canal beautiful parks and gardens and avenues. Of course it is a very small place, shall try and get a weekend off to visit Cairo or Port Said; we are about 3 hours from each place. But these Australians when let loose make the pace such a welter getting drunk and raiding shops etc that it is very hard to get any leave at all. Yesterday the 13th Battalion played the 4th Field Ambulance rugby football match. It was a very close game and most exciting, the ambulance lads winning by 4 points to nil. We had our own band on the ground and plenty of visitors; French ladies and naval officers etc, who came across from the tennis courts which are close to the ground.

Mr Henley is in Alexandria and Leslie has seen him. We should get all our parcels etc now. Leslie in the best of health. He has nothing to do with me now. However, often have a yarn with him. Biddy Baston has charge of “A” Company; also see a good deal of him. Mr Herring has charge of the battalion so that we know quite a number of the heads. Tell Jane it is a good idea of hers to wait for her trip until we get to London. Should not be surprised if we ended up there one of these days, although I do not think she would enjoy a trip on a troopship very much.

Am sorry my delay in Egypt caused you worry, also cabling for money, but rest assured I shall not get into any serious trouble. I make a point of always taking pleasures etc in moderation. The army has not spoilt me so far in that respect.

You must have received letters by this explaining why I did not leave Zeitoun with the company and am indeed glad now. Being in the Machine Gun Section we get out of quite a lot of duty. We are exempt from guards, fatigues, and any petty worries the men in the companies are subjected to. Am in a fair financial position at present, having about £10, but things are expensive here and money does not go far. So Mum if cabling for money at any time do not get alarmed and imagine all sorts of dreadful things. The Henderson boys will keep fairly straight thanks to previous training. Trust you all keep well and things continue to go OK. Will write soon again. Lots of love to all, From Bob.

Monday 17/1/1916 Ismailia

My dear Lorna,

Received the two parcels you sent, many thanks for same. Everything is very useful and deeply appreciated. Have spent the last few days in the hospital here suffering from septic sores on both legs. Nothing at all serious, having a great time and shall be all right again in a few days. It is indeed nice to get clean and have a decent bed. Am making the most of the rest I can assure you. Tell Mick Mr Richardson’s cousin wrote Nana and is also writing to me and by his letter which is a very nice one, if we go to London and let him know when we arrive we are in for the time of our lives. His address is Kileena, West Byfleet, Surrey. Among other things he says that “his heart goes out to any and all that are fighting for the right as on the 7th inst I lost my elder son at Suvla Bay”. Seems to be a real good sort and shall not forget to let him know should the opportunity occur.

Have absolutely no news this week. Nana came in to see me yesterday. He is very well and getting as fat as a pig. Plenty to read here, and games. Play a lot of bridge. Also get up and

64 sweep up the ward, carry meals, and odd jobs to fill in the time. This hospital game is good for about a week but should say it would be an awful bore to be confined in one any longer.

Had a long letter from Jane dated 14th Nov. Glad to hear all the news. Will address this c/- home, have forgotten your address especially the name of the house. Tell June the small note to Jim Cooney was not enclosed in her letter. However poor Jim is away in Malta sick. Have not seen him since leaving Egypt. Norman Rollo is at Heliopolis I believe, shall certainly look him up if I have the pleasure of going to Cairo again. Janey must be a bonny kid now would love to see her, best of love to all, Bob.

65

Moascar

Sunday 23/1/1916 Moascar

My dear Mum,

Am again at work once more. Was in the hospital six days. Legs are OK again. Applications of hot foments and resting in bed the sores soon healed. Had a very good rest and it was very nice to get several hot baths and have a nice bed.

We have again moved to this place which is about 2 miles from Ismailia. Still in the desert but about 30 times worse than our previous camp. We get very little food and what is worse cannot buy anything here. However, suppose we shall leave here sooner or later.

Photo 37. Air photo of Moascar Camp and Ismailia Source: captured German documents

Have just come in from Church Parade but only a farce, being unable to hear a word spoken. So put in the time watching a plane flying above us. Received some letters and papers a few days ago which were very welcome. The mails seem to be coming regularly now. Nana has been away in Cairo for a week now. He is not yet back. Went away with Lieutenant Barton in connection with comforts and kit bags I believe. It will be no doubt a great trip for him and a nice holiday. Expect when he comes back will write and let you know all about it. Bye the bye Billy Barton is now a captain, Leslie a first lieutenant, and Sergeant Murray has received his commission.

66

Last Saturday afternoon several of us went into Ismailia. We all hired bikes and went for a good ride around the Canal which was very pretty and interesting. I had a puncture and had to carry a spanner to tighten up nuts etc on the machine every mile or so but that was neither here nor there, provoking one to use bad language only. In the evening we went to the pictures and notwithstanding our French translation being rotten they were very enjoyable.

No more news at present, lots of love to all, Bob

Sunday 30/1/1916 Moascar

Dear Mick,

Have just come in from Church Parade which was more or less a farce, those who were not near the parson being unable to hear a word. However it is a beautiful day and those who could not interest themselves in the service put in the time by watching the tactics of a French plane which was directly above us. Nana has returned from Cairo where he had a great holiday, spending about £20 in a week. Also met plenty of nurses and girls he knew but suppose he will write and let you know all about it.

Received the billy from home at last on 26th January, also puddings. All the contents were in excellent order except the figs etc which were around the puddings. They were all mildewed but do not think the puddings were affected. Intend to have them for dinner today so shall know later. All the dainties were great, we have been living like lords for the last couple of days.

Also received a beautiful hamper from the office with all sorts of nice things. Have just acknowledged same in letter to Parry. All our battalion comforts arrived a few days ago. Tell Jane everything was much appreciated and lots of useful stuff. I think there was a sheepskin vest for everyone in the battalion, socks etc galore.

Have just had a yarn to Leslie Henley. He tells me Reg Bull has received his commission in the Dental Corps. Was very pleased to hear the news. Guess he will be doting on it.

They are fitting us all out with new clothes and anybody who is short of stuff is getting same so it looks as if our next move will be to England. I hope so, shall be glad of a change from Egypt. Also received a very sweet letter from a Miss Davies of Cheshire who starts with “My dear Bob” and ends with “yours very sincerely, M Hope Davies, always known as Hope.” She says all sorts of nice things and promises us a good time. What with this promise and the other letter from Surrey we shall be in for a good time if ever we hit the Old Dart.

We have had a very heavy week’s work, but quite interesting, galloping into action across the desert supporting the infantry etc. Also some good range practice with the guns.

Tell Jane Jim Cooney is not yet back with us. Received a pair of socks and letter for him from Lucy Cowdery, shall hang on to same until he comes back.

No more news at present, lots of love to all, Bob. 67

Saturday 12/2/1916 Moascar

My dear Mum,

Have very little news for you all. We are still in the same spot working very hard on the desert. All day marches and at times all night. Last week has been a little easier.

Photo 38. Australian soldiers swimming on the shores of Lake Timsah Source: SLNSW a5374107 (Donald MacDonald photo album)

Yesterday afternoon we had a swimming parade to the lake which is about 2 miles from here. The water was on the cold side but very enjoyable. There were some cheeky nigger boys on the beach who also in our opinion charged too much for their oranges, so we picked them up with their oranges and threw them into the water. This caused all sorts of fun for us but of course they could not see the joke.

Have just been talking to Nana. He has been on guard all night and was in bed. Les Henley told him he expects his mother and sister to pass through here tomorrow on their way to Alexandria. He has obtained leave to be with them for some time, which will be great for him. An Australian mail has just come in but did not get any letters or papers. Saw Telegraph date January 1st which contained some rather interesting accounts of the evacuation from the peninsular. A few things not quite correct but on the whole a good account. No doubt you were all very much surprised. Personally I think it was a very good thing, for had we remained there 10 years I don’t think the Turks would have been pushed back to any extent or defeated. If we do not get any fighting here we all expect to go to Flanders shortly where 68 no doubt this summer everybody will get as much fighting as they like. Have just read a book called “All For A Scrap of Paper” by Joseph Hocking. It is all about this war in France. Tell Jane to get it from the library.

Photo 39. In camp at Moascar Source: AWM H02274

We are getting lovely weather here at present, fairly warm in the day time but very cold at night. The old sheepskin comes in very handy for sleeping in, they do keep one very warm. Do not think I told you our war cry, it goes like this:

Ah ah ah ah the Machine Gun Section are we We fire that fast the opposition can’t last Ah ah ah ah ah.

The word opposition is for the ladies’ sake, we of course use a much stronger one. Mick no doubt could think of the correct one but do not ask him to express it.

If I remember aright it is somebody’s birthday this month, yours Mother and Lorna’s is it not? A bit late but wish you both very many happy returns and trust I shall be back among you this time next year. You never know your luck.

Lots of love to all the Drummoyne people and plenty for yourselves. Nana and self in the best of health and spirits, Bob 69

Saturday 19/2/1916 Moascar

My dear Jane,

Received your letter dated 6th January also one from Lorna dated 2nd January, also received the parcel containing socks, tobacco, pipe, cigarettes etc. Everything was in good order and greatly appreciated. The pair of socks for Nana were duly handed over to him. If I do not get time to write to Amy and Mrs Bale for the cigarettes and mittens kindly thank them very much for me and let them know how useful all these things are. Les Henley had a couple of days leave this week and picked up the OSTERLEY coming through the Canal about 2 miles from here. It must have been great fun for him to row out and crawl over the side of the boat to meet his mother. He is back again now but have not seen him to talk to yet.

We are about to move from here tomorrow I think to a place called Tel-el-Kebir about 25 miles from here towards Cairo. Then the Anzac combination is to be done away with. We are being separated from the New Zealanders and forming a purely Australian Division. Half of our battalion is being split up and put in with some other people. In fact do not know quite yet what is going to happen. Everybody is dreadfully upset, both our chaps and the New Zealanders. We have had a farewell concert a few nights ago. It was very good but in parts very sad.

Nana was going into Cairo today but at the last minute all leave was cancelled so will be deferred until we are fixed up at our new place. We hope to receive the £20 he cabled for, both being pretty broke. I gave Nana £8 when arriving on the peninsular so that he will now be able to repay me. It is indeed marvellous how money goes here, but one may as well have as good a time as possible.

No news here, may be more next week. Lots of love to all, Bob

70

Tel-el-Kebir

Most of the Australian forces in Egypt were assembled at Tel-el-Kebir late in February for the purpose of re-organising the AIF. In his Foreword to the history of the 45th Battalion, General Birdwood, the General Officer Commanding the AIF, explains his reasons for the transformation:

“On our return from the Peninsula in December 1915, and before we proceeded to France it was found essential to increase the Australian Forces to complete up to a strength of five divisions – a force quite unthought of – and probably considered impossible when the first division left Australia in 1914. I realised that the only way in which it would be possible to organise new units rapidly and efficiently would be to break up our old force, utilising its traditions, training, officers, non-commissioned officers and men to form new divisions. I need hardly say how unpopular such a method naturally must be to already formed units, in which officers and men had been fighting side by side throughout all those weary months at Gallipoli, and during which every individual was fully satisfied that his particular battalion was the best, not only in the AIF, but in the British Empire or even the world. Realising this as I did, it was naturally a matter of the greatest regret that I came to conclusion that in the interest of our Empire such breaking up was essential, and we consequently divided all our first 16 battalions into half, and completed the whole 32 battalions thus formed by reinforcements and recruits, who were waiting for us in Egypt. On these reorganisations the 45th sprang from the loins of the 13th.”

Sunday 27/2/1916 Tel-el-Kebir

My dear Mum,

The 13th Battalion arrived here yesterday from Moascar, the distance being about 25 miles nearer to Cairo. It is a very large camp; there must 40,000 or more Australians here, men who have been in action, also later reinforcements. Here we are all going to be re-formed and adjusted and expect to put in about 4 weeks solid work, then to imshi to France and have a go against the square heads. This camp is on the desert but think it will be a nice change providing one has plenty of money. There are shops in the camp of all descriptions, wet and dry canteens, restaurants, picture shows etc.

This place is also historically interesting. There is a cemetery and trenches a little distance away where the British and niggers had a go somewhere about 1880. We intend to take a walk and investigate this afternoon.

Cecil Clifton looked me up yesterday afternoon. He has been here some time now and is attached to the Machine Gun Section of the 3rd Battalion. He looks very well and fit but a bit tired of all this training. I heard from him his brother Bob also Jack Cowdery have returned to Australia.

71

Map 6. Tel-el-Kebir camps and the 1882 battlefield Source: The 28th: A Record of War Service in the Australian Imperial Force, 1915-19, Vol. 1.

Art 2. Depiction of the 1882 Battle of Tel-el-Kebir Source: Painting by George Washington Bacon 72

I had a day off last Thursday and went to Cairo arriving about 10 am and leaving there about 7:15 pm. Had a great day, several good feeds. Went out to the hospital to see Molly Riley and some other Sisters but they were either out or engaged so did not see any of them. However may have another chance later. Bought some books while in Cairo, entitled “Doings of the Brave Australasians in the Present War”, also “The Kangaroo Marines”. Have read the former which was most interesting. Get it from the library, I think you would all enjoy it.

Went to the pictures here last night, they were excellent. The military band there was also great to listen to. There must have been at least 2,000 soldiers present. Am at present in the YMCA building. It serves all refreshments, writing gear etc. It is no doubt a great institution and does a power of good besides offering comfort and enjoyment to the boys. Some are playing and singing, others having cake and cocoa, others reading and writing. The place is crowded to the doors.

Photo 40. YMCA hut at Tel-el-Kebir Source: SLNSW a9252031 (Fry photo album)

Had a letter from Lloyd at the works. He seems a bit upset. Wanted to know whether I thought a young married man should enlist or whether the thing could be carried on with men who had no encumbrances. I wrote back and said that if I were in his position, as far as I knew it, I should not enlist. There were over 100,000 troops taken from the peninsular besides others who are in Egypt and England. Also said I hoped to be back in Australia next Christmas barring accidents, for I am of the opinion the war will end this year.

Also received Punters Pie magazine from Lorna and 2 papers from home, and letters from you, Mum, Billy Bull and Lorna. Nana also received letters and papers. We always exchange one another so get all the news. It is great to hear all the news. You may not receive letters from us for some time after the evacuation. We were not allowed to write for 3 weeks. Also I doubt if you will receive our letters from the trenches just before coming off. However, one is lucky to receive things fairly regularly I suppose.

Just heard some gratifying news from my officer who told me that he and several other officers had recommended me for a commission which if approved may be through any time. I got a hell of a shock and was altogether taken back. Think Les Henley must have put in some good work for me, also Murray. Of course I do not deserve it but still I shall hook on if same comes along. Of course forming these new battalions etc they will need more officers.

Shall cable and let you know if anything comes of it. Also shall require some more money I suppose. No more news at present, lots of love to all, Bob.

73

Officer Training

Sunday 5/3/1916 Zeitoun

My dear Mum,

Arrived here yesterday afternoon at the School of Instruction. Have been recommended for a commission which should be through at any time now. In the meantime they have sent me up here to go through the infantry course which lasts 3 weeks. I am doing things in style this time, going through the officers’ class. All the heads in creation also so this chicken had to swank. Also consequently after arriving here and getting fixed up, went straight into Cairo and bought clothes, boots etc to make myself presentable. Of course this sort of thing is most expensive. I spent about £7/10-0 (A$772 in 2018 dollars) yesterday and seem to have nothing really. However I cabled to father yesterday to send £35 (A$3,600 in 2018) to the Anglo-Egyptian Bank, Cairo, so that should see me through for a while. Tell Mick to fix him up with a cheque for same.

Photo 41. The Officer’s Mess at the Zeitoun School of Instruction Source: AWM A00764

Had a great time in Cairo last night, so good in fact that I did not arrive back here until 11 o’clock this morning. Met Lieutenants Young and Murray, had a real flash dinner and then went to the Kursaal which commenced at 9:45 pm and lasted until 12:30 am. I then went back with them to their hotel and stayed all night. It was indeed great to have a real good time again. 74

Everything is going to be OK here. We have huts to sleep in with beds and mats, also armchairs and a batman provided. A good reading and writing room and an excellent mess and bar which bye the bye costs about 20 piastres (A$50 in 2018) a day to say nothing of batman expenses etc. This is all quite a treat to me but darned expensive but if one takes on these swank jobs one must be prepared to live up to them I suppose. Of course I intend to work real hard here and do well for much may depend on the result. The trouble is, I have forgotten all my infantry drill, doing machine gun work for the last 3 months or so.

Photo 42. Hut interior, Zeitoun Source: SLNSW a9252031 (Alan Fry photo album)

Nana has been transferred to the 45th Battalion during this splitting up business. I expect to stay with the 13th Battalion. We will be in the one division and fairly close to one another. I could easily claim him and get him back with me but think it rather a good idea to be separated and if I receive a commission I should probably be able to do a great deal for him which would be impossible if we were in the one unit. However we shall see later as time goes on.

Received a letter from Mick the other day dated 23rd January, also a paper, the Herald. Very glad to hear everyone well and things OK. Shall write again soon when some news turns up. Should be plenty shortly. A great many English officers here which should provide a lot of amusement for me in lots of ways.

Love to all, Nana and self in the best of health and spirits, Bob

Sunday 12/3/1916 Zeitoun

My dear Mum,

Have just completed a week here in the officers’ class School of Instruction. We have had two examinations, one oral in musketry and a written paper on the week’s lectures. I scored 94 marks out of 100 in the musketry. The results of the written paper are not out yet but think I did pretty well. It is very hard work here and one feels it greatly having to buck in and study hard all day and the best part of the night. There is a tremendous amount of work to get through in 3 weeks. We have 3 written papers and 3 oral exams in musketry and 2 drill exams, one in company drill and one in battalion drill, besides a note book to write up. Then we have other subjects such as bayonet fighting, Mekometer periscope etc. In fact the whole thing is gone into in a very limited time. We get up at 5:30 am every morning, except Sunday of course, when you can do just as you please, and go hard until about 11 o’clock each night Still things can be very nice here in the officers’ class. They are all 2nd Lieutenants who have received their promotion in the field and are sent here for instruction, and about a dozen of

75 us who are candidates for commissions. We have a fine mess and the food excellent, also a great reading and writing room in which is a fine bar. Then we have huts to sleep in with a batman to clean your boots, make your bed and generally look after you. So you see this chicken is commencing to swank and put on the dog once more, and if it was not for the hard work one would have a royal time. However we have our weekends free so intend to make the best of them provided the money comes along I sent for. Am pretty broke again, am also overdrawn in my pay book. Of course I had to buy decent clothes and large mess accounts etc here took all my spare cash about £7. I cabled to father for £35 last Saturday and up to Wednesday it had not arrived. I have not had an opportunity of getting to Cairo since to find out if same has come but wrote the manager asking him to let me know when the money arrive

Of course when our commissions come through we get an allowance of £15 (A$1,544 in 2018 dollars) for clothes etc but in the meantime you must have some money to go on with.

Last night I was sitting in the smoking room after dinner having a yarn with an English officer and about 10 o’clock two officers came in and sat down with us, one a Scotchman and the other a Welshman. They were both pretty tight and would insist on buying drinks all around about 6 times. Then we had talks about the All Blacks and Welshmen. The Scot would say that the Welsh could not play football etc. It was most enjoyable to me and one could not help laughing at the quaint expressions etc. Do not know what time they turned in. I left about midnight and went to bed. They were still going strong then.

It is great fun here for me to see and hear all the swank some of these fellows go on with, they are simply great.

No mail is allowed to go out for the next 3 weeks now, so some big moves must be taking place shortly now. However expect you will get these letters sometime and of course I shall not receive any mail while I am here but Nana is looking after same for me at Tel-el-Kebir. We all expect to get a move on shortly to France I hope but of course no-one knows.

Trusting everything is OK, lots of love, Bob.

Monday 20/3/1916 Zeitoun

My dear Mum,

Have just completed another week at the school and have done very well, scoring 85 out of 100 for the first written paper, 91 out of 100 for the second oral exam in musketry, and scoring a possible 100 in company drill. Just imagine a machine gunner going out in front of a company, then drilling them so well that the colonel gave 100 marks! I was tickled to death; that is the best of having cheek I suppose. We had a second written paper yesterday which I did not like very much; however my % is over 90 at present so can afford to drop a little. Tell father the money arrived alright and was glad to get same. I had a little difficulty in getting same as it arrived in two instalments. However I fixed the matter up

Had a sweet letter from Millie Henley from Alexandria yesterday. She was passing through Cairo on the way to Luxor. She invited me to come up to the Continental Hotel and have 76 dinner but I refused on account of too much work to be done. One cannot afford to miss one night here and do well. For a similar reason I have not yet looked up any of the nurses; getting quite good in my old age, what think you?

Image 3. Commission Certificate, R J Henderson. Source: R J Henderson

Had a good afternoon in Cairo yesterday and a splendid dinner at night. I also weighed myself and went 11 stone 6 lbs (73 kg versus 61 kg at enlistment) so you can see this country is agreeing with me. We had a tremendous rainstorm and everyone got washed out of their huts. Everything was in an awful mess, blankets, clothes etc, however it did not matter much as very few of us got home before 2 o’clock in the morning and did not mind whether we got any sleep or not.

I am going out all day today, up the Nile with an English chap I met here and have become quite good pals with. He is taking me for a surprise trip so do not know anything about it but expect to have a real good time. We are just leaving now so will have to close to post this in Cairo. Lots of love to all from Bob.

77

Photo 43. Officers’ Class, Zeitoun March 1916 Source: AWM

78

Serapeum

At 7 am on the 26th March 1916 the 13th Battalion commenced a 65 km march through the desert from Tel-el-Kebir to Serapeum, to assist in the forward defence of the Suez Canal. The arduous journey in the heat and dust through soft sand took 2½ days and an unnecessary toll on the men, as rail transport could have been used. Passing Moascar, the New Zealanders took pity on them and lent extra horses to carry the baggage and cookers. Out of the 4000 men in the 4th Brigade, 460 fell out, succumbing to dehydration, heat stroke, fly and mosquito strikes. The medical officers rated the condition of the Brigade on arrival as “physically poor”.

Map 7. Serapeum and the 4th Brigade Suez Canal lines of defence Source: map drawn by D G Jones

Thursday 30/3/1916 Serapeum

My dear Mum,

Once more on the desert about 100 miles from nowhere and the weather becoming as hot as the devil. Do not expect to be here very much longer, perhaps 3 weeks or a month. Then we all hope on to France. Have finished up at the school but do not know the final results. 79

Up to last Saturday morning when we had the last paper I had a total % of 92 which was not too bad for me. Certificate with final result will come through later. I cabled on Saturday that my commission had come through from the 16th March so that I am now one of those beastly officers, 2nd Lieutenant, and have started work again with the battalion, being attached to “A” Company 13th Battalion with Captain Barton in command of same. It is great having people you know well like that. Expect you have heard that Leslie Henley is now a Captain, quite hot stuff. Len came up to see me last night having just completed a 40-mile march to this spot where all the battalions marched to from Tel-el-Kebir. He was very fit and OK but had not received any letters for the last 3 weeks or so and of course I have had none either. There may be some here for me but everything is upside down at present so have not enquired yet.

After leaving the school I had a great fly around until Wednesday. Left Cairo at 11 o’clock last Sunday for Tel-el-Kebir to pick up the battalion. On arriving there they had left early that morning on the march, so decided I would not chase them on same so left that night for Alexandria arriving there at 5:20 am Monday morning. Went for to swank hotel, the Regina Palace, where I ran into Mr Henley. Had a long talk to him and a great fly around Alex. It is a great place situated right on the water and very pretty. I like it much better than Cairo and bye the bye tell Jane I sent her a belt buckle from there which I hope she receives all right. We arrived back at the hotel at 2 am on Tuesday morning and caught the 9 o’clock train to Cairo the same day, reaching there at noon, then went on to the Continental Hotel where I met the rest of the Henley family. I was jolly glad to see them all. They are having the time of their life, the girls enjoying everything immensely. Had quite a good evening in Cairo and left there 7 am Wednesday morning, arriving here about 5 o’clock the same day.

Tell Mick I have now altered my allotment to 6/- (A$31 in 2018) per day which should go into my a/c/ NSW Annandale. You might also let Mr Donoghue of the Electric Light Company know that I have received a commission which of course carries extra pay which I suppose will cancel any payment from the office. I shall write to him but then he might not get the letter then might be inclined to think that I was coming on the double. Think I mentioned in my last letter that I received the £35 all right and it has been most useful of course. I spent it all but have had the time of my life and expect I shall not get any more leave for some considerable time. Trusting you are all well at home and everything OK. Shall write again soon, Best love to all, Bob.

PS. Enclosing postcard photos of the officers’ class at the school Zeitoun.

Thursday 30/3/1916 Serapeum

My dear Lorna,

Expect you have been down to Austinmer and had a bonza time as usual. Where we are at present is OK for swimming about a mile or so from the Canal. We have a swimming parade about every two days, it is simply great, the water fresh and clean and if a P & O or Orient boat is going through the lads swim out to them and get cigarettes etc also lots of good wishes from the passengers of course. The stipulation is that when one of these boats passes we must all keep under water. Yesterday afternoon I swam across to the opposite

80 shore and viewed the scene from there. There were about 2000 in the water stretched right along the bank, and except for the surf was exactly like Manly or Bondi.

Being near the Canal is the only redeeming feature about this place, which seems to be in the middle of the desert, hundreds of miles from nowhere. It is becoming very dusty and damned hot so that we shall all be glad when we get a move on to France, that is if we go there, which seems likely.

Photo 44. The desert in front of the 4th Brigade forward trenches Source: SLNSW a5374063 (Donald MacDonald photo album)

Am doting on the thought of possibly getting a trip to England, for according to reports from fellows that have returned, they have the time of their lives there. Have just completed a course of infantry training in the Officers’ Class at the School of Instruction, Zeitoun. I did very well, having over 90% with one paper not corrected. Will get the final result later.

When I arrived back at Tel-el-Kebir I found the battalion had just left on a 40 miles march to this place. Of course I was sorry (?) so decided to have 3 more days off to allow them to arrive at their destination and settle down. In the meantime I cleared off to Alexandria; had a ripping fly around, so good in fact that I did not have time to go to bed. Met Mr Henley there and had a long yarn with him. Stayed at the same hotel, and when leaving he loaded me up with all sorts of things, billies, tobacco, cigars etc. Jolly decent of him, especially as I had 3 other friends with me. Still he loaded them up also. Only spent one day and night in Alex, then went on to Cairo. Put up at the Continental Hotel which is very swank. While there I ran into Mrs Henley and the girls. It was bosker meeting them and having a long talk about everything in general. They are going to write home to Mum and tell her what a bad boy I am etc.

81

Stayed in Cairo one day and night then picked up the battalion and have started work again. Last few days have had the time of my life in Alex and Cairo spending almost £50 (A$5,150 in 2018) in the last few days. Will leave you to imagine what sort of a time I have had. Of course being an officer now, 2nd Lieutenant, I have been able to do anything I liked. Stay at the swank hotels, stay out all night etc, no picquets etc to worry about.

I have left the gun section now and am attached to “A” Company 13th Battalion with Captain Barton as the company commander which is great for me, knowing him so well. Leslie Henley is a captain now; very hot stuff is he not. He is very well and is 2nd in command “B” Company. Nana just arrived down yesterday with the 45th Battalion having marched from Tel-el-Kebir, a distance of 40 miles. He was OK and very fit. They are camped about ¼ of a mile from us. He came across to see me, he thought I would have some mail and I thought he would have some instead. Great was the disappointment when neither of us had any. However there may be something here for me, shall enquire when they get settled properly in this spot. Plenty of love for the kid, Jack and yourself, and hope this damned war will soon be over so that a man will be able to get home and see you all again. Love from Bob.

Thursday 30/3/1916 Serapeum

Mr Donaghue,

Dear Sir,

From the peninsular I wrote to you and let you know that I was reverted to the ranks when joining up with the battalion and consequently my pay was reduced. I have now pleasure in informing you that I have received my commission as a 2nd Lieutenant dating from 16th March 1916, and of course the extra pay which same carries. I have indeed been lucky and consider I did not deserve to get same, however some other officers thought otherwise. I am now attached to “A” Company 13th Battalion and have gone back to the infantry side again. Have just completed a 3 weeks course at the School of Instruction at Zeitoun and although the work was hard and strenuous I did very well. The trouble is of course that a terrible lot of work is got through in a very short period. However, when finished I had 4 days leave and had the time of my life visiting Alexandria and Cairo having a good fly around in each city.

We are out in a spot now which seems to me to be right in the middle of the desert, miles away from anywhere. Also the weather is becoming beastly hot and dusty so that the sooner we move across to France the better. Merely supposition on our part that we are going there but everyone here sincerely hopes as this place will be very unpleasant during the summer which is now starting with a vengeance.

Since coming away from Lemnos Island after the evacuation of the peninsular, we have been camped at Ismailia, Moascar, Tel-el-Kebir where the training has been regular and solid, so that we all feel ready and fit for another go at the real thing.

Trusting you are fit and well and will you kindly remember me to all at the company, also hoping to have the pleasure of seeing you again in the near future. 82

I remain, Yours truly, Robert J Henderson

Monday 3/4/1916 Serapeum

Dear Mick,

Have once again settled down to camp life in this hot dusty desert, with its increasing amount of torments - flies, heat, dust etc. However we get plenty of good swimming in the Canal which is most enjoyable. The water is beautifully fresh and very salty. The ships passing up and down make things most interesting. There appears to be no sharks so we can swim anywhere and of course the depth of water is at least 30 feet.

Photo 45. 4th Division soldiers swimming in the Canal at Serapeum Source: AWM C02436

Received my certificate from the school yesterday and find I gained 92% total with 8 exams which was not too dusty for me. Am attached to “A” Company, in charge of No.2 Platoon, under company commander Captain Barton (“Biddy”). It is indeed a small world. What think you? Am getting on all right so far. This being a blooming officer is not too bad, only pretty expensive. My mess account from Wednesday until Sunday last week being 311 piastres (A$334 in 2018) which is pretty solid though of course one spends a lot of money at the start on drinks etc. Still it is very nice having a tent for 2 only, having a nice bed made of sand bags, and a batman to look after you. A bit strenuous after living the life of a private for the last few months. Still this chicken did not have much trouble falling in to the extra comforts.

83

Received a Bulletin yesterday dated 15th Feb but no letters so far. Nana is with the 45th Battalion now. They left yesterday for the front line of trenches 12 miles from here. Do not think there will be any fighting there but a watch must be kept.

Shall probably be able to borrow a nag one Sunday and go out so see him. Of course, when we get out of this country we shall come together again and move together being in the one division and all of us hope the time will soon come. Any time I should say after 6 weeks hence.

Have played quite a lot of auction bridge lately, the Colonel and Padre being very keen. So that you see one still manages to have a little game notwithstanding they say there is a war going strong. Have just received 8 letters (2 for Nana) and a parcel containing tobacco, cigarettes, shirts etc. The condensed milk tin was broken and milk leaked out but no damage done to the rest of the stuff. Everything is very useful and deeply appreciated. Also had a letter from Arthur Holcombe which was most interesting. It was posted from Tonga on 18th December, received here 4-4-16. Also received another long letter from dear Hope Davies of England in which she says all sorts of nice things.

Have just finished reading the letters and sent the lot through to the 45th Battalion to Nana by Roy Traill who by the way is going back to Australia in about a week to finish his course. I told him to look you up and let you know how things are. He expects to sail on the KAROOLA which leaves here about the 10th April. You are sure to run into him when he returns.

Have written to Mr Donoghue stating the alteration in my pay etc since receiving my commission which dated from the 16-3-16. You might ring him up and ask if he received word, otherwise if the letter goes astray they may think a man is coming on the double. Have also altered my allotment from 3/- per day to 6/- per day which should be paid into my account by the Government. I am drawing 12/- per day and 3/- per day deferred makes up the 21/- per day (A$108 in 2018).

12/- a day (A$62 in 2018) sounds a good deal to have on active service, but mess accounts, batman, drinks, cards etc, all of which one must include in it, does not go very far. Then when one buys anything in this country, if an officer, you pay about double for everything. Simply a way the Egyptians have.

No more news at present. Lots of luck. Hope you clubbed the exams and see you do not come away until finishing your course. Love to all, Bob.

PS. Mentioned in the last letter I received the £35 all right. In case you did not receive it thought I would mention same again.

Friday 14/4/1916 Serapeum

My dear Mum,

Nana came to see me on Wednesday last. His battalion came across this way on a route march. I only saw him for a minute as I had to go straight away down to the Canal and swim 84 in a race. He left me this letter to post so will enclose a few lines. He is looking very fir and they expect to come in from the trenches at any time now.

Yesterday we had the most terrific dust storm I have ever experienced. You could not credit the discomfort of same unless actually being in one. It is also very little better today. I was out about three miles from here putting the boys through some shooting practice on a miniature range when suddenly it started to blow, and then the sand started to fly. My eyes are still sore and my temper ruffled beyond description. Tents, clothing, food, well everything in a hell of a mess. These storms would break your heart, Mum, without a word of a lie. My bed and blankets had a layer of dirt and sand and pebbles 2” thick on them. I simply went to bed and wrapped the lot around me, cursing violently. It will be a good job when we clear out of this country.

Photo 46. The trenches before and after a sandstorm Source: SLNSW a5374077 (Donald MacDonald photo album)

Last Wednesday afternoon we had a half holiday when the 4th Brigade held aquatic sports. We had a couple of bands playing, and the racing was exciting and well contested. I was one of 4 officers picked to represent the 13th Battalion officers’ relay race. We had a great tussle and first won from the 16th. Each man had to swim once across the Canal which is about 120 yards, and without training we all found this some job. The 13th Battalion as per usual won just about everything and is easily the champion battalion in the brigade so far as sports go, and fighting too for that matter. Our officers are playing the 15th Battalion officers a cricket match next Sunday afternoon and am just going out to have a practice. Of course the wicket will be horrible but there ought to be lots of fun obtained. I think the best way to get runs on this desert for a wicket would be to get three parts tight then shut your eyes and slog. However, will let you know how we get on next time I write.

Am still playing a lot of auction bridge which is thoroughly enjoyed by me. Have played 3 nights so far this week, first night winning 34 piastres (A$36 in 2018), second night winning 116 piastres, and last night losing 85 piastres. So you see the end of each week brings us out about square. We play for 5 piastres per 100 and have a very even four. Bye the bye I might mention my mess account for this week is 200 piastres (A$214 in 2018), a little more than £2, so shall have to go easy, otherwise I shall not have much money to work on when going to France and perhaps England. For if I have the luck to see any of these countries this chicken intends to have a real good time. Reckon I am just commencing to learn how to have a really good time. 85

No more news at present, lots of love to all, Bob

Friday 28/4/1916 Serapeum, Egypt

My dear Mum,

Received your letters dated 26th March just now and notwithstanding that we were all up at 4 o’clock this morning with the whole division training on the desert will answer same with a few lines. There is absolutely no news here and one is always kept busy when not drilling. I have all the letters of the platoon to censor and as some of the chaps write at length and frequently and as I always make a point of getting them through as soon as possible you can see that my own time for writing letters is indeed limited. This being so, if some of the good people I owe letters to remark that they have not heard from me will you kindly explain the reason for me.

Kell (Ralph) and myself share the same tent. He is a great little chap and I get on tip top with him. He lives at Hunters Hill, the Commonwealth Bank people. Father is sure to know his father and you Mum must have met Mrs Kell. He is interested in the Comforts Fund 13th Battalion. He knows lots of people that I know and we have great old talks etc. For the last 3 weeks I have been living with Captain Barton (Toby) but the second in command of the company having returned he and Toby must be together in the one tent which meant that I moved in with Kell. We are getting our tent fixed up a treat with pretty colours etc but is not worthwhile troubling much as we expect to leave in about a month’s time.

Photo 47. Forward camp on the line east of Railhead. Source: SLNSW a5374079 (Donald MacDonald photo album) 86

The 45th Battalion is at present camped at Rail Head about 4 miles from here. About 10 officers of the 13th rode horses out there for dinner a couple of nights ago. We had a very wild and good evening. I enjoyed the gallop out enormously, it was great to be on a good horse again, although of course everybody having more than was good for them to drink the pace was much slower coming back. We arrived back about midnight after a great evening. I got hold of Nana and had a long yarn, exchanged correspondence etc. He looks very well and fit and everything is right generally.

Anzac Day was a great success here. The only thing spoiling same was the heat. It was some hot. We had early morning church re fallen heroes on Gallipoli, a swimming carnival in the afternoon. Shall enclose programme for your perusal.

Sorry to hear old Peter is not too good, hope he will soon pick up again although he must be getting on the old side now.

One of the Kirkwood lads, Jack, is a 2nd Lieutenant in the 45th Battalion. I often run across him. He is a great big chap and getting along very well.

I have a lot of letters to answer but may not be able to do so. Tell Mrs Dennis I enjoyed her long and interesting letter immensely but may not be able to answer it for some time. Also tell her that although in the army for some considerable time now my religious views and morals have not yet been wholly corrupted.

Remember me kindly to all the Drummoyne folk. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Saturday 6/5/1916 Serapeum, Egypt

My dear Mum,

Received the two parcels you sent containing pipe, socks, cards, chocolates, cigarettes etc together yesterday. They were simply bosker. One becomes like a kid at Christmas time here when these things arrive. The excitement is intense and everything deeply appreciated. We were out doing some night drill last night so had all the afternoon off. I borrowed Toby Barton’s horse and in company with Ken Pattrick (who is also an officer in the battalion now) went for a long ride along the Canal towards Suez. We had a great afternoon, also a fine swim to boot. It is ever so much more enjoyable when one has not to walk to those places.

We played the 16th Battalion cricket last Wednesday afternoon, that being our weekly half- holiday instead of Saturday afternoon. The 13th won by 18 runs. I am afraid these soft sand wickets do not suit my particular style, or any other persons for that matter, the highest individual score being 8. These desert wickets are suited for bowlers only. Nevertheless we had a great afternoon’s fun, also a couple of drinks and a yarn in the 16th mess.

Have not seen Nana lately but had a yarn to his company commander the other day, Captain Knox, who said he was tip-top and had been assisting him with the pay-books of the company, auditing same etc.

87

All letters etc coming through now are addressed Machine Gun Section. Do not forget to alter that to “A” Company as I am now attached to same doing infantry work. We are still in the same spot and may stay in Egypt some time as attacks are expected from the Turks shortly at a very short distance from here. We are ready to move at a moment’s notice but all hope our assistance will not be required as our trip to France would then be delayed and the summer put in here, which of course would be absolutely rotten. There is no news at all, we do nothing but drill and drill with an occasional swim. The same old sand and heat and flies every day without any change whatever.

Am in the best of health and spirits, best love to all, Bob.

Sunday 14/5/1916 Serapeum, Egypt

Dear Mick,

Seems to me that it is some considerable time now since I addressed a letter to you. Received your letter dated 30th March a couple of days ago and was glad to hear all the news it contained. Do not worry about business matters at all and do not think I am doing so at this end. Have not sent your letter through to Nana yet but will do so at the first opportunity. He is out at the trenches again so have not seen him for about 3 weeks. Last Friday the Padre wanted to know if any of us would like to be confirmed. I found out it meant a day off, also a trip to Suez, and the ceremony was to be conducted by the Bishop of Jerusalem, so decided to become Church of England and make the trip. Three other officers from the battalion and myself left here about 10 o’clock in the morning, riding to Serapeum station, from there catching the train to Suez, a distance of some 40 miles. We arrived there at lunch time, went to a pub, had lunch, and at 3 o’clock in the afternoon went to the church and through the service. I enjoyed the service immensely. Although it was very solemn it was a treat to go and sit down again in a nice cool church with an organ for music. There were 25 present, we being the only Australians. The Bishop is a real sport and an exceptionally nice man, somewhere about 50 years of age. We all met him after the service, he then took us to afternoon tea at the pub and had a yarn to each of us. After tea we had half an hour so got a gharry and drove around. We arrived back at Serapeum at 7:30 pm and had a ride back to camp in a violent dust storm which was the ending of a very hot day, the temperature during the day being 117o F (47oC). However I enjoyed the whole day, besides meeting the Bishop of Jerusalem and being confirmed by him, seeing Suez and getting away from the desert if only for a few hours.

Yesterday in camp was even hotter than the day before. We knocked off for the day at 8:30 in the morning, spent most of the day playing bridge, then about 7 o’clock went into dinner in my silk pyjamas that I brought from Australia. Of course I got a cheer but was generally envied by all. It was terribly hot and I was the most comfortable, which is not saying much. However, my pyjamas seemed to send everybody mad for after dinner everyone got into some sort of fancy dress, swimming costumes, pyjamas of all colours etc. We then visited the 16th Battalion mess, sang songs, had a drink, and invited them up. On the way back called on the 14th mess, had a drink, and invited them up, then looked the 4th Field Ambulance up and brought them along. All assembled in the 13th mess, we had some drinks, speeches and songs, about 60 of us altogether. About 4 cases of beer and several bottles of whisky being consumed. 88

Bye the bye, Jack Cosgrove and Rupert Furber are with the 4th Field Ambulance. Had a long yarn to Rupert, he has only been over here a short time. Every officer who was not present was brought in from bed and everybody’s shirt taken off. It was a great evening and very funny. Will leave to your imagination what things would be like, almost 60 officers from Colonels downwards all stripped bar shorts, singing, giving speeches, and generally going mad. It was quite a relaxation after the intensely hot day.

The weather is cooler today but very dusty and unpleasant. We are taking our lunch down to the Canal and spending the day in the water. It will be quite like Thirroul again. Shall tell you about it in the next letter. We have no orders yet but expect to leave here for France at any time now.

Cheers kid, love to all, Bob.

Monday 22/5/1916 Serapeum, Egypt

My dear Jane,

Received a letter from you and Lorna and Dags a couple of days ago and was glad to hear all the news. The next letter you receive from me will not be from Egypt. All being well we expect to get a move on for from sometime this week. Ran into Austin yesterday, he told me he received another parcel from you and was greatly pleased about same. The 45th came in from the trenches 2 days ago. Nana came up to see me and we exchanged letters. He is looking very well but a bit thinner. They had heavy work and of course terrible heat out there and bye the bye he is now a lance corporal will be a colonel shortly I expect. Just glanced through your letters before giving them to Nana, who will return them later. Though I noticed that Jack Edgley is now with the 46th. If that is so they are camped next door to the 45th, about ¼ of a mile away from us, so shall look him up at the first opportunity I have.

I had a great picnic last Sunday week, all day on the Canal. Took the mess cart down with provisions and drinks then swam and played bridge on the bank of the Canal. It was terribly hot and dusty, so much so that it was impossible to enjoy anything. For 5 days last week the heat and dust has been terrific here but the last few days have been better. We had a great picnic on Wednesday last, 4 of us – Captain Marks, Lieutenants Henry, McPhillamy and self, each had a horse and took our lunch. Rode to a nice spot on the Canal, had a nice young lunch, played bridge and had several swims. It was great, just the 4 of us. We also saw the MOOLTAN go through to England. Swam out to her and had a conversation with a nice- looking lass on board from the water. She asked what unit we came from. Told her the 13th, she waved her arms and went generally mad, saying she knew the 13th Comfort Fund. Could not catch her name. It is great fun seeing these boats going through.

Then again last Sunday we had another picnic all day on the Canal. This one we expect will be the last. We all had a great day, plenty to eat and drink, and all had a good loaf in our pyjamas which was great.

No more news at present. Will answer Dags’ letter also Lorna’s as soon as possible. We are terribly busy at present, inspections etc. Love to all, Bob. 89

Egypt to Northern France

The 13th Battalion entrained at Serapeum on 31st May 1915, departing at 6:15 pm for Alexandria. The battalion was back to full strength of 32 officers and 992 other ranks. They arrived at Gabbary Docks at 2:45 am on the 1st June and boarded the HMT TRANSYLVANIA, a former Anchor Line luxury liner. The ship sailed at 11 am next day.

Photo 48. HMT TRANSYLVANIA Source: Anchor Line postcard

Monday 1/6/1916 Postcard (Alexandria)

Taken on the wharf at Alexandria about 1 hour before sailing for Marseilles

Photo 49. Departing Alexandria Source: AWM 2016.30.8

90

Monday 5/6/1916 HMT TRANSYLVANIA at sea

My dear Mum,

Once again on the old sea bound for another country which I can assure you will be greatly appreciated after Egypt. One can hardly realize getting away. I sort of feel part of the desert now, with its heat, flies and sand storms. I cabled father, saying I had left Egypt and expected Nana to follow in the course of a couple of days.

We had a very rough train trip from Serapeum, officers and men alike, travelling in cattle trucks. Still, we knocked out some fun and everybody was light hearted and joyful. The journey took about 10 hours.

This is a fine vessel, about 18,000 tons, and am having a good rest. Plenty of auction bridge, also plenty of good food. The change and rest is simply great for all. The weather is fine, smooth sea and a nice cool breeze, which is indeed strange to us.

Met Mr and Mrs Henley and the girls and had a long yarn to them. Also got lots of tobacco etc. It was indeed great to talk to white ladies again after two months on the desert without any leave at all. Have had all sorts of nice letters from Hope Davies. She sent her photo and looks very nice too. She is 21 years old so you see I know all particulars and intend to look her up when in England if lucky enough to go there and am bound to have a good time.

In another day or so we shall reach our destination barring accidents. These letters you may not get, and if you do, are sure to be delayed. Will write from the other side and let you know all the news. Best love to all, Bob.

Sunday 11/6/1916 France (Steentje)

My dear Mum,

We have at last arrived in France and settled in billets about 10 miles from the British firing line. Our present position is somewhere about 50 miles north (? east) of Calais, in Flanders. We left the boat at Marseilles and from there travelled by train right through France. The journey took 60 hours in the train which was some trip. I would not have missed this trip for all the bullets the Germans ever made. It is impossible for me to find words enough to describe it. The whole thing was simply gorgeous. It was like passing through a huge park the whole way and I have never seen anything that could come anywhere near the beauty and picturesqueness of the country. The green fields and beautiful trees with single red poppies, buttercups etc growing wild. I never thought that anything like this could exist and I simply enjoyed every minute of the trip.

After landing from the boat we had to send our boxes away with all our decent clothes. These have gone to Cox’s in Charing Cross, London. I wonder if we will ever see them again.

91

Photo 50. The 13th Battalion train journey from Marseilles to Bailleul. Map compiled by D G Jones

We had great fun on our trip of course. We had several halts, about 3 hours per day, to issue rations etc to the men and get meals for ourselves. We had a good view of the River Rhone and Seine and others, also towns such as Lyons, Dijon, Amiens, Calais etc. I must tell you of an experience I had in company with 2 other officers. We arrived at some place, I have forgotten the name, where we had 1 hour for lunch and about a mile to walk for same. By a piece of bad luck, messing about trying to get a car etc, we missed the troop train with all our belongings etc and also discovered that 9 men had also done the same. Then the fun began. As you know our French was very crude and there we were trying to find out what we had to do to catch up with our own train which of course we never did. We of course had a rather worrying time but the experience was great and I can tell you my French is considerably better now than it was. We spent a few hours in Calais, Abbeville and Hazebrouck which would have been missed had we have caught our own train. All these places are large towns and we had some good times looking around etc. Of course this all

92 meant extra expense feeding the fellows also ourselves and naturally this chicken is again broke so that I may be cabling for more money at any time. Shall probably get the next lot through London however.

We all picked up the battalion safely 15 hours later, they were all fixed up in their billets etc. Each company of the battalion is separated about ¼ mile apart on separate farms as it were. We, “A” Company, have quite a nice place, the officers all together on the bottom floor of the residence, 2 to each room. The owners of the house live on the top story directly above us. There is Madam and her daughter (some class) and an old chap. We all have beds. They sell us eggs etc and cook what we want and look after us generally, which is great.

Photo 51. Farmhouse billet in the Steenje area Source: SLNSW a5375135h (Donald MacDonald photo album)

The chaps live in the stables, sheds etc close by. The whole thing is so novel and new to us but the change is simply great. Then of course we visit the other company messes, have a regular visitors night etc.

This is summer here of course, but it is very damp, wet and cold. If this is summer I do not know what the winter will be like. Have just heard that the 45th Battalion arrived safely last night I expect they will be billeted some few miles from us here but will look Nana up as soon as possible.

We are to be here only a fortnight and then go right into the firing line. Leave for eight days can be got, I believe, but I have decided to defer my trip to England until I have had a smack at the Germans, then after a flutter shall apply for leave if still in the land of the living.

93

The present spot where we are has been in the hands of the Germans and the tales of the residents are indeed thrilling. Please excuse the rambling disjointed letter but I seem to be in a perfect whirl at present, everything is so novel and new, and such a pleasant change from Egypt. Tell Mick the girls are simply bosker here, they look so clean and fresh after Egypt but all without exception are as hot as mustard. This country will always do me.

We have just returned from a 3 or 4 mile march with the company. It has been raining lightly and a beautiful fresh breeze blowing. One could march miles in this place without feeling tired. Mother you would simply dote on it.

Wrote a letter to you from the ship and cabled from Alexandria that I had left Egypt. Will write again soon when we get properly settled down. Lots of love to all. Am in the best of health, have a slight cold which I hope to get rid of shortly by the aid of hot whisky every night before going to bed. Am simply doting on this country. No wonder the French are fighting well for their country for in my opinion it is quite worth it.

Am enclosing a menu from the ship with the signatures of all the 13th Battalion officers. Keep it for me until I return if lucky. Lots of love to all, Bob.

PS. Cannot post letters at present but suppose you will get this one day if you are lucky. I think in future you had better mark our letters France instead of Egypt.

Sunday 18/6/1916 France (Erquinghem)

My dear Mum,

We have again moved since landing in France, now being very close to the front line, not more than 3 miles, so that being in support we will be having a go at the Germans any time now. We had a ten mile march from our last billets to these which of course was a little strenuous but most interesting and of course very pretty. We all feel the hard metal roads which make one’s feet very sore after the soft sand of Egypt. However, suppose we will get used to them shortly. Marching here we came in artillery formation so took no risks of the battalion being wiped out by shell fire. Several houses etc in this town have huge holes and all are generally knocked about by the enemy’s shells. I also witnessed a house burning, caused by a shell this afternoon about 600 yards from here so you see we are a bit too close now to feel absolutely safe.

One never goes out without his gas helmet, it is rotten stuff. We all went through some to test our helmets and get a general idea of it. We have glasses also to wear to protect the eyes against some other stuff they use and on the whole am not too keen on it at all.

Before leaving our last billets, “A” Company officers invited the Colonel, Adjutant, Doctor to dinner. We had a great time, the band to play, a six-course dinner with plenty of wine (champagne) to drink. They are great wine drinkers in this country, champagne being considerably cheaper than whisky to buy. I will send you home the menu card written in French and printed by us, all the work of the company officers numbering six. We had all sorts of fun over this little dinner as you can imagine. Madame of the house did the cooking, lent us glasses etc, so that it was quite a swank affair. Of course the next day we were back 94 on the ordinary fare, bully beef etc, although I must admit our meals are better as an officer than a private. Still, it is all pretty rough now and will be for some time to come.

Map 8. The 13th Battalion march to the Bois Grenier sector June 1916 Map compiled by D G Jones

Our leave to England has started. One officer and 3 men going at a time per battalion for 8 days. Captain Marks, our Adjutant, who bye the bye is a clerk in the City Bank, left a couple of days ago. People who were in the peninsular longest are going first but expect my turn will come along all right shortly. Next one who goes across I shall get them to send a cable for me to father from London asking him to send me fifty pounds (A$5,150 in 2018) to the Commonwealth Bank of Australia in London. Then when I get over there I shall not be short of cash. Also expect Nana will need some. He did not move up here, our brigade of the 4th Division only moving so far. Have not seen Nana since landing in France but believe he is OK. His battalion arrived safely and were billeted not far from us in our last place.

Had a long letter from Hope Davies yesterday, also a postcard. This letter was dated 12th June, London. It is great getting letters so quickly; we are not used to that. I intend to look her up if lucky enough to get over there, having been promised a great time re tennis etc. She is some hard nut by her letters. It is great fun writing letters to people you do not know, both saying all sorts of mad things. She sent me a bosker photo of herself and wanted one of myself. I told her if she saw my photo she would not like me half as much as she did, so would not send one along yet a while. In fact I have not got one but intend to have same 95 when I get an opportunity of having it taken. However, looking forward greatly to seeing this little lass for she looks some class.

Am going away all day tomorrow to a bombing school, which as far as I know at present only lasts one day, so after this shall presumably be reserve bombing officer for the battalion.

We expect to be here about a week, then go into the trenches for a week, and so on. However do not yet know how they work things. All being well shall have been in action here no doubt by the time I write again. Lots of love to all, Bob. Robert J Henderson.

PS. You may think it queer signing my full name at the bottom of each letter but censoring is very strict in this country so that one cannot say very much. Then if you do they know who to blame etc for same. Each man’s letter has to be signed by an officer at the end and also on the envelope his full name so that one is kept very busy censoring letters which takes most of one’s spare time. We have not received any Australian mail in this country yet. Bob.

Sunday 25/6/1916 France (Erquinghem)

Dear Mick,

Received your letter dated 28-4-16 also one from Mum dated 30-4-16 late last night having just returned from the front line of trenches where I have been with my platoon for the last 3 days and nights for instructional purposes and gradually getting the lads used to being under fire etc before taking over from the battalion which are at present in the line. It is quite a good idea. We go up in small parties at a time for 72 hours, then come down again and make way for others of the battalion. In this way everybody will get a fair idea of things. Then in a couple of days’ time we expect to go up and take over when the present people there will come back for a rest.

I cannot tell you where we are or names of battalions etc. The people we relieve are a Sydney crowd. Met plenty of officers I know which was very nice and from where we are fighting one can get across to London in a day from here. Two of our poor fellows got rather badly wounded yesterday afternoon just before we left. It is not too bad in the line. I am not a bit frightened of their rifle fire but the shells they send across are simply bloody. One has simply no chance unless you are lucky to dodge them. The shell fire on the peninsular was a mere baby to it. We had a bombardment every night while I was there. Then when we finish the Hun starts and sends about 3 across to every one we sent. It is simply awful, you could not form no idea what these high explosive shells are like and the man who tells me he is not frightened of them is a liar. Of course you get no sleep or very little while in the trenches, standing to etc for gas alarms and all the rest of it. However, expect that is what we came away for.

While taking my platoon up along the road the Huns shelled us while about 3 miles from the line without hitting anyone luckily so we got a dose quite early. Then yesterday afternoon I wish you could have seen me. I went back to a support trench along a sap about 300 yards from the firing line. Reached there all right, but returning they started to shell, and inside a minute a dozen or so came across more or less all around me. I was just like a rabbit, 96 dodging here and there into one bay and then duck. It was the funniest thing in the world. However I was damned glad when they stopped. Going along and picking up nuggets of shrapnel in the sap you are going along is no good I can assure you.

At night we go out in small parties on to No Man’s Land, that is the ground between the two trenches. Run into the Hun patrol parties etc so you see there is plenty of excitement. I personally fail to see how the devil a chap is going to pull through this lot but of course you never know your luck and take quite a philosophic view of the whole thing which I expect is just as well.

Map 9. Detail of 13th Battalion sector, Bois Grenier, Jun-Jul 1916 Map compiled by D G Jones on to 1:10,000 scale trench map, IWM

You must have had a great motor trip, it is indeed a fine way of putting in a holiday, but Mick old cock there is an ideal country, it is simply bosker, the roads of course are excellent. I should simply love to motor tour in this country. We had a great trip from Marseilles right up to the north of France which took about 60 hours but think I told Mum about it in my last letter home.

97

Photo 52. Officers’ dugout (right) in support behind front line, Bois Grenier area Source: SLNSW a5375103h (Donald MacDonald photo album)

Have also received nice long letters from Hope Davies from England. We are having a great flirt in our correspondence. Am just going to write to her now. Hope to get across to London sooner or later on leave where believe me I intend to have some time. The next officer who goes across from here I shall get him to cable to father from there asking him to send fifty pounds across to the Commonwealth Bank London so that if broke I shall have some cash in London to go on with. The leave gives one about 6 clear days in England so that a fellow could have a good look around in that time.

Photo 53. Hope Davies Source: AWM 2016.30.8

98

Well old chap I could ramble on for about a month writing all sorts of rubbish but I have several other letters to write, also some sleep to make up, last night being the first decent rest for 4 nights I have had. Nana is kicking around in this country somewhere not far away from us but have not seen him since landing in France. However, saw one of the officers from his battalion last Monday at a bombing school where I was for the day. He told me he is OK and now a full corporal out in orders etc so the kid is getting on all right.

Remember me to all the boys and lots of love to all at home. Sorry father has not been too good. This damned war upsets all things. Shall be very glad to get home again but do not see how it can come about for a hell of a long time, if at all. Mick, make all sorts of good excuses for me not writing to the lads and lasses too often but we are always very busy censoring the lads letters etc in our spare time and I always make a point of putting them through for them as soon as possible. Cheers, oh and be good, from Bob.

Monday 3/7/1916 France (Meteren)

My dear Mum,

We are once again in the thick of the fighting against Fritz this time instead of Joe Burke and although we have only been in the firing line a very short while our casualties have been large, several officers and men having left us killed, wounded and shell shock. One has no chance if caught with the large shells, bombs etc the Germans send across. Of course he gets something to go on with from us also. It is a perfect hell when these artillery duels start, and they do start, every day and night. I have seen some awful sights already; men having their heads blown clean off etc. But why talk of these things.

I do not know if you will receive this or previous ones written from France. We do not know anything about postal arrangements yet. However, will chance to luck. I have just come away from the trenches for 5 days to attend a bombing school where I am writing this letter from at present. It is about 10 miles from the trenches and situated in an ideal spot: pretty farms around, plenty of crops, cherry trees etc. The hedges and walks are simply lovely. I am doting on the rest and beautiful scenery, fresh eggs, milk, butter etc, for while in the trenches you get no sleep and a hell of a row going on all the while, which is very nerve- wracking. Have had several narrow escapes from shrapnel and shell, but so far have been lucky.

I am down here learning something about bombs, having been detailed for bombing officer to the battalion. Of course it is a very tricky job and expect to be blown up with the rotten things sooner or later which of course is all in the game. Bombing plays a large part in the war here, raids on the enemy’s trenches etc. So if lucky enough to pull through will have had some great experiences, exciting stunts which may be of course a bit too exciting .

I wonder if father received a cable from me? I sent it across with Mr Davis, one of our officers who went to London on leave, and got him to send it across from there, saying I was in France and well. Also asked for £50 to be sent to the Commonwealth Bank London. There is no chance of getting across yet, all leave having been stopped since we went into the trenches. However, I have a sort of feeling I shall go to England sooner or later and shall

99 then have some money waiting for me. If unlucky of course I presume there will be no trouble about getting them to send it back home to Australia.

Tell Lorna I received her letter dated 14-5-16 also 2 Heralds and parcels from home in the trenches a couple of days ago and was very pleased to hear the news. Also received letter from you Mum and Mick while billeted a little behind the firing line. Answered Mick’s and this is the first opportunity I have had of writing since. Expect you will get accounts of the big push on this front in Australia. Everybody is very elated and the London papers very cheerful but I think we all have a lot to put up with. Also a lot of hard fighting before settling with the Huns. However I trust this awful business will be over shortly. I have not seen Nana yet but think his battalion will be going into the trenches any time now, but expect you hear from him.

Well I could ramble on for a long time, telling you of all sorts of experiences, pleasant and otherwise, but can do nothing else but sleep here, having had none for 4 nights previous to coming here. In fact I cannot settle down to work, and during lectures go to sleep, so that you see that this war business is no joke. Fighting on the peninsular as far as my experience goes was a baby to this, and all the old hands are of a similar experience.

Shall write again soon. Trust all are well, and send lots of love to all, Bob (signature R J Henderson).

100

Mouquet Farm

On 1st July 1916, Field Marshall Haig launched the first Battle of the Somme. On that day, the British suffered an unprecedented 60,000 casualties. As the casualties mounted, with little advance on the German lines, Haig instructed General Birdwood to hurry the Australians south to the Somme and take over the advance. The 1st, 2nd and 4th Divisions moved south, while the 5th Division remained, to be decimated at Fromelles on 15th July.

Photo 54. The 13th Battalion moves by train to Candas, then marches to Pozieres. Map compiled by D G Jones 101

Wednesday 2/8/1916 France (Warloy – near Albert, Somme)

My dear Mum,

Sorry I have not written for 10 days or so but we have been too busy moving about, marching from one place to another, and with hot weather one is very tired at the end of each day. We are very close to the firing line again and expect to be well in it at any time. In fact we have dumped our stuff here and are to be ready to move out at an hour’s notice. Sorry I cannot mention names of towns etc we stay at and pass through, which would make a letter much more interesting.

Had a bottle of champagne with Rupert Furber last night here. He is with the 4th Field Ambulance and is very well. Incidentally told him I expected to see him professionally shortly and squared him to send me direct on to London, which he promised to do. Also believe Bobby Taylor is in this town but have not yet run into him. Nana I just behind us somewhere (the 45th Battalion were just outside Albert, at Brickfields, 30 km away) but cannot get away to see him as we may move at any moment so that it is not wise to go far away from the battalion.

Am now battalion bombing officer and responsible for training etc of my own platoon of bombers, also each company’s bombers in the battalion, so that I am the hard-working king at present. However, expect all my troubles shall be over shortly as the battalions returning from the line seem terribly short of bombers. But it is very interesting work, and find I can throw as far, if not further, and as accurately as anyone in the battalion (thanks to cricket) so that given a fair duel with any German, feel sure he would get the worst of it. There have been several bombing duels, our bombing platoons against the Germans on this front. The last one I heard of recently lasted for 2 hours. Out of 36, two of our chaps came out alive and there was one German left who threw in the sponge. Just fancy the excitement in a wood, for instance. It will always do me.

The British Army's tactics evolved from lessons learned in the battles of 1915. Partly due to new technology, these tactics provided the British Infantry with a relatively flexible response to the new German defensive doctrine centred around deep dugouts, and successive lines of defences.

The No 5 Mills Bomb was a mass-produced grenade issued to the infantry in mid-1915. By 1916, a small tactical group had sprung up around this weapon as the British reorganised their infantry platoons.

The platoon consisted of bombing sections, infantry sections and the Lewis Light Machine Gun section. The section consisted of a bomber, a specialist who would be capable of throwing the Mills Bomb accurately, between thirty to forty yards, into a trench four foot by six foot. He would also be expected to engage German Machine Gun posts and occupied shell holes.

He would be supported by a reserve bomber carrying a supply of bombs in a canvas bucket, sometimes converted Lewis Gun Magazine bucket. The reserve's job was to hand the bomber a supply of bombs as the section cleared trenches.

102

To keep the bomber and his reserve supplied, two men carried a chest each containing ten bombs.

Photo 55. Bombing Section with chests containing 10 Mills bombs each Source: theriflesww1.org

The final component of the section are the bayonet or swordsmen. The job of these men is the clear the trench of the enemy and allow the bomber and the section to advance. They are also the best snap shots and provide the section with protection as it advances.

To allow the section to carry on if casualties occur, each man can be relied on the take the position of his killed or wounded comrade. However the bomber remained the specialist in the section and this led ultimately to the training of all infantrymen in the task of throwing the Mills bomb.

Although an improvement on what went before, the 1916 Bombing Section remained only until the British again reorganised the infantry platoon, and introduced the rifle grenade firing the improved No 23 and 36 Mills Grenades. Greater flexibility in these weapons gave the infantrymen more scope in the way they approached and thus eliminated enemy held trenches and bunkers.

Shall be glad to get in and finish this show one way or another. Am getting fed up of this game but all the same feel one is doing one’s duty, and should not like to be back in Sydney

103 at present without a reasonable excuse. Never mind Mum dear, expect all this terrible business will be over some day. They say you know the first five years of any war is always the worst, what do you think?

We are at present billeted with a very nice French girl and her mother. Both play auction bridge well, also make good cider and have a fine gramophone. Then we buy all sorts of nice things for supper each night so am not doing too badly. Have been out this afternoon with my chaps, throwing live bombs for practice. We had some great competitions which created much keenness amongst the boys. When finished bombing I had some revolver practice and managed to win a free bottle champagne over it.

Yesterday I saw 15 aeroplanes flying just above me and they all landed within 10 yards of me. Also 6 others ascended from the same spot. It was most interesting and one of the finest sights I have ever seen. You will never kid me to pay 5/- to go and see fireworks or airplanes again. Have also seen some good air fights between the Huns and ourselves. We have them well bluffed. It is a most interesting spectacle.

Have not received letters for some time except from England but have no doubt all this moving about accounts for it. Well we have a night stunt on tonight, so will have to go and do a bit but are having some supper when we get back.

Lots of love to all, shall write again at first opportunity, from Bob.

The 13th Battalion moved to Albert on 4th August, then to Sausage Valley on 7th August. The next 2 days were spent carrying ammunition from the supply depot up to the artillery batteries. Bob Henderson’s “A” Company moved up into the trenches at Mouquet Farm while the 15th Battalion mounted yet another assault on that almost impregnable German strong point. On the 11th August, “A” and “D” Companies made a forward move, seized and held a German trench in front of the farm, the operation being seriously impeded by dense fog. The position was held, despite several German counter-attacks and a heavy artillery bombardment. The Germans then emerged from the farm cellars to mount a counter-attack which was broken up by the Vickers machine-guns of Harry Murray’s team. The next objective was to capture the Quarry, a strong point about 300 m south of the farm. This was achieved, and provided the stepping-stone for the next attack on 14th August, with the 13th Battalion advancing well but the battalions on either side failing to progress. The 13th was forced to withdraw to the start line. The exhausted battalion was relieved by the 51st Battalion next day. The 13th Battalion moved back through Albert to Warloy to re-join the 4th Brigade, who gave them a tremendous ovation. The 13th Battalion had suffered 240 casualties out of the 1020 who entered the battle, including 30 other ranks killed in action.

104

Map 10. 13th Battalion route from Brickfields to Mouquet Farm Map compiled by D G Jones

Friday 18/8/1916 France (Sunken Road, Pozieres)

My dear Mum,

Sorry I have had no chance of writing letters for some time past as we have just come from the firing line, where believe me, those of us who are left have been through hell about six times. It is not a bit of use trying to tell you anything about it. The whole thing is so ghastly as to be indescribable and am doing my level best to get the whole thing out of my mind, which is indeed hard. We had some very severe fighting, which you will see by our casualty list. We brought roughly half the battalion out, and out of 23 officers we lost 17. How I am here to tell the tale only Almighty Providence alone knows, but outside a few scratches and upset nerves am safe and sound and hard at work again, reorganizing and training ready for another go on the 29th of this month. So you see they do not give us much of a spell. That is the worst of having a reputation to live up to.

You would not have recognised me after coming out; a beard, clothes all torn and bloody, boots and socks not off for a week, and no wash of any description, and worst of all no sleep

105 with very little food and water. We all cried like babies and swore like the devil the first night out. I was terribly annoyed with myself, not being able to control my feelings.

The officers we lost were as follows:

“A” Company – Toby Barton, who bye the bye is the same old Toby who played tennis at Robbos and who Mick knows, the Gladesville people. He is missing, and am inclined to think wounded and a prisoner. I was with him in one part of the fight. - Ralph Kell, slightly wounded.

“B” Company - Les Henley, killed. Poor Leslie was killed just near me on our way out from the trenches. It was indeed bad luck. We were well behind the firing line when a shell burst and hit him. So that you see one is not safe until some miles away. Everyone is terribly upset for he was dearly loved by all. Shall write to his mother when I can collect my thoughts. - Capt Jerry Fox was hit and left in No Man’s Land. I heard he was wounded, and crawled out at 2 o’clock in the morning trying to find him. Had a most exciting time, surrounded by Germans but had the good luck to dodge them, crawling on my stomach from shell hole to shell hole but alas could not find him. Poor Jerry. The Germans found him when daylight came and captured him. - Ken Pattrick got a hit on the part he sits on. Was talking to him in No Man’s Land with shellfire and bullets flying all around us, trying to put him on the right track back to our trenches. - Neville Wallack was wounded in the arm.

These are just a few of our officers who I think you know or know of. Oh, one more Captain, J K Henderson, is missing, do not mix it up and think it is I. Brother to Marjorie Henderson, Mick knows him I think.

We all did very good work the 13th, you know, but got terribly cut up as a result. It is indeed sad, one becomes terribly attached to all these fellows, living, working, joking together etc. I had quite a lot of excitement with the bombing platoon, having hand to hand goes with the Huns, but of course lost some of my brave lads. These fellows will follow you to hell, as long as you lead them and take the same risks as they do. One incident which pleased me; with a couple of my men in a German trench we came to a 30 ft deep dugout. I threw a smoke bomb in and called on Fritz to come out. Three of them came up and I asked if any more were down there. He said no; a couple of minutes later came up. One of my men then called the one who said “n” a --- liar and put his bayonet through him. Seems cold-blooded but he deserved it. One cannot be too careful. If we had worked along the trench this fellow would have come out and shot us from behind.

I must also plead guilty to robbing dead Germans for papers and information. Collected quite a lot of useful and interesting information. Am just going to bed. Will finish this rambling letter tomorrow.

Sunday. Enough of trying to relate war experiences. Am trying to get it out of my mind. Shall tell you all about these incidents if lucky enough to return some day. Have just returned from Church Parade and received the enclosed card of congratulations from General Cox who commands out division. I got a great surprise; my name being sent on to the General from our Colonel. Am commencing to think I must have done something special but as far as I can see one only did one’s duty. Tell Mick it will cost him 5/6 to speak to me today, shaking

106 hands and being congratulated by Generals etc. Mum dear, you might have this card framed and keep it for me.

Image 4. Congratulation Card from Major-General Cox, Aug 1916 Source: AWM

The worst of this sort of thing is one has a reputation to live up to now, which of course will entail all sorts of risks but this sort of thing must go on.

Received a parcel yesterday with sweets, tobacco, socks, and a book etc yesterday, also 10 letters, 7 from Australia and 3 from England. It was simply great but do not know when I shall be able to answer them all. The letters from Hope Davies were simply bosker; am in for a great time in England if ever lucky enough to get across there. The only chance seems to be to get a decent sort of a wound, leave being out of the question. However, just intend to carry on and do my little bit as far as I am able and leave the rest to a higher power.

Do not get too alarmed if you do not receive letters regularly, for we shall be in and out fighting etc and it is next to impossible to write letters and get mail away. Shall cable first opportunity and let you know if I am OK. Saw Nana yesterday; he is hale and hearty and doing well. Excuse this very bare letter but am terribly upset in more ways than one and hope to do better next time. Love to all from Bob.

The 13th Battalion went into billets at Pernois on 19th August 1916 for a few days’ rest. While there, the CO, Lieut-Colonel Tilney, was taken to hospital and Major James Durrant assumed command. On 22nd August the battalion marched to Talmas, and next day to Vadencourt Wood, again being billeted for a few days. Then they retraced their steps to the 107

Pozieres battlefield, via Brickfields and Sausage Valley, where they bivouacked as the reserve battalion until moving up to attack Mouquet Farm once more.

On 26th August a captured German prisoner revealed to intelligence staff that underneath Mouquet Farm, now a heap of rubble, was an extensive network of almost impregnable tunnels linking the old cellars to deep underground caverns excavated by the Germans and occupied by hundreds of well-armed troops. The cellars were 8 to 10 metres deep with 28 steps down, roofed with logs and absolutely undamaged despite the numerous intense artillery bombardments. One cellar was occupied by up to 150 troops; another was a dressing station with accommodation for more troops and machine guns, a third was the headquarters for the two German companies engaged in the defence of the farm.

Photo 56. German underground defence system, Mouquet Farm Map compiled by D G Jones on to air photo held by Imperial War Museum

108

At midnight on the 28th August the 13th Battalion moved up along Kay Trench and Tom’s Cut (see Map 9 above) and took over the line from the 15th Battalion at 4:30 am on the 29th. The 13th Battalion headquarters moved into a dugout close to the front line.

Map 11. The 29/30th Aug attack on Mouquet Farm Map compiled by D G Jones

“A” Company, led by company commander Captain Harry Murray and Lieutenant Bob Henderson, worked their way out about 40 m into No Man’s Land, and then followed the artillery barrage to their objective. Heavy machine-gun and rifle fire swept their approach, while showers of bombs were hurled by the German defenders. Two sections worked along the trench and established a block, but were unable to connect with the 16th Battalion on their left. “A” Company fended off two German counter-attacks, but were forced to withdraw as had the 16th Battalion before them. Under heavy shelling they made it back to the front line, bringing their wounded and one prisoner with them, a member of the First Reserve Regiment of the elite Prussian Guard. Rain fell throughout the night, the mud making the withdrawal and evacuation of the wounded extremely difficult. It was during the withdrawal that both Harry Murray and Bob Henderson were severely wounded, the company suffering 667 casualties including 8 killed and 14 taken prisoner. The British advance eventually bypassed Mouquet Farm, leaving it as an isolated outpost which was finally captured on 27th September 1916. Harry Murray was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (“DSO”) for his leadership at Mouquet Farm, while Bob Henderson was awarded the Military Cross. 109

Hospital in London

Sunday 3/9/1916 Hospital ship (WARILDA)

My dear Mum,

Just a few lines to let you know I am still alive and kicking, although I can assure you it is not my fault. We have been in action again, and as per usual were badly cut up. I am wounded in the right leg above the knee, a bullet from a machine gun passing right through without touching a bone. It is simply marvellous, being in the midst of high explosive shells, shrapnel, bombs etc, and having the luck to stop a single bullet through a soft part of the leg. I carried on fighting for one hour after being hit, walked back 5 miles which took me 5 hours, to a dressing station, from there to a clearing station, from there hospital train to Rouen, which place we have just left for England. We are passing down a beautiful river but cannot see anything, being in bed with a timber yard stuck on the side of my leg. They are taking no risks of further complications setting in. However am quite all right and hope to be hopping around London in about a week’s time having a good time.

Trust father received a cable I had sent to him from London a couple of months ago asking for £50 to be sent to London as I have most of my clothes and things kicking around and expect I shall lose same, and as my pay book is pretty dry I shall require extra money. Cabled to father from Rouen yesterday; shall cable again when reaching London.

Was in an English hospital in Rouen for a couple of days and had the time of my life. The sisters were most charming, and talk about look after you! It was simply great. Have been living on the fat of the land. Still, we have had a very rough time and shall be glad of a spell. I expect to be back again with the battalion in a month’s time, but shall try to get to get a little time off to have a look around England, also to have my teeth fixed up. They are in a dreadful condition.

We lost 8 officers this stunt, up to the time I left the front line, and a lot of men. I have a fellow friend officer here with me from the battalion, Lieut Browning. His father is a member of the Union Club. Dad will probably know him. Strange to say, he is hit practically in the same spot as myself. It is great the two of us being together. All our chaps previously wounded are in England: Kell, Pattrick, Wallack etc. What a good time we shall all have together.

Shall have plenty to tell you all if lucky enough to get home again. Have seen quite a lot of France and shall see a bit of England, and the battalion is going in to another part of the line after a rest, which it badly needs, that is what is left of it. I doubt if it is 200 strong now, notwithstanding we had reinforcements after the previous stunt which I told you in my last letters home.

Expect Nana will be in action by this. I think his brigade were relieving ours. Hope he pulls through all right. Am terribly behind with all my correspondence but expect shall have to rest my leg for a few days so shall have a chance to square up. Tell father I shall cable for money if I run short while in London. I should be able to meet it all right. See Mick about that. Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob. 110

PS. Received my second star about a fortnight ago. Nearly forgot to tell you.

Monday 4/9/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

King's College Hospital at Denmark Hill was requisitioned during WWI and became the Fourth London General Military Hospital.

It helped to pioneer techniques such as plastic surgery, physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Among the techniques used during WWI were radiography, UV ray treatment, massage, open air treatments for patients with lung injuries and the Carrel-Dakin treatment – the periodic flooding of infected wounds with an antiseptic solution.

Photo 57. Main wing of 4th LGH in 1916 Source: Lost Hospitals of London

Over the next three years, the hospital treated more than 75,000 soldiers. By 1917, it had 369 beds for officers and 1,625 for other ranks. Huts and tents were also put up in nearby Ruskin Park to house 656 extra beds, and these were often used for soldiers with lung injuries and tuberculosis.

Map 12. Location of 4th London General Hospital, Denmark Hill Source: map compiled by D G Jones on to Google Earth Pro image 111

My dear Mum,

Arrived in this great city yesterday afternoon about 5 o’clock. Landed at Southampton, hospital train from there to Waterloo Station, thence on to hospital by motor ambulance, but being on my back all the time have had little chance of seeing anything yet. However shall make up for it later. Have just had my leg under the X-ray but have not heard the result yet. Do not think anything is in it. So you do not worry about me, my wound is very slight, and before you get this letter will most likely be back in France fighting. Have been doing nothing else but travelling since leaving the line. Was hit about midnight on the 29th last month; fought on for an hour after being hit, then had my wound dressed and walked for 5 miles back. Got lost and ran into a Tommy dressing station. From there got to our own dressing station at Albert. From there by motor ambulance to an officers’ rest home at Warloy where I met Rupert Furber who gave me a nice whisky and soda and bundled me off to hospital at Contay. Stayed there one night, and went in hospital train to Rouen. At this place one night and then across to Southampton by hospital ship, so you see I have done some flying about in the last few days.

Everyone has been very nice and kind and do everything they can for you. These hospital trains and boats are simply gorgeous and they feed you like kings. Still I feel as if I deserved a good time now for a bit as we have had a very rough time in France. We have been fighting, mostly on the Somme front, having a go for Mouquet Farm, a great stronghold for the Germans, and believe me it has been some stunt.

There are several other officers from our battalion here so that when we can all get about what a good time we shall have. Also intend to look the good Hope Davies up and see what sort of a lass she is. Expect I shall have lots to tell you later when able to tear around this wonderful city. Lots of love to all, Bob.

112

Image 5. Hospital Report on Bob’s wound Source: AWM

Sunday 9/9/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Have not been getting on too well the last few days. The wound in my leg has turned septic and gives me fits, besides sending my temperature up to 103o every night which prevents sleep, and it is quite on the cards an operation will have to be performed to allow the irritating stuff to get away. The sister who dresses me and looks after me hurts like the devil inserting tubes and getting up to all sorts of other antics. I swear at her a treat but have the utmost confidence in her. There is no doubt she knows her job, and when finished each day one is much easier. Am also having a lot of red hot foments which give me gipp when they first go on. So you see I would sell out at the present moment very cheaply. However, with luck there will be a good time coming when clear of this place and sick leave is granted.

113

Wrote to the Commonwealth Bank London and asked them if they had £50 for me from Australia, telling them I had a cable sent for same about the end of last June by one of officers who came to London on leave. They replied telling that to date nothing had come through but they would notify me as when same arrived. I was somewhat surprised, but still, expect that father did not receive the cable or perhaps was suspicious. However as soon as I am convalescent shall cable again and ask father to send it through. Shall want a lot of money here, having lost most of my clothes, also shall have to get my teeth fixed up, 3 pivot teeth fallen out and 2 gold fillings as far as I know. Shall also take a trip to Scotland or Ireland if possible, then of course you will understand how one will spend money in this wonderful city living etc. Intend to take the opportunity of having a real good holiday. My pay book is just about square. Anyway the 12/- a day from that will go on hotel expenses. Expect to get about a fortnight’s leave out of this little lot.

Have two 13th officers in the next 2 beds to me, Captain Browning and Captain Murray. Browning is having rather a bad time having had an operation on his leg with 7 tubes inserted so that he is suffering some pain. Tiny Kell and Wallack have been up to see me a couple of days ago. They are both well again and have both gone to Scotland for a week. The yesterday Ken Pattrick, Major Twynam, Colonel Tilney, Mrs Bierley, Edna and her other daughter came in to see me. It was jolly decent of them to come. Also had letters from Mrs Davies and her daughter Hope of Liverpool. People are very kind and apparently cannot do enough for me.

Well dear, shall write again soon and let you know how I am getting on. Trust you are all well and everything is right at home. Lots of love from Bob.

PS. Nana is all right as far as I know. Of course have not seen him or heard anything of him since leaving France. Saw him last about the 14th of August, he was blooming as per usual. Shall get my photo taken here later and send some across to you.

Sunday 16/9/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Have been having a rather bad time with my leg the last few days. The confounded wound turned septic which was the cause of an operation which they performed last Thursday afternoon. Of course my leg is in an awful state at present, 3 large cuts being made and 4 tubes inserted. The whole thing is very sore. It is dressed twice a day, tubes taken out and inserted etc, so you can imagine all this is very painful. However, expect the thing to mend rapidly now, although it will be the best part of a fortnight or 3 weeks before I shall be able to hop around. Am looking forward to a good time when better again. Our late Colonel has invited me to Scotland for some shooting. Henleys have invited me to Plymouth, also have invitations to go to Liverpool. I really must go and see the Henleys first. Do you know I have never even written to them since Leslie was killed, but although I tried I could not write absolutely but shall explain when I see them personally. Expect you will write to Mrs Henley, Mum, if you have not already done so.

114

Ruth Murray-Prior was here last Thursday afternoon finding out what we knew about poor Toby Barton who is missing, but having just come up from the operating theatre I was not feeling too happy. She is a great worker in connection with the Anzac Buffet here. She promised me a great feed when I went down. Edna Brierly and her sister came in again yesterday to see me. They brought two lovely baskets of fruit and lots of papers. It is jolly good of them. They are both working at one of the hospitals here doing pantry work or some such thing. Then there are about 18 officers of the 13th Battalion, some in this hospital, others convalescent in London. They all come to see me, so you see things are not too bad.

Tell father not to send any money until I cable again. Think I can arrange without worrying him. Shall get the Bank NSW here to transfer part of my current account with them in Sydney to their branch here. This appears to me to be much the better way of doing things. Then I shall have a current account here. Will be able to get a letter of credit for travelling etc.

Had a letter from Nana yesterday. He is OK and doing well. He wants me to cable for money for him to be sent to London. I advised him to do what I am doing when he comes across, if he does. However if he wants it still I shall cable for him. Shall probably hear later. Shall cable when convalescent and able to hop around, also when I leave again for France.

Best love to all, Bob.

Thursday 21/9/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Have just received the enclosed letter and card from Colonel Durrant, who commands the 13th Battalion. Of course I do not discuss all this rubbish and will be getting a swelled head if this sort of thing goes on. This is the second one of these cards I have sent to you but I am indeed honoured by Colonel Durrant’s letter, which I value more than all the cards or decorations known. We are indeed lucky in having such good men for commanding officers. Our late commanding officer, Colonel Tilney, was simply fine but unfortunately on account of ill health he has had to come to England for a spell and am afraid is finished as far as active service is concerned. He has been twice here to see me and has also arranged for me to go to some of his friends in Scotland for some shooting when well enough. This is characteristic of the man. The Colonel Durrant who has taken over the battalion is an old 13th but has been Brigade Major for some time past. In that capacity we all had a good deal to do with him. He is an exceptionally fine young man and an excellent soldier. It is simply great having these sort of men to work for. You will probably have met his wife who is a keen worker for the Comforts Fund.

Had such a nice note from Millie Henley a couple of days ago. They are indeed good, having invited me as their guest to the Grand Hotel Plymouth for as long as I like. I shall make a point of going down and staying a few days with them. Of course they all feel their loss keenly but are very brave and try to be as cheerful as possible. I have all sorts of invitations to go and see people all over England. In fact do not know how I shall manage with a limited

115 amount of time at my disposal. Then you know one will have to tear oneself away from this bit of a town called London. It is some place according to all accounts.

Image 6. Congratulation Card from Major-General Cox, Sep 1916 Source: AWM

The old leg is getting on finely now. It is just a week today since the operation was performed and in a couple more days hope to get up on a wheeled chair. The little girl who dresses my leg is simply wonderful and though she has hurt me like the devil she is very thorough and competent and I give her all the credit for saving my limb. The worst is over now, tubes being much smaller and shorter. Expect I shall not receive any mail from home for months now but still that cannot be helped. Trust everything is OK. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Monday 25/9/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Still in the same old spot but getting along very nicely, if slowly. Got up on a wheeled chair two days ago for the first time, which was a great change.

116

Image 7. “The Fourth” – magazine of 4 LGH, Dec 1916 Source: Wellcome Library, London

They will not let me put my foot to the ground yet, but I have only one small tube in the leg now. The hot foments are discontinued and the incisions healing nicely, so that in the course of another fortnight I should be quite all right again. Am very anxious to get out of this and have a look around. You can imagine I would not take too kindly to hospital life. Still, everyone is very nice, the nurses and sisters spoil me properly. The little girl who dresses my leg and self have furious debates every day as to how long it will be before I can get about even with a stick etc. But she is too shrewd and will not commit herself.

You see, I have several invitations this week. One to go out to the Brierley’s to dinner one night before next Sunday as they will be out of London after that for some time. Also an “At Home” stunt next Wednesday afternoon at which Ada Crossley is going to sing. Then I want to have a trip to Scotland with one of our officers before they go back. The holidays of the most of them are drawing to a close now, however anticipate no trouble in getting a congenial mate here.

Funny making all these plans, what I am going to do, etc, when one may only get a couple of days leave, if that. You see, being in the hospital too long, and of course battalions being very short of officers, they send you back right away if fit. The best thing is a small crack which keeps you in hospital about a week. Then you get about 3 weeks holiday which only absents you from your battalion a month or so. But if here for a month or six weeks, then added to that another month holiday, you can see it is some considerable time to be away. However, one may be lucky.

117

Anyhow expect I shall be glad to get back after a couple of days kicking around. Same old story, anticipation is better than realisation. I am fixed up as far as money is concerned, having got the Bank of NSW here to transfer £100 form my account at Annandale to their branch here. They have notified me that the money is waiting for me, so I shall open a current account with them here. Ask Mick to find out what balance I have left at Annandale and let me know, in case I wish to send for more. Also tell him I may have some left over here if I get slugged, not to forget to get the balance back to Australia.

The battalion sent me a great mail across a couple of days ago, 12 letters from Australia and a Balmain Cricket Report from Billy Bull, 1 letter from Hope, it was great, 3 letters from Lorna, one from Mick, one from you Mum, 2 from Lucy Cowdery and from Dag, and 2 from Jane. Tell Lorna and Jack I think I receive all their letters but do not answer them as I know they see the ones I write home and it is not much use writing the same stuff out twice. Am as lazy as ever, you can see Mum, then again when one is in the field time is very limited but am always glad to hear from everyone.

Being in the hospital has given me a chance to get my correspondence up to date but expect I shall fall short again as I am able to get up and play bridge now. No need to ask which I will choose, playing bridge or writing letters.

Great excitement here on Sunday night or early on Monday morning. The German Zeppelins raid again in London and districts. The bombs and guns woke me up. As a matter of fact, there were a lot of casualties and damage done only about ½a mile from this hospital. Still, it did not worry me much. I smoked a cigarette, put my head under the clothes and went to sleep again, feeling very safe. These raids seem very minor to me after a bombardment at the front. Still it would be rotten to get a clout over here when away from the front, would it not. You will no doubt get full accounts of these air raids in the papers so shall not discuss further.

Am just about to have my leg dressed, then a game of auction, so will shut up. Have not heard from Nana for the last fortnight but expect he is all right. Shall write again when there is something doing. Please excuse the scribble etc, love to all, Bob.

PS. Shall cable when convalescent, also when again off to France to join the battalion.

Wednesday 27/9/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

The mail closes for Australia via America tomorrow at midnight so will write a few lines. Think I wrote a few days ago but have forgotten, but expect you cannot have too many and although there is no news still I am in the humour. The old leg is progressing favourably though very slowly. Have arranged to leave for Scotland next Monday week but after today afraid there is no hope. Rather bad luck as I was trying to go with one of our officers who has deferred his trip until the last week of his leave so as to come with me. 118

The shock came about in this manner. One of our medical board people came along and asked how long before my leg could be all right again. The Sister told him more 30 days. I nearly fell through the floor, swore at the sister, told the medical officer she was pulling his foot and worst of all called him Captain when he was a full Colonel, head of our Military Boards here. Of course there were roars of laughter from all. I was playing bridge at the time. Everybody thought this was a fine joke. You see, I could not see his rank badge properly, thought he had 3 stars, when they were 2 stars and a crown. However I apologized to him and as soon as he was gone went for the Sister to find out about this 30 days stunt of hers. She said she was not going to have them sending me back to France too soon and so break the leg down again, and although it might be that long before being discharged from here, still that did not mean I should have to stay in all day. So after a while I hope to be able to hop around London with a stick. This news pacified me somewhat, although I am well fed up of this hospital life, especially after having an invitation to an “At Home” stunt and 2 dinners this week. However, expect more invitations will come along later, probably too many, will not know how to keep clear of them.

War news seems very bright lately, all sorts of good positions of the Germans taken with plenty of prisoners etc, yet they say very little about the cost in lives etc to us. Beds are never empty here, and expect other hospitals are alike. Still there is no doubt the old Hun is becoming properly rattled and it is only a matter of time to bring him to his knees. It would always do me if the war ended now, yet on the other hand am keen to get back and have another fly, strange is it not?

Hope’s sister Gwen Davies apparently works in London. She has been home for the past fortnight but has now returned to London. She wrote me a sweet letter and wishes to come and see me next Saturday afternoon. Of course I shall be very pleased to see her, in fact think I shall do a line with her now instead of her sister. Ask Mick if that would not be a good stunt. Hope tells me she has never been to London. Fancy living in Liverpool all these years and never going to London. I told her she will have to come for a fly around with me but what would Mother say? It is quite good sport writing to people you do not know and have never seen. However, will see what the sister is like shortly. Quite a good sport by the sound of her letter.

My special Sister is going to let me have her photo, also take one of myself. Shall let you have them later. Shall also post a decent one through when I can get out and have it taken. You will see no alteration, still the same long skinny being, perhaps looking a bit older, a few more grey hairs, strenuous life you know.

We are all sitting around a huge fire at present. One Canadian officer, two Australians, one South African and 8 English. Wild discussions, football with slippers, rags on the piano and a general row. Expect we will all be bundled to bed shortly, who cares?

Well, think I shall turn in after all the excitement, lots of love to everyone, trust all are well and everything in the garden lovely, from Bob.

PS. Have heard nothing from Nana but think he is all right. Cannot understand why you do not receive letters from him, think he writes all right. Tell Lorna the electric car sounds quite a good effort. Push it home for all she is worth.

119

Friday 6/10/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Things are ever so much brighter now. Yesterday was my first day out and you can imagine how I enjoyed it after being here 0ver a month. The leg is not right yet and I have a stick and hop around all right although the muscles etc give me some pain. The incisions are healing nicely now, and after some massage should be quite all right again in about another 10 days.

My first day out Wednesday, caught a taxi from here, went down to the bank and fixed up some money matters. Then down to our HQ to fix up about some more money, then to the Regent Palace Hotel where I had lunch, and it was some lunch too, after hospital fare, which gets very tiring after a while. After a very satisfactory lunch in a fine large dining room with plenty of people, to say nothing of the fine-looking girls and good music, I went to the Adelphi Theatre and had a look at High Jinks. It compared very favourably with the same show played in Sydney some years ago, an as they say over here it was “Top Hole”. I do not think the chorus girls are as good here but the principals are simply great. Theatres here are very expensive, 10/6 for front stall plus 1/- war tax. In fact, everything is terribly dear. Cannot see how one can manage on less than £2 per day, and that will mean going steady in lots of ways. Still, who cares, what little I have seen of London, it is most fascinating.

Tell Mick the girls “ah”, enough said, and every one of them hot stuff. They smoke, drink, give you the glad eye, etc. Say Mum, do not pass this letter around too much, else people will be shocked with me.

First day out I came from the theatre for dinner and went to bed right after feeling tired. Yesterday I had a great time out. Had a look around with a Canadian officer from this ward. We both obtained permission from the doctor to stay out late so had a chance of seeing London by night. We went into town after lunch, did some shopping, played a couple of games of billiards, then went to a flash joint for tea. Lost my heart 30 times in 30 minutes, listened to fine music, smoked cigarettes with the girls. This place will always do me. After tea I meet a couple of Australians who took us to their hotel and wanted us to go out for the evening. But I was wise and cried off, being a sick man. After leaving these chaps, Canada and self motored around the City, went to the Lyric, booked a couple of seats for the show that night entitled “Romance”. It was very fine too, although hot stuff. The seating was excellent. After procuring the seats we went to dinner, which was some dinner too. More fascinating girls, much wine, and generally a lively time. You can just imagine how I enjoyed myself, this my first night free for many a long day in civilization. But you will be getting bored with all this. Suffice it to say we taxied back about midnight, and strange to say quite sober. The little night nurse met us at the door, made us take our boots off before entering the ward, then brought to our bedsides hot milk and biscuits. Fancy going back to France after all this, it will be absurd. But after a month of this gay time, expect I shall be glad to get back. Besides money, I fear by that time we will be skint.

Cabled to father yesterday saying “Convalescent in London send forty pounds to Commonwealth Bank London for Leonard”. This is accordance with his instructions to me 120 except he said Bank NSW but I shall notify him of the alteration. Hope father sends it across in his name for of course it is not likely I shall be here when he is, if he ever has the good luck. These cables cost money, this one 27/- deferred rates. In fact I am simply frightened to count up how much money I spent yesterday, some tremendous amount, but of course you know about my first report in London, shall steady up shortly. Notwithstanding, I have an appointment today at afternoon tea, and dinner tonight. It is not a bit of use promising to be good in London. The best anyone should expect is if one promises to be careful. This is what I told the Sister this morning while dressing my leg. Of course, only joking, she is a good sport, and I am in her good books which is actually an asset while in hospital anyhow.

I am deeply interested in trying to find my way about this huge city. Of course, one gets lost about every five minutes, it is simply absurd. When lost I simply hail a taxi and get back to some central place I know. Have not been game to tackle the underground tubes yet, but shall shortly, with varied experiences no doubt.

Well my dear, if I write any more shall not be able to get it in an envelope so shall fini for the present. Lots of love to all from Bob.

Tuesday 10/10/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

At present one of the fellows who has just come in is sitting at the piano and playing everything one can think of most beautifully. It is quite something, after Fay’s style. The past few days the weather has been splendid here, not too much sun but very pleasant, and no rain.

I have been out every day and evening up to 10 pm. What a glorious, fascinating place this London is. It is most interesting, the underground, buses, trams, trains etc, how wonderful it all is. What a tiny little town Sydney and our other capitals are.

Unable to get a taxi home the other night, this place being some distance out and a limited amount of petrol allowed the drivers, so had to find my way by trains etc. Changed twice in the underground, then into the elevated electric train. I felt terribly clever of course. I asked questions but even then it might be easy to go astray late at night. A few more days out and I shall know the difference between The Strand and Piccadilly.

121

Time never hangs here, how much there is to do, heaps of theatres and matinees every afternoon in the week. Do you remember Huntley who played in “The Girl From Kays” etc in Australia some years ago? You doted on him.

Image 8. Postcard from “The Girl From Kays” Source: SLV postcard collection

Went and saw him in “The Happy Day” yesterday afternoon. He was simply splendid. The show was tip top. Felt a duke, the theatre was full so they put us in a box for the same price as front stalls. After theatre went to afternoon tea. After did some shopping, then to dinner, from there to the Regent Palace Hotel lounge, had a couple of drinks. While having them studied human nature, and then home at 10:30 pm after a very pleasant day’s outing. I was out with a Canadian officer, about 14 stone (89 kg), 6’4” (193 cm) in height and a very handsome man. Generally it was simply lovely to see the girls giving him the glad eye wherever we went. Of course we did the same, which meant fine fun.

Image 9. Billboard for “The Happy Day” Source: NLA pic-an22892132

Met a great chap in the ward here who has just gone, a Scotchman by the name of Elliott, a Captain of the Cameron Regiment. Before leaving, he asked me if I had any friends in London. I told him “not particularly” so he asked me to come to stay with him. He is married and has a large place at Rogart, Sutherland Shire. Said he would show me round but was sorry, he was only allowed a certain amount of petrol for his car which would make things less enjoyable. Still he would be very pleased if I cared to come along. It sounds all right and he is an exceptionally nice chap, a man of about 34 years of age, so this chicken has decided to take this trip. When I am discharged from here and find out how much leave I get, shall go to Edinburgh, stay a couple of days there, then on to Captain Elliott’s place for a few days. Are not people very decent? Shall be able to talk Scotland to father if I return.

Tell Mick I took Gwen Davies for a fly last Sunday afternoon and evening. She is some hot stuff. We had a great time and have arranged to have another outing later when one is not tied down to time. Expect I shall have to go and see Hope for a couple of days later.

122

Saw George Knox (Captain), Nana’s company commander, in town yesterday. He is over on 8 days leave. Told me Nana was OK and was forming one of a party to raid the Germans shortly. It is fairly dangerous work, this raiding business. Trust he comes through all right, or a nice little wound would not hurt. He would then get a spell across here which would give him a good rest? And a good time, he would dote on it and of course thoroughly deserves a spell. That is the only way of getting one these days. The trouble is to get a sweet wound. I should not like a repetition of my little lot. Expect it will be fully another week yet before I am all right. These things, when septic, discharge until the bitter end.

Am just going to have my leg dressed, then off into the city until 10 pm tonight. Shall try and get my photo taken today. One does not seem to get time to do anything here, such a lot of counter attractions I suppose. Trust everything is OK, lots of love to all, Bob.

PS. Have only received the one lot of mail from home here.

Friday 13/10/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Sorry to say my leg has turned dog on me, swelling etc, and if not careful may require another operation. Have gone back to the first stages again, insertion of tubes, foments etc, and confined to hospital again for rest with the unpleasant news that the leg will not be all right again for another 6 weeks or so. Simply rotten luck, but expect shall just have to put up with it. Have been in since last Monday resting the leg. Went out for an hour or so yesterday, but feel anyhow this morning. It is very hard to get about with tubes running right through one’s leg, and some painful, so shall just have to take things easily.

Have just received an invitation from Countess Brassey to attend an At House stunt at her residence 24 Park Lane next Tuesday afternoon. Hope I shall be able to go along. Think it is specially for Australian officers wounded. It will be a chance of meeting a lot of our chaps and finding out where they are.

Minnie Hindmarsh has been to see me, but I was out. She left her address. She is working at the Australian Red Cross depot in the mornings only. It is wonderful how people find you out here. I called and saw her yesterday morning, and when able we are going to have some afternoons out together. Her brother is across here wounded also.

Had a look at Broadway Jones yesterday afternoon. The man was not half as clever as Niblo but the girl was very much better than Niblo’s wife in my opinion. The show here was very excellent. It is great seeing shows here one has seen in Sydney just to form a comparison. Still plenty to see year yet they have not had out in Australia. There is a great rush on the theatres here, and very difficult to get a seat at all. It is marvellous where all the people come from.

123

Will not be going out again for the next 3 or 4 days now, shall have to look after this leg. Do not want to be chopped up again. Of course one gets very fed up of staying in all day, especially when things are so fascinating outside.

Have just received a parcel, do not know whether from Camden or home. Post mark seemed to say Camden, but no mail from Australia. The parcel contained a pair of socks and a tin of boiled lollies. Thanks very much whoever sent it. Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

Tuesday 24/10/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Sorry to report my leg is rotten. The confounded thing has come to a stage where it seems to stick and will not heal. The surgeon had a look at it yesterday and decided not to operate again for the present. Seems to have them thinking a bit. In the meantime.I am stiff and sore-legged with the thing no better than it was a fortnight ago. Fortunately I can hop around with the aid of a stick but it is rather painful and am commencing to get fed up of the whole show. I go out nearly every day and of course am having the time of my life, but it is not too nice with steps etc, large crowds and a bad leg. However, expect things might be worse. On the other hand they could be better. The Sister in charge here is very keen to have me out and about again and if not says I shall be a long time before well again. Expect if I am not careful shall end up with a stiff leg or something silly like that. It is indeed astonishing what trouble a little bullet wound can give.

Wonder if father got my cable which I sent about a fortnight ago. Enquired at the Commonwealth Bank if the £40 was there for Nana but it had not come, but of course it may be there now. Have not heard from him for some time, so expect he is still in France and I hope all right. He will certainly want some money if he comes across here. It is not the slightest good being in London without money. I have been going very lightly in a way, living at hospital, and have spent £50 having only been out about a fortnight, but I have a fair amount of money here and should be all right if not kept here indefinitely.

Have been to the theatre a lot. Grand opera has started. Am going to Faust next Saturday night, some of the same people as played in Sydney. Miss Buckman in Butterfly, Edna Thornton in Samson and Delilah and others I have heard before.

Photo 58. Rosina Buckman, NZ soprano, 1916 Source: Forgotten Opera Singers

124

Went to “Peg O’ My Heart” yesterday afternoon, it was simply great, the little Irish girl (Margaret Burke Sheridan) was wonderful.

Photo 59. Maggie Sheridan, soprano from County Mayo Source: Irish 30p postage stamp

Last Sunday afternoon went to the Albert Hall to a concert. It was simply splendid. An exact simile, Mum, to the Amateur Orchestral concerts in Sydney. A splendid orchestra which played all high class stuff, then a duet from Carmen was sung, also the Jewel song from Faust in conjunction with the music. Have you ever been in this hall? It is simply a wonderful building, beautiful inside, the whole place a hug dome, and would not like to say how many people it held. Shut my eyes on several occasions during the concert and thought I was sitting next to you at the Town Hall Sydney as of yore.

Have not done much sight-seeing in London to date. Have seen St Pauls and the Zoo, but these things require a lot of walking about. Thought St Pauls very wonderful, but some of the cathedrals in France are also very fine, they have a beauty at Amiens for instance.

Art 3. Amiens Cathedral 1918 Source: AWM 03002 (Will Longstaff watercolour)

125

Decided to go to Westminster Abbey to church after the concert last Sunday but alas the attractions of the city proved too great. You may think this statement strange but it is just my opinion. I have been in Cairo and Alexandria in Egypt, such places as Marseilles, Amiens, Rouen in France, and London, and consider the last named the worst morally, this place is simply the limit. One could have a wonderful time in London I should say.

Have not been about very much here yet, but have learnt many things and seen many things which is indeed an education in itself. You should see some of us flying about in the tubes, getting lost etc, it is great fun. Changed 4 times the other day, getting from Bond Street tube to Piccadilly Circus, which would have been absurd to anyone knowing the ropes, but this sort of thing affords all sorts of amusement if not pushed for time.

Went through one of the large stores in Oxford Street the other day, Selfridges. It is a tremendous place, the only place in London you can get Welcome Nugget tobacco which cost 18/- (A$93 in 2018) per pound. Same stuff 6/6 (A$33 in 2018) in Sydney. My experience so far teaches me Australia is the cheapest place to live. Nearly everything seems cheaper there to me.

Well Mum, shall write again soon. Trust all are well and everything in the garden lovely, lots of love, Bob.

PS. Had photo taken, ready tomorrow, will send them to you direct from the shop. Have only had one lot of Australian mail but trust for more some day.

Monday 30/10/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Still in hospital, although the leg seems to be getting all right and with any luck shall dodge another operation. Can walk much better, and the swelling is going down, but expect it will be some time yet before getting clear of this place. Have had quite a busy week, enjoying myself around London. One afternoon visited the House of Commons, heard Mr Asquith, Sir Edward Carson and others speaking. These debates are quite interesting and intend to have some more of it. Also went through Westminster Abbey, a truly wonderful building, is it not?

Had free tickets for two theatres, “Peg o’ My Heart” and “The Happy Day”, went to both these Saturday afternoon. Went with a Canadian officer into town for lunch. Went and saw “A Little Bit of Fluff” in the afternoon, a very funny farce, and after having a splendid dinner, went to the opera “Faust”. I enjoyed every minute of it. Have booked seats for “Tales of Hoffman” next Saturday.

Image 10. Criterion Theatre poster, 1916 Source: Art.IWM PST 13719

126

Yesterday afternoon went for a walk through Hyde Park. Met Gwen Davies, took her to afternoon tea, then a taxi drive, then the pictures until eight o’clock then on to the “Trocadero” for dinner, which took 2 hours to finish. It was some dinner, believe me, to say nothing of the some price. However, feel no effects this morning so everything is right.

This week I am making arrangements to have my teeth fixed up. Had a letter from Millie Henley. They are staying at a hotel at St James Park where they have invited me to stay with them, but of course at present have to be at hospital to have my dressing fixed each day. However, shall call and see them.

Got my photo taken and posted 4 out to you last Saturday direct from the shop. They are not very good but expect you will be pleased to have them. Hope they arrive all right. Received a magazine from Jack Tivey “The Odd Number” yesterday at the hospital, apparently posted on from the battalion. Cannot understand why I do not get some mail in the same way. Am going down to the base today to inquire about it. Have you been hearing from Nana? I have not heard a word for the past month. Expect he is all right.

Think I forgot to tell you about Countess Brassey’s “At Home” which I went to some little time ago. It was very swank, butlers, footmen etc. There were 18 wounded Australian officers there and about the same number of ‘girls’ (not wounded though). We had a very nice afternoon tea but of course I had to be polite and did not do full justice to it. The girls waited and looked after us splendidly. After tea we adjourned to a very large sort of lounge or smoke room where we had some fine music and dancing. Should love to have had a fling but the stiff leg settled that. The girls also gave an exhibition of Turkey Trotting etc. Some of them appeared to dance well but I think the Australian lasses could show them many points. Well I had a real good afternoon, the house appointments, fixtures, carving etc were gorgeous. I felt quite like a Duke or something like that for the time being.

The weather here has been ripping this month, very little rain, the sun shining every day, and quite warm. I have not worn a coat at night yet, although all the people in London seem to wear great big thick coats whenever they go out. However, expect it will be getting cold enough shortly. Shall have to buy a good thick coat. Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

Wednesday 8/11/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Afraid I am getting slack with my correspondence to other people in Australia, but always write to you and I know you pass the news around. Besides, I am receiving no Australian mail so do not know who I really owe letters to. There seems little doubt now that I shall be in England this Christmas, and no doubt shall be very lonely by myself unless something turns up. Do not know if I shall be clear of the hospital or not yet. The leg is just about the same, no better, no worse. However, expect one will have a happier time here than in France, although it would be good sport being back with the battalion. 127

Am feeling rather tired at present, the last three nights not being in until 10 0’clock each evening. Sounds Irish does it not. Have been to the theatre a good deal. Heard the famous tenor Ben Davies, a Welshman, sing at a music hall last Saturday night. Was rather disappointed, enjoyed Mr Cormack much better. Last night went to “The Professor’s Love Story”, it was a great show. H B Irving the principal part, and what made it all the nicer, we had a free box. Nine wounded officers from this ward, and the doctor, 10 in all, so you can imagine we had a jolly evening. All went into the Savoy Hotel for a drink, which was served. One of the chaps gave the waiter £1 (A$103 in 2018). We were just going out when he remarked about the change, which had not come to light. The waiter was taxed and said “Yes sir”, handing back the £1. We all laughed and walked out. Whether he was insulted at being asked for the change or whether drunk I do not know, but it is the only cheap thing I have had in London to date.

Photo 60. Welsh tenor Ben Davies Source: Forgotten Opera Singers

Photo 61. St Ermin’s Hotel, St James Source: Marriott Hotels

Had lunch with the Henleys the other day at their hotel, St Ermin’s at St James Park. It was great seeing them again and have an open invitation to go there when I like. Also met Dr Vicars and Elsie Cornish. It is passing strange how one meets different people all over the world. Was standing waiting for a train on Victoria Station when a charming girl gave me the glad eye. I chipped “excuse wounded soldier”. Well she invited me to her home at Balham, one of the suburbs. Met mother and generally had a good time. It was simply great being in a private house again. Have been there on several occasions. Mother is most interesting. She has travelled all over the world, and always has a bottle of good whisky on tap. She sings grand opera, has a good gramophone, and I admit I like mother better than the 128 daughter. Many things are surely done in wartime which would seem funny in peacetime. What do you think?

Nearly every afternoon when it is fine I go for a walk in Hyde Park and how interesting it is there. Plenty of people to see, ladies riding in Rotten Row, motor cars and all the nuts. One sees all sorts of funny things. Well my dear I think that is about all the news at present. Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

Monday 13/11/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Expect by the time you receive this letter it will be about Christmas time and no doubt all at Wahnfried will be gay and merry, and know you will all be thinking of us on this side of the world, and of course we shall be thinking of you all. Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a bright New Year and trust 1917 will bring about the end of this terrible war and allow those of us who are left to get home again.

Have been looking around London for some little thing to send to you for Christmas but have seen nothing so far but eventually shall. I think the leg is improving slightly, but has not yet healed, and when healed will require a lot of massage before it will be much use. Am staying in this afternoon to see the surgeon and hear what he thinks about it.

Have an invitation to go to the country house of some Lord or Duke somewhere, forget the name of the place, which should be all right, but do not know when I shall be able to get away. Can hardly ask the old pot to get a nurse in especially for me so that my dressing can be done properly each day.

Went and heard Clara Butt last Saturday afternoon. We had Earl Grey’s box at the Albert Hall, next to the King’s box. Some hot stuff, were we not? A very excellent concert it was too, all high class stuff. She certainly has a great voice and a charming manner.

Photo 62. Dame Clara Butt, contralto, 1916 Source: Contralto Corner

London streets last Thursday were crowded, it being the Lord Mayor’s Day. The procession was very good, troops of every nation being represented. Bands, postillion riders, and those old custom coaches that you see in pictures. It was very novel and new to me. The English

129 crowds are very quiet, very little cheering, although German captured guns and aeroplanes formed part of the procession. The only bit of row I heard was made by some New Zealand and Canadian soldiers perched on the roof of Charing Cross Station. Trust the colonials to cheer these people up.

Photo 63. Lord Mayor’s Procession, London 1916 Source: Media Storehouse

A huge crowd were at Victoria Station the other afternoon waiting for a leave train to come in, and as the chaps came along you would have thought it was a funeral instead of being quite lively as it should have been.

Have been going to the Trocadero for afternoon tea a lot. We have a great time down there, it is a great place. Costs 2/6 but one gets all sorts of nice things, a beautiful room, ragtime band, and fine concert every day. All the decent cafes here are very comfortable, and all have excellent music, to say nothing of the of the interesting people one sees.

Have had no mail since about the 10th of last September, which is pretty rotten. Still, it is no use growling. I must really go and see the Henleys again. Often intend to, but never seem to get out of Piccadilly Circus with its fascinations of all descriptions and gaiety. Have no more news at present. Kindest remembrances to all and lots of love to the family. Trust we will all be together for Christmas 1917. Love, Bob. 130

PS. Have you been hearing from Nana at all? I have heard nothing of him for the last 6 weeks. Presume he is all right and in France doing his bit.

Saturday 18/11/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

So glad to receive your letter dated 24th Sept addressed direct to Horseferry Road. It is the first I have had from Australia for about 2 months. There must be a terrible lot of my letters around somewhere. If I had thought I would be have been here so long it would have been much better to send letters direct. In fact you and Jane might have come to London. What a good time we could have had! But of course I did not expect to be here any longer than a month. It seems certain I shall be at the hospital for Christmas. The surgeon had a look at my leg last Monday. Said I was getting a London look about me and wants me to go to the seaside for a couple of weeks, so shall probably be sent down to Lady Dudley’s convalescent home at Brighton. It will be a nice change and they tell me a fine place. Each officer has a VAD to himself, very nice too, depends on the VAD though.

The leg is getting along very slowly but still improving. I think it has not healed up yet, but I can walk much better although it is still very stiff, but expect a couple of weeks massage will fix that. However one is comfortable here, to the poor chaps in France, whom I often think about. It is very cold here now, snow falling lightly at the present moment, and although in front of a large fire, my feet and hands are cold.

Was in Liberty’s shop in Regent Street a couple of days ago where I bought a little photo for you, something done in enamel. Hope you receive it, they are sending it direct and insurance etc is paid. Please let me know if you do not get it, for although a very small thing it was very large in other respects.

Went and saw Mrs Henley a couple of days ago. They are all well. She talks a lot about Leslie and is keen for every particular. It is a terrible blow to her. This is the first I have heard that you did not receive the cable I sent by Davis. I wonder why? Have cabled to you quite a lot, and as each time costs 30/- or so (A$150 in 2018), am most annoyed that you do not receive them. However, one has no redress, though receipts are given. Shall cable you when leaving England for France, expect some time in January next.

How did you find out about the money I got from the Bank of NSW? Told you in one of my letters, but do not think you would have received it by the 24th Sept. I fixed the cabling etc through the Bank of NSW here, and at the present rate shall want more shortly. It is a lovely place, this, to spend money. Should not like to live here under £1,500 (A$155,000 in 2018) a year.

Ken Pattrick is in that photo all right. He has returned to Australia, leaving here about a month ago. You might get Jane to ask him home for dinner one evening. He will be able to give you lots of interesting news about us all. Told him to ring up Jane. He has six months leave I think. 131

Captain Fox is all right, in German hands, but have heard nothing of poor Toby Barton or Henderson, but I am not surprised. Afraid the poor chaps must be dead. Meyer and McGowan have also been reported OK in German hands. Afraid B Pattrick has also gone, no news about him to date.

Glad you sent me Gordon Inglis’ address, thought he was at the front. Will call at Victoria Street and look him up next week. Did not receive a letter from Mrs Dennis re Mr Osborne’s address.

Mick is bigger a scamp as ever with the ladies, wish he were here with me. He would simply have the time of his life. One has to stay in to keep clear of the ladies here, they are like so many flies buzzing round one, and some girls too, believe me. Have been going out a lot with a Scotchman a lot, with kilts, hence the attraction I suppose, but when sick of all the girls we generally blow into the Carlyle Club in Piccadilly where of course you have to be a member and ladies are not admitted.

Had several letters from girls in London and about this week, think they have all lost their heads as far as the soldiers are concerned. Have had some very very funny experiences.

Tell Dagma I received her letter dated 12th Sept a couple of days ago and shall reply shortly. Shall also write and congratulate Billy Bull, wonder where Reg is? Sorry about the leather waistcoat, do not expect to get it, but no doubt someone who needs it more will. At least hope it will not be wasted. If I get any letters I shall be well satisfied. No more news at present. Merry Christmas and a Happy New year to all. Am ever thinking of you all and Australia generally, lots of love, Bob.

Saturday 25/11/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Received a parcel sent by toy a couple of days ago, containing sweets, cigarettes, socks, pipe which was broken, tobacco etc. Sorry they did not keep it at the battalion and give it to some of the boys who really needed it. Also received a letter from Lorna dated 10/9/16, also one from Lucy Cowdery dated 10/9/16. It is a treat getting news from Australia after being so long without any mail. There must be a lot of your letters for me somewhere, having only received the one you sent direct to London.

Still in hospital, but the leg is healing up beautifully now, can walk with a very little limp now. Have a sort of skin trouble now on the outside of the wound, but that is also disappearing, the only inconvenience being that I have to keep off the whisky for a few days. Still, you know that is not very hard for me to do. Go out every day as usual and of course having a real good time. Have been to the theatres a lot, in some cases paying, in others having free tickets. Have booked seats for “Aida” tonight in the stalls which cost 12/6 each and am looking forward to a good night’s music. Went to music hall last Saturday afternoon, a fine concert at one of the theatres Sunday night, theatre Monday afternoon, free seats theatre 132

Tuesday afternoon, also free seats and theatre again on Friday night, free box in fact. I have seen nearly every show in London now, and that is saying something. See they are playing “Romance” in Sydney. I have seen it in London with Doris Keane in the leading part. It is a fine thing, you ought to see it.

Also been having the usual round of afternoon teas etc with the ladies. Met Jeff Street in the Trocadero the other afternoon having tea, but could not have much of a talk to him. You see, I had a very charming lass with me. He is staying at the Savoy Hotel so shall see him again. Also met Broughton, who is a cousin to Norman Broughton who was killed a couple of months ago in France. He seemed to know me all right, although I was all at sea. Called on Gordon Inglis but heard he was not too well in some nursing home, so left my card for him. Expect to hear from him later. No more news at present, lots of love to all, Bob.

PS. Have heard nothing of Nana for a long time, expect he is all right.

Thursday 30/11/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Jane,

Only just received your letter dated 3rd Sept last night. Expect it has been chasing me for some time. Tell Lorna I have received her letters dated 17/9/16, 24/9/16, but know she sees all the letters I write home, so feel sure she will not mind if I do not answer them. Also received Eileen’s letter you addressed to me, shall write to her later. Am still in hospital but the leg is getting well too quickly. In the course of a few days it will be quite healed, but shall need a lot of massage, so expect to be here for Xmas, not perhaps in the hospital but attached.

Expect to be back with the battalion in France again about the middle of January. That will allow for 2 weeks holiday after being discharged from hospital. Could easily get a job here in England, but if fit, feel I should much rather be back with the battalion and in it again. Besides, I have a large reputation to live up to, and you know a man has to prove he is as good a man after being wounded as he was before. Then, apart from that, it is great fun, and the excitement and fascination grand, but of course an awful life while it lasts.

Tell Mum I received the parcel with the leather waistcoat and other nice things. They will be most useful when back in France, everything is most useful. Have you heard from Nana at all? The little devil has not written to me for a long time. Hope he is all right.

Gwen Davies (sister of Hope) has made a bosca cake for him and is sending it to him for Christmas. Of course, am having the time of my life here in London, the hospital is more or less a boarding house for me. Now go out every day and night, which of course requires tons of money, for believe me this is the city to spend it in. Usual round of theatres, afternoon teas, girls, dinners etc. Only wish you were across here Jane, my you would enjoy this town. There is absolutely no place like London for having a good time, and believe me I am taking advantage of my opportunity

133

Am going to Brighton this weekend with a Scotch officer from this ward, named McCallum. We are leaving on Friday afternoon and coming back on Monday afternoon. Have made all sorts of nice arrangements, booked rooms at the Hotel Metropole etc. Am looking forward to some time. My first trip away from hospital for a few days, but it shall not be the last. Shall let you know all about the trip later. Have some nice girls in London who want to come down with us, but as there are plenty down there, there is no sense in taking them.

Took Millie and Elsie Henley to the Trocadero for afternoon tea last Saturday afternoon. They wanted me to stay for dinner at their hotel but could not as I had seats for “Aida”, which as usual I enjoyed immensely. I am having dinner tonight with the Henleys so expect to have a cheap night for a change.

Rather a funny experience the other afternoon, coming back in the Tube from Hyde Park Corner (where we spent the afternoon in the park watching the ladies etc riding in “Rotten Row”) to Piccadilly Circus. Two charming lasses gave us the glad eye. Of course, being very naughty, we spoke to them. They were going to be fitted at their tailor’s, so we went along too. One of the girl’s names was Lawson, a cousin of the Lawsons who lived at Drummoyne and later at Ashfield. She has been to Australia and Canada and was most interesting. Is it not strange, meeting people like that, who know people you know? Well we took these girls to tea and dinner at the Trocadero, and later went down to their flat at Putney where they live. They were both bosca girls, beautifully dressed, with apparently plenty of money. Of course have invitations to see them any time and all the rest of it, so you can bet your life we will be there.

Who do you think I met in town yesterday? Hugh McLelland, who is a Major in charge of transports or something of that sort. Could only see him for a minute as I was in a terrible hurry having an urgent appointment to keep, however gave him my address, and told him to write me and make an appointment next week, should love to see him and have a yarn.

Well Jane dear, shall dry up. See you all have a good Christmas. Wish I were at home too, with this beastly war over. Lots of love to all, Bob

Monday 4/12/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Received letters from you dated 3/10/16, 15/10/16 and of course delighted to hear all the news. Wrote to Jane a few days ago and told her all the news, but since have returned from a weekend to Brighton. Am just waiting for afternoon tea to come, after which I am going down to dine with the Henleys at St Ermin’s Hotel. Was to have gone last Thursday much something much more fascinating turned up and I did not go. However, it was not a fixed appointment, having an open invitation to drop in and have dinner any time I like.

The leg is going on fine. Have not had it dressed since last Friday morning. After tomorrow shall probably have no dressing on at all. The incisions have healed nicely, also the skin trouble. The sister says I shall need a month’s massage now, but think she is putting on a 134 bit. She is very keen to keep me here for Christmas and New Year. That is the best of getting in the good graces of these people. I come in when I like, go out when I like, in fact can do nothing wrong, though she gives me great lectures in fun about late nights, what I do, how much I spend, what I drink etc. Do not get false impressions, the lady I refer to is a big red- headed Scotch woman about 35 years old, in charge of the ward. She has a real big heart and does everything she can for her boys, as she calls us.

The Scotchman named McCallum and self had a great weekend at Brighton. Very expensive, costing each of us £10 (A$1030 in 2018) from Friday until Monday. Of course we did things very well. Stayed at the Hotel Metropole, had fine rooms, food and attention. Of course expect you have been to Brighton. It is a very gay spot, beautiful promenade, plenty of fine girls, gay music on the pier etc. No breakers as far as I could see and no sand, all pebbles. Still a very beautiful place and am sure one would have a fine time there for a fortnight or so. Something I think after the style of our Manly, yet in other respects totally different.

What beautiful trains they have in this country. We had a through train each way with dining Pullman cars, easy chairs and very comfortable. The journey only took one hour ten minutes, it must be well over 40 miles from Victoria. 1st Class accommodation in the trains here is simply gorgeous, more like a drawing room than a railway carriage. Have not the slightest idea how my money is going to hold out if I am in hospital for another month, then get about a fortnight’s leave and live in a hotel. In that fortnight, go to Scotland, Liverpool and other places. Shall have to send through to the bank for another fifty pounds or so, but have no idea how my account stands, whether I have £50 or not to my credit with the Bank of NSW. However, expect they will let you know, and if short you might fix it up for me. Think I have some money in the Savings Bank but really forget how much. Well my dear, shall write again soon, lots of love to everyone, from Bob.

Sunday 10/12/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

Dear Mick,

Feeling particularly pleased with myself at present, having come back to hospital last night about midnight after spending a very gay night in London, to find a bundle of 20 letters waiting for me on my bed, all from Australia. Some from yourself, Mother, Jane, Lorna, Auntie Polly, Lucy, Dag, Billy Bull. Have spent the whole morning reading them and you can guess I enjoyed myself. They seem to be my August and September mail, glad it turned up at last.

The leg is simply fine now, dressed only every second day, and gives me no trouble. A little massage will fix things nicely now. However, the Sister is determined I shall spend this month here, so towards the end of it shall be swinging the lead more or less. Still, opportunities do not occur like this every day. Have a very kind invitation from Mrs Davies, Liverpool, to go and spend Christmas with them at Liverpool. Have several other invitations but have written and accepted the Liverpool stunt. It will be a fine change to see the much talked-of Hope. The Sister here says I can get away on Saturday and not come back to 135 hospital until the following Friday, but shall return here on Wednesday, the day after Boxing Day. I do not want to bore them with too much of me.

Am still living the gay life here in London, plenty of fine girls, boy you would dote on it. Of course gay theatres, cafes etc. Went to a swank “At Home” stunt last Wednesday afternoon given by Mrs Edwards. Afternoon tea then entertained by music etc. I met Lady this and Lady that etc, terribly swank. Met another old girl there who asked me to have tea with her next Monday afternoon, so that you see I am getting around some.

Had dinner the other evening with the Henleys, they are all busy. Even Mrs Henley works every day at the Comforts business. Played one of the officers here 250 up billiards yesterday afternoon. We were level pegging to 190 or so, he then made a 56 break and of course ran out soon after. However, I had my revenge by beating him badly in 3 games of snooker afterwards. It was a rather interesting billiard room. There were some girls playing, and upon my soul you would laugh boy at the women here. They smoke their cigarettes and drink their whisky and soda with consummate ease. In fact it is quite in order to take girls into a pub and have a drink with them. I mean quite respectable people you know.

Well old cock, am in a terrible hurry, just going out to a charming lass’s flat, probably take her to dinner afterwards at the Trocadero. They give you a fine concert there on Sundays, to say nothing about the food. Shall write home again soon. Shall also cable when leaving London for France, that is if I have any money left, which is doubtful. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Monday 11/12/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Aunt Pol,

Thanks so much for your letter dated 14th Oct which I received here yesterday in a bundle of 20 letters from Australia. You can well imagine my excitement at hearing all the news. Of course I write home regularly and you will get all the news from there. Still the pleasure is all mine so shall write you a few lines all to your dear self. When I cabled home “slightly wounded” it did appear to be slight, but the wound went septic and it is now 3½months and I am still in hospital. However the leg is going on fine now and has practically healed up. Expect to have some massage for about 3 more weeks, then shall be all right again. Of course after that, if the military are decent, I shall get some leave, but being away so long from the front, do not expect to get more than a fortnight. However I do not grumble as I am practically on leave here, treating the hospital now as a hotel, here for breakfast and sleeping only. They are very good, and being in the good books of the nurses and doctor can do anything I like, and believe me I do many things which are contrary to orders and regulations here.

Am having absolutely the time of my life in this gay and fascinating city, and without a doubt London is the place to have a good time and spend a lot of money. The fair sex and some class and plenty of them about. In fact they all seem to be dippy on anything in uniform. The way the girls here drink their whisky and soda with you, also smoke your cigarettes in public,

136 was indeed strange to me at the start, but of course have been kicking around London for some time now.

Had a great weekend at Brighton lately, which is about an hour’s journey from here. It was a great change, getting away from hospital for a few days. Am going up to Liverpool to spend Xmas weekend with Mrs Davies who kindly gave me a very pressing invitation. The Sister in the ward being very good, saying I could get away from hospital from Saturday morning until the following Friday. These people know what chaps go through and are always keen on one having a good time when they get a chance. People here are simply splendid, especially to colonials. Have invitations to “At Homes”, 3 this week, theatres and all the rest of it, but you will have heard of these things from my letters home.

Shall be glad when this damned war ends, just about sick of the whole show and trust that Xmas 1917 will see those of us who are left, back again in Australia. Personally I think the war news is simply rotten, and in my opinion the Germans will take a lot of beating yet. Glad to hear of all the Government changes here lately, there has been quite a lot of excitement, and much is expected from Lloyd George and his War Cabinet. Think he is a jolly good man and will stir things up properly. Give my love to Uncle, the kids and Miss Baker, not forgetting yourself. Bob.

Thursday 14/12/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Received a lovely large parcel yesterday (which was my birthday) containing pipe, tooth brush, cigarettes, ginger, chocolate, pad, asparagus, cards, handkerchiefs also socks from Llewella. Give her a kiss from me and tell her I think her a clever little girl to knit so neatly and nicely. Shall keep them for the cold weather in France. Also a tin of decent tobacco from Lorna and Jack. Thank them very much for me. One cannot buy decent tobacco in London, only these rotten English mixtures. Of course I am rather sorry receiving all these nice things while living in London with all the comforts here. Would sooner they kept these nice things for some of the fellows in the battalion, however that is not allowable.

Wrote to Mick a little time ago, really forgotten what I said, so you will have to forgive repetitions if they occur. Have been living quite the gay life lately among all the “Knuts”, meeting all the best people in London. A lady, the Hon Mrs Edwards, has been very kind to me, having been there to lunch once and three “At Home” stunts. She also has several invitations for me when I am ready to go to the country homes of the very best people. Am going there for tea next Sunday, also staying for supper, then on to the Sly’s place for a little dance. Met Lady Birdwood there yesterday afternoon, she is very charming but not more so than the General, he is a great man and well-liked by all. Also met John Cowdery, who has his commission now, also John Mills. Met also a charming lot of English girls.

Last Monday was at an “At Home” stunt given by Miss Jonson which I enjoyed. Am going to a small dance given at Lady Cavendish’s residence next Saturday, and next Tuesday an “At Home” stunt at Countess Brassey’s residence. So you see am doing the heavy at present 137 and meeting all the best people in England. It is very nice and most interesting. Saw the list of people who are going to the dance on Saturday, Lady this and Lady that, terribly swank, can never remember their names. Still, notwithstanding I have not a swollen head, they are very ordinary, all these people, and all are particularly nice and homely. Of course they have plenty of money, fine houses, motor cars, butlers, servants galore etc, but find them particularly nice with it all.

In the midst of this letter, the Sister has just come in and given me two complimentary tickets for “Hobson’s Choice” at the Prince of Wales Theatre, 2nd row in the front stalls tonight. I have seen the show, but do not mind having another look at it. She is a great sport and seems to dote on me, which of course is very nice too. Have been to nearly every theatre in London, so have not been going just lately. Went last week to “The Bing Boys”, a revue, they are mad on it over here and well they might be, the music very gay and catchy and altogether a tip-top show.

Image 11. Programme cover for The Bing Boys Source: Alhambra Theatre archives

Have an invitation to go to some Duke’s residence for the New Year weekend. Forgotten his name but could not accept as I shall not be back from Liverpool, where I am going for Xmas week. Met a lady at Miss Jonson’s the other afternoon who lived in Australia a long time. Knew Moss Vale well, Grandfather Badgery’s, and all those people you used to talk about. Can’t for the life of me tell you her name, you would be sure to know her. Seemed rather interested when I told her RPR (Robert Pemberton Richardson) was my grandfather. I find it very hard to remember names when you meet a lot of people together in a room, especially when some are titled and others not. Frightened I might make a bull so never mention the name.

The leg is simply splendid now, causing me very little inconvenience. It is a treat after about 3 months soreness and stiffness more or less. Asked the Sister when I should be ready to get out of hospital, she said not until the end of January. Will need a lot of massage to make it quite well again for marching etc. Still it feels OK, just a tiny bit of stiffness and quite healed now. However I shall not argue the point. An extra month is better here at this time of the year than in France.

Well my dear, lots of love to everyone and plenty for your dear self, Bob.

Monday 18/12/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Lorna,

138

Of course you see all the letters I write home and thereby get all the news, so I do know you do not mind my not answering all your letters. Wrote to Mick a couple of days ago and gave him all the news, so shall try and not repeat myself when writing these few lines to you.

Received your letters dated 27/8/16, 3/10/16, 20/8/16 a few days ago amongst a bunch of 20 others from Australia. You can imagine my excitement and pleasure at having all the Australian news. In a parcel from home received the tobacco you and Jack sent. Thank you both muchly. It is great getting something decent to smoke for one cannot buy decent tobacco in this town. As I mentioned in my last letters home am having the time of my life here, am commencing to get in with quite the best people in London. Go out to the Hon Mrs Edwardes quite a lot and of course meet all the swank. Went there for tea and supper yesterday, after which we all went on to the Sly’s (Sly and Russell) crowd where we spent the rest of the evening playing whisky poker, dancing, yarning, with plenty of whisky and soda on top etc. At Mrs Edwardes’ we had music, then all got to the piano and sang popular songs, something after our style at home. Lady someone playing, forgotten the name. Had a long talk to Lady Birdwood and her daughter Nancy. They are both very charming. Have an open invitation to go to this place at any time for any meal etc. It is beautifully free, smoke where you like, do what you like, and so homely.

The dance last Saturday was most successful. The hostess a very charming woman, Lady Mary Cavendish, beautiful large ballroom and of course everything very swank. Met Lorna Sly, Mrs Sly, Cedric Cohen, Jack Mills, Mrs Mills, John Cowdery, Billy Cooper and his wife (late Helen Nott) and of course all the best people in London. Believe me, kid, am having some time. Getting asked to all these places meeting all these people who are of course most interesting, which would of course have been impossible under normal circumstances.

Next Tuesday two invitations, one to the Palace, the other to Countess Brassey’s. Have accepted the latter. All sorts of nice invitations for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day but have had to decline on account of going to Liverpool for Xmas weekend. The trouble of the thing is one cannot go everywhere which is rather unfortunate. Next Wednesday I promised to go to Mrs Edwards’ again. The Sister has just informed me we must all stay in the ward on that day as some lady is having a Christmas tree with presents for all the officers, music etc. Do not know what to do, it is terrible being so rushed, don’t you think so?

The old leg is quite healed now, am just waiting for the massage doctor now who I suppose will start that treatment right away. It is lovely to get the use of one’s leg again, being able to walk again decently, and after some massage will be quite all right again. Shall probably be kicking about England until the end of January, so after all have been lucky having had such a good spell and missing half the winter in France. Of course my first two months here were anything but pleasant, still am making up for that bad time now.

Have started to go to the dentist at last. Have a lot to be done to my teeth, and hate wasting my time and money on this stunt, still it must be done. The weather here has been very rotten lately, heavy and thick fogs all day and night. They certainly are unpleasant and inconvenient. I get properly lost in them but manage to get where I wish to eventually.

Well dear shall dry up for the present. Lots of love and a kiss for the kid. Trust 1917 Xmas shall see us all together again, who knows, Bob.

139

PS. Wish you would write plainly or get a decent name for your house, I can never remember it nor spell it. I know the one I have written is wrong but of course have no doubt it will get there all the same.

Friday 22/12/1916 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

As you can see by the above address I am still in hospital. The leg has healed up nicely now, the only trouble now is the muscles which catch occasionally, and of course the leg is very soft and gets tired quickly. Have started massage now, having a charming lass to rub one’s leg, smack it and all the rest of it. Also have to bend it forwards, backwards etc. The treatment is most interesting but strenuous. In fact it feels worse since massage began, however expect it is the muscles getting shaken up. Expect to have this treatment for about a month when I should be quite fit again. Should be clear of hospital about the end of January, then allowing for a little leave expect to be back in France some time in February. However shall cable when leaving England, shall also cable today to let you know I am still in London, well, and having the time of my life.

Am going out now with another officer to buy Xmas presents for the Sister and nurses of our ward. We have £10 to spend and hope to get quite nice things. Tonight am meeting Marks and Mills, two of our officers who are across on leave, and expect a wild evening will ensue. So glad to have met these chaps, getting all the news of the battalion and doings in France since I left. Also met Captain Young of the 45th Battalion who told me Nana was quite all right, doing good work, and said they were fixing him up for a commission. Also said he might be across here any day on leave.

Am going to a dance next Saturday at Lady Newton’s, lunching next Wednesday with the Countess of Leiden, going to spend next Sunday afternoon with the Hon Mrs Edwardes, also Xmas afternoon then Xmas evening with the Slys. Have also had all sorts of grand invitations for Xmas dinner etc but have refused a lot of them. One must have some time to one self and have a knock around with the boys. Too much grandness you know becomes boring. Think I shall have Xmas dinner in the hospital. It will be very jolly and think I shall enjoy it more here than anywhere else. Was going to Liverpool for Xmas but had a letter from Mrs Davies who has her husband seriously ill in the house so that is all off. Am rather glad as a matter of fact as expect to have a ripping time in London.

Had a great afternoon in the ward yesterday afternoon. A Christmas tree provided by some ladies with all sorts of nice presents for us all, bottles of champagne, whisky, cigarettes, safety razors etc. Then we had music, a bit of a dance, nice afternoon tea, and ended up by getting a lift into town by two charming girls in their huge Daimler motor car. After leaving them, another officer and self had dinner at the Regent Palace Hotel, and while sitting in the lounge afterwards met a most charming man and his wife who were both most interesting. That much so, that it was 11:30 pm before we knew where we were. We then had to get back to hospital without doing what we intended to do at all. One meets so many people etc and after all it is great just doing what you please. 140

Had a good afternoon last Tuesday at Countess Brasseys. Usual thing, afternoon tea, music, then a bit of a hop with some of the nice girls who are always at these shows.

Believe Ken Pattrick has just arrived back in Sydney. Saw him the day before he sailed from here. You might ask him home for dinner, will be able to give you lots of interesting news that we cannot write in letters.

Well my dear, shall write again soon. Am feeling quite fit again and having the time of my life. Would not have missed this trip for something the experience I have gained in all manner of things has been great. Certainly expensive, if lucky enough to get back shall be broke, but who minds, one can always start all over again. Best love to everyone, Bob.

Saturday 30/12/1916 Hattoness Milnathort (near Kinross), Scotland

My dear Mum,

Had a great Xmas, spent most of the day in the hospital hall. Splendid dinner – turkey, plum pudding, fruit, sweets, champagne, whisky, port etc. In the evening took two girls out to dinner and on the whole had a very bright time. At present am staying at the above address with Mrs Purvis Russell-Montgomery. This place is about 25 miles north of Edinburgh and truly a delightful spot. Shall send a couple of views of the house. It is indeed a mansion, the grounds also are beautiful, 2 tennis courts, a billiard table, 3 motor cars, 4 horses for riding. They also have their gamekeeper, special pond for wild duck, etc. So you can imagine the sort of time I am having.

Am here with Major Marks and Captain Howden (45th Battalion) who are across on leave. This is the place that Colonel Tilney said any of the 13th officers had a free invitation so we are taking advantage of it.

Left London last Thursday night. Shall probably leave here New Year morning for Edinburgh, spend a couple of days there, and then back to London. I have to be back at hospital on Wednesday. May come back here later, it is a gorgeous spot, plenty of sport, good food, dress for dinner every night, 5 or 6 courses etc. Servants galore, of course people with tons of money. First night I got into bed here I thought it was apple-pied but bless you no, it was a hot water bottle. I did not know what to do with the thing at first but eventually decided, so dragged it out and put it under the bed. Shall write at length later, love Bob.

141

London 1917

Friday 5/1/1917 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Have just returned from Scotland where I have spent a week and of course had a real good time. The weather was not the best for seeing places to advantage, still in this country one cannot afford to let the weather interfere with their plans. Have sent you a couple of views of the house and the place where I stayed for a while. It was very swank, servants galore, billiard table, shoot, fishing, riding, motoring, tennis, bridge etc, so you see one had plenty to amuse them.

Then I put a couple of days in at the North British Hotel, Edinburgh. Had a look over the castle, also the place where Mary Queen of Scots lived, etc. What a funny little town Edinburgh is. I was rather disappointed with it. You should see their beastly cable trams, we have much better tanks at the front, also quicker. Everybody and everything is very slow there, in fact quite a dead city after London. There is one thing the Scotch people can do, that is brew the finest whisky I have ever tasted, and believe me they can drink it too.

Photo 64. Cable tram, Edinburgh 1917 Source: Edinburgh Corporation Tramways archive

Sent out to the bank for more money, which has come through. I must really make this lot see me through but one cannot stay in this town without spending a lot of money. The leg is quite better now, still having massage but shall clear out of hospital about the middle of this month. Expect to get a little leave, then may stay in London or may go to Ireland, it all depends. Have been lucky missing the winter in France, expect mucking about etc it will be about the end of February before I get back to the battalion again.

Am having a rather rough time with the dentist at present, suppose it will be rougher when the bill comes in. Have had no mail from Australia for quite a time, but do not give up hope. Cabled Xmas greetings to you all the other day. Shall cable again when leaving England. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Sunday 7/1/1917 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. 142

A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Just fancy being in this place over 4 months now, who would have thought it at first? It is indeed a long time to be in hospital. Of course I am quite all right again now, except for a little weakness in the right leg, and the question arises whether a chap could stand the strain of long marches with gear to carry, and as things are very quiet at the front now, see no necessity to hurry. As far as can see, I could stay here indefinitely and swing the lead properly, but I shall not. Shall probably get them to give me my discharge about the end of next week, and at present intend to stay at the Regent Palace Hotel, Piccadilly Circus. Of course, until going before a Medical Board do not know how much leave, if any, I shall get, but expect about a fortnight, and in that time I may go across to Ireland. Nothing like taking the opportunity of seeing all one can. In fact, if lucky enough to pull through this stunt, should like to get my discharge here and go home via America on my own. However, should not be able to stand the strain financially.

Have a sort of feeling that this war will end at the latest the end of this year, and in my opinion somewhere about June. I sincerely hope so. I think this peace talk is the beginning of the end. Do you hear from Nana? Have not had a line from him for weeks, but hear he is quite all right. A pity he cannot get across here, I could show him around and put him wise to a lot in this town.

Went to Drury Lane Panto the other night, “Puss in New Boots” with Madge Titheradge (born in Melbourne) the principle boy. It was a fine show and splendidly staged. This theatre is supposed to have the largest stage in the world, so that a panto shows up to advantage there. There are 4 pantos playing in London at present, must see them all.

Image 12. Book & Lyrics for Puss in New Boots Source: archive.org

Saw Chas Woolley also Allan Cooper in London yesterday. Chas has his commission now and Cooper has a commission with some English regiment. It is great meeting all these chaps. Also met John Mills and John Cowdery yesterday, so that quite a wild evening ensued. Am just going out now to Kentish Town to see a lass and have tea. Shall probably bring her back to London for dinner tonight, then may be some music hall after. Although Sunday, a lot of shows are open. Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

Saturday 13/1/1917 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

143

Received 3 letters from you dated Nov 15th, Nov 13th, Oct 24th, all addressed to Horseferry Road yesterday. I think you had better address my letters now straight to the battalion, for shall be leaving London now I expect within the next month. Am feeling quite all right again. Propose leaving hospital about next Wednesday, much to the disgust of the Sister. She wants me to hang on for a while until the weather gets better, but feel it is hardly a fair deal to stay here when one is feeling all right again.

Had quite an interesting afternoon yesterday. In company with another officer, we went around looking for a flat. Think it could be quite nice to take one, presuming of course some leave eventuates. However, we have been unsuccessful to date. The trouble is to get one for a short period, say a fortnight or a month.

Had lunch the other day with the Henleys, they are now staying at the Windsor Hotel, Victoria. St Ermin’s having been taken over by the government for war purposes. They are all very well and working hard. Sorry to hear Jack Edgley is not well, must find out where he is and look him up. You say in your letter you wish I had to remain in England 3 months. Who would have thought it, have been in hospital 4½ months now? Thought at first about a month would fix me, however I am not growling. Captain Browning is getting on fine now. He will be here a good deal longer, but still he is able to get about now and enjoy himself. We were both hit about the same place (Mouquet Farm) on the same night (29th Aug 1916). Came from France together and have been in the same ward here together.

You ask who is Captain Murray. He is a Tasmanian who landed at the start of Gallipoli as a private with the 16th Battalion. Afterwards he transferred to the 13th. He is a very fine fellow, and the best soldier I have ever met. He has the DCM and has lately received the DSO but in my opinion should have the VC. Have worked a lot with Harry Murray and get on very well with him. He was a 2nd Lieutenant on Gallipoli and my Machine Gun officer there. It was he who recommended me for my commission. On the two stunts on the Somme I worked in with him. He has charge of “A” Company now. Poor Toby (Barton) has gone. He is a fine fellow and has done a terrible lot of good work. Had the greatest difficulty getting Murray to come in from No Man’s Land without Jerry Fox. We were both there together and must have been surrounded by Germans if he had got his own way. Lieutenant Murray left Sydney with me as a sergeant, think the girls met him at Liverpool one day. He is in London, having been hit badly on the Somme. Is going back to Australia shortly, unfit for active service.

Had a big fall of snow yesterday, it was inches thick on the ground. Had another very nice letter from Colonel Durrant expressing sorrow at my slow recovery and wishing he was in London to have a fly around with me. He is a great sport. He has also been awarded the DSO lately, also Major Marks and Captain Pulling have received the Military Cross lately, so the battalion has done very well indeed. One is indeed proud to belong to such a battalion with such a good name, which of course is thoroughly deserved for they always do good work.

Shall write again soon. Have a lot of letters to answer. Had one from Mrs Davies, Herbert, Ernie, Billy Bull, Lucy Cowdery and a postcard from Myra lately. Shall try and answer all. Lots of love to all, Bob

144

Sunday 21/1/1917 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Mum,

Excuse pencil, paper etc but it is so cold that I do not feel inclined to leave the fire. Had made all arrangements to leave the hospital tomorrow, in fact booked a room at the Jermyn Street Hotel, Piccadilly, where I intended to stay for a while until I had my medical board and found out how much leave I got. Asked the doctor to sign my papers for discharge today. He had a look at my leg and said he would recommend me for light duty. Told him that was no good to me, stuck in camp somewhere in England. He said if I went back to France now it might break down again. Still, I do not believe him. It feels quite strong again now. However he induced me to wait and see the specialist who operated and get his advice tomorrow on the matter. Shall let you know the result.

Feel as if I should go back now but will not do so against his advice. Of course am still simply having the time of my life. The trouble is it costs such a lot of money and one simply cannot go out without spending money in London. So you see I am keen to get back and do some work, also save some money. Then you know my dear one is contracting bad habits, you know when one can go out when one likes and come in when one likes, nothing to do all day and a little money to spend, how simple it is to contract bad habits, especially in London. Still, have looked at things from the proper standpoint to date, but after this long spell shall find it hard to settle down to work again.

Have finished up with the dentist now thank goodness, and hope to have no more trouble with my teeth for the duration. Anyhow, while at dinner two nights ago there was a terrific explosion. The concussion was that bad, windows cracked etc. Thought it was bombs from a Zeppelin but turned out to be a munitions factory blown up about 3 miles away. The damage and loss of life was bad, but of course very vague information has come through. They cannot say much about these things in the press at the present time. (The explosion occurred at a munitions factory at Silvertown in West Ham at 6.52 pm. Approximately 50 tonnes TNT exploded, killing 73 people and injuring 400 more, as well as causing substantial damage in the local area).

Photo 65. Millenium Mills after the explosion Source: Manchester Guardian archives

Have no more news for the present. Trust you are all well at home, love to all, Bob.

145

Sunday 27/1/1917 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

Dear Mick,

Just received two letters from you dated 4th Nov and 2nd Dec, both addressed to London direct. Don’t be silly about winning that fiver, this chicken will never go off here, having too good a time single for that. Have met girls with tons of money too, but am still fancy free. As for Hope, the dear little thing, I have never yet seen her and probably never shall. You know I think everything would be spoilt if we ever met. Had a letter a couple of days ago wanting me to go up to Liverpool but do not think I shall. Cannot possibly tear myself away from London even for a girl. Besides, it is a long way away and I believe not much of a place.

From all accounts, you are the one that should be careful, and mind, I shall extract that fiver. Take my advice and have a good time with them all, it’s a fine life especially in London. Of course they are very plentiful over here, and if one does not suit you, you give her the sack and get another with consummate ease. Oh some of my experiences here would tickle you to death, and believe me I have learnt many things. Would not have missed my kick around this town for anything.

Say Mick, when you write again you might send some sort of financial statement. Would like to know how I stand. If much longer in this town shall be broke. Have had £160 (approx. A$15,000 in 2018) from Bank NSW so far, it is marvellous how money goes here. I presume the government are paying all right, extra allotment etc. Still it does not matter so long as one is learning things, seeing things etc.

Have been trying to get out of hospital for a week now but the Doctor and Sister will not let me go. Say if I had any heavy work it would probably break down again. Say the rest here, working the muscles etc, will do it good. That sounds all right, but am having too good a time and spending too much money, getting into bad habits. It cannot be done bad and of course it’s no good being here without lots of money to spend. However, expect I shall get away eventually but shall probably be here until the middle of February but shall do my best to get away before that. However, shall be back in France for the next big push and really do not mind if I get no leave at all after leaving hospital, I have had a wonderful time.

Played auction bridge a couple of days ago from 10 am till 4:30 pm without a break for 1/- per 100, won 59/- (A$278 in 2018), that was rather a good effort don’t you think? We play here quite a lot.

Was out at Lady somebody’s place the other afternoon, forgotten the name, had a couple of rubbers with some ladies at 3d per 100, lost 1/6 (A$7). Had quite an interesting game. Have been swanking quite a lot amongst these people but of course you know one is so used to this sort of life that there is nothing to it. The sort of thing I go in for more is to get to Piccadilly Circus, mix in among people, all sorts and all descriptions, talk to girls you do not know, in fact the gay life. Having never led this life before, the experience gained is grand. Believe me, one has some funny times (damn have just run out of paper), hope to tell you about some of them one of these days, little stories for men only.

146

Had a great evening the other night, met a bunch of fellows at the Carlyle Club, of which I am a member. Usual thing, had a few drinks, went to dinner at the Trocadero, had a real bucks evening, it was gran. Had lots of fun, good food, good music, fine women etc. One Scotch officer, three English officers and myself. Very seldom kick around with Australians, like finding out about other people, nearly always kick about with a Scotch or Canadian officer. Of course see plenty of our chaps across here, it is simply wonderful how one runs into people in this large city.

Photo 66. Lobby, Trocadero, London 1916 Source: arthurlloyd.co.uk

Tell Mum I received her letter dated 3rd Dec, also the enclosed note from Luby, give the dear kid a kiss for me, and tell her I shall come home and see her first as soon as possible. Will write to Mum as soon as some more news collects. Have finished with the dentist. Told him I was thinking of taking a flat. He said something about the seven stages of man, a flat in London being the last stage. I don’t like his ways, do you?

Have just been having a serious talk with the doctor about getting out. Think he will let me get out without giving me my discharge for a couple of weeks, and Browning likewise, so that will rather suit me. Live out in a flat and just come and see him occasionally. He is a terrible good sport, one misses such a lot, having to get back to hospital each night. Denmark Hill is quite a long run out. Trains etc stop running about 12:30 am, taxis also, very hard to get to this place.

So Dad has decided to retire at last? He certainly deserves a good rest and trust he is quite all right. Have had quite a lot of snow here, the weather on the whole is not too bad, getting rather cold, but it does not worry me much. If one lets the weather here interfere with them it would be the end of the section.

Well old kid, cheer oh for the present, lots of luck in exams etc, love to all from brother Bobbie.

Monday 29/1/1917 The Carlyle Club 211 Piccadilly, London.

My dear Mum,

Am just waiting for a chap to come in and have dinner so thought I would drop you a few lines. No news whatever, still you will have to put up with that. Wrote a long letter to Mick a couple of days ago. Do not know when the mails leave here for Australia now for some reason or other, shipping etc being in a precarious state. Am still in the hospital, wanting to

147 get out badly, but the Doctor and Sister will not let me go. Say if I go to France at present and do any heavy work, my leg will surely break down again. Of course I must take their advice in matters, although I feel quite all right. I suggested to the Doctor taking a flat without my discharge. He gave me permission to do so but advised me not to. He is a great sport and knows what a chap would be up to in this gay town. I think I shall take his advice and stay in hospital a couple of weeks longer, one is not so liable to get into trouble. He allows us lots of latitude, so long as one gets back quietly and before 3 am in the morning, so that is all right. It keeps one moderately sober, also keeps one from staying out all night. Of course this can be arranged by special arrangement. Still, staying in hospital keeps me within limits, and bless you the doctor knows it. He is a great sport, so is the Sister in change of the ward. I can practically do anything I like these days, which is quite nice and suits me down to the ground.

Have been out to afternoon tea this afternoon with Browning and 2 Canadians and 1 English officer. Meeting a Scotch officer for dinner tonight, so you see I am making a point of meeting and knocking around with different people. Nothing like picking up all one can on these stunts. The opportunity may not occur again, and if not, believe me, to date I have made the best of any opportunities, although I have spent a lot of money.

Received some letters from you which I mentioned in the letter to Mick, but have not them here at present. Think you had better address future correspondence to the battalion direct now. Shall surely be back with them in the course of two months. Of course I could trade on this leg and say weakness etc and in all probability stay here for the duration without any difficulty, but not this chicken. Have a terribly good name with the Colonel and battalion generally, so shall make a point of getting back before the next big offensive and do my bit.

Played auction bridge all the morning at 1/- per 100, held bad cards, lost 8/- (A$38 in 2018). The Sister is very keen about the game, it was funny to hear her views on what she would do and what not. Browning was my partner, he plays a real good game but luck was against us.

Having fairly cold weather here now, skating all over the place in London and around. Wanted to have a shot, the Sister would not let me, said I might fall heavily on my weak leg. Of course these people would really kid a man he was crook. Well my dear, shall dry up for the present, lots of love to all from Bobbie.

Sunday 4/2/1917 The Carlyle Club 211 Piccadilly, London.

My dear Lorna,

Received two letters from you yesterday dated about the 4th and 10th Dec respectively. You are a perfect dear to write, considering you only hear from me once in a blue moon. However, know you see the home letters and get all the news. Wrote to Jane this morning from the hospital so expect you will get the same old 2/2d (A$10.20) dished up to you, but having half an hour to spare, thought I would write you a letter all to yourself. Becoming very sweet all of a sudden don’t you think? Put it down to the weather, it is snowing like the devil outside. Am tickled to death walking about in it, most fascinating I think. 148

Have been lunching today with a Mrs Hill. She has two sons in Australia working a sheep station at Moree. Although she has never been out there, is of course very interested. There were 4 of us lunching, 4 ladies very swank too. Plenty of nice things to eat and drink and the house a perfect mansion. This certainly is the place for fine homes, we simply having nothing like it in Australia. Beautiful large rooms, exquisite old pictures, furniture and china. The funny thing about them all to me is that from the outside you would pass them by as being very ordinary but they certainly are very comfortable and beautiful inside.

After lunch they wanted us to go in their motor with them to Wembley to put the afternoon in skating. Unfortunately I had to get back to town to keep an appointment at 4 o’clock so could not go. Plenty of skating in and about London at present. Coming back walked through the park, the Serpentine is frozen hard, about 6” thick. There were many people skating. Of course you will know this beautiful stretch of water in Hyde Park so you will know what a gorgeous skating ground it is, all frozen hard. It is also a wonderful sight. About a fortnight ago boats were being rowed about on it, birds swimming in it, and now you could drive a bus across it.

Told Jane about all my social engagements lately, have been going the pace, luncheons, dances etc with all the blooming heads of the city. A truly wonderful experience for me to meet these people, go to their magnificent homes etc. All this would simply be impossible as a tourist in this country in peace time.

Have a special invitation for the opening of the House of Lords next Wednesday. Am looking forward to it. It should be most interesting and instructive. Am still in hospital. Just fancy that! Five whole months, who would have thought it. Expect to get out this month sometime for sure, so that will give me plenty of time to be in France for the next big offensive. Of course I am quite all right now, perhaps a shade weak and a little wasted in the right leg if that were possible. However, another month’s rest should fix me for heavy work again.

Say old girl, what a shame if a fellow goes back to France and gets slugged after seeing, doing and learning so much in the past 18 months or so. I shall be most annoyed.

Am still having a wonderful time in London, experiences of all descriptions, some of course which one could not mention. It is all very interesting and fascinating and believe me kid I have learnt a few things right here in this town, and although it costs a lot of money, think it is not wasted in the long run.

Well old thing, bye-bye for the present, lots of love to yourself, Jack and the kid. Trust one may be back home to see you all by next Xmas if lucky, from brother Bobbie.

Sunday 4/2/1917 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. A & V Ward

My dear Jane,

Received a letter from you yesterday dated 10th Dec, also 2 from Lorna about the same date. She is a dear to write, especially as I write to her once in a blue moon. However, 149 presume she reads all the letters that go home, so that will be just as good as writing to her direct. Am still in hospital, but outside the leg being a bit weak am quite all right. Have just had a yarn to the doctor. Had a little skin trouble around the wound which is quite all right now. The doctor said he would have a look at it next week, and if right, said I could get away this month some time. Want to get away about the middle. The Sister wants me stay until the end of it. Shall not stay any longer than the end of the month. That will be 6 months in hospital. Feel I shall be glad to get back and do a bit. The Sister wants me to go and have a skate. Says there is a big push coming off shortly, and if I skate, am sure to bust the leg up again and therefore stay in hospital. She would tempt the devil. Said I was not afraid of any push, the excitement would suit me.

Have been quite a social success lately. Last Thursday afternoon at Lady Doiguy’s had some bridge and music and quite a nice time. On Friday afternoon a dance at Mrs De Chappelle’s residence. Had a great lot of girls there, they all taught me to fox trot, all the rage here, am quite hot stuff at it now. It was a great show, I enjoyed it immensely. Met little Carline Rodd, now Mrs Pop Lloyd, also Mrs Vaughan, wife of the late manager of the City Bank Newcastle. Yesterday afternoon was at another dance at Lady somebody’s, forgotten the name, and had a real good time. A great big mansion, lovely ballroom, good music, floor etc.

Today am lunching with Mrs Hill, South Kensington, tomorrow another afternoon stunt, Wednesday afternoon a special invitation from the King for the opening of the House of Lords, supper afterwards at the Hon Mrs Edwards. Then again on Thursday afternoon at Lady Doiguy’s, so you see kid I am going some. Get a bit fed up of it all sometimes and go nowhere for about a week, then get a move on again. It’s a great life, this tearing around with nothing to do.

Had a bit of fun here the other day. We all dressed up and marched around the hospital to bagpipe music supplied by one of the Scotch officers. Went into the Tommie’s wards, they enjoyed the joke immensely. One of the Scotch chaps put on a kilt, field boots, spurs in front instead of the back, a red blouse and Australian hat. He did look a clip. I dressed in one of the nurse’s dresses, roars of laughter, talk about a fancy dress ball, it was not in it.

Glad to hear all are well at home and trust we may be among you all again in the near future. Lots of love to all from brother Bobbie.

Wednesday 7/2/1917 The Carlyle Club 211 Piccadilly, London.

My dear Mum,

Have just seen the procession in connection with the Opening of Parliament. It was all very interesting, and of course the most interesting part to me was that I had an excellent view of the King and Queen, who drove in an open carriage. We were invited to some man’s office to see the show. Very nice too, tea, coffee, sandwiches, whisky and soda was served to us in the meantime. Then saw the whole show again, on its way back to the Palace, from the street. In fact was quite close to Cousin George as Uncle Evan would say, so had a good look at him, also the Queen, it was all most interesting.

150

Photo 67. Opening of Parliament, 7th Feb 1917 Source: Illustrated London News 17th Feb 1917

Had lunch in town with Humphrey Browning after the show, some little chop house I have discovered in London behind the Regent Palace Hotel. No show, no tablecloth, but the best- cooked meal I have ever tasted, and the price quite moderate. Am just off to the Hon Mrs Edwardes for afternoon tea, and staying on for supper afterwards. Have another afternoon stunt tomorrow afternoon so socially am pretty busy at present.

Mum, have you yet received a little photo I sent to you from Liberty’s of London, it should have reached you about Xmas time? Would like to know before leaving London. Paid war risks and all sorts of things on it, hope you get it all right.

Shall probably leave hospital about this day week, then allowing for about a fortnight’s leave should be on my way back to France about the end of this month. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Monday 12/2/1917 No.4 London General Hospital Kings College, Denmark Hill, London. Wigsam Ward

My dear Mum,

Have just returned from Cambridge, where I spent the weekend with Nana. Was indeed surprised, excited and pleased to receive a note from him on Saturday morning last, saying he was going through an Officer’s training Course at St John’s College, Cambridge, and if I was in London would be glad to see me or hear from me. I went up to Cambridge that afternoon and saw him. He looks simply splendid, and is very lucky getting over here on this stunt. There were only about 8 chaps picked out of each division for this school (No.5 Officers’ Cadet Battalion School), which lasts 4 months, so that he will have a good rest with some comfort which he richly deserves.

151

I had a look over the college (Trinity College), it is fine. It is one of the colleges in connection with Cambridge University, so that his life will be just like a university student. At college they have their rooms, dining room etc, just as a boarding school. Lee Scott is in the same room as him, also a chap named Cross from Bega, so that they will have a fine time. I stayed at the pub in Cambridge for the night and gave the boys a good time, made them come and have meals with me etc. Of course they are all broke, being unable to get any money yet. I gave Nana what I could spare, which is not much, as I am getting short myself now. He has written to the Commonwealth Bank about the £40 (A$3,800 in 2018) there. I hope he gets it all right. However he will want a lot more than that eventually so advised him to get the Bank of NSW to transfer some of his money across here for him.

How pleased you will be to know, Mum, Nana is safe and comfortable over here for at least another 5 or 6 months. The time he gets through the course, hangs around waiting for his commission to come through etc, it will be all that time. Trust he will never have to go across again. Surely this show will be over in six months’ time, I sincerely trust so. Nana is cabling today his address to Father at the bank. Expect they will forward it on to you. Should love to see your face when you hear the news. He will write and give you all particulars of what he is doing etc.

Am still in hospital. Have just got 10 days leave from the doctor, who is a great sport, and am off to Glasgow tonight with a Scotch officer named McCallum who has invited me to his home for that time. In this way I shall have an extra 10 days leave. Shall get my discharge as soon as I get back, then my medical board, and no doubt a short sick leave of 10 days or so, then back to France. Shall cable you when leaving England for France.

This will be my second trip to Scotland and am looking forward to a good time. McCallum is a good sport, we should have some fun up there, especially with a chap who knows the ropes. When I get my leave, if any, and stay in London, shall try and get Nana down for a couple of days and show him around. Cambridge is only about 60 miles from London but of course these schools are fairly strict and I fancy no London leave is given. However, may be able to work the stunt by writing to his CO, wounded brother in London, etc, shall try.

Received letters from Jane, Lorna and Lucy Cowdery last night dated about 20th Dec. Say Mum only sent those cards etc home to you to buck you up a bit. Did not want you to advertise them. Jane told me about something appearing in the Bankers Review. Am not very keen on that sort of thing you know. However will forgive you this time if it does not occur again. Well my dear, shall busy today. Must go to the bank and draw money, get tickets for Scotland etc. Drew £15 (A$1,544 in 2018) last Saturday, but giving Nana some and going to Cambridge upset most of it. One can certainly get through it here. Best of love to all, shall probably write next from Scotland, Bob.

152

Scotland

Wednesday 14/2/1917 Grosvenor Restaurant 74 Gordon Street, Glasgow

My dear Mum,

By the above address you will see that I am in the great Scotch town Glasgow. It is simply a beastly day, one of those heavy thick fogs which are so depressing. Father will know all about them. Arrived here yesterday morning, a lovely clear day it was too. Had a good look around the city, it is a much livelier place than Edinburgh and rather a good young town I think except for these beastly fogs which are simply rotten. Am up here with a Scotch officer, staying with him and his people. They are kindness itself, and as he knows the run of the town, plenty of people etc, we are having a fine time. Have lunch and dinner out each day, meet plenty of Scotchmen who will make one have one or several whiskies with them of course. The grog is OK, it will always do me.

Am going on to Edinburgh in a couple of days’ time on our way back to London to have another look around there. Having a great time and feeling OK except for a bad cold which is impossible to shake off in this country. Have just had lunch here, off out for afternoon tea to meet some Glasgow lasses. Bridge party tonight after dinner, so you see still going strong. Will write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

Sunday 18/2/1917 North British Station Hotel Edinburgh

My dear Mum,

Having a grand 10 days rest and holiday in Scotland. This is my second visit to Edinburgh. Arrived here from Glasgow last Friday night, leaving again for Glasgow tomorrow, and leaving Glasgow for London on Tuesday or Wednesday night. Left London for Glasgow last Monday night with a Scotch officer whose married sister lives in Glasgow. We are staying with her. They are very good to us, we do anything we like. Of course both in Glasgow and Edinburgh things are terribly slow after London, yet everything is very interesting and quite a lot of fun can be got. Have been doing very little sight-seeing these days, more or less a bit bored with that sort of thing. Besides, the chaps I am with cannot walk much so that we just potter about and take things easy, eat a lot, drink a lot, do the block etc. Of course this is the life but after all a bit unsatisfactory and most expensive.

Am suffering at present with a bad cold, sore gums, sore throat and a rotten cough which keeps me awake most of the night and expect worries most other people about one. Must see the doctor at the hospital when back and get fixed up. It is impossible to get rid of a cold in this country in the winter, although this winter has supposed to have been very severe to date have not felt it out of the way. The part that strikes me most is the dullness of each day, a bit on the depressing side I think.

153

Image 13. Postcard of North British Station Hotel 1917 Source: LNER archives

Expect you will know by this time that Nana is in England safe and sound and likely to be here for the next 5 months or so. Said he would cable and let you have his address. Am greatly pleased and relieved to know he is here and should have a good rest and a splendid time. Leading the usual life in London, plenty of good times, meeting plenty of interesting people and generally in the boom. Am just about on my last legs now as far as this good time goes, expect to be getting back shortly now. Still I am quite satisfied, have had a good spell and simply a wonderful time right throughout.

Expect you are all having a grand time on the coast and trust it will not be long before we get back for a surf swim. Lots of love and kindest remembrances to all, Bob.

154

London Sunday 25/2/1917 The Carlyle Club 211 Piccadilly, London.

My dear Mum,

Am once again back in London after a very pleasant holiday in Scotland. Arrived back last Wednesday and went straight to the hospital and bed where I stayed for the next two days, having a horrible septic throat and very bad cold. Felt pretty rotten, the sleeping berths in the train are all heated and fresh air seems to be very scarce. However am quite all right again now.

Photo 68. LNER sleeping berth 1917 Source: LNER archives

Am leaving hospital tomorrow, when I report to our medical board who will decide what leave they will give me. In the meantime have taken a room at the Regent Palace Hotel, Piccadilly, where I shall stay for the present. If long enough leave is granted shall probably get out of London for a while, where I don’t know yet.

Had a letter from Nana yesterday, he seems all right and doing well enjoying the new life. Says the Commonwealth Bank say they have not that £40 there for him, however he has fixed up with the Bank of NSW so that he will be all right now. The Commonwealth Bank are most unsatisfactory to deal with. They take weeks to get money for you, if at all, whereas the Bank of NSW cable for you and have the money back here and an account open for you in 3 days or so.

Received a small parcel from you yesterday containing tobacco, cigarettes, writing pad, for which many thanks. Have had no mail for about 3 weeks but expect you are sending them direct to the battalion now, so hope to get them eventually. I see Ralph Kell is wounded again, must find out if he is across here and if so, look him up. The battalion has been doing great strokes again according to a letter I had from Marks yesterday. Harry Murray and two of his men have been recommended for the VC. Hope he gets it, he is a great chap and a ripping soldier.

Well my dear shall write soon again. Hope all are well and everything in the garden lovely. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Wednesday 28/2/1917 The Carlyle Club 211 Piccadilly, London. 155

My dear Mum,

Went up for my medical board yesterday morning. I was thoroughly disgusted and fed up of the whole show. They kept me waiting from 9:30 in the morning until 12 o’clock. I said yes to all their questions, being put through the third degree, and as I wanted was marked “General Service fit”. They asked me how far I could walk without getting tired in the bad leg. I replied “anything up to 20 miles”. They seemed rather taken back, it was quite good fun. Personally I was in a furious temper, being kept hanging around for so long, characteristic of course of Headquarters.

I have 14 days leave, am due to report at Perham Downs on the 12th March. From there shall go straight across to France. Shall cable you just before leaving London. Am staying at the Regent Palace Hotel and likely to stay there all the time, unless I go down to Brighton for a few days. The weather here is just getting lovely again.

Celebrated my first day out of hospital yesterday quite well. HQ all the morning, met Ralph Kell, who is across here in hospital again wounded, very slightly though. Had lunch with him, kicked around until five o’clock with him, then met some chap across here at the club, had tea here, met a girl at seven o’clock, had dinner, after which we went to The Bing Girls at the Alhambra Theatre. It is a topping show, much better I thought than The Bing Boys. The show came out about 11:30 pm, went on then to the Trocadero for supper, it was very gay and nice. Of course a proper course supper, two bands, one for rag-time music only, the other ordinary. As soon as one finishes, the other goes on, so that one has continuous music which is varied, every second item being all the latest ragtime. I enjoyed it all very much, everything being very gay. Wanted to take the lass I was with and rag right down the supper room, however that could not be done.

Image 14. Ragtime in London, 1917 Source: Morton Museum of History

Left the Troc at 1 o’clock, ran the girl home in a taxi, and got back to the pub about 1:30 am after putting in a very gay evening. All these times alas are coming to an end, but one cannot expect it to last forever. Only hope Nana can get down to London for a couple of days before I go away. Should like to show him around and put him wise. Consider I know London quite well now, and so I should. Over 6 months here, and what a wonderful time I have had. It has been simply gorgeous. Trust the Hun will let me get back home again, it would be a shame to have all this wasted. Expect all this experience will be no good in the next world, except perhaps I should have a better chance against the devil now. Should possibly be pretty wise to his ways now.

Am meeting Ralph Kell tomorrow. We are going to the Windsor Hotel to have lunch with the Henleys. Must ask the girls out to the theatre and give them some time. Have not been there for a long time, upon my soul, I never seem to have time.

156

Expect my mail will be everywhere for the next couple of months, chasing me all over the country, but hope to get some eventually. Expect it will be about the end of March before I join up with the battalion again, going through bases etc. Shall write again soon and let you know about my last fortnight in London. Love to all, Bob.

Sunday 1/3/1917 Regent Palace Hotel Piccadilly Circus, London.

My dear Lorna,

Have left hospital at last and am at large in London, staying at this pub. Have been up for my medical board, declared fit for general service and received 14 days leave. Not very much after 6 months in hospital, still I knew it and took some leave before being discharged from hospital by arrangement with the Sister, who was a great sport. Guess I could have had light duty in England for another 3 months or so if I had liked, but want to get back again now. They asked me how far I could walk without feeling it. Told them 20 miles. Of course I don’t know, but think the leg is quite strong again now. It is a bit wasted but suppose will pick up eventually. Of course shall make the best of my time in London now if money holds out. Am just going up to the bank to find out how much I have left, somewhere about £50 (A$ 5,150 in 2018) I am hoping, which should just about pull me through. Have no credit in my pay book, have spent a terrible lot of money in this town, having had £160 (A$16,500) from Australia and drawn £140 (A$14,400) from my pay book. Still, who cares, considering all I have seen and the truly wonderful time I have had. Would not have missed it for £1,000 (A$103,000), which no doubt it would have cost in peace times.

Am keen to see London now when peace is declared, all lit up and everything going. The comparison would be rather interesting I think, don’t you? Reckon I shall be back here again in about 3 months if not pushing daisies. A fellow is sure to get another crack in this next push which I shall run right into. War news seems brighter, Germans retreating on part of the line, but he is a wily old bird. I am a bit suspicious still, shall be surprised if the stunt does not finish this year. Sincerely hope so, am getting sick of the whole show, shall be glad to get home again.

Am going down to see the Henleys today with Ralph Kell after a free lunch. You know am a naughty boy, have not been to see them for weeks, but I always seem to have something else to do, much more interesting. However, must ask the girls to have dinner and theatre afterwards one night before I go away. They have been very kind to me.

What do you think of Nana’s stunt? It is great, him being across here for so long, back to civilisation and a good time again. Hope he will be able to get down to London and see me before I go. Would like to show him round a bit, reckon I know all about this city now and one can have a much better time if you know where to go and what to do, where to be careful etc, what sayest thou?

Went up to Cambridge to see him one weekend but shall not enlarge. Guess he has written and given you all the news. Had quite a gay time yesterday and last night. Had breakfast about 10:30, went for a walk up Regent Street into Oxford Street, bought a valise at Selfridges, you know the big American store, then through Marble Arch in to Hyde Park, out 157 at Hyde Park Corner, back into Piccadilly, met a Scotch officer at the Carlyle Club (a bosca little club I belong to) had a couple of drinks, then went to Scotts for lunch, had some oysters and stout. Later met Humphrey Browning, went down to his flat, met about 10 Australians there, had yarns and many whiskies to boot. About 7 o’clock went back to the club to meet a nice little Jane. Took her to dinner and had a real evening out. Do not know how Sydney will hold one if lucky enough to get back, however we should worry about that when it comes along.

Well old kid, better dry up or I shall be rambling on and putting my foot in it and telling you all sorts of funny things. Shall reserve them until I get back. Lots of love for the kid, Jack and your old self, Bobbie.

PS. Shall store my stuff at Cooks London before going away. In case I get outed you will know how to get it back home. Few old dirty clothes etc, some papers, maps etc that might be of interest. Am leaving a brown box suitcase and black kit bag in London, just taking a valise across to France this time.

Tuesday 6/3/1917 The Carlyle Club 211 Piccadilly, London.

My dear Mum,

Am dying to have some letters from home. Have not had any for some weeks now, but expect they are all going to the battalion now, and the delay of course will be great. Have another 6 days leave to go but am not too good. Am having a lot of trouble with my mouth, swollen and very sore gums, ulcers in the mouth etc, can hardly eat and it is very painful. Am going to the dentist who is treating me. Says my mouth is in a very bad way and reckons he will want at least an extra week to fix me up. Is going to give me a letter to our medical people for an extension of leave. Do not know what will happen. Says if I go back to France with my mouth as it is it will be a very short time before I am in hospital again and there they will want to take out all my teeth. Of course guess I shall have a say in the matter. However, want to get the trouble fixed up first, here if possible. It is very rotten and very prevalent in England at present. As far as I can see it is simply a septic mouth, most horrible thing however. Trust this dentist will fix me up shortly.

Went for a run down to Richmond last Sunday afternoon. Enjoyed the trip immensely. It must be great down there in the summer time, being right on the river, plenty of boating etc and very pretty of course. The weather here at present is all against that sort of thing. At 11 o’clock on Sunday night it was snowing in London, and well I know it, as I had to see a lady home and could not get a taxi, so that this chicken was out in it until quite late. Was about 12:45 before I got back to the hotel.

Went to a great dance last Saturday afternoon given by Australian and South African officers at the residence of the person who is going to Tasmania shortly as Governor (Sir Francis Newdegate GCMG, 12th Governor of Tasmania 1917-1920). Forgotten his name for the present. There were about 250 present, a beautiful large ballroom and excellent music. The whole show went off tip top, one of the best I have been to. Had a dance yesterday afternoon, also another one this afternoon, so that I am still going strong. Am becoming quite 158 hot stuff at the Fox Trot these days. Have been kicking around quite a lot with Ralph Kell, who is pretty right again know. He seems lucky enough to get a nice little one each time which does not cause him a great deal of inconvenience.

I wonder if you have heard from Nana yet? I’m sure you will be glad to hear all the news from him, it should be most interesting to you all. Hope he will be able to get down and see me, but have not heard from him for about a week. Guess he is all right and having a good time.

Am off to the theatre tonight and having a good fly around generally for very last few days here. Am looking forward, more or less, to getting back to some hard and regular work again. Think it will do me a power of good after living the gay life for so long. Best love to all, Bobbie (as you say, Mum).

Sunday 11/3/1917 The Carlyle Club 211 Piccadilly, London.

My dear Mum,

Have been having a bad time at the dentist with my mouth all the past week, going to him every day and sometimes twice a day. Have a week’s extension leave so that I can get this trouble fixed up before going back, so that I shall not be leaving London now until the 19th of this month instead of the 12th. Sounds all right of course, but it does not suit me. Am running short of cash, also another dentist’s bill to pay. Besides, am keen to get back to work again now. Of course am making the most of my last few days here, having a real good time. McKillop, one of our officers, came in and pulled me out of bed at 11:45 this morning, but of course a late Saturday night will easily account for that. Brought him over here to the club, picked up a couple of other chaps. We have just returned from lunch, and it was some lunch. Went to a place in Oxford Street where they have a splendid ragtime band.

Message here for me from Kell. He has been chasing me all day, expect I shall pick him up before midnight somewhere. He is still in hospital but doing very well.

Received some letters a couple of days ago, one from you, one from Jane, one from Mick, one from Lorna, dated about end of Dec and 1st week Jan. Jolly glad to have them. First Australian news I have had for weeks. Sorry you have not received your parcel from Liberty’s yet. Still, perhaps you have hardly had time up to 6th Jan. Did not purchase it until 14th Nov, so that expect you must allow two months or so. Trust it comes along eventually. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Saturday 17/3/1917 The Royal Overseas Officers Club at the RAC Pall Mall, London.

My dear Mum,

My last weekend in London for some time I expect, and may be my last for good. Am leaving here on Monday next on my way for general service again, and expect to be back with the 159 battalion about the end of this month. Shall cable on Monday before leaving London so that you will know right away that I have left this wonderful city and trust it will not be for good. Should like to come back again, but of course that is a moot point at present. Have just finished up with the dentist and given him a cheque for £10-10-0 (A$990 in 2017) which hurt a bit. At this stage I am not altogether cured yet but cannot give him any more time at present, and he certainly has made a wonderful difference to my mouth in the past fortnight. My gums are looking healthy again and the mouth pretty well all healed up now. Have a few teeth to fix, but they will have to wait until next time.

Am just writing this letter while waiting here for Ralph Kell. We are off to the theatre this afternoon, Vanity Fair at the Palace Theatre, and will probably spend the evening together. I had quite a rough night with him last night. Tonight I want to introduce him to a little girl who has been looking after me in London for the past 2 months or so and thereby leave him in good hands, make a transfer as it were.

Have just come back from seeing Humphrey Browning. Called in at his flat, 25 Half Moon Street, on my way back from the dentist. We had a yarn and a couple of spots together. He is leaving London on his way back next Thursday. As you will see by the above address, this is another club I belong to in London. Becoming quite hot stuff, member of 2 clubs, the Carlyle and this one. As you see, this is the RAC Club, which has been thrown open to all overseas officers free of cost as far as membership is concerned. It is a most gorgeous place, residential, a large swimming bath in the basement, beautiful dining room, smoke room, billiard room, card room etc, in fact one of the swank clubs in London with absolutely every convenience. In fact if I ever come back to London, I shall certainly stay here. This place has only been open to us about a week ago. Think it is awfully good and very sporting of these people to do a thing like this for us, don’t you?

Have you heard that Harry Murray has received the VC? It is simply great, my company commander, what? Fancy going back to fight with a man who has the VC, DSO and DCM, the former two honours being won in the last six months. Good luck to him, he is a great chap and will always do me. He has charge of “A” Company, and I do not expect to go back to go back to bombing work especially as before, so hope to get back with “A” Company and with Murray of course, as of yore. He will want to do all sorts of mad things, and is a devil for fighting, still it is good sport working with a man like that.

Had tea with the Henleys yesterday at the Windsor Hotel. They are all very well and busy as usual. Millie took me to the office the other day and showed me receipts etc from the 13th. There were a whole lot of them Mum, so you can rest assured the battalion is getting all the comforts you are sending through to them.

Have you heard from Len yet? Sorry he has not been able to get down and see me, but expect he has been working and no leave is granted for the present. Have sent a couple of postcards to him, but he has not had the decency to answer them yet. However, expect he is busy chasing some Cambridge lasses around by this. The weekend I was there it looked easy, as in every other part of England, and very nice too.

Well my dear, we are just going in to have a bite of lunch, so will have to dry up. Shall write again soon and tell you about my trip back to France. Lots of love to everyone, Bob.

160

Salisbury Plain Training

Much of the Salisbury Plain has been used by the British Army as a training area since 1898. During World War 1 an area of nearly 37,000 hectares (93,100 acres) was purchased by the military, and numerous camps established within and near the Plain. These included many Australian establishments, covering a range of activities including training infantry reinforcements, artillery and signals training, hospitals, etc. For example, at Perham Down a series of trenches were excavated to reproduce, in part, the layout of the Somme trenches in order to facilitate training and military planning for the Battle of the Somme. The gently rolling downs were close to the ports of Southampton and Portsmouth, to which they were connected by a number of rail lines, which also provided easy access to London.

The AIF replaced the system of civilian convalescent hospitals with 4 Command Depots under control of the military. These were places where Australian soldiers recently discharged from hospital were sent to recuperate and be returned progressively to “fighting fitness”. No.1 Command Depot at Perham Down, near the little town of Tidworth, began operating in late 1916. In late October 1917 the depot was transferred to Sutton Veny.

Map 13. AIF camps on Salisbury Plain, showing main rail links Map compiled by D G Jones

Sunday 25/3/1917 Perham Down

My dear Mum,

161

Am at this place, where I arrived last Monday, waiting to be sent overseas again, and believe me it is the limit. As cold as the devil, rain and snow all the week, mud up to your knees. You can imagine my feelings, getting into a hard wooden bed, on the bare floor of a wooden hut with no fires. Between blankets after six months sleeping between sheets on soft beds and comfortable quarters, hospital, hotels etc. I have not had a decent sleep here yet, and both my lips are damned sore. However, expect one will get used to it shortly.

Map 14. AIF camps in the Tidworth area Map compiled by D G Jones on to Ordnance Survey 1:63,360 topographic map 1924

We have nothing much to do here, except having to be on parade each day 9 to 12 and 2 to 4, but they have special instructions for everything, so we just hang around and freeze. Do not know how long I shall be here, may be 2 days or 4 weeks, depends on transports etc. Am hoping I shall not have to take a draft of men across. If not, shall get 48 hours in London going back, which will be better than nothing. Leave here is out of the question, so that everyone is hoping to get away as soon as possible.

We are about 2 miles from Tidworth, the nearest bit of a town. It is a one horse show. Went to the theatre there last night, Jack the Beanstalk, of course very rotten. Think I shall go dippy if stuck in this hole for long, nowhere to go, nothing to do except get tight every day. However shall just have to trust to luck.

A large draft left here yesterday, about 22 officers, among them Dos Wallach of the 13th. Browning is down here with me, expect we shall go back together. We have officers from all units here, men who have been wounded, sick etc, all ready for general service again, and waiting to be sent back to join up their respective units.

Am feeling only pretty fair. My mouth is still giving me a deal of trouble, sore and bleeding gums etc, which is very uncomfortable. This damp and wet weather does not improve 162 matters. Expect to get quite fit again when back in France with the battalion, and get some work which interests me again. There is absolutely no news here, stuck in a cold bleak plain. Think I have told you all about the grand time I have had in London. The trouble is the contrast is too great here, and one feels it terribly. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Friday 30/3/1917 Grand Hotel du Louvre et Terminus Boulogne-Sur-Mer, France

My dear Mum,

By the above address you will see I am back in France. Quite temporary this time though, am leaving here this afternoon for England again, having had a trip across on duty. Left Perham Downs (Tidworth) last Tuesday at 6:30 pm with a draft of 90 men for our base in France, Étaples, and am now on my return to Perham where I have to report again on the completion of duty. Hope to reach London tonight some time, where I shall stay until Sunday night.

The trip has been great for me, having stayed in and seen around new places such as Folkestone, Boulogne, Étaples etc. Have just had a walk around Boulogne, it appears to be a dirty hole and not particularly interesting. It seems quite funny being in France again after such a long spell among English people.

Saw Jack Kirkwood at Étaples, where he is waiting to be sent back to his battalion, he is very well again and looks splendid. Am not too good myself at present, my mouth still giving me a lot of trouble. Shall have to go and see the doctor on my return. I must get this trouble fixed up.

Have you heard from Nana? Wonder how he is getting on. Have had no word from him for quite a long time. Shall drop you a line when in London again. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Saturday 31/3/1917 The Royal Overseas Officers Club at the RAC Pall Mall, London.

My dear Mum,

Have arrived in London safely from Boulogne, where I have been on duty taking a draft of men across to our base at Étaples. Had a good trip back across the Channel, a nice boat doing 22 knots with a destroyer on each side. Talk about going for your life! Big mixed lot on board, nurses, generals, men etc coming to London on leave from the front. Arriving at Folkestone we transferred straight on to a through train and arrived in London at 7:30 pm last night, leaving Boulogne at 4:30 pm in the afternoon, guess that is not bad going.

Wrote you a few lines from the pub at Boulogne telling you about the trip across. Had just posted your letter when who do you think walked in? Cecil Clifton, fancy meeting him. He had just returned from London leave and was going on to join his regiment. Was very 163 pleased to see him looking so well and getting on tip top. He is a lieutenant, think he said with the 3rd Battalion. If I remember rightly, the last time I saw Cecil was at Tel-el-Kebir in Egypt, which is some time ago now.

Snowy Clayton, who is now a Major, is in charge of the 4th Division Depot at Étaples, also a chap named Webster is Adjutant, a cousin of Darky Webster the cricketer. I had dinner with them while waiting for my train back to Boulogne. I expect to be across there anytime myself now, shall be glad to get away from Perham Downs.

Am staying here at this club until Sunday night, when I shall have to get back to Perham. Of course, expect I should go right down there now, but if a chap cannot work his nut and get a couple of days in London on these stunts, well he is silly. Wired Kell last night, he is coming to see me at 1:30 pm today. Do not know what we will do but shall be leading the quiet life here this time as a matter of fact, funds will not allow otherwise. Was up at the Carlyle Club last night after dinner here. Met some of the boys and had a yarn and a few drinks but came back to bed early, being very tired, having done a terrible lot of travelling in the last few days, with a fair amount of worry on the trip over, and very little sleep.

It is snowing in London at present, seems late in the year for it, but will thaw shortly. Then everything will be wet and slushy. However, one can always get some comfort here, so the weather does not matter much. Have had no mail for weeks, but do not expect it with all this tearing about. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Sunday 8/4/1917 Perham Down

My dear Mum,

Received your letter dated 28th Jan a couple of days ago, also newspaper cuttings re Father’s retirement. Was very pleased to get them. Father was properly in the boom, but reckon they could not say too many nice things about him. Quite a good touch about making his Scotch nature blush, I thought. Glad you received the goods all right from Liberty’s London. Tell Mick he is all wrong. It was an effort all by myself.

Cabled through from London on 19th of last month saying I was leaving for France, suppose you received it all right. Have been warned in last night’s orders here to hold myself in readiness to proceed overseas at an early date, so expect to get away and day now for the front. Shall probably have to put a few days in at our base at Étaples en route to the battalion.

Could easily get a job here Mum, but want to get back to the battalion. Am feeling pretty right again, the mouth is not quite better yet but hope it will be very soon now. Met Colonel Durrant in London last Sunday where I was on my way back here from France. Says he is keeping a place for me in “A” Company with Captain Murray who is a VC DSO DCM. Fancy going back to fight with a man like that, it will always do me. He is a bosca chap.

Think the leg is quite right again now, although I have done no heavy work with it yet, do not anticipate any trouble though. The leather waistcoat is quite all right and has been very handy in this cold bleak spot. Ted Cornish, also Major Howden of the 40th, are here, also Captain Moseley of the 13th. He has just returned from Australia, going there from Gallipoli. 164

Toby Barton’s brother, who was a corporal of the 45th, has just received his commission, having gone through a school at Oxford similar to the one Len is going through. He is also here, waiting to get back.

Have been playing a whole lot of bridge here, about the only thing to do to fill in time. Had a letter from Nana a few days ago, he is having 5 days or so Easter holidays in London. Wanted to know if I could get up there, but unfortunately I could not work it. Still, he is sure to have a great time, although now restrictions exist re meals, drinks, places out of bounds eg Ciro’s and other night clubs, the Savoy Hotel ballroom etc, which did not when I was first kicking around.

Image 15. The Savoy Hotel Ballroom in World War 1 Source: Wikipedia

Well my dear, no more news at present. Expect you will not get so many letters from me now, as I hope to be hard at it again shortly, and of course shall always be very tired and busy. Lots of love to everyone, Bob.

Monday 16/4/1917 Perham Down

My dear Mum,

Received your letter dated 18th Feb, also one from Lorna of the same date. Am still in this hole of a place so have absolutely no news for you. Expect to get away any day now, and

165 shall be real glad. It snows, rains and blows here like the devil. Have not been warm once in the last fortnight.

Forget whether I told you I had seen John Bull. Was coming back to camp from Tidworth when I saw old John with his motor ambulance wagon. Was right glad to see him, we had a great old yarn. He looks splendid and feels OK, is connected with one of the hospitals around here.

Map 15. Perham Down Camp, Salisbury Plain Map compiled by D G Jones on to Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 scale topographic map

We do very little here, play bridge every day and night, go on parade for a little each day, and that is all. Am feeling pretty fit again now, the mouth having improved wonderfully. Still, this weather gives it very little chance. War news of late seems very bright, and the Huns seem to be getting something to go on with. Am in hopes the show will finish this year, and if so, and one is lucky enough to get through, expect it will be a long time before me getting back to Australia. However, that remains to be seen.

166

Have not heard from Nana for some time. Think he is quite all right, he was last time I heard from him about a fortnight ago. You have surely heard from him by this. He cabled and wrote soon after landing in England. Got a great shock hearing about Selwyn Dennis. The first I knew of his death was on receiving your letter. These bum places are no good to live in, the risk is too great, especially for a married man.

Told you all about the trip I did not have, to see the Davies in Liverpool, in a previous letter while I was in hospital. You should have received it by this. Did not have the pleasure of seeing Mr Osborne, still he may not have come to London. Travelling restrictions were great at Christmas time for civilians.

Many happy returns of your past birthday. Knew it was in February some time but had forgotten the date. Hope I shall have the pleasure of congratulating you personally on your next. Well my dear, no more news at present, lots of love to everyone, Bob.

Monday 23/4/1917 3rd Training Battalion Lark Hill, England

My dear Jane,

Received letters from you yesterday dated 14th Jan and 11th Feb respectively, at Perham Downs. Came across here yesterday, which is about 8 miles from Perham, to proceed overseas with a draft of men to France next Tuesday. This time I am staying across, and joining up the battalion as soon as possible. They have all had a very rough time again, being cut up horribly. The whole of the 4th Division, I believe, have been up against it. The poor 13th, as far as officers are concerned, lost heavily, the following having caught it: Marks dangerously wounded; Wells D P missing, Wells T wounded, Morgan killed, Shirtley killed, Lanaghan missing, Gardiner missing, Fletcher killed, Geary wounded, Clasper wounded, Cooney wounded, Kaler killed, Glens missing, Brown wounded, Gallagher wounded, Gowing killed. This was the return up to the 19th at Horseferry Road. There may be more through by this time. It is very rotten, all these fine fellows going. Rumour has it that the 15th Battalion has been wiped out, the CO and Transport Officer only being left, so the 4th Brigade has apparently been up against it. Murray fought his way through again, I believe, which is excellent news, he is a marvel. Expect the battalion will want reorganizing and fitting out again now, so that it will be a little while before they are in action again no doubt, However, will get all the news shortly. Expect to be with them in about a week’s time.

Am enclosing yesterday’s dinner menu we had at Perham. Don’t think we lived all the while like it. This menu, it was just a flash, but was very excellent. The mess here at Lark Hill is quite good. They have a fine full-sized billiard table. Gave the champion here a game last night and won by 17 points. Considering I have not played for months, I put up quite a good game. Possibly a few whiskies and sodas were responsible.

Have struck no one here I know so far. Nobody has told me to do anything, and I have not butted in, so intend to pass the day answering letters. Am leaving here for France tomorrow. Received a nice lot yesterday from Mum, Lorna, Lucy, Dag and Billy Bull. Will try and answer them today. The only trouble is, there is no news, stuck down in these places. Often think of all you people down at Australia. Am glad you are all having such a good time. A surf would 167 be good, but not in this climate, it is much too cold. It is indeed sad news to hear about Pat Dennis, was very surprised to hear, had no idea he was in bad health. Always thought the climate suited him well. Shall write again soon when there is some news to tell you all. Lots of love to all from your loving brother, Bobbie.

Compiler’s Note:

After the disaster of Pozieres in 1916, where the Germans inflicted more than 200,000 casualties on the British armies in 5 weeks for an advance of less the 3 km over a narrow front, the Commander-in-Chief, Field Marshall Earl Haig, demanded yet more sacrifice. Haig’s “plan” consisted of a collection of rambling motherhood statements. Haig’s letters to his wife show that he relied heavily on divine help from God, and was annoyed with God when he failed, which was often. Haig turned to 46-year-old General Sir Hubert Gough, like Haig a cavalry officer and known as a “thruster”. Gough’s approach was to pour troops on to the field in the face of withering machine-gun fire, create a gap through which his cavalry would gallop, and overwhelm the enemy. This was totally counter-productive against trenches protected by multiple rows of impenetrable barbed wire. Gough’s arrogance and incompetence were legendary, and he was universally hated, even by his fellow Eton and Sandhurst-educated British generals.

Seduced by the concept of the new tank technology, Haig decided to substitute tanks for artillery in an attempt in early 1917 to break through the Hindenburg Line beyond Pozieres. However, tanks were untried, and those in France were merely there for testing and to train crews. Nevertheless, the whole of the operation later known as Bullecourt revolved around the “invulnerable” tanks crushing the enemy’s wire, frightening the Germans into fleeing the front line, which would be occupied by smiling Australian troops casually strolling behind the tanks. The actual result was complete and utter carnage, outright slaughter of the Australian 4th Division, which has been well documented in numerous books and journals.

The 13th Battalion went into the battle for Bullecourt early on the morning of 11th April 1917 with a strength of 31 officers and 934 other ranks. When they withdrew that night, having achieved no gain whatsoever, the 13th Battalion had lost 20 officers and 489 other ranks, a casualty rate of 53% (65% for officers). The other battalions of the 4th Division in the debacle suffered similar losses. In his last letter to his older brother in Adelaide, written on 19th Aug 1916 following the death of his brother Robert “Goldy” Raws at Pozieres, 2nd Lieutenant John Alexander (“Alec”) Raws of the 23rd Battalion summed up the universal feelings of the Australians towards Haig and Gough in these words: “I honestly believe Goldy and many other officers were murdered through the incompetence, callousness and personal vanity of those high in authority.” Alec was killed at Mouquet Farm on 26th Aug 1916. Haig and Gough went on to murder hundreds of thousands more Allied soldiers until Gough was sacked (by Haig, to save his own neck) in March 1918.

The 20 officers lost by the 13th Battalion were:

* Captain Basil George Welland Fletcher - killed in action * Lieutenant William Urwin Clasper - died of wounds * Lieutenant Charles Kaler - killed in action * Lieutenant Thomas Henry Morgan - killed in action * Lieutenant William Frederick Shirtley - killed in action

168

2nd Lieutenant James Walter Thornley - killed in action 2nd Lieutenant Archie Lanchester Gowing - killed in action

Major Douglas Gray Marks - wounded Captain Theodore Wells - wounded * Lieutenant Norman John Browne - wounded * Lieutenant John Govett Geary - wounded Lieutenant Neville Wallach - wounded

Captain Donald Percival Wells - POW * Captain George Guyatt Gardiner - POW Captain Arthur Lanagan - POW Lieutenant William Stones - POW 2nd Lieutenant George Charles Smith - POW * 2nd Lieutenant John Rowan Gallagher - POW 2nd Lieutenant James Matthew Cooney - POW * 2nd Lieutenant Oliver Stanley Cooney - POW

* These officers were 13th Battalion “Originals”, who embarked in Melbourne on HMAT ULYSSES on 22nd Dec 1914, mostly as privates, survived the entire Gallipoli campaign, and were commissioned from the ranks. They were battle-hardened veterans, not raw, inexperienced and vulnerable recruits.

169

France - Somme

Sunday 29/4/1917 Étaples

My dear Mum,

Arrived at our base here last Thursday afternoon after a very pleasant rip across from England, except we had to march from Boulogne to here, a distance of 18 miles. Still, it was a beautiful day, and I had nothing to carry, having sent my gear on by lorry. Stood the march a treat, of course very tired, but the night before at Boulogne was a bit of a night out for me, so that one was lucky to get through just feeling tired. Have done nothing here yet except rest and kick around, so am quite recovered now. Am leaving here tomorrow to join the battalion. Do not know exactly where they are but believe they are out of the front line at present. It just feels like going home to me, shall be right glad to join them up again.

Map 16. Étaples Military Base, northern France Map compiled by D G Jones

Have been having quite a good time here, meeting a number of the old hands from the battalion I have not seen for months. Major Twynam, Captain Henry, Captain Mosely, all of the 13th, are on their way back. Then I know the CO, Major Clayton, Jack Kirkwood and many other officers who are here from the 4th Brigade and 4th Division. It is great seeing all these chaps one is interested in again, we have had great yarns.

170

Had quite a good day yesterday. Got up at 11 o’clock, then with Major Twynam, Captain Henry and Lieutenant Webster, the Adjutant here, went into Étaples where we had a specially ordered and French cooked lunch. It was purely French and very good indeed. No good me trying to tell you what we had, for I cannot pronounce or spell the names given to the dishes. We also washed it all down with 2 large bottles of fizz, which went very well. After lunch, or breakfast as they call it here, we all went out to Paris Plage, a seaside resort about ½ hour in the tram from Étaples. It is a very pretty place with a nice long beach and in summer should be great for swimming and French lasses. We had a good look around, bought some sweets, sat on the beach and ate them. Arrived back in camp about 6 o’clock.

After tea we went to a concert in the camp given by the Maoris. It was excellent, the war cry’s etc being weird and good. After the concert we returned to the mess, had several drinks then turned in to bed. Instead of going to church this morning, went into Étaples to the Officers’ Club, where I had a lovely hot bath. Am writing letters this afternoon, also a wee sleep I think will be in order if nothing more exciting turns up.

It is voting day today, see Bruce Smith is still going strong. Shall give him my vote but fear now Australian politics is very foreign to me at present. The weather here at present is simply glorious, very like Australian spring, and looks as if it may continue for a few months now. It is hard to imagine the extremes as far as the weather is concerned on this side of the world. It will be quite a pleasure to fight and die if need be under climatic conditions such as exist at present.

Have heard no word from Nana for a long time but expect you will be getting regular mail from him while he is in England. Shall drop you a line as soon as I join up the battalion which should be about next Tuesday. Lots of love to all, Bob.

PS. Cannot get all this letter in one envelope so have to use 2. Hope you receive both.

Wednesday 2/5/1917 France (Ribemont)

My dear Mum,

Have at last joined the battalion again, arriving here last Monday. Had quite a good journey up from Étaples, leaving there at 7 o’clock in the morning and arriving here at 6:30 the same day. Seemed very funny to me, this place where the battalion, what is left of them, are resting. Was about 4 miles behind the front line last August, and shelled by the Huns like the devil. Now it is very safe, being about 30 miles behind the line.

Of course there are many changes now, very few of the old fellows being left, and at present the companies are very weak. Am attached to “A” Company, second-in-command of same to Captain Murray, so shall be very busy getting things going again as soon as some more men come along. Of course you will address all letters to me to the battalion now, until further notice. Expect it will be the best part of a month before we are in action again. However, there is no telling these days what will happen.

171

It is great getting back again, everyone, the Colonel etc seemed so pleased to see me, and said all sorts of nice things about me, and showed what he thought by putting me second-in-command of a company. Such responsibility, the worst of having a good reputation, what?

Was out doing musketry on a range we have close by today. Of course it was made by us in the open fields. Six or 8 fine young hares appeared, no doubt interested in the proceedings, but alas for them, some of the boys saw them and up went rifles, with the result that the hares fell so that someone will have a change for tea tonight. We bagged 6 altogether, it was great fun, the boys being very tickled.

Map 17. 13th Battalion rest at Ribemont Map compiled by D G Jones

Received 6 letters as soon as I arrived here, the mail just being in. One from Mick not dated, one from Jane dated 29th Jan, one from Lorna 1st Feb, also one from Dag, Billy Bull and Lucy Cowdery. Am enclosing a postcard Marks sent to me which received from Captain Fox from Germany, it should be interesting to you all. Also the envelope of Jane’s letter, on the back is written “damaged by sea water” and of course the front shows it. Apparently a close shave for the poor letter – am very glad the sea was cheated anyway.

Shall answer all the letters I received, as soon as possible. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Sunday 6/5/1917 France (Ribemont)

Dear Mick,

Received a nice long letter from you, dated about 4th Feb as far as I can make out. You all are having a great time at Austinmer by all accounts. Guess surf swimming would not appeal to you over here, hot baths are more to the point. Am not engaged yet, old thing, and not likely to be, although, without skiting, I could have been married ere this to advantage believe me, waiting for your fiver you know. Have left all my girls, Piccadilly Circus and England behind at last, having joined the battalion here last Monday. Am real glad to be back again amongst the boys, although as you know I had a grand holiday and a wonderful time in England.

172

Had quite a good trip across, stayed at Étaples 3 days, then came straight on here. This place last August was only about 4 miles behind the lines, it being shelled like fun by the Hun. Now it is almost 25 miles behind and quite safe. Got a great reception on arriving here. First night at dinner, health was drunk, speech from the Colonel and of course a fitting reply, I hope, from myself. Said they had heard all about my times in London and wanted to hear about some of my experiences. Assured them all it was too early in the evening and I had not had enough to drink. Of course I saw nearly all our officers in London and flew around with them while they were on leave, some bonzer times we had too.

Am still with “A” Company, second-in-command to Major Murray VC DSO DCM, some man to fight with, what do you think? He is going across to England any day now to receive his VC honour from cousin George so that this chicken will be busy running the company during his absence. Have been busy with a musketry team from the battalion who are shooting in a brigade and divisional competition next Tuesday, so that I have not done any work with the company yet. In fact, it is such a long time since I have done any that I have almost forgotten how to.

Do not expect to be in action for about another month but one never knows. Reinforcements are coming along quickly, the battalion getting up to decent strength again now, but suppose it will be the same old story when the next stunt comes off. Was up at 5:30 am this morning, putting the musketry team through some firing practice, so have been excused from Church Parade, consequently am trying to get my correspondence up to date.

Am off for a ride this afternoon, any old where. The whole country is starting to look well again, young leaves on the trees, the sun shining, this a beautiful place in Spring. Weather has been quite warm for the past couple of days but expect some more cold weather yet. We played the 15th Battalion rugby union football yesterday afternoon, and won by 3 to nil. The game was rough and fast. Unfortunately one of our officers, D’Arcy-Irvine, broke his leg, it was indeed bad luck.

Well old kid, write again when you get time. Trust you club your exam all right, lots of love to all, Bob.

PS. Have just dropped a line to Nana, expect he is all right. Have not heard from him for some time, expect he is too busy with exams and the Cambridge lasses, to say nothing of the London ones when he gets there on leave.

Sunday 13/5/1917 France (Ribemont)

My dear Mum,

Am feeling tip top and working very hard reorganising etc. We are moving in a couple of days now for another part of France and will be attached to the 2nd Anzac Corps, that is the 4th Division only, it may only be temporary. Had a big day yesterday, the whole Division parading, inspection and giving out of medals etc by General Birdwood, who also said nice things about us all and wished us all good luck. Seems the higher commands want the 4th

173

Division for some special job, they certainly have done excellent work right throughout. However, sufficient unto the day you know.

Major Murray now has a bar to his DSO and is off the England any day now, so I shall be very busy running “A” Company during his absence. Had quite a good social afternoon a couple of days ago. A place a little distance from here has a great tea room for officers only. The Brigadier arranged to take the whole show for the afternoon and wanted all the 4th Brigade officers to turn up and meet one another etc. We had tea and many other drinks of all description, the 16th Battalion band, a nice bright afternoon, and some charming young French girls to look after us. It was great bringing all together. I met chaps I had not seen for months from other battalions in the Brigade. The 13th Battalion officers have arranged another little stunt there this afternoon. Major Twynam and about 15 of us are driving in a GS wagon with 4 mules in hand, also taking our band down, having afternoon tea etc. Expect to have a bit of fun. The 4 mules, rope reins and GS wagon loaded with a bunch of us should be funny.

Had a good swim in the river close by yesterday evening. Took some soap and had a good clean up, which no doubt was required. The water was very cold, which does not allow one to stay in long. This morning I got a chap to cut my hair, so have been having a regular spring cleaning and feel much better for it all.

McDowall, our bombing officer and self had a great little supper last night in his billet. Zero time was 11 pm. We made a parcel he had sent to him from England look very small, sausages, ginger bread, tinned pineapple. When we had about finished the doctor walked in so that we had to start all over again with him, however have felt no ill effects this morning. McDowall is a great chap. He comes from Dorrigo, knows Roy Blair and Jack Edgley well. Bye the bye, I met Jack the other day and had a long yarn to him. He is a Major now and looks splendid. His battalion is billeted not very far from us, shall possibly see him quite a lot.

Had a letter from Nana the other day, shall enclose it in case you have not heard from him. He seems to be doing quite OK. Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

174

Belgium – Ypres Sector

On 15th May 1917, the 13th Battalion entrained for Bailleul in the Ypres sector. On arrival at 6 am the next day, they marched to billets near Doulieu, and resumed training in preparation for the opening phase of the Passchendaele campaign at Messines in June.

Map 18. The 13th Battalion move from Ribemont to Doulieu Map compiled by D G Jones

175

Sunday 27/5/1917 France (Doulieu)

Dear Mick,

Received the following letters in good order and condition from home: 3 from Mum, 27th Feb, 25th March, 18th March, one from Jane 1st April, one from Lorna 31st March, one from yourself 26th March, and all very nice too believe me. Still going strong and feeling OK. Am very busy, being in command of “A” Company, Harry Murray having gone on leave to England for 20 days. He will not be back in time for the next stunt which comes off shortly now, so that this poor chicken will have all the responsibility and worry of a company commander in action. However, expect we shall all do our bit all right.

Had a lovely young route march this morning. We were to have had a Church Parade but it was cancelled, and companies independently went for a bath. Baths are rather scarce at present, so that we take every opportunity to getting the boys a good wash, even if it breaks into the Sabbath Church arrangements. We left at 7:30 am and marched 4½ miles to the baths, then of course 4½ back. I was mounted so did not feel the walk at all. It was a glorious morning, and the road we took passed through lovely green fields, trees, hedges etc. Mum would have doted; the whole country is simply lovely now and the weather perfect. Quite hot in the sun, which shines strongly every day and more or less seems to keep going half the night. It is quite light at 9:45 pm.

On arrival back to my billet about 10:30 am feeling dusty etc, was about half undressed when out Brigadier walked in. He is a great sort. Wanted to know how we were etc. Sat down, had a long yarn. I played the part of host and gave him a cup of coffee and a nugget of bread and butter, the larder being empty of biscuits etc. The company mess felt quite honoured at entertaining the Brigadier, although he got little and just had to put up with what was going, like the rest of us.

I rode down to “D” Company officers’ mess, who invited me to dinner today, and very nice too. Soup, chicken, plum pudding, champagne etc. Then Captain Henry of “B” Company called to see us at “A” Company mess and stayed for afternoon tea so that the Sabbath has been calling day all right. About the only day in the week one has any time to see and have a yarn with other officers of the battalion when companies are billeted so far away from one another. Each company is run as a young battalion on its own.

We have another big boxing contest coming off next Tuesday evening. The New Zealanders want to have a go at us. This is the first time we have been together since the Peninsular and Egypt. Am enclosing the programme.

Congrats old thing. Am terribly pleased you clubbed your final. Hot stuff, now LLB. You might save a job for me as office boy or something like that. Think the leg is quite OK now, having done some very long marches and strenuous work with no ill effects resulting. No doubt I am some out in my opinion about the war but am hoping the darned show will finish this year. Do not worry about coming over, the family is well represented, besides you will be wanted at home to look after Mother and Father. Tell Jane to write and tell her little brother what is doing. Shall have to interview young Aub for her.

176

Saw Daddy Long Legs played in London and enjoyed it immensely, in fact one of the best I saw. Read the book, which was great, while in hospital. Thanks so much for the financial statement, see I still have a little left, but if any more trips like the last eventuate, it will not go far. Left a balance of £5 in the Bank of NSW London, and my pay book is £3 overdrawn, so that if I go to London again it is a cert that I shall require more money across. Have worn out all my clothes etc, however, sufficient unto the day etc. Well kid, I could ramble on but am a very busy man and have many other letters to write. Lots of love to all, Bob.

PS. Expect to be in action before the 10th June. Have not heard from Nana for some time, expect he is still in England and having a good time generally.

Sunday 27/5/1917 France (Doulieu)

My dear Lorna,

Have just written to Mick, and intended that it should do for all the family, but on reading through your letter dated 31/3/17 think I might be a sport and drop you a line. Tell Mum not to worry about the leg, it is as good as gold again and have not felt it the slightest bit. In fact have forgotten it was ever bad, they made a real tip top job of it across the other side. Of course, 3 fair-sized scars where the incisions were made will stay for good but will only be seen by especially privileged persons.

Glad to hear Mum saw the photo taken in Scotland by Mrs Parsons-Montgomery. I have not seen it yet and sorry I have not one to send home, however if one comes along she shall have it. Fancy Lucy and Geoff fixing things at last. Am very pleased to hear it. Shall write to Lucy and try to pull her leg a treat. Received a letter from her dated 14th March but expect things were not fixed at that date. Jack seems to be having a nice little tour around. There is nothing like it. Hope the kid soon gets all right again and that you are able to get Robbo’s cottage. Am sorry to hear that the pony and trap have been sold, still it was no use when no one used it. I think £33-10-0 (A$3,160 in 2017) a splendid price for turnout, although I also think the buyer got his money’s worth.

Shall have to get a car when we come home, or shall we bring one across from this side? Surprised to hear of you people being scared of a single raider in the Indian Ocean, that is a mere detail. Besides, a few ships being sunk is nothing to the tonnage daily going to the bottom of the sea over here. *I see the old ship I came across from Alexandria to France in (HMAT TRANSYLVANIA) has been sunk and sorry to say many lives lost. Have also just heard that 23 of the enemy air ships raided Folkestone (England) last Thursday to some effect, but have no details to date.

Tell Jane Captain Howden who is now a Major is a bosca bloke. He went to Gallipoli a corporal in the 4th Reinforcements, 13th Battalion, now a Major, MC and a bar to same, so has done splendidly. He is a dentist in one of the country towns in NSW. Saw Jack Edgley yesterday, but could not speak to him, we were marching past General Godley, being inspected by him. I did the next best thing, winked at him (Jack Edgley).

Well my dear, will have to shut up. Time very precious. Gave Mick most of the news, love to the kid, Jack and yourself, 177

Bob.

* On 3rd May 1917 the RMS TRANSYLVANIA had sailed from Marseilles for Alexandria with a full complement of troops, escorted by the Japanese destroyers IJN MATSU and IJN SAKAKI. At 10 am next day, the TRANSYLVANIA was struck in the port engine room by a torpedo fired by the German U-boat U-63 under the command of Otto Schultze. At the time the ship was about 4 km south of Cape Vado near Savona, in the Gulf of Genoa. The MATSU came alongside the TRANSYLVANIA and began to take on board troops while the IJN SAKAKI circled to force the submarine to remain submerged. Twenty minutes later a second torpedo was seen coming straight for the MATSU, which saved herself by going astern at full speed. The torpedo hit the TRANSYLVANIA instead, which sank immediately. Ten crew members, 29 officers and 373 soldiers lost their lives. However, 2,708 passengers did survive, including 60 Red Cross nurses, the majority saved by Japanese lifeboats.

Sunday 3/6/1917 Belgium (Vauxhall Camp)

Map 19. Location of Vauxhall Camp Map compiled by D G Jones

My dear Mum,

Am very busy, we will be in it again very shortly again. Major Murray is across in England, so that I shall be in charge of the company in this next stunt. Had trip into the line yesterday to have a good look around, it was most interesting but very rowdy of course. I am unable

178 to tell you anything about it. Suffice it to say there will be lots doing here very shortly now. However, you never know your luck.

We are quite close to the line now, and expect to move closer still in a couple of days. There are many interesting things happening here day by day, only wish I could tell you all about them, but one must be careful what one writes these times, so you will understand the reason for this short and rotten letter.

Am in the best of health and feeling quite OK. My mouth troubles me a little occasionally, but nothing much. Am always too busy to think about it, studying maps, meetings, running the company etc, one gets very little time to oneself. Hope Nana does not get back to his battalion until after this stunt. They will be up against it, I think, and will get some hot work. Have you heard from him lately? I expect he is all right. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Wednesday 13/6/1917 France (2nd Casualty Clearing Station)

My dear Mum,

Just a line while lying here in a casualty clearing station to let you know that the old Hun has given me another crack. Am happy to say it is very slight this time, and unless the thing goes septic again, should be quite all right in about ten days’ time. Am hit in the right thigh again, a little above the previous one, this time by a high-explosive shell. It is just a tiny fragment and should not have left the line if the Doc could get it out. He probed for about 1” in but could not locate it. The piece seems to be buried in some muscle somewhere and probably a bit of dirty underpants to boot. Am leaving in about an hour’s time by hospital train for Boulogne. Expect they will make a small incision in the leg and get the piece of shell out there. If so, it should heal up in a couple of days. Do not want to go to England again so soon, so if they want to send me, shall do my best to get fixed up at Boulogne and stay in France. Besides, I want to get to the battalion again. Have only been back with them about a month.

We have been in the push at Messines, which no doubt you will have read all about by the time you get this note. It was quite a successful show but of course we suffered heavily as per usual. I lost 2 officers from “A” Company, then I got hit, leaving only one with the company up to last night. Lieutenant McIntyre, Player, Fitzpatrick hit, and no doubt some more of us will get it. We were to have done a little stunt from the front line last night, was on my way from there to battalion HQ to see the Colonel re the show when I was caught. Heard the shell coming and took a flying dive into a shell hole but it was too quick for me. Had several other narrow escapes before I got there, it was a most exciting passage, with the leg getting sore and stiff. Wanted the Colonel to let me stay for the show, but the Doc would not hear of it. He was frightened of the thing going septic so I had to go off. Have not had a wash or a shave for a week, have a beautiful beard and feeling very grubby. Hope to get a nice hot bath at Boulogne, a 12 hour journey from here, and a nice clean bed. Suppose I shall have to spend the usual £20 or so on clothes etc. Goodness knows when I shall get my valise, have only the dirty, muddy clothes which I wear with me. However, one must not growl, better to be born lucky than rich. I certainly have been most fortunate so far, cannot

179 make out why I have not been killed 6 times over if it were possible, but a Dad says “Whom the Gods love die young”. However, expect there will be lots of time yet to get it properly.

The war looks as if it might go for another five years yet, although Fritz is getting the wind up properly. I reckon if the artillery would only cut out we would walk through him quick and lively. There are a whole lot of Germans buried in a cellar at Messines. We heard them tapping and started to dig for them, until they started shelling like the devil. We then dropped a message over their line by aeroplane, telling him we were trying to release his men at Messines if he did not shell it. However, he must have thought we were pulling his foot, for he continued to shell, so that those poor beggars will just have to die of starvation etc, a horrible lingering death. Still, it is their own fault. Having been caught for once in one of their deep cellar stunts. Of course the country is changed, the shelling being tremendous.

Thursday 14th June: * Prevailed upon the Doc at the last clearing station not to send me to the base, so am here at an officers’ rest house at La Motte, about 3 miles out from Hazebrouck. It is a most beautiful place, a large house, acres of gorgeous grounds around it, a young river running through them. Tennis courts, swimming, boating, billiards, excellent food and everything most comfortable. It is certainly one of the most beautiful places I have ever been in or seen. Some Baroness owns the place and has given it for an officers’ rest home. The Doc here has seen my leg and says he does not think there is anything in it, but is making arrangements to have it X-rayed. Then, if necessary, shall have the piece removed, but it is feeling pretty good this morning, and if it goes on at this rate, shall be quite all right again in about ten days.

Photo 69. Chateau de la Motte au Bois Source: Hazebrouck Tourist Bureau 180

There are about 24 officers here, New Zealand, Australian and English fellows, who just want a week’s spell or so to set them right. The place is run by New Zealanders, who are a great lot of chaps. Nearly forgot to mention, I received a parcel the other day containing tobacco, socks, scarf, from Mrs Whiting etc, for which many thanks. Shall write and thank Mrs W first opportunity. Am not cabling you this time about being wounded, it is so slight. If you hear from the military, which I doubt, don’t be scared, it is just a scratch this time. Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

* Chateau de la Motte au Bois in the Forest of Nieppe near Hazebrouck, Flanders, was owned by Baroness Ernest de la Grange. The 1st Anzac Corps established its headquarters here upon its arrival in France. The Germans almost reached the chateau in their offensive of April 1918, but their advance was halted by the 1st Australian Division. The Chateau was never more than 16 km behind the front lines, but the Baroness refused to leave until 1918. She was referred to affectionately as "The Mother Of The British Army."

Tuesday 19/6/1917 2nd Anzac Rest House La Motte, France

My dear Mum,

Still here and feeling tip top again. Leg just a little sore and stiff but nothing to write home about. Expect to be quite all right again in a couple of days. Shall leave here about next Thursday and rejoin the battalion who are now out of the line for a month. I believe they are at a place about 12 miles (20 km) from here, hope to get there in a car from here.

Am having a splendid loaf, do some reading, swimming, bridge, an occasional trip to Hazebrouck which is not a bad town. Then the food is excellent here, 4 course dinner at night, Burgundy and port wine to boot, so that everything in the garden is lovely. We are having quite Australian weather, hot as the devil, for all the world like February in Sydney. You know only too well what that is like. Some of the English officers here feel it muchly

Expect there must be some mail for me somewhere, have not had any for some time. Shall be glad to receive it. Lots of love to all, Bob.

PS. Is Nana still in London? Expect he is about due to return. His battalion caught it rough in this last stunt, however it is about time they did something for their living, they have been rather lucky to date.

Thursday 21/6/1917 2nd Anzac Rest House La Motte, France

My dear Mum,

Just a line to let you know I am leaving here tomorrow and should be back with the battalion the same day. Whether they are in the line or not, I don’t know, but they are close up, so if 181 not actually in will be at it again very shortly. Wonder what it will be for me this time. Afraid one cannot go on being so lucky indefinitely, however that remains to be seen. The leg is all right again, can just feel it at times, the little piece of stuff buried in some muscle presses on same when the leg is in certain positions, no inconvenience caused though. If I have occasion to go to hospital at some future date shall probably get it taken out.

Have had a lovely ten days rest here, very comfortable, good food, plenty of tennis, bridge, swimming, billiards. This would do me for the duration but of course one must go and do a bit more. Expect to have some mail waiting for me on my return, have had non for nearly a month. Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

Monday 25/6/1917 Regina Camp Bailleul, Belgium

My dear Mum,

Arrived back with the battalion last Saturday night from La Motte. We are close to the line doing fatigue work which is all right except we are working under shell fire and usually lose a few men each day. The Colonel and Captain Murray have been very decent to me, will not let me do anything except go and play cricket. Want me to rest the leg and have a good spell while we have the chance. We are leading for the cricket cup, having a good game against the 4th Field Ambulance yesterday, whom we beat by 20 runs with 10 minutes to go. Started at 4:30 pm and finished at 8:30 pm when it was quite light. We meet the 16th Battalion next Wednesday if not in the line again by that time.

It is indeed funny and most exciting playing cricket with guns going off and shells flying unpleasantly close at times. Humphrey Browning is back again with the battalion and several other officers so we are fairly well off in that respect at present. No doubt lots of us will go shortly, we expect a lot of heavy work in the near future whether if ever this awful business is going to stop.

Harry Murray saw Len while he was across in England visiting the Henleys at the Windsor Hotel. Told me he was OK, had his star up and I guess swanking in London generally. Unfortunately expect he will be across here again shortly, hope to goodness his luck sticks to him. Toby Barton’s brother who has just received his commission and re-joined the 45th was killed in the last stunt. It’s rotten for his mother, both boys gone now.

Well I have to go and get the team practising for the next match, also a lot of letters to censor, also some bridge to play. Everyone is back from work, having started at 3 am this morning.

Best love to all, Bob.

PS. Bad luck, missing my last mail, it has been sent on to England, but hope same comes back eventually.

182

Tuesday 17/7/1917 Seule Camp Near Bailleul, France

My dear Mum,

Have just come out of the line again and am glad to say did not get another knock. Expect to be out about a month then at it again with what degree of luck remains to be seen as far as I am concerned. Am still running “A” Company and of course am a very busy man finding little time to write letters. Have tons of news more or less but will mention it briefly. Sorry I did not cable about being wounded in the Messines show. See it was published in the English papers. However I am quite all right again, was only away for 10 days. Saw Nana the other day, he had just returned to hid battalion, looking very well with his commission. We had a long yarn and no doubt he has told you all about his experiences in London. Since seeing him I heard he has been wounded slightly and went away from the battalion but should be back again very shortly. Divine Providence has indeed looked after both to date in a wonderful manner.

Image 16. Congratulatory card from GOC 4th Australia Division Source: AWM2016.30.1 Henderson awards

Expect that you will have heard that I have received the Military Cross for valour in the field, shall enclose a bit of the ribbon I wear. General Godley presented me with my ribbon the other day, felt quite a head, he said all sorts of nice things. Then first time I get to London if lucky enough again shall interview cousin George and receive my medal.

183

Image 17. Citation for Bob’s MC, awarded 25th Aug 1917 Source: AWM2016.30.1 Henderson awards

Received 3 or 4 letters a couple of days ago. All dated April. Glad to hear from everyone and that everything is right. Am writing to the Bank of NSW London to transfer another £100 to my account there. Have a sort of feeling that I may get to London again and if so one must have money there. Think my account in Sydney will stand it.

Had a great cricket match against the 15th Battalion last Sunday afternoon. We had a 3 point win. I got 26 first innings and 20 not out in second. Play the 14th Battalion tomorrow afternoon and if lucky enough to win shall add another cup to the battalion’s large list of trophies which is bosker. The Colonel and everyone take a big interest in these brigade sports, gives us time off for practice etc. Comes and sees all the games and is very pleased of course when we do well. Had a practice this afternoon but had to knock off on account of shrapnel being sent over from Fritz. Feel sure no sport will satisfy me in the future unless there is some excitement from shelling or fireworks of some description.

Well my dear shall have to knock off now, will write again soon, lots of love to all, 184

Bob.

Wednesday 25/7/1917 Steentje Near Bailleul, France

My dear Mum,

Am very busy as per usual. It is raining cats and dogs today so have snatched a few minutes to write. We are in exactly the same billets as we were when we arrived in France last year, and strange to say I have the same bed, same room etc. It is a great little spot. We expect to move again in about another week for some more fighting.

Officers of “D” Company invited me to dinner the other night, am enclosing the menu. We had a great evening. They have one of the chefs from the Union Club, Sydney, in the company so you can imagine we had some dinner.

While out on a route march the other day I met Glen Satchell, had a yarn to him. He came down to dinner last night, after which we had some bridge and discussed old times generally. The CO, Captain Murray and myself are dining with him tonight at the 1st Australian CCS about 2 miles from us here. It is great running into these chaps again.

Nana and Teddy Cornish came over to see me a couple of days ago. Nana is quite all right again and is Intelligence Officer for the 45th Battalion. Some job attached to battalion HQ. Looks after maps, marks positions on same, arranges billets etc, all that sort of work. Much safer than a platoon commander.

Paris leave has started, 5 days for a limited number of officers and men. As soon as I get some money across will try and get 5 days off, probably after the next stunt if lucky enough to get through. Am very keen to see Paris.

Last Sunday afternoon Captain Davis, Des Wallack and self rode into a fair-sized town (Cassel?) about 12 miles from here. We had a great time, afternoon tea with some girls who could play and dance to perfection, drink the good fizz and smoke the coffin nail with great gusto, a most entertaining afternoon I can assure you. These changes are about the only things to take one’s mind off this soldiering, with its accompanying worries and responsibilities.

War news very rotten this morning. As far as Russia is concerned they seem to be fut (expression learned in England), up the pole in other words. Looks as if there will be no ending to this war for a very long time. To me, however, what’s the use of worrying.

Shall write again soon, love to all, Bob.

Sunday 29/7/1917 Steentje Near Bailleul, France

My dear Mum, 185

Received quite a decent mail yesterday. One letter from you, one from Mick, one from Lorna, one from Billy Bull, one from Lucy Cowdery, all dated 28th May. It was great hearing all the news. When I will be able answer them all, goodness only knows. Do not seem to have any time at all for writing letters these days, however always try to write home at least once a week and let the others rip. Any spare time I have is taken up by riding out to get a decent bath or chasing around to see Nana or some of the boys, or perhaps playing cricket for the battalion, coaching the boys etc, and occasionally a little dinner and bridge party at one of the other company messes. All this with preparing lectures for officers and senior NCOs (I have one next Tuesday on the Training of Bombers), and the training and running of a company of men does not leave very much time to oneself.

Am enclosing the menu of a little dinner we gave the other night to the other company commanders of the battalion. It was quite a good effort. I invited Glen Satchell and another Doc but they were unable to come. They took a walk across last night and we had some bridge.

Nana sent word across he was coming over to see me this afternoon but as I have to go about 5 miles to attend a lecture at 4 pm, also another one at 5 pm. Expect I shall miss him, which will be rotten luck.

It was very wet the other afternoon so decided to run a concert in a barn where the company is billeted. All done on the spur of the moment. Took the gramophone across, you would have been surprised at the talent shown. We had great fun. The boys enjoyed it immensely.

Received a reply from Bank NSW London who have cabled for £100 to be transferred to my account there and charged my account with the cost of same, 19/6d, also telling me when they receive a reply they will notify me. Do not want the money at present but think it is a good idea to have some money on this side of the world in case. One never knows what will happen these times. If I get properly banged one of these times do not forget there might be some money to my credit in London which could then go back to Australia.

You want to know more about the little girl in England, but it is not worth while Mum. Do not think I was or am in love with her. She only interested me while in London, same as many others there. Major Marks is doing splendidly and should be back with the battalion any time now. Captain Murray’s promotion to Major has just come through so expect you will see me a budding Captain one of these fine days.

Well Mum I might ramble on indefinitely but believe me time will not allow. Am feeling quite OK . The mouth and teeth trouble me occasionally but have had no trouble to date with both wounds. Lots of love to all, am very tired of this business and if it is to be shall be very glad to get back again as soon as possible, Bob.

Sunday 12/8/1917 In the trenches (Messines)

My dear Mum,

186

Am at present in my dugout, very busy and of course very worried. We are not having too good a time. Major Pulling wounded last night, the Colonel today besides several others. Harry Murray in charge of the battalion at present. The mosquitos are nearly eating me alive. Waiting for certain things to happen so thought I would just drop you a line. Mails from Australia seem to go to the bottom regularly so of course we lose our home mail, however it cannot be helped. Am miles behind in my letter writing, seem to get so little time these days. Am still running “A” Company and expect my Captaincy through any day now. Will be quite a big bug, will sound some class: Captain R J Henderson MC, what do you think? Of course extra responsibility, worry and trouble. Still one will try and do one’s bit, still with a certain amount of common sense and ability I hope.

Had a letter from Hope Davies the other day, poor little girl is very upset I have not written to her. Thinks I am annoyed with her or something silly like that. However, wrote her a note and said all sorts of nice things.

Nana I fancy will be in the line. Last time I saw him everything was right. Paris leave is open, shall try and get 5 days off at first opportunity to visit that city. £100 has arrived in London and placed to my credit at the Bank NSW there, so should be set for a while. Many reports etc have just come in which I shall have to attend to right away. You may not believe it but much shell fire, machine-gun fire is falling all around. Still, why worry, getting used to it now. Love to all, Bob.

PS am enclosing a piece of poetry one of my chaps made up on the spur of the moment while having a concert in a barn during a wet afternoon just before coming into the line this time. Wounds are all Jacques, feeling quite OK and fit. Still going strong and all right in this stunt to date but lots of time to go yet.

A Concert in France 25/7/17:

1. Just a concert in a barn Somewhere out in France, One man tells a yarn For there’s no room to dance.

2. Another says something about A “toe-rag in the stew” It makes everyone shout From the Captain to the crew

3. Fighting Harry is there, Bob Henderson’s there too Dan Sheahan’s done his share With “the toe-rag in the stew”

4. This is how the day was spent And that’s how fun was made Instead of with our shoulders bent And a route march as parade. LCpl W L Blow.

187

Sunday 19/8/1917 Belgium (Dranoutre)

My dear Mum,

Have just received a letter from you, also one from Jane, both dated 3rd June. This is the first news I have heard for a long time and of course was right glad to hear all the news. Have been out of the line 5 days and we are off in again tomorrow night which of course is no good but I suppose must be done. However we hope to get on all right. Am trusting I shall, for when out again am looking forward to Blighty or Paris leave. Shall probably go back to the good London again. Have been going strong for the last five months except for 10 days when wounded at Messines so am feeling rather tired and sick of the whole show.

Was up at 2:30 am this morning, rode about 8 miles, walked for another hour, in connection with some work which had to be done. Then of course lots of one’s ordinary work to do when getting back about 9 am so am very bad-tempered and the sore king at present, especially as I have to attend an officers’ meeting at 7:30 pm and when trying to sleep this afternoon people would worry one with returns etc. Afraid I am becoming a proper growler these days but believe me one has some cause to at times.

Well my dear, just about to consume some dinner. Glad to hear everything is OK at home. Shall write again when out of the line in about six days’ time. Love to all, Bob.

188

France - Lisbourg

Map 20. 13th Battalion moves Bailleul (Jul) - Dranoutre (Aug) – Lisbourg (Sep) Map compiled by D G Jones

189

Wednesday 5/9/1917 France (Lisbourg)

My dear Mum,

Have just received the cable sent from home containing congratulations, I presume of course for the MC honour. Thank you all for the congrats. Of course it’s all a matter of luck and good fortune, and after all a bloke is only trying to do the job he left home, comforts etc to do.

Afraid I have been very slack with my letter writing, both home and to other people, but we have been very busy and working hard for the past couple of months, in and out of the line the whole time. Have just come out and nicely settled down, as we thought for about 2 months rest and training, but alas no, we will be here for about 3 weeks only now, and then are to be in another large stunt. From what I can see, similar to the Somme about this time last year. Am getting full of these hopovers, not for myself but for all these chaps under one’s care. When you come to think of it, it is a huge responsibility to take a company into action, and of course officers and men must be killed and wounded etc. The whole show is rotten.

We are in a delightful spot at present, about 40 miles behind the line, no bombs or aircraft. Now the country is looking splendid, it is great out on route marches etc, especially if you are riding. Quite hot stuff these days, being a mounted officer, having my own horse, groom etc, and when booted and spurred, believe me am some swank.

As far as “A” Company is concerned, we are very comfortable, 5 officers living together on a farm surrounded by the most beautiful paddocks, hedges, orchards etc. The people are great tricks, they cannot speak a word of English, but we manage to get plenty of butter, milk, eggs, poultry, vegetables etc from them, so that in the little spare time that does occur we live well and knock out quite a bit of fun. Of course we are terribly busy as far as officers are concerned, working up for this stunt, arranging cricket, football, boxing etc for the boys. Then of course officers’ meetings and the 100 and 1 things that require attention. Give me the life of a private every time, do your bit of drill, fighting etc, then you are finished. One is never finished as an officer, especially running a company. However, it is all good experience. In any case it is no good growling, but just battle along and carry on until put out of action.

What do you think of this for stiffness? Am just due for leave either to England or Paris and expected to get away any day now, when news has just come along that for the present, all leave is cancelled, so that now I expect that one will have to wait until after the stunt if lucky enough to pull through.

Major Marks is back again with the battalion and is at present in command during the Colonel’s absence in England wounded. He seems quite all right again and certainly not like a man who everyone expected would die on account of the wounds received. It is indeed marvellous how men get over these things and buck up enough courage to have another go.

Had a letter from Millie Henley, the family are all well. Her father is at Havre and expects to visit the battalion if possible, so expect to see him any day. Have not heard anything of Nana for some time. Hope he is quite all right. Also hope to run into him sooner or later. Last time 190

I saw him was when we were in support, just behind the line. He was quite all right then. Lots of love to all, will write again soon, Bob.

Saturday 8/9/1917 France (Lisbourg)

My dear Mum,

It is Saturday night. We have had a strenuous day’s training and no officers’ meeting with the CO tonight so that I have gone mad and actually written about 6 short letters notwithstanding I could ill afford the time. Must tell you this little joke. Had the company out doing some shooting in one of the fields this morning when one of the chap’s rifles went off while practising rapid fire. It was a very close shave to the brigadier who had just blown on to the scene but fortunately no damage was done. He asked me if I wished to get him out of the road, in a joke. I told him no, but as time was short for training and facilities as far as safeness was concerned poor me just took a risk. He laughed and later sent through word to the CO that he was very satisfied with the work being done and thought the musketry practice grand. One handles bombs, rifles, explosives of all kinds these days without worrying much about the dangers attached. Case of familiarity breeds contempt I expect.

Wrote a few lines to you the other day but have now forgotten what I said. Will be here about another week, which is to be a very strenuous one as far as work is concerned, then expect to move on and participate in the show which is about to take place. Rather stiff luck for me, expect I shall not be able to get my leave now which is about due. If it comes off, cannot decide whether to go to London or Paris, the former because I know the ropes and how to have a really good time, the latter because it would be a change and most interesting. However shall let you know later if the Hun is agreeable.

Oh, nearly forgot to tell you that I have been promoted to the rank of Captain. Of course, having had charge of a company for the last 3 months, have had a horse, groom etc which I use to some purpose. Tell Mick he should see me swanking at times, with riding boots, spurs etc. You had better send Jane across to London, then I should be able to take her for a ride in “Rotten Row” and perchance introduce her to some of my Dukes, Countesses etc, or if the Serpentine happened to be frozen we might have a young skate during an interval, does that not sound interesting?

Arranged with “D” Company to play them football yesterday afternoon. Marked out the ground with signal flags, arranged with the company cooks for afternoon tea, had the band, so that it was a la cricket ground. And although beaten it was a hard, keen, interesting game throughout. The boys enjoyed it thoroughly. There is nothing like these games to keep them hard and fit for the most strenuous work that is always on hand.

As far as I remember, said in last letter I received your cable that said congrats. Am feeling real fit except for a very bad cold. Hope I can shake it off before the winter sets in. Am not looking forward to it much but of course must take things as they come. One may get another crack and put it in in England again. Who knows? One must just take things as they come. Lots of love to all, Bob.

191

Sunday 16/9/1917 France (Lisbourg)

My dear Mum,

Received letters from Mick, you and Jane dated 10th July, 8th July and 7th July respectively and very glad to get them and hear all the news. Sorry you were worried about the bit of a wound I received at Messines but would have cabled if I had had the opportunity. As a matter of fact did not think my name would appear in the casualty lists at all. However, trust that you have received previous letters telling you all about it.

We are leaving here tomorrow on the upward journey once more so expect we will be well at it again shortly. Fortunately or unfortunately I shall probably be left out this time and in all probability will be in England on leave, what sort of luck is that? You see we are bound by orders to leave among others two company commanders out, and as I have been in everything since re-joining it is about up to me, the CO says. Bomb Wells is the other one. Of course I don’t want it, would sooner go in and have done with it. However, on the other hand feel a spell from a show will do me no harm. In any case shall let you know later. One never knows what will happen in a week’s time these days. If lucky enough to get to England shortly shall cable to you from there and let you know I am on leave.

Have forgotten whether I told you in last letter that I am a Captain now and of course full of swank in consequence. Yet it means a lot of work, worry and responsibility extra.

We had a great regimental dinner the other night here. I am enclosing the menu. It was quite a swank affair. The brigadier, divisional commander and all the heads were invited. Tubby (Major Allen) of the 45th was present. He was telling me all about Nana, how well he was getting on, and what a great deal they all thought of him. Then he added “But of course he is a Henderson so that enough has been said”. It is great hearing such good news about him and know you will all be pleased to hear it.

Had a great afternoon today. The morning till 11 o’clock Church Parade, then a conference with the “Brig”, and in the afternoon rode across to the 4th Field Ambulance billets, where we played them cricket. The country around here is simply wonderful. You would simply love it. The whole place is simply a picture. The 4th Field had a great piece of ground. Then we had our band, a good afternoon tea with plenty of whisky and soda. We were beaten but had a real good game. I scored in the first innings but got going in the 2nd and made 46. Of course saw the good Rupert (Major Furber), Major Welch and all the boys, so you can imagine we all had a great afternoon.

The battalion has just got another good cup to its credit, winning the brigade boxing competition just completed. Our tables look fine these days with our many cups displayed etc. Received a letter from Dag and Billy Bull. Shall answer both at first opportunity. Shall also write home again soon to Mick or Jane. Lots of love to all, Bob.

PS. Am feeling Jacques and looking forward to a great holiday in Blighty in the near future. Have £100 there in the bank not yet touched. Paris leave is suspended at present but might be lucky enough to get there eventually. Nothing like backing up and seeing all you can. What do you think? 192

London on Leave

Sunday 23/9/1917 The Carlyle Club, 211 Piccadilly, London

My dear Mum,

Have just arrived here for 10 days leave. Had a great trip across, coming with Lt McDowell of the 13th, he is a great kid. Had some hours in Boulogne on the way, and believe me, we had some time. Leaving London on 6th October again for France. The CO at present, Major Marks MC, was very good to us, giving us two extra days with a free pass to Orkney Islands, which of course will take us direct to anywhere in England or Scotland. Mac is off to Scotland tomorrow night. I am thinking of going to Liverpool to see the good Hope but do not know if I shall be able to tear myself away from London yet. However, that remains to be seen. Shall have a look around London tomorrow and try and buy some decent present to send home for Xmas. Hope you get it all right. Shall also cable from here tomorrow telling you I am on leave and I am OK. Most fortunate this time, the battalion have just gone into action and I have just come on leave. Very nice too. Still I have been in everything since re-joining so deserve a rest. Must try and see George and get my MC presented this trip. Of course shall be very busy having a good time and seeing people. Alas the time is too short.

Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

Wednesday 26/9/1917 Regent Palace Hotel, Piccadilly Circus, London

My dear Mum,

Once again in London having until 6th October leave. Of course am having the time of my life. Already I must be a Jonah, the bombs seem to follow me from France, there being an air raid on London last night. It was great fun to me to see the people make for the Tube etc. Some of them got very excited. Personally I felt very safe, this will always do me.

Passing Libertys yesterday I dropped in and bought a leather blotter which I think you will admire and like. The hand tool work on the leather seemed exquisite to me. Still, I am no judge. Trust you will get it all right and somewhere about Xmas time.

As soon as I can get some clothes made, about Wednesday shall probably take a trip to Liverpool for about 2 days to see the good Hope, then I want to go to Scotland, also have all the Countesses etc to look up. Shall be simply going like mad for the next ten days. Am looking up the Henleys today.

Have met a lot of my old friends again at the Carlyle Club etc, it is great seeing them all again, going to the theatres, dinners etc. Only wish there were 48 hours in a day and 148 hours in a night while here. However shall make the best of my time and take full advantage of it.

193

Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

Saturday 29/9/1917 Midland Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool

My dear Mum,

Am spending a couple of days in Liverpool giving the good Hope a fly around. She is quite a nice kid and certainly enjoys being taken around and a good time. Yesterday we went down to Southport, coming back here for dinner, after which we went to the theatre. Of course Liverpool is funny more or less after London. The docks, shipping etc are indeed wonderful. Called on Mrs Davies also Mrs Fabert (Auntie May) as per usual said all sorts of mad things to them. Told them I had all the pernicious habits, drank, swore, went to races etc, so do not know what they think. Still it is good fun. Have one more week yet before my holiday is over on this side. Returning to London tomorrow. Have not yet decided whether I shall go to Scotland, shall probably find London too fascinating.

Have had no mail from Australia for some time now. Expect and hope there will be some for me when back with the battalion. Am wondering how they got on in this recent push, suppose the usual thing: many casualties, however I hope not. Expect I am most fortunate really, missing this show. In any case, there will be plenty more. Looks as if the war will go for another 3 years or so, today’s beautiful thought. Of course am having a ripping the time and making the best of my holiday. It will be a case of going back to France for a rest I am afraid.

Shall drop a line again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

Wednesday 3/10/1917 The Royal Overseas Officers Club at the RAC, Pall Mall, London

My dear Mum,

Very distressing news late last night. A wire from the battalion telling me to return at once. Rotten luck having to go back at such short notice and in the middle of one’s holiday. Am leaving here at 11:50 today for France to rejoin the battalion. Trust they have not had too bad a time although it looks very much like it to me. Had a very nice letter from Colonel Durrant who is in Scotland, telling me to take two extra days leave and he would probably see me in London before I returned, however, that is knocked in the head now. Was going to do all sorts of nice things in the next few days. Still, it is all in the game, and one is getting too old these days to let a little disappointment like this worry one.

Shall write a decent letter when I have time. Just off to see Millie Henley and then on to the train. Lots of love to all, Bob.

194

France – in Reserve

Map 21. 13th Battalion billets and camps in Oct 1917 Map compiled by D G Jones

Sunday 7/10/1917 13th Battalion AIF France (Steenvorde)

My dear Mum,

What do you think if this flash paper? Picked it up in the Orderly Room. Received a nice lot of letters when I returned from leave, from you, Jane, Lorna, Auntie Polly, Lucy, Dan, Billy, which were great. Also a parcel containing cake, tobacco, sweets, sugar, for which many thanks. Fancy I get about one in every half dozen you send but it cannot be helped. My leave was not up really in London until tomorrow but was recalled last Wednesday. There is 195 nothing seriously wrong but we are expecting a big show to come off shortly again and all officers were wanted, so there you are and this sort of thing is all in the game.

Have just returned from Church which we held in a paddock. It rained and was bitterly cold so that I can assure you the service was far from being interesting. Afraid all the good weather has left us for the next six months or so. It has been cold and wet ever since I have returned.

Simply had a splendid time while in England. The weather perfect, fine and warm the whole time, with beautiful moonlight nights every night. I was in London when air raids from the Hun took place. The bombs seem to follow one up. They are very nasty things and inestimable number of live were lost and damage was done. No doubt you read all about them in the papers.

Have not seen Nana yet but know he is kicking around here somewhere and quite well. Colonel Marks and Major Murray were at dinner with the 45th the other night and told me he was quite OK.

Well my dear, no more news at present. The war news is excellent at present and perhaps another 2 to 3 years at this rate may end all this business, who knows? Lots of love to all also a very Merry Xmas and a Bright new Year to everyone. Hope you receive the little parcel I sent you from Liberty’s OK. Bob

Friday 26/10/1917 France (Reninghelst)

My dear Jane,

Received 4 letters last night, one from you, Mum, Dags and Lorna, all about the first week of September. Of course you all said many nice things about me. I have quite a swollen head after reading them. Thanks muchly Jane for the parcel you sent along, biscuits, sugar, tobacco etc. Everything was very nice. You might cut out the sugar though. We have plenty in France and the army has no difficulty in obtaining plenty. It is in London and the civil population who cannot get it.

While on leave in England had my photo taken with Hope Davies for a joke you know, 3 for 5/- effort. She sent me one along and wants to know if she sends one home if anyone will be jealous. I assured her about that and told her I would be pleased if she would let you have one, they are not bad, quite a good one of Hope. She is very good, sends papers etc over regularly. Of course there is nothing doing although I have lots of fun with these girls. Said she was going to write to Mum and say I was a very bad boy but a dear.

We have not got much money Jane but we have a good time when the opportunity presents itself. Well we have just been through another show and had a fairly rough time. Am feeling any old how, got rather a rough time from gas, no voice, blistered etc. May have to go away yet. However we are on our way back for a good long rest now which is badly needed by us all. Hope to have Xmas out of the line but it is hard to say.

196

Have not seen Len for some time. Ran into the 45th yesterday but he was away at some sniping school so missed him, hope to see him again soon. He is all right and was not in this last show. It is very wet and muddy and getting damned cold over here now so suppose a few rough months are ahead of us.

Tickled to death about Eileen O’Brien. A cutting from the Bulletin was sent to me from England about it. Shall enclose it although you probably have seen it. Am just off on the horse for a bath which is muchly needed. Shall write again soon when we settle down again.

Lots of love to all, Bob.

Tuesday 30/10/1917 France (Fontaine-les-Boulans)

My dear Mum,

Have at last arrived at our destination for the time being where we hope to remain for 6 weeks or so, if lucky for Xmas. It is a quaint little village, 150 inhabitants in peace time, no shops, no anything, so that it is very quiet and peaceful. However we will liven it up a bit, starting a Canteen YMCA tent, rifle range, sports etc so that when we get fixed up it should be comfortable enough here and a good rest obtained. Am still feeling rotten, have no voice yet and generally dopey from the effects of gas in the recent operations. We are having hard frost every morning now, and plenty of wet weather, which is pretty miserable. Still I have a large fire in my room and made things as comfortable as possible under the circumstances.

Have been going to jump on my horse and look Nana up for the past couple of days but the weather has been so cold and wet I have not had a chance. Do not know where the 45th are but they should be anywhere within a 10-mile radius of here.

We shall be very busy here training, starting all sorts of competitions, football, shooting, brigade sports etc of all descriptions. Hope to hand off some more cups. Colonel Durrant arrived back yesterday, he has been away since second time in at Messines where he was wounded. It is very nice seeing him back. Doug Marks has been running the battalion for some time and an excellent CO he has been. He is off to the South of France for a spell. Expect he will come back as second-in-command.

Am sending three photographs, one of Harry Murray, one of Sam Davis our worthy Adjutant and a very fine chap, and the one I had taken with Hope Davies at Liverpool. Hope they reach you all right. I value the one of Major Murray muchly, it is an excellent photo, should be glad if you get it framed. His autograph and photo are worth having seen with his decorations and fighting experience are rare although there are many at the game these days. Can’t say that I know any officers by the name of McMaster yet the name is quite familiar to me. Of course I know Linden Brown well, these days he lives with the Hon Mrs Edwardes in London in connection with the Red Cross and gives all wounded officers or those on leave of the AIF an excellent time. He is a great sport, many a wild night I have had with him in London. Mum you are funny talking about being venturesome, why the whole game is that. One cannot help it if you want to get your work done. For instance while holding the front line last time in, at a certain time on a certain day I decided to go out in front and lay a tape for the men to erect some wiring about 100 yards in front of the company’s sector, 197 the work to be done at night, the tape being for distance, direction etc. Well during the afternoon word came through the Huns were attacking on the left etc. This would have made the job awkward, still it had to be done and was done. In fact I had a beautiful roam around. No Man’s Land, it was quite interesting and exciting as a matter of fact. The Hun did not worry us at all that day, still he may have. It is all a matter of luck you know. One is just as liable to be bombed in a back area and getting it in the front. Still believe me I’m not looking for VCs or anything like that and am always as careful as possible.

Give my love to Gracie and tell her the further she is away the better I like her. Started this letter in ink to be flash but the old pen has run out so that settled the flashness. Hope you receive the present I sent along from London in due course, expect you will all right. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Friday 9/11/1917 France (Fontaine-les-Boulans)

Dear Mick,

Have just received a nice long letter from you dated 17th August. Where it has been, goodness only knows, however better late than never. Sorry to hear they plucked you in your exam as you say, they must have had a rough night or something. Never mind, you will club the next one all right.

Had rather a good day yesterday. Went with our football team about 20 miles from here to some Australian Flying Corps chaps’ camp. They gave us a great day. Of course they got a by towelling up at football but we have some team these days and hope to win the cup again this year. Our first competition match takes place next Saturday against the Machine Gun Company. Everyone is very keen. The Flying Corps chaps are very comfortable, a fine mess and bar, nice huts to live in etc. They showed us all the machines etc and promised to take me up one day. The whole day was very interesting.

Have been playing a lot of bridge lately, nearly every night. We have some great games at times. Usual stakes 1 franc per 100, it just makes a nice game.

Big brigade sports coming off very soon now. Very busy training, musketry etc. In connection with same the programme is most interesting. I shall save it for you. We are all feeling much better for the quiet rest we are having here in this little village. If the weather was only decent it would be fine but it blows, raining and is cold, always mud and mud. One gets very full of it all.

Have not seen Nana for quite a long while but think he is quite all right. He is almost 15 kilos from here but have not had an opportunity of looking him up yet. Shall take a ride over one of these days.

Well old cock, news very scarce, still going strong. Plenty of hard fighting to do yet by the look of things but expect we will get home some day in the next ten years if they do not kill us. Love to all, Bob

198

Wednesday 14/11/1917 France (Fontaine-les-Boulans)

My dear Mum,

Have just received 8 letters from Australia: 2 from you 17th and 27th Sept, 2 from Lorna 27th and 24th Sept, 1 from Mick 12th Sept, 1 from Jane 24th Sept, 1 from Dag 25th Sept, 1 from Lucy 24th Sept and all very nice. They make the first Australian mail received for about a month. It was great getting all the news. It is rotten those boats going down, may have given you all sorts of interesting news in the letters that are lost. One’s letter writing is very patchy these days, however it cannot be helped. Received the parcel OK with socks, tobacco. The tobacco was very acceptable. Also received a parcel from Elsie Henley with socks, skull cap and pipe, also one from Hope Davies containing 300 cigarettes. She also sends me a large bundle of English papers each week: Times, Tatler, London Opinion, Passing Show, Sketch etc. It is great getting all these papers although I tell her not to be spending all her money on me etc.

Glad to hear Ralph Kell returned safely, he will be able to give you all sorts of interesting news about everything and everybody. If still going in another six months or so am thinking of applying for a trip home myself. Am well fed up of all this. The trouble is to get a decent excuse, weak heart, eldest boy in family, parents ill or what shall I say, am not feeling too good, and believe the trick might be worked without science of course. Shall think the matter over.

Had a great night at bridge last night. Hamish Browning and self playing Des Wallack and the Doc. We could not go wrong. Ended up winning 30 francs at one franc per 100. Rate of exchange at present is 5 francs = 3/8d.

This afternoon we play the second competition football against the 15th Battalion. If we can win we consider the cup ours. They are a Queensland battalion and of course all pretty hot stuff. We have a sweep with 150 francs going in the mess. I am also looking for a 50 franc bet with any of the 15th officers. We have an excellent team and expect to win. It should be a great match and excitement should be at fever pitch with about 4 battalions barracking etc.

Last Sunday afternoon Captain Wallach (Des), Captain Kellaway MC (Dada the Doc) and myself rode to a decent little town about 8 miles from here. Dada said at dinner on Sunday: “Get your horse and come for a ride. I will introduce you to a nice little French lass“. Of course that always did me so Des and self went along, had a meal, good dinner, several bottles of champagne with the lass and finally cut the Doc out. It was great fun, we had a very lively afternoon, galloped all the way home, how we stuck on the horses search me. Came back to the mess and of course had to tell them all about the afternoon. The Doc sauntered up to bed, the champagne effects no doubt, so the Colonel, Major Murray, Des and self went up and pulled him out of bed. Roars of delight from him. We have some great fun at times.

One of our officers saw Nana a couple of days ago. He was returning to his battalion from a school, looking well and quite OK. We are moving further back very shortly now. All sorts of rumours about a good spell but do not know quite what will happen yet. If so, it will be very nice in lots of ways and of course very rotten in other ways. It might be hard for you to 199 understand but actually fighting and being in the front area has compensations. These set camps back are very regimental, worrying and boring, but of course, same old story, one is never satisfied.

Tell Mick I am becoming quite a lawyer these days, taking Summary of Evidence sitting on Field General Court Martials, Boards of Enquiry, etc. Have to read up Rules of Procedure, Military Law etc. Damned boring it is too, but all good experience. Tell Lorna she is too lucky about the gas, we get it any old time here, beastly stuff it is too. Am still suffering from the effects of it. Glad to hear the strike is over and the government held out. Australia will always be noted for its strikes. I am afraid did not entertain cousin George while in London last. The investiture was full up and I could not wait for the next. However, hope to get another opportunity.

No more news at present, lots of love to all, Bob.

Tuesday 27/11/1917 France (Woincourt)

Map 22. 13th Battalion march 90 km across France to Woincourt Map compiled by D G Jones

My dear Mum,

200

Received letters from you dated 26th Aug and 9th Sept also one from Lorna 27th Aug. These letters must have slipped as I received some dated later some time ago. However the mails are most erratic and one is lucky to receive them at all these days. Have just heard there is a big Australian mail in so expect some letters tomorrow.

We have just completed a 56 mile (90 km) route march which took 8 days and a very interesting and wonderful trip. It was great passing through all the country which was all new to us and very wonderful when you consider that men had to be fed, clothed, paid, billeted etc, just the same as if we were stationary. We had a great trip and everything went off without a hitch. Of course I had a horse to ride all the way which made it all the more enjoyable.

About two days ago we arrived here, which we hope is to be our destination for about 2 to 3 months. At any rate we expect to put Xmas and New Year in here which is of course well back from the line. If this comes off it is the first decent rest we have had from actual fighting for a long long time. Of course there will be lots of work, training etc with the usual worries attached thereto.

Am arranging to give the company a good Xmas dinner. Got the officers to put some money in and collect a couple of francs per man, hire a room etc. Then we have big football matches coming off, musketry and rifle matches etc, so that everyone is training hard.

What do you think of my latest craze – some of us are taking French lessons from the local school teacher, 3 hours per week at ½ franc per lesson. This is not a bad little village. We have a great little company mess room and a bedroom each (the officers of course) with a bed, clean sheets etc. Then the people are very good and do all they can to oblige us. Went out for a ride last Sunday trying to find Nana. Found out where his battalion was all right but did not allow enough time to get there. Shall try and see him at the first opportunity. The trouble is it is the devil’s own job to get away as a company commander. Meetings with the CO and a hundred and one other little things to attend to. Am feeling much better again, have regained my voice and I think generally picking up again. Major Marks is back again from leave. He toured the south of France, had a most gorgeous trip, reckons Blighty is not in it. Monte Carlo, Paris, Nice and such places. Shall have to drag this trip on when next my leave comes along about 4 months hence.

Well my dear shall write again soon and let you know all the news possible. Lots of love to all, Bob.

201

France - Somme

Instead of the promised 2 to 3 months rest near the coast, the 13th Battalion enjoyed a break of only 10 days before being rushed by train from Woincourt to Peronne on the Somme, then a 10 km march to Moislains. The Germans had smashed an attack by General Byng’s Third Army on Cambrai, a key supply depot on the Hindenburg Line. To stem a rout of the fleeing British, the Australians were once again called in to the rescue. This the 12th Brigade achieved, but then had to hold the line through Christmas and the New Year until moved to Bailleul in the Ypres sector on 10th Jan 1918.

Map 23. 13th Battalion route from Woincourt to Moislains, 5th Dec 1917 Map compiled by D G Jones

Saturday 8/12/1917 France (Moislains, Somme)

My dear Mum,

Received letters from home the other day, one from Mick dated 2nd Oct, two from Lorna one not dated the other 14/10/17, one from you Mum 3rd Oct, one from Jane 14th Oct. It is a rotten day, cold, raining, muddy and equally rotten camp, leaky huts, same overcrowded and generally most uncomfortable. We are again in the forward area and expect very shortly there will be lots doing again. We have had no luck, being moved up here from our most comfortable quarters in the last area. Went for a ride yesterday afternoon to see Nana, found his battalion but learned he had just gone across to London for 14 days leave. He is too lucky and no doubt he will have a ripping time. Saw some of the officers of the 45th Battalion, Colonel Perry, Major Allen. Had several wads with them then rolled on to an officers’ club where we had afternoon tea and several more wads.

Just had a letter from Hope Davies in which she tells me her father has passed away. Of course they are all upset but it is a happy release for all concerned apparently. Jacques is an expression we use a lot here, we talk about the troops being Jacques etc. It means OK, everything in the garden is lovely.

202

Absolutely no news in this hole, nothing but cold rain, mud and generally uncomfortable. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Tuesday 18/12/1917 France (Moislains, Somme)

My dear Mum,

It is as cold as the devil, sitting in this hut not far from the front line where we expect to spend this Xmas. It has been snowing heavily for the past couple of days, a very high cold wind blowing and everything frozen. Talk about cold feet. Mick would love it. One fills one’s water bottle, wakes up in the morning for a drink only to find the water frozen. Great fun I don’t think.

We are on the move again tomorrow, further up, which is not a very pleasant thought in this weather. However it is all in the game .

Received a great parcel last night from the Drummoyne Soldiers’ Association (Alex Watt) through the Australian Comforts Fund London. All sorts of nice things which are greatly appreciated. Have just written a note to Alex Watt asking him to convey my thanks to the association.

Played the 45th Battalion at football last Saturday. It was a great game, neither side scoring. Nana is still away on leave but is expected back any day now. Must look him up again as soon as possible. Am enclosing a few snapshots taken over here, places we have been in etc.

No more news at present, lots of love to all, Bob.

Wednesday 26/12/1917 France (Templeux-la-Fosse, Somme)

My dear Mum,

It is snowing like fun, much too heavily to do anything but stay on one’s tent and freeze. Another Xmas has passed on this side of the world and under the circumstances very pleasantly. Although we are just behind the front line, yet we managed to give everyone a good dinner and plenty to drink. A pair of socks, some cigarettes and sweets were also issued to each man from the Comforts Fund. We had roast mutton, roast turkey, plum pudding, prunes and rice, nuts etc for dinner, and whisky, port, sherry and beer to drink. After such a dinner you can imagine the fun we had fighting in the snow. I was in an awful mess, had to thaw in front of a fire for about an hour. Still it was fine sport.

It is rumoured we will be out again for the New Year and if so expect to run big sports and have a real jolly time. There is an officer’s hack race, 4 furlongs, coming off. I am going to ride my pony and guess I shall give them a go for it. Expect Nana is back from leave by this time. Not been able to look him up yet, he is away behind us somewhere. Sure to run across his crowd about the New Year. 203

Absolutely no news for you at present. Shall write again soon, lots of love to all, Bob.

Sunday 6/1/1918 France (Templeux-la-Fosse, Somme)

My dear Mum,

No news, just a line to let you know I am quite all right and still going strong. It is very cold of course plenty of snow and cold winds yet it does not affect me, one simply growls and swears. Cold feet, hands and ears all day and night. We expect to move away from here any day now and no doubt shall be having another crack very shortly.

Do not know what has gone wrong with the Australian mail. We have had no letters for six weeks and the Xmas parcels I expect are still knocking around some of the wharves. However if lucky we may receive them eventually. Have just received a large bundle of English papers from Hope so shall have a good old read tonight. Went to a most interesting lecture last night at a Corps Headquarters. Cannot tell you the subject but it was very fine, given by a civilian, probably something to do with the Secret Service but for flow and command of the English language I have never heard anything to touch him. Sat on a chair for one hour and a half, never once repeated himself and never had a note. It was indeed the finest lecture I have ever heard.

Have not seen Nana yet, having had no opportunity, however expect to see him shortly. Lots of love to all, Bob.

204

Belgium – Ypres Sector

The 4th Australian Division was transferred from Byng’s 3rd Army in the Somme to IX Corps of the 4th Army in the Ypres sector on 6th Jan 1918. On 10th Jan 1918 the 13th Battalion moved by road and rail from the Somme to Bailleul, arriving at 2 am on 11th Jan. At midday the battalion was taken by lorries to Curragh Camp, near Locre, where general training resumed. The area was on the main route to the trenches east of Ypres, and many camps, some bearing Irish names (Curragh, Donegal etc), had been established in 1915. The huts were comfortable and the men kept warm by feeding their stoves with coal “liberated” from the British dumps in the vicinity.

Map 24. Curragh and other camps in the Bailleul-Kemmel area Map compiled by D G Jones. Contour interval 10 metres. 205

Sunday 13/1/1918 France (Curragh Camp, Locre, Ypres sector)

My dear Mum,

Just received a lovely large mail, letters dated Nov 5th, Oct 29th, Oct 22nd, one from Lorna 29th Oct also 3 bosker parcels which were simply great. Also received a large tin of Cadbury chocolate biscuits from Snow Arnott, they were most acceptable. Am enclosing some snaps of some of the battalion officers taken on our last camp in the forward area, just behind the line about Xmas time. Some of them are quite good, have written some particulars on the back of them.

Am very busy tonight doing some work so shall have to defer answering your letters for the present. Will have another shot as soon as possible. Hope you receive these photos OK. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Photo 70. Erecting new huts at Donegal Camp Source: AWM E01310

Monday 14/1/1918 France (Curragh Camp, Locre, Ypres sector)

Dear old Mick, 206

Will write to you this time for a change. Wrote a few lines to Mum last night enclosing a few snaps which will interest you all, but had a lot of work to do which prevented me from carrying on. However shall have another go tonight. First of all, what is all this I hear about Nana being wounded again? There must be some mistake. He is at present in the front line. One of our officers was up there today and saw him hale and hearty, had a yarn to him. I was going up tomorrow for a preliminary reconnaissance and would have seen him but have to send another officer now as General Birtles is coming around and of course OC company’s have to be here. However hope to get away the next day and shall look him up and shall try and get a cable through to you. Fancy the military must have made another ball. It is quite possible we shall be relieving his brigade in the line and they will come where we are at present. “In out, in out, on guard” style you know, but of course you don’t know. That expression comes from bayonet fighting.

Had quite a good time last Sunday after Church Parade. Bomb Wells, Edgar Moseley and self rode into a good-sized town not far from here. We had an excellent lunch, several whiskies and sodas, a good bottle of the Veuve Cliquot 1906 vintage, after which a roam around the town shopping etc. These little outings just about save one’s bacon, especially this rotten cold weather. If lucky enough to get through this next show shall be about due for leave again. I could also get 8 days leave to Paris but cannot stand the strain. One would need at least £50 for 8 days in Paris, and London is very little better, so that to do justice to oneself in both places in 6 months would be too big a drain on a limited amount of money

Bye the bye, Mick, would be glad if you would let me know how finances stand. Have only about £40 in the bank London and may require to get some more across. Expect I still have a few quid left over in Aussie. Tell Mum the sheet of paper and envelope arrive safely in each letter, but we are very seldom short of writing pads so that I seldom use it for writing letters. The couple of snaps Mum sent across are great. I think who took them Avis appears to be growing into a fine girl. Tell Lorna I received her letter 28th Oct quite all right. Am not writing to her, I know she reads all the ones that go home, or should do. Cheer oh for present, lots of love to all, Bob.

Sunday 27/1/1918 13th Battalion, AIF France (Front line, White Chateau, Hollebeke area, Ypres sector)

My dear Jane,

Have just received your letter dated 25th Nov, also a card from Mrs S J Bull and family while in my little dugout in the front line. Had a bit of fun last night, the heads being very keen to get a Fritz for identification purposes on their front. Of course the competition was keen, especially as there is a special 14 days leave hanging to it. One of my corporals while out on patrol had the luck to shoot one and of course brought back his coat containing papers, pay book etc. It was most interesting going through all his stuff which I have no doubt will be of the greatest value to division, corps etc. Such things that were no use to us, such as 2- mark notes etc, were given back to the corporal. The regiment he belonged to had apparently just come from the Russian front for he had several photos of Germans and Russians fraternizing, what do you think of that? Of course another feather in the battalion

207 cap, getting this information without an organized raid which was in hand. Great fun, these little stunts, though risky.

Map 25. 13th Battalion front line sector, 27 Jan 1917 Map compiled by D G Jones

So Mrs Davies has been saying all sorts of nice things about me, eh? Of course she could hardly do otherwise to be polite, could she. Yes I knew all about Teddie Cornish. He has now transferred to the Flying Corps and no doubt will do very well, he is a great kid. Glad to hear Lee Scott has got the MC.

208

Missed Nana again when he was going out and I was coming in. Saw some of his officers who assured me he was quite all right and going strong. Great fun about Mum and Bill Fulton, sounds very bad, however the Tommy Cookers will be most acceptable. They are most useful here in this cold hole where no food etc can come to us in the day and no light to be shown at night. Glad Mum received the invoice from Liberty’s, expect the parcel will arrive OK.

Well my dear I must get out of this damned dugout, can hardly move. Shall have a look around the line and see that all is OK. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Thursday 7/2/1918 13th Battalion, AIF France (Curragh Camp, Locre, Ypres sector)

My dear Mum,

Have just come out of the line again for a short period. While on the way out ran into Nana who was going in. He was looking splendid. Had not seen him for some months so we had a good yarn. Naturally he had a great time in London on leave. Bye the bye, am expecting mine again shortly. It is five months nearly since my last. Am thinking of spending this one in Paris and the south of France, and yet I do not know. London is a wonderful place, it fascinates me. I know it more or less and know where to go and how to have a really good time there.

Had a beautiful bath this morning, the first for ten days. Also, last night was the first time my clothes have been off for ten days so you can imagine how bucked up I am. Feeling great at present. Still one is used to it all these days, yet there seems to be no ending to this business yet we make the most of things and on the whole we have a really good time.

Went to a show last night the division run called “The Smart Set” with the 13th band in attendance. It was really excellent and very clever in parts. Amy Castles’ brother belongs to them, he has a bosker tenor voice. Among other things he sang that piece from “Rigoletto”: “Fair Shines the Moon” (La Donna e Mobile) etc in Italian. It was great, quite on a par with Mr Cormack. All the performers in the show are in the AIF 4th Division. It is rumoured they are going to London to show, also our band, it would be a great advertisement.

209

“The Smart Set”. Lance-Corporal George Castles 5th from left standing. Source: AWM E01986

Have just been out with our football team who are training for a big match next Saturday, but the weather is so rotten over here at this time of year there is not much pleasure with sport. The only pastime seems to be bridge and poker, both of which we play a lot.

No more news at present, lots of love to all, Bob.

Friday 15/2/1918 13th Battalion, AIF France (Curragh Camp, Locre, Ypres sector)

My dear Mum,

Have just received your letter dated 2nd Dec 1917 yet have received letters dated 17th Dec some four or five days ago. Still there is no accounting for mails these days, they are very erratic. Seem to come and go at any old time and any old how.

Had some excitement 2 days ago. Left here in charge of 200 men for work in the front 5 am in the morning. We entrained on a light railway and on the way up had a nasty accident. One of the couplings broke and upset 2 trucks. Five men were badly injured which was 210 lucky, 100 of us might easily have been killed. Fortunately I was in a truck which did not turn turkey. Still, it was my first train accident and was not very nice. However, whether frightened or not, one simply had to hop in, get the injured men bound up and away with stretcher bearers, detail men to clear the wreckage, couple up again and go on with the work.

We reached the job 3 hours late, after a good shaking up, and during the work struck much shell fire and worry so that I was well done up when we arrived back at 6 pm. Is it any wonder that a chap has several whiskies and turns in after days like these, which often happens. Of course the poor men have to do this work each day. Officers get one day in 3 or 4 which is quite enough considering the responsibilities attached.

Went to some great boxing yesterday afternoon. The 13th Battalion won every match and naturally the officers won many francs to boot, I collected to the extent of some 250. Competition is very keen and of course one must back their own men, esprit de corps you know. We always hold our men a bit better in everything, in fighting and all sport, but see where the battalion comes from and who the officers and men are.

Am putting in an application for leave to south of France for 8 days. Do not know where the money will come from or how I shall get on. It does not affect Blighty leave for which I am nearly due again, so they say. If granted shall hop in for my cut and see Paris, Monte Carlo, Nice etc. Why not? Do not be too surprised if I cable out for more money if this trip eventuates, it will cost at least £50, then 14 days in England another £70 or so. You will probably say most extravagant, still it is better to do things properly. Besides, times are abnormal, in fact life itself is abnormal these times.

Still going strong and feeling pretty well. Expect to be in the line again very shortly for about 16 days, then hope for leave and another short spell which will bring us to the spring and March offensive I expect. Love to all, Bob.

Monday 4/3/1918 13th Battalion, AIF France (Billets, Neuve Eglise, Ypres sector)

My dear Mum,

We are once again out of line, how long I don’t know, however we are making the most of it and making ourselves as comfortable as possible under the circumstances.

Had some great excitement in the line this time. Fritz came across and raided us and believe me he got some hurry up. Unfortunately Lieut Luscombe was killed, Captain Browning severely wounded, about 8 other ranks killed and 15 wounded. Still of course these things will happen and have to be put up with. Poor old Humphrey got it through the stomach and was very critical. However, news of him today says he has a good fighting chance, however expect it is finish war for him this time. Luscombe was an awfully nice fellow, newly married and a kiddie born while he was over here. It is very sad.

Am enclosing a list of our code names in the line last time. They are quite funny. If you lived with us, all slinging off at one another. For instance one officer is called Brilliant. Well he is an absolute dope, no good in the line or out of it either. Funniest thing in the world ringing 211 up. The sigs of course are tickled to death. Zig asks Dag is Socks coming up etc. All sorts of funny phrases occur.

Have just had a lovely bath and change of clothes so am feeling quite lovely and clean. First bath and change for over 10 days. Went out for a ride yesterday afternoon with Des Wallach. Had quite a good day, plenty of champagne and a good dinner intermingled with some fun with the French lasses.

Map 26. Neuve Eglise and the 4th Brigade defence area at Hollebeke Map compiled by D G Jones

Looks as if winter is starting here again, rain, snow and mud. It is as cold as the devil. However am sitting in front of a roaring fire at present, a bottle of whisky on the table, so that everything is Jakes. Am looking forward to leave again. Expect to get away about the end of this month if lucky. Expect I shall go to London again. One of our officers left for Rome today via Paris, Monte Carlo etc, it should be a most interesting trip. May have the luck to take this trip one of these days.

Five of us are thinking of having a little supper tonight, having in stock 2 dozen eggs, one dozen beer, 1 bottle of whisky, one loaf of bread, butter, cheese and cocoa, 10 pork chops. How do you think that will go?

212

Received letters from Lorna dated 24th Dec and 6th Jan, also one from Jane 30th Dec and very nice they all were. Glad you received the blotter OK. There are some wonderful things in that shop of Liberty’s. Jane would simply dote on the place but of course you want a terrible lot of money, the things one likes are impossible prices.

Fancy young Janey writing one that note. Cannot imagine the dear kid growing up. Shall write a postcard to her. One is apt to forget time, it simply flies. Have been away nearly three years now, I wonder how much longer. Glad you dote on Hope, she is a nice kid. Afraid she is madly in love with me but there is nothing doing. Am not likely to marry anyone on this side of the world, tell Mick I will reserve her for him. She writes regularly, sends me all the English papers etc so is very good. Shall take her for a good fly around when across on leave, yet things are very tame in Liverpool after London. Fancy old “Ponko” being down a married man with a family now. I must be getting old, afraid I shall very soon be on the shelf. The trouble is to keep on the shelf over here, one could get married every day in the week and twice on Sundays but afraid I am getting too old in the nut to be caught. It is all very interesting and very funny at times.

We hope to bring off out competitions in football, boxing, musketry etc this time out so that everyone is very busy. Of course all this is intermingled with much training, reorganization etc, yet we find time to have many games of good bridge in the evening. Had some good games while in the line this time at BHQ who were some 300 yards behind the front line. It is dead funny when you come to think of it, shells bursting etc do not disturb one in the least afraid. If one gets home after this show it will appear as a huge dream. Trust this year will see it out, although to mind there is no indication to date. Lots of love to all. Nana is all right, away at another school, he seems to live at them. Bob.

Monday 11/3/1918 13th Battalion, AIF France (Billets, Neuve Eglise, Ypres sector)

My dear Mum,

Received your letter dated 6th Jan a couple of days ago. We are still out of the line but expect to be in again very shortly now. Do not think I shall have to luck to get my leave before going in. Fritz is expected to launch a big attack any time now so that we are sure to be held up. Am going to the Flying Corps for 3 days some time in the near future for experience. Won’t it be great! Shall have plenty of flying and no doubt a ripping time. These chaps live like lords. Am doting on it and looking forward to the experience very much. Shall tell you all about it later.

Have not seen Nana for some time, he is away at another school which lasts about 5 weeks. Have only been to one school in France, 5 days bombing. That was about 12 months ago. Still, it is a good job am not very keen on schools on this side. Only ones I would like to go to would be Aldershot or Hayling Island (Command School of Musketry) in England.

Had a big brigade show yesterday. Church Parade first, then presentation of MM and DCM medals and ribbons by General Birdwood, after which a march past. It was an excellent show, the weather glorious, everyone turned out well. It must have been a great sight for an onlooker. We were congratulated on the show. 213

We are having most delightful weather now, the last few days have been just like Australian spring, nice warm sun and a clean atmosphere. Yesterday the time was advanced an hour, extra daylight business you know. Looks as if the winter is about done and an early summer setting in, which will always do me, although this winter has not been too bad in France, much better than I expected.

Hope you received the snaps I sent home of the snow about Xmas and New Year. Des Wallach and self went for a great ride yesterday afternoon, ended up in a good-sized town. Had a topping dinner, some oysters and champagne and some fun with the French lasses. My things are different on this side of the world, am afraid the Australian people would be very shocked at what goes on.

Am feeling pretty well, Mum. Do not know if I got rid of all that gas yet, still there is no chance of getting away so long as a fellow can carry on. Company commanders are rather valuable beings and of course the longer at it the more valuable. COs do not like letting you away when there is anything doing and there always seems to be something expected. All sorts of things expected shortly, the wind is well and truly vertical.

Lots of love to all, Bob

Tuesday 19/3/1918 13th Battalion, AIF France (Billets, Neuve Eglise, Ypres sector)

My dear Jane,

Thanks ever so much for the very nice parcel from home which arrived yesterday. Your card was dated 14th Dec so that it took some time to reach me. Its contents were OK and all intact. On the same day, everyone in the battalion received a parcel from the Comforts Fund, you know those in the cardboard boxes, all of which were very much appreciated by all.

We had a great rugby football match against the 15th Battalion last Saturday, which was hard and fast. The two blues won so that next Saturday we again play them for the final of the brigade competition, and we expect to have another cup to our credit. We also play the 16th tomorrow for the final in the association game and have no doubt we shall grab that cup too. Then there is some more boxing to come off, also some rifle matches, all of which I like ourselves for this NSW battalion takes some beating at any old thing believe me. Look out for our photos in some of the papers, Anzac Bulletin etc. The official photographer took us all a few days ago but which papers they will be reproduced in I cannot say.

Had a great day out last Sunday. The Dag (Dos Wallach), the Doc (Major Craig, Melbourne man) and self: we squared the CO to allow us off Church Parade. Set out on our horses about 10 am and had a regular round trip, completing in all about 40 miles. Visited several new towns of some size where I had not been before. Unfortunately I cannot mention the names of them or say much about them on account of censorship regulations. We had plenty of good fun with the French lasses, good food, good champagne and all the rest of it. Ended up by calling in to see Humphrey Browning who is doing splendidly now I am happy to say and is out of danger although he will probably get a trip home if he wants it. 214

Had some great fun last night, came in about 9:30 pm after teaching the boys to do wiring in the dark with gas masks on etc and sat down to our supper. We have something every night in our billet. Last night stewed rabbit, potatoes, cocoa and whisky, very nice too. Having supped well and got my orders out for today, turned in to read some papers – Hope’s effort – Tatler, London Opinion, Passing Shores, Bystander etc. Well I was nicely tucked in with a nice clean pair of pyjamas, the inevitable pernicious weed in the mouth, when in walked one of our officers dressed in women’s clothes in company with a French girl or Belgian rather, dressed in his uniform. My word she looked fine. Also our chap did up splendidly. Of course they dragged me out of bed, I put an overcoat on, a pair of top boots. We all then went around and visited all the several officers. It was splendid fun. Of course it meant a wad at each place. You should have seen the padre’s face when we went in to his room, he being well and truly in bed. Afraid he was terribly shocked. It was a great joke. No wonder is it that he tells us we are much too bad to win the war or for it to finish for a long while yet. My, Jane, you should have seen the lass dressed up in the officer’s uniform. She was some kid. I arrived back to my billet at 1:30 am and had just got off to sleep when the Hun started shelling the place with big stuff. The bed, walls, floors etc shook with the vibration and things were very hot. This went on for about 2 hours. Fortunately there was very little damage done, most of the shells falling in fields close by. Still I was most annoyed at having my slumbers broken.

Still it is raining like the devil today and one cannot do very much, which is rather a good thing. Shall have a chance of bringing my mail up to date. We are still out of the line but expect to go in again about the end of the month, after which I hope to get my leave. Afraid there is little chance of getting away before, however one never knows.

Have not seen Nana for a very long time, he is away at a school but think he is due back any day now with his unit. Will try and look him up at the first opportunity.

Well my dear, must dry up. Afraid if all my letters are as long as this one I shall never get through. Of course one sees lots of things and does lots of things which would be most interesting to hear about but of course one can say next to nothing about them, and the trouble is, if a fellow is lucky enough to get back again he will have forgotten so much. Give my best love to everyone Jane, nearly 3 years away now. Am commencing to think I was born, bred and planted on this side of the world now, however it will always do me, marching up Pitt St on the way home. What does Australia look like? Sydney, eh, that is the place with a beautiful harbour attached is it not Janey? I have slight recollections of Watson’s Bay, Manly etc Never mind, we will make things home when we see them all again. Cheer oh for the present, Bob.

215

France – Somme (Hébuterne)

By November 1917 the Bolsheviks had seized control of Russia and established the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic. A ceasefire with Germany was agreed on 4th December and an armistice with the Central Powers took effect on 17th December. A formal treaty was signed on 3rd March 1918 in which Germany forced Russia to yield one quarter of its territory to Germany, containing half of Russia’s industrial base. In the meantime, during February 1918 the German High Command moved 50 infantry divisions from the Russian Front to the Western Front.

The Germans were well aware that 318,000 American troops were scheduled to arrive on the Western Front by May 1918, with a further one million by August. The submarine blockade of Britain had failed, and the convoys were getting through to provide food and war supplies to the Allies. In contrast, the German people were close to starvation and growing tired of the war. The German High Command prepared a massive, decisive 2-pronged offensive dubbed “Kaiserschlacht” (the Emperor’s Battle) that would secure them victory before the American reinforcements could have an impact.

The first attacks, named the Saint Michael Offensive (“Operation Michael”) after the patron saint of Germany, were to focus on the Somme, where Field Marshall Haig had committed the Fifth Army under General Gough. Comprising only 14 divisions, to hold a front of 67 km south of Cambrai, the Fifth Army was further hampered by having only just taken over the southern part from the French, who had left the defences in poor condition.

British intelligence knew that a German offensive was being prepared. Despite being aware of the movement of troops from Russia, with 58 divisions stationed across the line held by Gough’s 14 divisions, the British gravely underestimated the scale of the forthcoming attack.

Operation Michael was launched on 21st March 1918 with a massive bombardment by over 10,000 guns firing a million shells along the Fifth Army line. The principal targets were artillery and machine-gun defences, headquarters and communication centres, all of which had been carefully mapped by aerial reconnaissance prior to the attack. Elite German “storm troopers”’ then selectively attacked the weaker points in the line that had been identified by relentless night patrols since late February. They leap-frogged strong points and broke through the partially-constructed Fifth Army trenches, followed by “trench divisions” who would mop up the British troops left behind the rapidly advancing front. The objective was to advance across the Somme, then wheel north-west, trapping the British in Flanders. Michael would be followed by Operation Georgette, from Messines to Ypres, intended to annihilate the Allied armies protecting the vital Channel ports The Germans could then attack these ports and other lines of supply. The British would be surrounded and surrender.

Initially a great success, Operation Michael pushed the Fifth Army back 19 km in two days, obliterated 4 complete British divisions, and threw the retreating troops into disarray. The roads were congested with fleeing soldiers, providing easy targets for the German artillery. Within 5 days the Germans recaptured all of the ground in the Somme that they had lost over the preceding two years. The vital transport hub of Amiens came under threat. On 25th March the 3rd and 4th Australian Divisions were hurried south from the Ypres sector to stop the Germans before they reached Amiens.

216

Map 27. German map showing advances 21 Mar – 4 Apr 1918 Source: Russian Ministry of Defence – German Documents of the First World War

The confusion in Haig’s GHQ can be read in the following extract from the war diary of the 4th Australian Division for the 24th March 1918: “Orders issued for the commencement of the march south. Personnel to go by bus transport and divisional artillery by road. Order for staging of transport countermanded – much difficulty caused but complied with satisfactorily. Destination of personnel changed three times causing confusion and making it practically impossible to billet troops.” The next day the Division moved by buses to the Basseux where the diary reported: “Position seems obscure on Somme front in parts. Division under 10th 217

Corps for tactical purposes and administered by 6th Corps.” Further confusion ensued, with the war diary lamenting: ”Reported that Bosche had broken through at Hebuterne and that armoured cars were moving on Souastre. Ordered to block roads and intercept cars. Apparently only a rumour spread by German agents. Division next ordered to refill part of the line vacated, countermanded almost immediately and on information that Hebuterne was held by the enemy. One Brigade (4th) was ordered by Army to attack and recapture the village while the 12th and 13th Brigades moved to Pommier and Bienvillers. This was also countermanded and the 4th Division less 4th Brigade ordered to march to Senlis-Hedauville areas while 4th Brigade occupied Hebuterne and was placed under 62nd Division, 4th Corps, temporarily. The countermanding of orders from higher authority caused endless work and exhaustion to the troops generally.”

Map 28. The 13th Battalion defend the line at Hebuterne Map compiled by D G Jones

218

Sunday 7/4/1918 13th Battalion, AIF France (Front line, Hebuterne, Somme)

My dear Mum,

Have received quite a lot of letters from you and also a parcel but have been exceedingly busy and no chance to write. Will try and answer all later when things settle down and become normal again, if they do. We are doing fine work here, rushed up at a critical time, drove the Hun out of the village and are keeping him at bay. Most thrilling experiences and hair-breadth escapes but so far am going strong. No news of any relief yet. All are very weary, have been going strong for the past eleven days. All leave is stopped and everyone going strong. Of course our casualties are heavy but the enemy’s much heavier, he seems to come at us in millions. Of course has pushed through a lot but he is well in hand now and must be suffering huge losses. Have had all sorts of fun here. People have had to clear out all in a hurry leaving everything, fowls, pigs, wine, beer, champagne, potatoes, sugar, then all household gear: sewing machines, clothes, everything you can imagine. So we have been doing all right; looting you may call it, but as the Hun has blown the town to bits there is not one house standing now and it was practically complete four or five days ago. It is just as well we hopped in for our cut. I have a lovely stove, bed mattress and bed clothes (which I never use to any extent, soap being scarce), plenty of tables, chairs, dinner sets etc in my cellar which I think is moderately safe. I would not trust it too far however, that is all in the game.

All leave is cancelled for the time being which is rotten, however hope to get away some day. Am about due for Blighty. Also put in for Paris before this business started.

Cheer oh for the present lots of love to all, Bob.

Tuesday 16/4/1918

After 16 days in the front line defending Hebuterne against numerous German attacks, the 13th Australian Infantry Battalion was relieved on the 13th April by the British 13th Battalion, Rifle Brigade, and moved to bivouacs and shelters at nearby Coigneux.

13th Battalion, AIF France (Coigneux, Somme)

My dear Mum,

Received your parcel Jan 2nd with mittens etc, also a pair of socks and tin of tobacco yesterday. Have also received letters dated 3rd Feb from Mick, 17th Feb from Jane, also some previous letters which I told you about in a previous letter. News is very scarce here, nothing really to tell you all except we are again out for a very few days and everyone on this side is very busy as you can imagine. Ere you receive this letter you will have read a lot in the papers about the doings at present on this side of the world and believe me the Australians are playing a large part in it all. Glad to hear all about yourselves and the good times you have had down the coast. Nana is quite all right as far as I know, he is further south at present so have no chance of seeing him at present. However expect things will 219 settle down eventually, at present they are a bit upset. Have no news for you that I can say in a letter. Still going strong but not feeling the best in the world. Lots of love to all, Bob.

Map 29. Coigneux huts in relation to Hebuterne sector Map compiled by D G Jones

Sunday 21/4/1918 13th Battalion, AIF France (Reserve Line, Sailly-au-Bois, Somme)

My dear Mum,

Once again in the line and do not know what will be doing at any minute these strenuous times. Spells, leave etc are out of the question for the time being. Still everyone is very cheery and as far as the Australians are concerned, far from being beaten. They are doing wonderful work and have saved the situation on many occasions lately. The highest praise has come and still comes to us from all the Heads. Of course we are losing men, but what else can be expected if you do your job and after all it is good fun having a crack at the oncoming thousands of Huns even if one loses one’s life eventually. Of course those of us who are still going have had wonderful escapes to date. Hard times, soft times, exciting times and very interesting times, worrying times and all the rest of it. Sometimes sad, sometimes humorous, wonderful experiences, many of which could not be told.

The position seems a bit obscure at present and no doubt there will be some terrible fighting in the next few months, but am inclined to think that in the long run the Hun will come a big crash. We all trust so anyway.

220

Have had a wonderful quiet day in the line. It has been clear, sunny, and most interesting aerial activity on both sides. Has been great to watch. Imagine some 30 or 40 planes on a nice clear sunny morning, fighting, diving, climbing at anything from 2,000 feet to 10,000 feet above you. I sat with my glasses and watched them for about an hour, it was a ripping sight and most exciting. Of course tonight, tomorrow and so on might be just as gruesome as today has been quiet and pleasant. Still, we all plod along, cheery and bright the whole time, on the surface at any rate.

Map 30. 13th Battalion reserve trenches, Sailly-au-Bois Map compiled by D G Jones

Had a letter from Lorna dated 16/2/18, also from Jane and you, which I have answered. Tell Lorna we spent Xmas in the snow about 10 miles in front of Peronne. The particular spot is now in the hands of the enemy. A place we were in, having a few days rest lately, has also been taken by the Huns, and several other places where we have just left as it were, which seemed to be quite safe and ours for good, the Hun now holds. It is very sad to think of, and expect it will all have to be re-taken. Looks as if one has employment here for a lifetime. Anyway, it will save looking for another job.

Tell Jane I received the socks and tin of tobacco quite OK. Also received nice letters from Roy Blair, Dag and Billy Bull. Will try and get them all answered. Colonel Murray VC etc has left us to take charge of the Divisional Machine Gun Battalion, which will be a great job for him. He has always been very good to me and shall miss him very much. He is a great fellow. Trust you will all have the pleasure of meeting him one of these days.

Nana is quite all right as far as I know. We are a good way apart at present but expect to rejoin our division shortly. He was at the same school as Roy Gowing who is one of my young subs. He has been back about a week and told me all about Len. They had some great times together while at the school. No doubt he will let you know all about it.

Well my dear, have no more news at present. Very busy, still going strong. Best love to everyone. Glad to hear you all had a great time down the coast, and trust at some future date we shall all be together there having just as good a time. 221

Bob.

Sunday 21/4/1918 13th Battalion, AIF France (Reserve Line, Sailly-au-Bois, Somme)

My dear Mick,

Still going strong and very busy. Received two letters from you lately for which many thanks. Am writing to the family so you will hear all the news which is not very much. Have just written to London Bank NSW asking them to transfer £150 to their branch from Annandale. Expect I have that much there but really don’t know. Asked you to let me know how I stood financially but you have not done so yet. Like to have plenty of money on this side, one never knows what will happen. Of course there is tons of fighting here at present. The Australians have indeed done wonderful work and saved the situation on more than one occasion and we expect much more fighting before things become normal again. The position is a bit obscure at present but thing the Hun will come a big crash eventually but I fear one only at a very large cost. However, time will tell. We just plod along and make the best of things. A few years of this and one treats life very cheaply really and et it is wonderful the narrow escapes one has. Then again they only seem to be deferred lately.

Some of our officers have been killed who landed on Gallipoli with the battalion on 25th April so that apparently it is only a matter of time. However I am easy kid on the whole matter. One must look at this game from a philosophical standpoint.

Had a beautiful day in the line today, clear sunny and bracing, plenty of air fights which were most interesting and great to look at.

What do you think of this rhyme?

There was a young lady of fashion, Who loved a man with great passion, And she smilingly said as she jumped into bed, There’s one thing Lord Rhonnda can’t ration.

Written by an English lass to me. Pretty hot don’t you think? Cheer oh kid for the present, lots of luck, Bob.

222

Villers-Bretonneux

On 24th April 1918 the 13th Battalion was moved by bus from Souastre to Poulainville, about 6 km north of the centre of Amiens. Over the next 3 days the 13th Battalion marched from Poulainville via Allonville and Bussy to billets in Daours, on the Somme River north of Villers- Bretonneux. The 13th Battalion relieved the 59th Battalion on the front line at Villers- Bretonneux during the night of 28/29th April, after the successful re-taking of the town by the Australians on 25th April.

Map 31. The 13th Battalion move south to Villers-Bretonneux Map compiled by D G Jones 223

Wednesday 215/1918 13th Battalion AIF Villers-Bretonneux

Order issued by Lieut-Colonel Douglas Marks, CO of 13th Battalion:

“I want posts pushed forward (a) along the road half-way to three houses (b) along hedge east of three houses to 12 trees thence along old trench which junctions with our present front just inside the 14th area. “A” Company must get into three houses with a post before Fritz gets there tonight – suggest a patrol of 1 NCO and 6 men. “B” Company will be responsible for the old trench referred to above and for making good a strong point in the NE corner of hedge surrounding three houses. “A” Company responsible for the remainder.

Suggest about 10:30 pm for the time that “A” Company sends a platoon to get close up to three houses with another platoon ready to dig in between there and three trees, and also has a party of rifle grenadiers detailed to deal with enemy post in third hangar.

Map 32. Location of “A” Company 13th Battalion and the German hangars, 2nd May Map compiled by D G Jones

A platoon of “B” Company (east) to be in position in the trench near junction with trees and that it also has an extra rifle grenade section to keep down enemy post located last night.

Arrange a signal so that you hop off together. Captain Henderson in charge of the operation.”

224

Thursday 2/5/1918 13th Battalion AIF Villers-Bretonneux

Lieut-Colonel Marks’ report on Special Operation Night 1st/2nd May 1918.

1. With the object of advancing the battalion front on a line pivoting near P.25.a.85.20 with its right resting on the battalion boundary at P.25.c.80.25, and in order to cooperate with the 47th Battalion, the following minor operation eventuated.

2. 2 am was arranged as zero time, and simultaneously with the advance of the 47th Battalion rifle grenadiers engaging enemy posts at P.25.d.00.75, P.25.c.90.40 (approx.), P.25.c.70.20, thus covering the advance of two platoons which worked up and dug in on the line previously arranged.

3. Very heavy machine-gun fire was encountered but only two or three casualties occurred amongst covering and digging parties and 47th were also enabled to obtain their objective on the left.

4. The second phase of the operation involved a raid on enemy post P.25.d.00.75. Before this could be launched, Captain Henderson (OC Right Company) was informed by left company of the 47th Battalion that they had fallen back to their original position. He thereupon ordered the raiding party to stand fast as his right rested in the air in dangerous proximity to the enemy posts P.25.c.90.40 and P.25.c.70.20.

5. Despite extremely heavy machine-gun fire from both flanks and from in front, Captain Henderson attended assiduously to the organization of his new position even after daylight had broken, and I regret to say that he has been severely wounded by machine-gun fire. His gallantry will form the subject of a special recommendation. One of his officers has also been wounded but refused to leave his post until his company is relieved tonight.

Red Cross Reports:

1. Informant stated that on 2-5-18 (which he could fix as he was hit the same day) the battalion was at Villers-Bretonneux. They had been in action and were digging into ground that they had captured. Informant was hit by a bullet when he was close to the Captain. Some time afterwards while he was being carried out, he also saw the Captain being carried out wounded, having been hit in the leg just after informant was hit. His wound did not seem to be serious. They were both taken to the (4th Field Ambulance) Dressing Station, and from there to the Casualty Clearing Station at Vignacourt. During this period the two frequently spoke to each other. At Vignacourt they parted, informant going to Étaples. He never saw the Captain again but heard that he died of his wound some days later.

Informant added that the Captain was a most popular officer. He was Captain of “A” Company to which the informant belonged.

Private G McGregor, No.1341.

2. Informant states that Captain Henderson belonged to “A”: Company. On or about the 3/5/18, the battalion was in action at Villers-Bretonneux. His company was in a bit of an 225 advance against the Hangars at Villers-Bretonneux which had originally been ours, but which had fallen into the hands of the Germans. The Captain’s object was to recapture them, and this necessitated an advance of about 500 yards. During the advance, the Captain was hit. Informant did not see him hit. He was brought by the “A” Company stretcher-bearers to the Dressing Station in the Chateau at Villers-Bretonneux, and there the informant helped dress his wounds. (The men who carried him down were each awarded the Military Medal, one of them was called Greenleaf). He was very cheerful, and spoke freely to those around him. He remained in the Chateau for about half an hour, and spoke to the informant before he was taken away. He was taken to Quarry Leading Station, about half a mile past a crucifix at Villers-Bretonneux, and informant knows that he reached the Leading Station alright. Informant saw no more of him, but it was said that he died under an operation. The Captain received the Military Cross for his gallant action in this fight.

Informant added that the Captain was an extremely popular officer.

Private Charles Heathfield, No.168. Private Sydney Holland, No.398 (in italics).

3. Informant states that they both belonged to “A” Company and that he was the Captain’s Runner. On or about 2.5.18 the battalion was in front at Villers-Bretonneux having moved up without opposition. They were engaged in digging a series of outposts, the line not having been connected up. The Captain and informant were together when the former suggested that they should go over to “B” Company which was about 15 yards away. To reach the Company they had to traverse an open space of about 15 yards, and as soon as they started a German Machine Gun stationed about 35 yards away opened up on them. When they had gone about 10 yards the Captain was hit in the thigh and called out to informant that they had ”got him”. Information laid alongside him for about a quarter of an hour dressing his wound until stretcher-bearers came. The Captain was taken over to their own Regimental Dressing Station and informant again saw him there. He seemed very cheerful, and told informant that he would see him in England. Informant saw him taken away and gave him his personal effects when he was on the stretcher. That was the last that informant saw of him. Later on informant handed a German watch belonging to the Captain to one of the battalion officers to be sent to him in England where informant thought that the Captain had been sent. He learned afterwards however that the Captain did not leave France and died in the 5th Casualty Clearing Station there.

Informant added that the Captain was one of the most popular officers in the battalion and that everyone felt his loss.

Private Bruce Gough, No.1341.

Friday 24/5/1918 45th Battalion, AIF France (Hospice St Victor, Rivery, Amiens, Somme)

My dear Family,

Late last evening received a note from Colonel Marks telling me of the awful news which ere this you all know too much about. Have just returned from the 13th Battalion and they are all

226 very much cut up about it. They lost two of their best officers with poor old Longun and Doc Wallach.

At present I am unable to realise it. He died 13th May at 5 minutes past 7 in the morning and was buried at Étaples Military Hospital Grave No.A 414 on the 14th May 1918. Although one expects these things to happen daily, it is at the same time a tremendous shock. But do not be sad about it. Remember that Longun died a very noble death and if you could only hear the opinion of both men and officers of the 13th Battalion you all would be the proudest family in the world.

Mum you must bear up and push sadness aside and be proud that Gad was good enough to give you a son who would be brave and true to fight and die for his Home Country and King. Remember that no man could die better, that he passed away peacefully and happily and was given a decent burial, and if it is at all possible I will do my best to go to Étaples and try to arrange to keep the grave in order.

It is a strange thing that I never knew about his death until late last evening. I suppose it was because we were in the line. His personal belongings I understand have all been sent home.

I have just written to Millie Henley telling her the facts and asking them either to cable to Jack Tivey or home. The facts are this:

A small attack was to be made, combined with another battalion. Longun’s company gained their objective, the other battalion people withdrew. Longun then went up to see his company to tell them to hang on and to try and bring the other people up again, when he was knocked. He received a compound fracture of the left thigh and must have died almost as soon as he got to the hospital at Étaples.

I have just received letters from home, Dagman and Rosalie and little Tammy dated end of March. They have cheered me up immensely, but I am thinking of you all at home. You say you receive very few letters from me. Well I write every week or as near to that as possible so a tremendous number must have gone down.

So very glad that you went out and saw Bert Maiden, he is a grand chap. Am very surprised to hear of his engagement. Glad to hear that the show and all the Comforts Fund entertainments were so successful. Mick old boy, cheer up and try your hardest to cheer Mum & Dad and the girls up. Be brave son and look after them all at home for me. Now is your chance to show a smiling face and be merry and bright.

Let us hope and pray that I may be spared to get back home. With the very best of love to you all, Len.

Wednesday 29/5/1918 No.1 Canadian General Hospital France (Étaples)

227

Re Captain R J Henderson. I submit the following particulars. He was wounded on the 2nd May and the following notes on his field medical card were written at the Casualty Clearing Station No.61:

Shrapnel wound thigh, through and through. Very severe comminuted fracture of femur – 2 /3 of length split longitudinally. 1 About /8 of shaft removed in loose pieces. Cleaned – wound completely excised. Carrels Tubes.

He was admitted to this hospital on the 4th May in rather poor condition, but we had hopes that he would recover. He did fairly well until the 13th, when he had a secondary haemorrhage. He did not lose much blood, but in his low condition it was enough to result in his death, which took place a few hours later.

He was buried on the 14th in Étaples Military Cemetery, the grave number being A 414.

Officer Commanding.

Photo 71. Henderson’s Grave at Étaples Source: AWM2016.30.8 Henderson photos

Friday 14/6/1918 Posthumous Award of Bar to Military Cross

228

Friday 1/9/1918 London Gazette: Posthumous Award of Bar to Military Cross

229

230