From these two events we could
approximately deduce the enemy divisional boundary. The next night,
determined to assert our superiority over the Boche, another of our
patrols from "A" company, journeyed forth, got through his wire, located
a post, and then filled it with bombs.
After seventeen days of amphibious soldiering in front of Nieuport we
were relieved by the 125th brigade, and went back for a welcome rest to
huts near Coxyde. Rumours drifted around about accompanying the 41st
division to Italy, but they did not materialise. Bitterly cold weather
suddenly arrived, however, which made us aware of the flimsiness of the
French huts in which we dwelt.
CHAPTER VI.
An Interlude.
The 42nd division added to its list of new experiences when it was
relieved at Nieuport, by a division of French troops. We afterwards
heard that they had demonstrated their capacity for common sense in
warfare by evacuating all the horrible ground in front of the Redan,
which we had clung to with characteristic British bull-dog tenacity.
Lt.-Col. Carr, D.S.O., having proceeded on leave, Major Allan commanded
the battalion during the succeeding days. It was found later, however,
that the C.O. would not return, having been placed on the sick list at
home. The division was destined for Bethune and it was a very pleasant
five days' march that took us to that area. On the first day, Nov. 16th,
passing through Leffinckoucke, near Dunkirk, we reached Teteghem, while
the next day took us to Esquelbec, just outside Wormhoudt.
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