http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/hall/harry_to_vera.txt 29.4.2009 HARRY HALL'S WORLD WAR ONE DIARY AND LETTERS TO VERA HALL ............................. THE WORLD WAR 1 DIARY OF SECOND LIEUTENANT HARRY FREDERICK HALL 9.10.1915-19.12.1916 (b 29.5.1888 Auckland, killed in action 9.6.1917 Messines, Belgium) of A Company, 8th Reinforcements, & later of No. 2 Platoon, 3rd Company, 1st & 2nd Battalions, Auckland Infantry Regiment, NZ Expeditionary Force AND LETTERS TO HIS SISTER VERA RUSSELL 13.9.1915-16.5.1917 44 pages of text including an appendix of c 140 surnames + 32 pages of illustrations (copies of material enclosed his the letters) + 38 pages of the HALL family tree typed and edited by KIT WITHERS 101 Allington Rd, Wellington 6005. Tel 04 9344477 kitw"att"slingshot.co.nz (I use "att" for @ to foil spammers.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- After Vera's death in 1970, the diary & letters to her passed to Vera's daughter Laurette WITHERS; on Laurette's death in 2010 they passed to her grandson Manu WITHERS stroudeltd"att"gmail.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE The "1st edition" of 8 copies went to family members. The main changes for the "2nd edition" of 10 copies (including 2 to the Legal Deposit Office) are the addition of 3 appendices at the back: Appendix of ships herein, Appendix of places herein, Appendix of surnames herein. I also enlarged Harry's biography a little at the start. At the back is the HALL family tree, available at http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/hall/hall.html Its links provide further photos of Harry and Vera HALL and their family. .......................................................................... 17.2.2005 updated links. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Harry Frederick HALL was born in Auckland in 1888, the son of Henry HALL and Laura nee RATHBONE. His parents married in 1877 in Sheffield, England and migrated to Auckland, New Zealand the next year. Their eight children, whose births were spread over the next 20 years, were: Laura (b 1878/9) who married Jim ASKEW, Sylvia (b 1880) who married James FARRAR, Florence "Flo" (b 1882) who married George BRAMBLEY, Evelyn "Eve" (b 1883) who married Ernest TRAYES, Reginald "Reg" (b 1896) who married Meryl MCLEOD, Harry "Rix" (b 1888) whose diary and letters to Vera are presented here, Vera "Bar" (b 1897) who married Rex RUSSELL, and Leslie (b 1898) who married Mauva and moved to Melbourne. This diary and letters to his sister Vera tell the story of his training in Trentham and Tauherenikau near Wellington, his troop ship's journey via Hobart, Albany and Aden to Suez, the journey to Armentieres - renowned for the the war-time song "Mademoiselle from Armentieres, Parlez vous" - in northern France, the horror of the trenches, officer training in England and visiting his relatives there. The contrast between the trench life and the theatre life of London is like night and day. He rose through the ranks from a private to an NCO to a Lieutenant. Returning to France, he was killed in Messines, Belgium on 9.6.1917. His mother died the following year in the great flu epidemic. A face of the HALL plinth at Purewa Cemetery, Auckland is dedicated to him. I have a button from his greatcoat. An obituary reads "ROLL OF HONOUR ... He died serving his country for the cause of humanity." Another obituary notes "He enlisted as a private, promoted corporal before leaving NZ with an early reinforcement. After service in Egypt & France he was recommended for his command being sent to an officers' training camp in London to continue his studies. 2nd Lieutenant HF HALL was educated at Grafton School & at the Training College. He was a keen yachtsman & all round sportsman. Previous to his enlistment he was assistant master of Epsom school." For more information on his family see the HALL family tree at http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/hall/hall.html where he appears as 15 (or before 21.1.05 as 46). Harry named his trench after his street in Devonport: Beaconsfield. Kay TRAYES (wife of 4222 on the HALL family tree) provided the following from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission: In memory of 2nd Lieutenant Harry Frederick HALL, 12/3343, 2nd Battalion, Auckland Regt, NZEF who died aged 31 on Saturday 9.6.1917 ... son of Henry and LE HALL of 71 Park Rd, Auckland. Native of Remuera, Auckland. Assistant master, Epsom School. Remembered with honour, Messines Ridge (NZ) Memorial to the Missing, Mesen, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium ... 9.5km S of Ieper town centre on the Niuwkerekestraat, a road from the Rijselseweg, N365 which connects Iaper to Wijtschate, Mesen and on to Armentieres. ... The NZ Division spent the winter of 1916-17 on the Lys, within sight of Messines ... Kay notes that his name is on the Devonport Cenotaph twice: once facing the statue of the soldier looking out to the harbour, and also on LHS around the corner with about 9 other names. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I have added some paragraph breaks and captitalized names. Other remarks by me are inside square brackets [-], including references to PHOTOS, labelled [P1], [P2], etc. These photos are nearly all of material Harry enclosed with his letters to Vera. I am told that Turnbull Library holds over 100 WW1 diaries, but only a few of these have been typed and none are available on the web. Let us hope that some day these too may be typed and so made accessible for their families and students of history. ======================================================================= [P1] photo of 5 men and 2 women (the HALL boys & mother & Vera ??) in NZ: Harry is on the right, and presumably his mother in front. The others may be from L to R: a brother-in-law, Leslie, ?, Vera?, ?. [P2] undated: MESSAGES TO THE NEW ZEALAND TROOPS - speeches by Field-Marshal ROBERTS, Earl KITCHENER and J ALLEN, Minister of Defence ======================================================================= [P3] Photo of his platoon of 26. On back is written: Taken September 5th 1915 at Trentham. Sorry I have no Infantry buttons and Badges to make myself more decent. Rix. ======================================================================= (Envelope with penny red stamped 13.9.15, labelled NZ Expeditionary Force, Trentham Military Camp.) Hut 77 No 2 Platoon, A Coy, 8th Reinforcements, Trentham 11.9.15 My dear Vera Thanks very much for your interesting and livening letters Kid - they were very decent. There is not much news from the ordinary here. The weather has been bad today and of course we have been confined to our huts most of the day.We had a half holiday because we could do no drill outside. This morning I had to undergo an examination. I was called to the Captain's office or rather common room at ten this morning. When I got there I nearly dropped dead. There was a squad of men line up and I was told to put them through squad drill. Three officers were present at this Exam and 20 men were present also to see if I was nervous. I managed the drill alright I think. Then the first lieutenant put me through a verbal exam on military matters. I think I did the questions alright too. Of course I have been studying things a bit and have been making inquiries too. If I have passed I will secure stripes. If I haven't, well I naturally wont. I only hope I have. Don't say anything in case I have not passed [underlined]. The exam was competitive & required some thought. I shall know in a couple of days the results. I received the sleeping cap from home today. Thanks very much. Draughts fly all about our hut and so it will come in handy. Tonight we were playing cards. The swearing was getting hot and so I suggested to the boys that every swear should cost 6d which should go towards purchasing supper for our mess. The result was 3/- which will shortly be spent on hot pies & coffee. It cost me nothing for I kept my wits & fortunately for my pocket did not swear. Today we received our full welt gear, which comprises cartridge pouches, waterbottle, haversack, trenching tool, coat carrier, bayonet frog, belt, tucker tin and braces to bear these weights. They are all made of khaki canvas coverings so as not to be too conspicuous in the firing line. Our total equipment weighs over 60 pounds. We are now on rifle work and company drill. Things are coming to hard graft down here now. We now sometimes have nightwork - marching over all sorts of ground which is not easy work. If you could only see me now you would probably not know me. I am dressed in denhims with big hob-nail boots. I have a nice little mo, but of course am going to cut it off before I come to Auckland. Ask FLO if she go my p.c. I had a word from EVE the other day - also word from the boys. CARL and RAY have written to me too. We now have a piano in our hut & at evenings when we are disengaged we enjoy ourselves in good style. Last Thursday night we removed some of the bunks and fixed up a sort of a stage. We wrote out a programme & carried it out decently. We also had a bit of a buck dance. But the "lights out" bugle goes at 10pm & so we have to cut things short. I saw FRANK SIMPSON, ARMITAGE and ROY FORDHAM today. The latter is going away in a few weeks with the 7th. The former two are here as noncoms for the 9th. Tomorrow LUNN, MCKENZIE & I have applied for leave - from 3pm to 11pm. We have been invited to Mrs AINSLIE's place for tea. She is G MCKENZIE's aunt. But whether we can get out is a question not yet answered. We have all been instructed to have close hair clips before Monday. There is one chap here - a Cockney about 45 yrs old - who keeps us going with yarns and comic songs. How is old UTTING And how are you Bar. I have been very selfdescriptive so far in this scribble. Write and let us know how things are floating. Tell all my pals to write. Thank Dad for the Herald which was a luxury. Goodday & Good Wishes old Kid. Best luck to all. From your affec. pal, Rix x ======================================================================= THE DIARY This measures 15cm by 8.6cm with a brown cover. Lines are 8mm apart and there are 2 or 3 lines of handwriting between blue lines! Handwriting is in grey or purple pencil or black ink. To view the cover, the first and last pages, and a sketch in the diary, see http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/2123/hall/harrycover.jpg 30kb http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/2123/hall/harryp1.jpg 10kb http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/2123/hall/harryp-1.jpg 20kb http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/2123/hall/harrysketch2.jpg 7kb THE COVER: To Harry from Vera 14/10/15 "Good Luck" Please return to: Miss Vera HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand (LEBU was the ship their parents came to NZ on from England in 1878.) The rear cover has 2 circular marks 7 cm apart, presumably from the pressure of 2 buttons of his jacket. Page 1: Received this book 9 Oct 1915, Harry Fred. HALL, No 2 Platoon, A Coy, NZ Reinforcements. Added later: 12/3343 NZEF Page 2: diary Monday Oct 11th 1915. In Tauherenikau again after Final Leave. I am Orderly Sergeant for A Coy. Weather very warm. All very tired after 19 hour train trip from Auckland Thursday 14 Oct 1915 Fine weather. Paid yesterday P3. 10/- Word from Bar yesterday. Wrote to Mum today. 2 prisoners in Qr Gd. 9ths in camp on 12th. 7ths left on 12th. 14 Oct 1915 Took 2 prisoners up to Camp Commandant for trial and I acted as witness. Oct 26th 1915 Wet afternoon. Attack 2nd & 3rd phases. Payday. Sent 24/Z4 home yesterday. Went to Greytown last night - at dance. Marching to Trentham Thursday. (PTO now) ======================================================================= In envelope with 3 green 1/2d stamps addressed to Miss Vera HALL, c/o UTTING & Coy, Ferry Buildings, Auckland: NZ Expeditionary Force, A Company, 8th Reinforcements, Tauherenikau Military Camp Oct 26th 1915 My dearest Vera Your usual brilliant epistle to hand the other day. I am sorry to have kept you waiting so long for this letter, but I have been very busy and we have had several night operations. So I am sure you will excuse my defaults. Well Bar old Kid, It has been very wet and absolutely Hell hot today. We have been out doing attack work today and had to wear our greatcoats and full equipment and talk about sweat. It simply rolled off us. When we got back for tea this evening everything was either damp or properly wet. But never mind, it does not affect us now we are well broken in. Last night we three shoreboys got leave and went to Greytown. We motored both ways and had a ripping charge/change. We dined at the pub and afterwards had ham and eggs for supper with a small bowl of English ale. During the evening we went to a dance. We were in full dress so you can just guess how hot it was. I only had 6 dances & did not wait for the supper as we had to be back at camp at midnight. The road to Greytown is dead straight and level and is in very smooth condition. Our motor should have held six but we had fifteen aboard. The fare was 2/- per head and so the driver made 20/- each way out of us. Greytown is like Featherston and all these places - dead slow. It consists of half a dozen pubs and the general run of shops. But however slow it is it is a pleasure to get away from the harsh commands and have some fun. Tomorrow afternoon we pack up and on Thursday morning we start on our march to Trentham. We are to be on the road three days. I hope it won't be raining because sleeping on the roadside under trees won't be too sweet in the wet. How are the boys, Bar? And Mum & Dad. Give them all my best love. Shake LES & REG up and tell them I have only had a p.s. from LES so far. Did Mum receive the 24/Z4 I sent up. I also sent a parcel up. Send word whether they have arrived or not Bar. I say would you like my A8 badge on a brooch pin? If you would I shall get it done. Ask Mum if she would like one of them too. If she does I shall try and buy another one. If Mum wants one and I can't buy it, I shall have to give her the one I intended giving to you and you must be content with a button brooch. Write & let us know Bar? I was pleased to hear you had had a good spree at EVE's place. I have received sweets from LAURA and CONNIE. Have you had more photos printed? Get more done and give them to those who want them, will you? Get the enlargement for Mum too. The other chaps are all playing cards as it is too wet to be outside. The snow has all gone from the Rimutaka Mountains now and the river is well loaded with the snow and rain waters. I was going to ring you up on the phone this afternon but when I found it would cost me thre bob for three minutes I cut it out like a sport. This afternoon we all were paid again. I am sending home more money to be put away or else used if anyone wants it. Yesterday we were all four miles from camp along the road drilling. It came on to rain and as we had no overcoasts with us we all got wet to the skins. Our clothes are all out of the trees in the rain and God knows when we shall get them dry. I am thankful I have several changes to wear. The ninth came to Tauherenikau on Saturday last and they are living in a new sort of tent. They are not bell-shaped like ours but are like ordinary tents. We have all received our regimental numbers. Mine is 12/3343. In future we are not known by our name at headquarters but by these numbers. Sounds like prison doesn't it. What do you think of this scrawl. I am lying down doing it and so you must not roar if it is crook to read. I say, you are crook, telling me about going to COOKES for icecream. You more than made my mouth water the day I received your letter. Did I tell you about one of our tents being burnt down. It happened about one in the morning. One poor bloke (MICK ENGLISH) from the Shore had some of his things burnt. Well dear old Bar, You must write now. Shake all the tents & chapies up and make them do it too. Give my best love to Mum & Dad & Boys & all. With best love, hugs and all sorts of brotherly things, I remain, Your most affec. pal, Harry X ======================================================================= [P4] The Camp Courier Vol 1, No 1 Trentham, New Zealand, Saturday October 30th 1915 [a 4 page newspaper with names and nick-names of many soldiers] ======================================================================= DIARY p3 October 30th (Saturday) Just going to Wellington. Finished march from Tauherenikau at lunch today. ======================================================================= Envelope with grey 1 1/2d stamp to Miss V B HALL, c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland Stationary labelled NZ Expeditionary Force, A Company, 8th Reinforcements, Trentham Military Camp. Nov 1st 1915 (sketch of someone bending over). My dearest Bar, Your decent letter to hand. I must first ask your pardon for not writing sooner. I suppose you have heard about our route march from Tauherenikau. It took three days and we had a good time. We had two dam cold nights in the titree and were called out at at 2am Saturday morning to indulge in a sham fight. Yesterday I spent on the rang shooting and put up a good scare. Today I spent in the butts marking or rather helping to mark another Company's shooting. Each company has its turn at marking. In the butts, which are like trenches, we have to look up at the cardboard targets and then signal with flags on the end of long poles the result of the firing. You see, if we bobbed up our heads we would probably get shot. hence the long signalling poles. I sat down and read most of the time as I was in charge of a dozen men who were doing the actual marking. When the bullets whiz overhead they sound like violin strings which have been hit. What do you think of the local paper? A bit dry I guess. We are leaving in 13 days from yesterday, ie on Nov 13th. This week we are to receive our final inspection and second suit of clothes. We are now in Hut 123. Vera, I wrote a letter to Uncle per favour of Mum's kindness in addressing it. I omitted to put on it my proper address. Ask Mum to let him know in case he wishes to repond. L/Corp Harry Fred HALL, 12/3343 No 2 Platoon, A Company, 8th Reinforcements, Trentham MC. Well old dear Kid, news is slack and I am dam lazy and tired. I am sending some photos soon, so expect them. How are the extra photos of me you ordered? We were called up at 5.20am this morning and went on to the range at 7am and stopped there until 5pm tonight. Well Bar, write long letters now and liven things up. Give my best of love to all. Accept best love & hugs & kisses. I will write something decent next time I correspond. I remain Your old pal & brother Harry xx ======================================================================= Envelope stamped 5 Nov 1915 with penny red and green halfpenny stamp overprinted WAR STAMP Miss Vera B HALL, c/o UTTING, Shipping Agent, Ferry Buildings, Auckland Stationary labelled NZ Expeditionary Force, A Company, 8th Reinforcements, Trentham Military Camp. Nov. 4th 1915 My dearest Bar, Your stacks of news arrived today. For four days I had not received a single word from anyone excepting a letter from dear old Mum which also contained letters from the two boys. By Jove things did hum when I got your letter today. I went careering around the hut and causing a fearful disturbance of the peace until I was quietened with a multitude of phrases qualified by numerous long adjectives from the boys. Things as far as getting and giving news down here have been absolutely flat for days - weeks so it seems. All this week our company have been shooting "eyes out" getting as much practice as possible. I did fairly well and was well up in the average although, of course, I did not compare with the cracks. Today was very wet and dull and consequently our scores suffered. I shall send my scoring book home and then you will be able to judge for yourself my results. I secured what is called a first class shot in the shooting records. Yes, I shall send those things to HIX TRAYES [EVE's husband Ernest?] and then he can make them into what Mum and you need and you can pay for them out of my account which Mum has authority to draw upon. I have just returned from a hot and a cold shower. We have here now a proper up-to-date arrangement for so doing and it is very decent under same. One is under the warm water enjoying the temperature when suddenly the water is changed to cold. The change is very sudden but very good. I am sending you (for Mum this time) a PHOTO OF OUR COMPANY taken while resting in Upper Hutt during our route march. EDDY BUDD is in Auckland I knew a week ago. I was acting orderly sergeant that week and so had the handling of his medical papers to and from the doctor. You must say nothing about his complaint, but you can guess what it is. But not a word, Bar, in true promise to me. I don't think, as he says, that there is much chance of losing my stripe. Of course, we have been given to understand, that when reaching the front, all noncommissioned officeres are disrated. This is only natural as the leading of the men is left to men who have had experience and who are much older than we are. We may not, though, lose them if they are short of leaders. I don't care much Bar if I do lose them when I reach the front. If I am not suitable for them, then, in all fairness, let more efficient take them. I am not sorry a gulf has been formed in your and Chub's friendship. I never cared much for her owing to many things including her disposition. But keep my sentiments to yourself, Bar. I think we get our seakits and second lot of equipment tomorrow morning. We go on the 15th. Yes I wish you could come to Wellington and Mum too. If you two like, come down & take costs out of my banking account, if there is enough. It would be very decent. We three boys are probably going to Wellinton tomorrow night until 11pm What for I don't know as it is a crook place. We start on our active pay on Monday. That is to say we get 2/- a day and the remainder is remitted to our next of kin. Tell Mum to expect government vouchers for same. I shall find out how she is to proceed in order to draw the money. Please give Mum the enclosed. It is a PHOTO but I could only get one. Others of our company will be sent next week for you. How is EVE? Tell those others to write and shake up all I know. Give that dort? a photo if she wants one. I forget what RONA SHARPLES is like. Was she the fair one - a chemist or some such lady? Did you get the Trentham Raj I sent? Well Bar, dear old Kid, write again - now, and accept my very best brotherly affection. Give it also to the Boys. Give Mum my very best possible love. Remember me to Dad and ask him to write if he can find a few moments for me. I am writing soon to all. In anticipation of long letters from all, I must now "Right Turn" and "Dismiss" and still be, Your affec. Pal, Rix the 'umble soldier. XXXX -Contains: [P5] photo of company taken while resting in Upper Hutt during our route march; marked on back "highest up on left" referring to himself marked x [P6] Drawings on NZEF Tauherenikau stationary: 1 Poor old Rix doing it hard after 10 miles route march 2 Our Sergeant (JC CRAIG of Auckland reputation) 3 Rix bashed? his hair cut according to military law. 4 charging 5 Rain inside our tent tonight - wet as hell ======================================================================= [P7] undated postcard of HMNZ T(Troopship) No 35 - Best Love from Harry ======================================================================= Envelope stamped NZ Military Post Office, 14 Nov 1915, Troopship No 35. On Active Service Miss Vera B HALL, c/o UTTING, Shipping Agent, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand 12/3343 No 2 Platoon, A Coy, 8th Reinf. NZEF, c/o GPO Wellington. Sunday Nov 13th. 15. On board HMTS WILLOCHRA. My dearest Bar, Received your letter on board last night. We left Wellington at about 5pm yesterday and had a calm trip to Lyttleton. We are on board the WILLOCHRA which is a very decent ship. I managed to secure a bunk in a cabin which opens out on deck. Very handy I should say when the rough weather comes, that is if I prove a crook sailor. Today I am ship's orderly corporal and have to attend to various duties such as helping to supervise the mess and so on. Most of the troops have gone by train on to C. Church to attend a parade there. I am sorry I missed same. Orderly corporal always seems to be my lot when anything good is on. I have not yet received yours and ERNIE's [EVE's husband?] parcels, but perhaps they are aboard somewhere. During my last week in Wellington I had a real good time. PERCY BRAMBLEY [brother-in-law of 43 FLO] (10th NCO) introduced me to some people to whom he was better introduced. One friend in particular proved a very nice companion during my short time there and I had more than a good time. I want you to write to her Vera. She is Miss ELLA BLOMFIELD, Telegraph Bureau, Wellington. She and her friends gave me several packages and came down to the wharf when our vessel cast off. They gave me a real good time and send off, and as you see a lonely parting was not my lot as it was in the case of many other chaps. I opened their parcels today and they were filled with chocolates, lollies and a variety of other luxuries. Well Bar, introduce yourself by mail, and I am certain you will like them. I showed them your photo and they reckoned you were a lovely girl. Eh Wot! Tonight we leave for ALBANY and I shall write you from there. I don't expect we shall receive any mail again after today until we reach our base, wherever that is to be. But nevertheless write, Bar, and then when the letters do come I shall have a good stock of news to read. Tell all the pals to write. Well I shall have to pass on now and do some work. Our ship is like a cramped town and it takes some considerable time to discover where places are. We have a dentist, a hospital, a canteen, and many more conveniences. LYTTLETON is a pretty little place, but very hilly. Tell REX & LES I am doing alright and that I expect letters from them soon after I arrive at Egypt or ? It is great travelling on a fairly large steamer when one is accustomed to small boats. The sensation is altogether different. Well Bar give my very best love to all and accept same for yourself. I remain, Your affec. pal & brother Rix xxxx ======================================================================= DIARY p2 Nov. 15th 1915 Just left Foveaux St[rait] Co 7/.. Fairly rough. GILL & DAVIES cabin mates. Now a corporal. PTO. Left WELLINGTON on Sat 13th. Good farewell. At Lyttleton Sunday. I was Ships Ord. Corp. & so could not go. Permanent Dormitory Sergeant for voyage. Band plays regularly. Received many gifts from Mrs CLAYTON, LE MARQUAUD & Miss BLOMFIELD. They saw me off. Last bit of NZ seen at 8 oclock on Monday 15th - viz. BLUFF Lighthouse. TOFUA well behind. We have to slow down to enable her to catch up. Dr WHEELER on board as Major Doctor. Received parcels from Home & books from CONNIE LLOYD. p4 Nov. 17th (Wed.) 1915 Time 2.50pm 4 days out - we must be somewhere SSE of Tasmania now. Blowing a gale and sea rough. Many down with seasickness. Great dearth of cigarettes which are prohibited but nevertheless secretly indulged in. Canteen opened yesterday. Coupon system of selling. TOFUA is making heavy weather of the seas. We have 1400 aboard. TOFUA has 1200. Wind very cold. Have not been sick yet - seem to be getting sailorised properly now. 18th:- Great storm and gale blowing. Sea very rough. [Crossed out: TOFUA stopped today to bury a dead man so it is said.] We made 2 circles today (Thursday) so as to give the TOFUA a chance to catch up to us. We are only doing 5-6 knots at times - so rough. Propeller racing in troughs of waves. Many down with seasickness. TOFUA had her 2 bathrooms broken it is rumoured. Friday 19th Nov. 1915: Put into HOBART - a very nice place. Calm & warm. Ferries across waters like Auckland. Messroom again crowded. Wrote several letters home & friends & posted on board. ======================================================================= Envelope stamped NZ Military Post Office, 19 Nov 1915 Troopship No 35, PASSED BY MILITARY CENSOR, and addressed On Active Service Miss Vera HALL c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand. 12/3343 No 2 Platoon, A Coy, 8th Reinf. NZEF, c/o GPO Welln. 19/11/15 Dearest Bar Just a line from on the way. We are at present in a beautiful harbour well sheltered from the storms we have had for the last week. Since we left NZ we have experienced nothing else but a succession of gales. The sea has been frightfully rough and caused much sickness. Several minor pieces of damage were done to our ships. We are being treated as well as can be expected, but of course, being crowded on a transport associating with all sorts & conditions, one feels the change. But for all this I am having a good time. We do not know what place is our destination. I shall write from all our ports of call. Thanks very much for the decent box of goods. They were apreciated. Give my love to all and to the boys. They will probably be interested in this if you care to show it to them. Well, love old dear, Write. From your affec. pal & Bro. Rix xxxx ======================================================================= DIARY p5 Saturday 20th Nov. 1915 Arose early - 5am - went for a route march around HOBART - a grand place. Leave from 2pm until 7pm, went to Moonah - met Col. SCHOFIELD at some fair which we accidentally ran across. Had afternoon tea with same. Ran across Misses CLEARY and YOUNG and were invited to Sunday tea. But I don't think I can go as I think we are leaving or else pulling out into the stream. HOBART a beautiful place - climate beautifully warm. Electric cars, light, etc - lovely houses, streets tarred or else paved - good wharves and 40 feet of water at low water. Only 4 ft of rise here. We coaled here and took on extra provisions. Very tired after our march and leave. Ground very shakey after our rough trip across the Tasman. Going to ALBANY, we believe, at tomorrow early. Sunday Nov. 21st 1915. Left HOBART at 5am. A beautiful morning - warm & calm. Crossed DERWENT BAY and the weather became colder and rough. Wind arose. Snow on mountains on Tasmania. Now it is 6pm. The wind is a gale from the west and the ship is pitching and rolling fairly heavily. Not so many ar sick today. I feel tiptop. They treated us to roast pork for dinner today which is worth mentioning. Yesterday I omitted to say that I posted several letters on Board ship for delivery. We are now out of sight of land & must be south of ST VINCENT BIGHT. ======================================================================= Envelope stamped NZ Military Post Office, 26 Nov 1915 Troopship No 35, PASSED BY CENSOR, and addressed On Active Service, Miss Vera HALL c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand. 12/3343 No 2 Platoon, A Coy, 8th Reinf. NZEF, c/o GPO Wellington. Tuesday Nov. 23rd. 1915. My Dearest Bar, Here I am at our four o'clock on Tuesday afternoon, writing to some of the old sports. I wrote, as I promised, from our first port of call. Ever since leaving New Zealand we have had a fairly rough time. But now the weather has calmed considerably and things are quite pleasant. Our correspondences is now censored and so I shall not be able to tell you a great deal about our vessels and the places we visit. The place we were at last week afforded us a relief from this continual rolling motion. We had a route march and after that we had a few hours leave. You can well imagine the times we spent during that time. Along with two pals I pushed along the street and boarded a tramcar. We went to some place and pushed into a concert. Later we had a look about and indulged in the usual fun on such occasions. We have a fair amount of sport among ourselves here. Sometimes we give the "500" a good go. There is a canteen aboard and by a system of tickets we are able to buy common things. Tobacco is cheap and the 1/- tin here costs 6d. We are not permitted to smoke our favourite weeds and we miss them very much indeed. I still have your wallet and keep a casual diary every three or four days. Today our Platoon were lined up for drill. We started skating about four feet at every roll and so the attempt was abandoned and we were dismissed. It is great watching some, in fact a big some, walking about on a rough day. Things get very rusty aboard and we find some difficulty in keeping clean our rifles and bayonets. Have you written to those friends, or rather that friend, of mine in Wellington yet? If you did not get my previous letter, let me know, and then I shall know Bar. I have not, of course, had word from you or the others for some time now, and don't expect to now we are away. But nevertheless write. I shall write again later. With best love I remain Your old pal Rix xxxx ======================================================================= DIARY p6 Saturday Nov. 27th 1915, 7.30pm Landed in ALBANY yesterday at noon. Some navigating across the shallow banks of sand - channel into sound well marked with beacons, lighthouses and land beacons. Shallow at wharves. Railway from Perth. Very poor country. Some parts sandy like Hokianga. Silver sand abundant. Had a route march to town which is a couple of miles from wharf. General leave from 5 to 9pm. Went for a motor car ride with J CRAIG to KING RIVER which is 14 miles out. Called at Esplanade Hotel on way out - a very nice place. Left tonight at 6pm for incognita terra. Sea fairly smooth. Saw 2 whalers. Passed whaling station & saw 5 whalers. There was great excitement when land was first sighted at 9.30 on Friday morning. Nov. 30th Tuesday 2pm 1915. Paid 1P 10/- today at rate 1/6 per day - 1/- a day to draw at disembarkation. 3/6 per day for home. We are now just about in the Tropics and are steering a course NW by W. The weather is now much warmer. Most of us are going about with bared feet and are wearing only shirt & trousers. The TOFUA still keeps within sight. We expect 3 weeks of this. The water since we left ALBANY has been very calm - as calm as a harbour almost. We had a concert last evening - piano, violins, songs, etc Sports on deck this week. Had Boat drill today. I have not drawn a place in any boat. December 2nd Thursday 4pm Wind dead aft with sea fairly calm. The ship is rolling a little. The weather is daily getting warmer. Some of us are in shorts - having cut down our denim trousers. Several cases of measles aboard. Awnings are now covered over all the decks. We have concerts almost every evening now. Lights have now to be blocked. We are now well into the INDIAN OCEAN. I think we are going to ADEN. We are still going NW by W. Two chaps have gone insane aboard. Had washing day yesterday - 2 buckets of water for four men. TOFUA still abreast. Had a spree - 3 of us deck today - bought at canteen lemonade, biscuits, chocolates & tinned peaches. Tobacco 6d a tin. Saturday Dec 4th 1915 4.30pm Weather still beautiful - sea dark blue in Tropics. Small flying fish - some only a couple of inches long - seen often. They can fly, turn, rise and move their wings just as birds do. They are very quick in so doing. Course NW. Lime juice for dinner now. Bar runs out tomorrow - change of diet tomorrow. Weather very uncomfortably warm - shorts, shoes & singlets now. Canvas baths on deck daily in the mornings now. Sports in progress. Officers on Bridge look well in their whites and tunics with gold trimmings. Some are sleeping on deck at nights now. p8 Monday 6th Dec. 1915 4pm Sitting on Promenade deck at stern - perched on a coil of rope enjoying breeze. Will cross EQUATOR on Friday - Neptune dips. There is a great rush for the baths at all times. Daily swimming canvas baths. Coaling from holds today on. When teens from soldiers do this at 2/- extra a day. Several of our chaps are seamen and one of A Coy 6th platoon is 4th officer for the trip. Heavy showers last night and early a.m. today. We now do nothing daily except a little physical excercise, rollcalls, rifle etc inspection. Runaround several boats are about - converted drivers/business? Vaccinated yesterday. Canteen tickets given out as profits from Trentham Canteen on Saturday. Most of us go about in trousers only now - and hat. Sun overhead directly now - no twilight - dark quickly. Sunsets beautiful on sea - fresh water & nasty. Very heavy tropical showers - 2 waterspouts seen close by - saw .. falling into sea and making quite a hole and geyser. Tuesday 7th pm. Washed this morning - towing a target - still coaling - plenty of measles. ======================================================================= Envelope stamped NZ Military Post Office, 13 DEC 1915 Troopship No 35, PASSED BY MILITARY CENSOR, and addressed On Active Service, Miss Vera HALL c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand. If astray please send to [as previous line] Indian Ocean Wednesday 3.30pm Dec. 8th. 1915. My dearest Bar, We are now twelve days out from our port of call. At present our time is 3.30, but yours must be about 8pm or perhaps later. For twelve days the sea has been as calm as old Chilty [Chiltenham Beach, Devonport] except for the usual ocean swell. We are gliding along at a fair pace and I for one, am just about full up of nothing but water and water. We have not seen much in the way of excitement for some time now. Last Monday night we saw a couple of waterspouts during a storm. They were quite near enough to make us secure a good view of the falling mass of water. There are thousands of silvery flying fish in this ocean. They are wonderful fish and are able to glide and flutter along just like birds. Porpoises we see in thousands at times. they are much smaller than the ones I have seen in the Hauraki Gulf. The old currant bun is overhead at noon now and he shines and makes things as hot as an oven. It is a good job no girls are about as a great number of chaps myself included, are running and sitting around attired in nothing but a pair of short strides. Socks, shoes, shirts and coats have [been] absolutely discarded for the time being. I have resort to the bath several times a day as this has a tendency to cool me. We, of course, wash in salt water and it seems to make me stickier than ever. Every morning the ship's sailors rig up for us canvas tubs about 12 feet long and 6 feet wide. Water about 3 feet deep is put into these and hundreds of us quickly turn it into soup by jumping in it and washing ourselves. At night we (in our lines, on our deck) slap on our rugs and not under them. Even then I am only one of a great number who cannot sleep on account of the heat. Our mess room is very very hot too at meal hours. This is how hot it is on a transport in the Tropics. We expect to pass the Equator in a couple of days. We do not know where we are going, but our NW by W course gives us a fair idea of our next port of call. Every body is complaining of sore bottoms caused by sitting on the hard decks. There are nearly 1800 of us here, I barn?, and so you can imagine there is little room, especially when you think that we are built to accomodate only 300 passengers. I still keep a casual diary in your notebook and hope to return it to you filled some day. The other day our Coy. were vaccinated and the lymphs just beginning to take. Mine is itching like a son of a gun. Yesterday we had washing day. Imagine me right into a bucket of water with a heap of very dirty clothes soaked, scrubbed and rinsed in the same water. Then the clothese are dried by tying them on any available place with any available string - stolen or otherwise. Then they are taken in a little cleaner. Well old dear, I don't know when you will get this, or yet where it will be dispatched from. We have been a long time out now - nearly a month, and so must be nearing our destination. Don't forget to write me long decent letters and shake the fence? up and have a good time for there is a better coming when I return. A Merry Xmas & Happy New Year to you. With very best love, I remain, Your old pal Harry xxxx ======================================================================= DIARY Monday 13th 1915 10am Land sighted this morning at sunrise - the CAPE at the North East point of AFRICA or else IOCOTRA? ISLAND. Passing steamers now. Two steamers' smoke and funnels and mast visible on Horizon. Saw sharks. Land very barren. Heading up G[ulf] of ADEN to ADEN now. Last Sat. we had Neptune's Day and many were ducked. A lot of us are very bad with vaccination results. Temperature not so high now. Mail closed on Sat. at 10am for censors - I sent many letters home and elsewhere. The sea has now lost its blue and its green. We expect to be in camp next Sunday if lucky. The removal of coal has apparently finished. Made 2/6d and 1d into identification discs yesterday to send home as mementoes. [See P8.] p9 Tuesday Dec 14th. Stopped at ADEN for an hour to [get] mail - absolutely barren craggy hills and sand. .. big verandahs on houses - prison - winches - signal stations. Continued up RED SEA. Passed some arab dowh. At 3.15pm. We did not anchor but just hung about ADEN - arrived there at 11.30am. Yesterday afternoon and this morning constantly passed big steamers on way out. Saw a native skin village of several hundreds - a camp. ADEN Town is 4 miles or so from where we stopped. Friday Dec. 17th 1915 10.15pm We often pass steamers now. Had our Field Service dressings issued yesterday. Our kits returned from hold yesterday. We passed some islands this morning. Got paid 30/- on Wednesday. Final concert and Fancy Dress ball this evening. Medical exam today. Wrote to Dad yesterday. Saturday Dec. 18th 1915. 2pm We are now at anchor at SUEZ having arrived there at noon. Weather perfect. Passed Australian troopship yesterday. She and the NAVUA arrived about 1pm today. An Indian troopship passed on its way out about 11.30am. In the port are several men'o'war - Italian, French and British - also an Indian troopship (apparently). Only cactus trees on shore - country absolutely barren - all sand. Asiatic coast hilly - we can see many ships slowly steaming down canal - dowhs in abundance. Some are around bartering - cigarettes, etc. Large oil tanks on shore. [crossed out: leaving by train today at 5pm.] Wednesday Dec. 22nd 1915. 11am. Left SUEZ by train for ZEITOUN on Monday last - passed while in train decent gardens - had much fruit - gauge railway 4'6" - arrive at midnight. Have done no drill yet - we are re-organising - very big camp - Australians, Indians & NZrs. Went to CAIRO by rail yesterday - 20 minute journey - better than NZ carriages - natives employed. Drove around for 2 hours - saw all the bad & good - unless there one has no idea of it. We saw the Wazzaa in all its filth - and were shown all by a guide for 10 piastres. SKETCH: Arab dowh as seen at SUEZ, Suez Canal etc. p10 Friday Dec. 24th 1915. 10.30am. On Wednesday afternoon we had a route march of about 12 miles all around ZETOUN - some very dirty crowded parts as well as some very clean beautiful gardens and buildings. Although mid-winter here it is as hot as our NZ summer. Arrived back at 5pm and went straight on Quarter Guard at 530pm until 4pm yesterday (Thursday). We had 11 prisoners. All the sergeants of A Coy were yesterday removed to quarantine as yesterday one of .. has spinal meningitis. Many have measles and are quarantined. We sleep in rough pine huts which hold about 100 men. We have no mattresses - simply on the desert sand on oilsheets. Am off today - 24 hours after guard duty. The main body are arriving today from the Pen[insula?]. Saw CHAS POPE?, MONTE BILKEY, JACK POTTER, ROY FORDHAM, and several other previous chaps. C ROPER is an orderly room sgt and is probably not going back to the front as he has been shot through the calf. ALAN GREY has been hit by shrapnel in the eye and is going blind. This is an enormous camp and one sees all sorts of men. We have had nothing since we came but tinned beef and bread and jam. Tea is drunk. There are wet and dry canteens here. I expect to lose my rank the same as all or most of the other NCOs as this is the rule here - men with active service take our places I believe. There are lovely gardens of sugar, dates, etc. Oranges, tomatoes, sweet spuds, cabbages, dates, sugar and flowers grow in abundance when watered. We see camels, mules galore out here. The natives do nearly all the dirty work here for a few piastres per day. It is Xmas Eve today and must be Xmas Eve about 11pm at home. I suppose you are well having a good time. I am sitting on the ground. It is raining here slightly and is quite a novelty. We also saw drops at SUEZ. I think I am going to CAIRO or else HELIOPOLIS tonight. Plenty of lice for one to contact here. The newspapers here are very paltry - 1 large double sheet of scanty news. There are 1000s of hawks here - sacred and protected. ======================================================================= Envelope marked CENSORED BY GCW Armstrong Lieut. Miss Vera B HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand Stamped on back: Devonport 15 Feb 1916 Contains - 2 postcards of Cairo - A card: A Xmas Greeting Egypt 1915 from Zeitoun, YMCA No 1 (NAZ (sic) Expeditionary Forces) WA HISLOP, Secretary - [P9] The menu (in French and English) for Xmas Day 1915 at The London Tea Room, American Bar, Brasserie, Restaurant, Rue Emad El Dine, Imeuble Khedivial, Le Caire (Cairo) with photo of hotel on back and diagrams of 7 Egyptian coins and their value -[P10] Program in Greek headed Radium dated 26.12.1916 -[P11] 4 tram tickets in Egyptian and French -[P11] Postcard "Suez - Quai de Port-Tewlik". On the back: Dear Bar Just a line to wish you the usual very best. I am writing to you this week and so wont say much in this note. We are having lovely Egyptian weather today (Xmas) but are very lonely being away from all the good times. Very best love from Harry xxxx ======================================================================= A Company, 8th Reinforcements, New Zealand Expeditionary Forces Best Wishes for Xmas and New Year 1915 (with Union Jack) PHOTOS [P12]: 1: 2 men in suits 2: the same 2 men, one with lamb on rope and a third feeding a spaniel 3,4: a yacht, one with "Vera HALL" written on reverse ======================================================================= DIARY p10 Sunday Dec. 26th 1915. 10am. Yesterday Xmas day, I stayed in the camp all the morning and in the afternoon took train with MURDOCH, MOORE, HADDNO, LACITY, ENGLISH & other shore boys to CAIRO. Dined at the New Obelisk Hotel and it was sumptuous indeed. Visited the Zoological Gardens and saw all the African animals, fish and snakes. Went to the pictures in the evening - very good, but dulled as all the writing is in French. Riots in WAZZA last night - one place fired - motorcar burnt and windows smashed by drunken Australians. A Xmas dinner was provided by officials but we did not wait for it. Went out yesterday - we passed over the NILE several times. The bridges are gigantic. Many houseboats are seen. Also great dowhs. The swing portion of the bridges are worked hydraulically. Yesterday morning at 7.30 we had a Xmas service. Today I missed church as No 2 platoon is on line picquet. The main body arrived today and they are lousy in many cases - new uniforms have been issued to them. Today is a fine bright Boxing Day. Tuesday 28th 1915 1pm This account is being written in the desert outside Zeitoun. We are trench digging for the first time here. Suez is very sandy and easy to work. Not so hot as it is winter and a breeze is blowing. Had lunch from our haversacks. Went to pyramids yesterday with MAC and FARRINGTON. Had rides on camels and were photographed. Dined at St James 15 pt. Took car to pyramids. Procured camels? from tombs and stone and granite from tombs respectively. Went to pictures 5pm in the evening. Spent a good day. Got a mail yesterday - ELLA, Mum, Dad, REG, LES, letter from EVE a week before. Purchased cards, bracelet, scarf and 2 hankies on Sunday from CAIRO & HELIOPOLIS. Thursday 30th 8.30pm Dec. 1915 paid 2P 12/- today in 153 piastres. Had 1st 2nd phases attack on desert today - very hot. Saw TOM ANDERSON just from ANZAC - am writing tonight. Went to CAIRO - met CRAIG & MAC & indulged in a bit of fun. Got our valises yesterday - had an address from some Major from the French and other spheres of action - lecture on attack. ======================================================================= (12/3343) On Active Service Miss Vera B HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand Censored - GCW Armstrong. Zeitoun Camp, Jan 1 1915 [This should be 1916.] My dear Bar, How are things going with you? Today is the first of the new year and so of course we are having a day of rest. We have been here for two weeks now and most of the time has been spent in drilling and practising the various movements necessary for the future. We hear a lot of what may happen to us next and where we might go, but I am not allowed to write here what I think we are going to do. Since being in Egypt I have been [on] most of the trips you no doubt have heard so much about. On Xmas day I went to the pyramids. They are really what is claimed to be, but I was rather disappointed in the SPHINX which does not appear so very big when compared to the great PYRAMIDS alongside. We trammed out to the terminus of the cars and then hired camels. When the camel rises the rider has to hang on to the seat as best he can or else he lands on the dirt. We saw the Zoo on Boxing day and the sights are wonderful indeed. I have often been to Cairo. It is a very dirty place, but of course has its clean places too. There are some great buildings all about here - far bigger then any in NZ. By the news enclosed you have no idea of what some of them are like. I received letters the other day, but yours must have missed the mail. How is the new place? I suppose you are well settled in it by now. If we can get leave this afternoon, a party of us are going on a trip to CAIRO again. There are give train and tram services about here. The electric trains spin along at about 25 to 30 miles an hour. Yesterday we were inoculated again and I can tell you most of us are fairly sore as a result. We had a bit of fun last night. Most of us waited up and saw the old year out. We had tincans, plates, whistles, drums and all manner of noisy things. We were not disturbed this morning and so slept in until about 8.30 to made up for it. JERRY was sent to the hospital the day we arrived with some complaint. But he is progressing now. I am told. I am sending you under separate cover the Egyptian bracelet you wanted. It only cost me 10/6 & I could not get a gold one as I had not the money. Yours is silver which is gilded, but it is a genuine one, made here. Things are very cheap here, but if a good article is required, then a good price has to be paid. I say did you write a line to the dartsin? wells? I mentioned in my previous letter? Let me know if Mum, Dad & all get the things I sent. How is the old beach stakes now? I only wish I was there to join you and the rest. Well Bar, I shall write more later. The mail closes soon and I have many more to write. Send along the usual, like a good kid. I am having the usual time and am as fit as a fiddle. I hope you are jogging along in good style still. I remain, Your old pal, Harry xxxx ======================================================================= Envelope marked On Active Service 12/3343 Miss Vera B HALL, c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand Passed by Censor - GCW Armstrong, Liut. Stamped 10 JA 16 See [P13]: Photo of 3 of them in uniform on camels in front of the Sphinx and a pyramid [He is in centre. On LHS? is L Corp. GEORGE MCKENZIE. On RHS? is FARRINGTON.] On back [addressed to Vera as above]: January 3rd. 1916 My dear Bar, This was taken on Xmas Day when we were on our trip to the pyramids. I have sent home an enlargement of same. Let me know if you and all get the letters and presents. I don't suppose we shall be out of it much longer now. I am well and feeling as fit as a fiddle. Best love to you old sport. Your old pal Harry xxxx ======================================================================= DIARY Tuesday January 6th 16. Had operation yesterday from 2pm to 8pm - a defensive? again - outdone by the agtn? and the Maoris. Thursday January 13th 1916 Moved on Saturday into the 7th huts. We have better food now - have had no mail for 12 days. Was on guard from 5pm on Monday for 24 hours - Quarterguard - was on Escort yesterday but was compelled to come home and go to bed on account of severe pains in abdomen - was in bunk all today - had a job getting suitable food. MORIS DAVIES made me some pobs last night. Was paid on Tuesday afternoon 171 piastres (1P 15/-). When on the guard tent MONTY MELKEY and TOM SEISONS? JIM CRAIG was my 2 of the guard and so we had a good time. I slept from 1.30am until 430am. There is a rumour that we are going to France in 4 months - only a rumour however. ======================================================================= Jan 14th [19]16 Dear Bar These are models of the discs we have to wear. Ours are made of zinc & we are not allowed to be without them. They are worn hanging by a cord around our necks. Yours to a cinder Harry xxxx Give one to the boys ======================================================================= DIARY January 18th 1916 (11am) Monday Have had letters from Mum, Bar, LES, REX, by last mail was ill with pains in abdomen for two days last week. Was on an escort last Thursday. Last night was in charge of a ZEITOUN Picquet - arrived back at 1am - have this morning off - no result - we are filling in time with all kinds of elementary drill now. More Australians arrived last night and went on to ISMALIA direct. We are moving on shortly by all accounts. We have a primus in our end of the hut and often make cocoa and toast. Several times made my own breakfast with poached eggs and toast and cocoa. We now have to do all our drill with full equipment including our valises or packs fully packed with service gear. We are allowed to wear any kind of khaki uniforms we choose (dark khaki). I wear riding breeches as they are most comfortable and neat. Inoculate last week again. Friday Jan. 21st 1916 I was on ZEITOUN picquet again from 5.20 to midnight. Have this morning off in consequence. Saw a lake mirage plainly yesterday when on desert. I was in charge of a reconnoitering party. Last night while on picquet a chap knocked over a large bat - about 18 inches from wingtip to wingtip - just like a large rat with thin skin wings. We were out along the ISMALI irrigation canal doing outpost practice on Wednesday. We took our midday rations - great ants, black, 1 inch long and large purply black legs in abundance. Saw a peculiarly shaped lizard the same colour as the sands?. We had a severe hail & rain squall yesterday and the water poured into our frail huts. There was a great bustle to get our blankets and gear covered over. We are all broke and anxiously looking forward to our next pay. Last night a great trainload of camels passed through ZEITOUN en route for the canal where an attack by the Turks is expected next month sooner or later. Sat. Jan. 29th 16 3pm Was in charge of QMS [Quarter Master Store] Fatigue yesterday. Had this morning off as I have a cold in back slightly. Our weekly mail has not yet arrived - our trench repairing in the rain all day on Wed. last - was cold work - went to the HELIOPOLIS vaudville last Thursday evening with MAC and ROPER. Was in charge of No 3 platoon on Wednesday morning when General BIRDWOOD inspected us. We were all spick and span and created a good impression I think. Our whole battalion turned out in lines of Coy and the band played selections. But it was very weary standing from 10 till 12.30 doing nothing. I was in charge of the No 2 platoon on Thursday and Friday and had an amount of experience. Major ROSS has been relieved by Major SAUNDERS. Great semi-riots have occurred lately owing to the harsh (apparently) treatment in reference to cleanliness. But the men seem much more satisfied. MURDOCH and the others returned from the school of instruction today. So far I have received no papers or parcels only a few letters. Today I made some bovril as I have a cold in the back. We have had a deal of rain lately and have suffered accordingly. It seems queer going to bunk with the rain drip dripping every time it rains. Today is perfect although this morning at 6am when we arose the air was as cold as ice. I was at HELMEIH last night with TOM SAISSONS. Tuesday Feb 1st 1916 noon. Yesterday our battalion had a full day route march to CAIRO. Left at 8am and carried our equipment and tucker. Had dinner on the banks of the NILE and rested for an hour or so. We saw much - houseboats, dowhs, barges, hundreds of natives who hang around and grab for any waste food which the soldiers throw away. We are not allowed to talk to these on the march or at the halt as so many spies are about. I had to take charge of the motor garage guard at HELIOPOLIS. I slept in a motor ambulance. I saw BERT PROSSER who works in the garage shop there. He said he had heard from CHUB. I am off duty this morning. I have a chafed thigh and a blister after yesterday's march. Sg. CRAIG, LUNN & I just returned from Mrs MASON's Helmich? tearooms where we had morning tea & cakes. I have just read letters from NZ for the third time as they seem so good and recall old times. JERRY LUNN returned from the hospital yesterday. Many of our men are going to join the main body at ISMALIA this week. The 9ths are expected next week early. JIMMY CRAIG and I photo ourselves on Sunday with full equipment. The mornings now are very cold and this morning as we were returning from HELIOPOLIS guard in the motor it was very foggy. We our? Coy and Platoon drill this afternoon ======================================================================= Envelope marked On Active Service 12/3343 Miss Vera B HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand Censored & passed - KA ECHACK? Stamped 7 FE (Same address) Wednesday February 2nd. 1916 My dear Bar, Just a few more lines to keep the ball rolling. I received your letter which was written on Dec 12th, on Sunday last. I was in extra good spirits that day when it came as it was accompanied by five others. I heard from FLO, Mum, Dad, the boys and CONNIE LLOYD. The mail orderly is always rushed here as you can guess. I am glad you wrote home to London to MARJORIE and I am eagerly looking forward to word from her. Yes, I reckon you are a fair hero for dropping word of gratitude to the Wellington skirtstakes - she is a very decent sort. I heard from her some time ago. I suppose you had a good time at Hamilton on Xmas. How is EVE? When you see her convery my best wishes please. Our Xmas went by fairly quietly although I had some excitement as I described in a previous letter. Fancy old LES escorting Mum around the Province. I can just imagine him sporting his new lid and making inquiries at Te Aroha, etc, for Mum's benefit. Why didn't you go too? You must have received a shock when JIM came to light with an heir. "The old horse still has a kick in him", what! FLO's trip you mentioned is a good one I believe. I was surprised to be a guest too and I would have taken advantage of it if I had been present in the flesh. I think that `varsity coon wanted my number so as he could send me a magazine. Several of the chaps here, who were students there, have received them, but mine has not come yet. Yes, I suppose the lads will miss the yachting stakes. I know I do - badly. All the shore boys are hanging on well and all of them are eager for the time to come. Poor BUSTER! [FLO's son b1911] I have sent him and FLO small gifts. I often think of him. He is a good little chap and, I suppose, will have grown out of recognition by the time I return. The kiddies here are, on the whole, disgustingly filthy. There are, of course, some who are cared for, and who are clean and well mannered; but these form a minority. Hundreds of them, with ages ranging from three upwards, have to fish for themselves, and eat all manner of dirty scraps which they pick up in the gutters and out of refuse tins. Many of them smoke butts found on the road. So you see our children in New Zealand are well-off. I am enclosing a small PHOTO [see P14], showing our war equipment. It is heavy and requires a certain amount of strength and endurance to carry a long way. Fancy carrying your rugs, eating and cooking utensils, greatcoat, bandoliers, ammunition, belt, bayonet, rifle, entrenching tool, water bottle, toilet gear, housewife, extra socks, jersey, towel, balaclava, any extra personal belongings and also an oilsheet all in one load, and sometimes for fairly long distances. But we leave our rugs in camp as a rule. It is wonderful how quickly one accustoms oneself to such a load. Today I had a holiday as I hurt my foot slightly last week. But I am going out on drill again tomorrow. A number of our chaps have been called upon to go away on Saturday inst. I did not apply as I did not wish to become separated from my pals. SERGEANT CRAIG and I are arranging for an autograph card address with our photographs attached to be printed. If it comes off I shall send one along. How is JUN's new motor? I expect you put in for a few drives around. Last Monday night I was in charge of the Helipolois NZ Motor Garage Guard. I saw BERT PROSSER there. He is working in the repair shop and is more than having a good time. We came back to camp in one of the NZ motor ambulances at a hell of a pace at six am. The other morning we had a call to arms; but it proved a false alarm after the whole battalion had paraded. When the alarm was blown I was in a bath of hot water and had to go for it to be there in time. Well Bar, dear kid, you just about have my newsbox, stock and all. Have a good time and let me hear from you as much as possible. Give my best love to all and tell them I am writing as I have managed to prick pen and into? from - (the censor might want to know why). With best love, I remain, Your affec. old pal, Harry xxxx PS I am writing in bunk - a luxury - I don't think. ======================================================================= DIARY Tuesday [February] 8th 1916. Paid 1P 15/- yesterday. Was on guard at HELIOPOLIS motor garage Sunday eve? Had Monday morning free. So JIM CRAIG and I got duty passes until 5pm so as to visit CAIRO to get estimates for our autograph certificates. We went to Gov. PT works on the NILE and were recommended to some place in CAIRO which took us about 2 hrs to find. Went to the police station for a policeman to guide us there. Have to go on Wed. (tomorrow) at 7pm for proof. Most of our tramrides were backed? We got several buttons given us. Wrote home and away and sent printed "Wails" too. Had dinner at .. in CAIRO and finished up at the pictures. We saw a Maori officer for a time (Ms Ehau?). The 9th come tonight I think. Received our billies last Saturday (gift b from Auck. PAT. CONN.) Have learnt semaphore sending - just getting the knack of receiving. Have sent a p.c. to Mum & Dad. Saw Mr BROADY and he made out transfer cpland? which I am sending home next guard. (He did it on Sunday evening prior guard.) February 10th 1916. 7.30pm Had skirmishing on desert yesterday. Pitching tents for 9th last night. They arrived yesterday and today. Was Corps of CAIRO guard today, guarding wounded who were embarking train for CAIRO, thence NZ. Route march this afternoon. Purchased a VPK camera (175 pts) yesterday evening. Saw the beginning proof of our No 2 platoon autograph sheet. [See P15. This contains the following service numbers - all prefixed 12/ except the one prefixed 7/ below - and signatures:] 3216 GCW ARMSTRONG Lieut. 3293 ML DAVIES Corpl. 3233 J CRAIG Plat. Sergt. 3343 HF HALL Corpl. 3223 N DURHAM Sergt. 3387 SJS LOCK Corpl. 3259 HW BOYNE Sergt. 3404 G MACKENZIE L/C 3245 L? BAKER 3359 PM HOBSON 3437 JACK E OAKDEN 3261 C BERTELSEN 3362 HE HOUSTON 3340 HB HADDOW 3254 DC BLACK 3526 TC JACKAY? 7/2323 LJ SHAW CJ JONKAS 3274 GW BROWN 3377 HM KENNEDY 3440 JW PATTERSON 3271 WS BULL 3065 C KELLY 3448 WA PRINCE 3270 FP BURTON 3383 CP LEAITY 3449 WA PROICE 3279 CH CARSON 3385 JW LAWSON 3458 JJ ROBERTSON 3286 AJ BOWLEY 3392 J LOWTHERN 3467 G ROPER 3287 JA COWLEY 3395 LV LUNN 3468 JJ SALMON 3288 A CROFT 3415 C MASON 3478 SJ LAVADERSON 3295 S DEVESCH 3417 EC MATTHEWS 3496 EJ TURPIN 3310 CL EARL 3421 FS METTAM 3506 T WHITFIELD 3313 A ENGLISH 3426 LM MOORE 3509 R WIEDENBOHN 3318 HS TILE 3427 RC MOORE 3510 G WIEDENBOHN 3323 A FAWSON 3429 VM MORRIN 3516 EH WOODS 3328 AM GILL 3431 CL MOUNCE 3518 P WOONTON 3330 HM GIRROS 3527 ROY GHUMMERCK 3521 A G AFAAG Had a letter yesterday from cousin MARJERY HALL in London. Had medical inspection yesterday morning. Some of the wounded we saw today were frightfully disabled, some on stretchers. February 20th 1916 (Sunday 8pm) Have been doing heavy strenuous attack work this last week. I have had word from M HALL, Mum, etc. Sent home autograph cards to Mum, VERA, FLO, LAURA, LES? VERA's letter mentioned about her meeting ELLA in Auckland. Took several snaps lately. Had the first roll developed but the results were poor. Went to Camel Corps this afternoon and it was interesting. Today I sold shoes, denim suit, riding breeches for 9 piastres. This evening I met a Maori from Hokianga and he knew JIM ASKEW. Today I moved into a new bell tent for a change. I am Orderly Corp. (Coy) for 3 days from today. Mr WHITE is now our c.o. as Cpt KIRKER has gone to GEISA. I wrote to MARJERY HALL & ELLA & home yesterday. We are still at HELMICH and ZEITOUN Camp. February 26th 1916 9pm At leisure in the tent after a strenuous day's practice in attack work on the desert. Yesterday we had another route march to ISMALIA. Was Ord. Cp (Coy) from Sunday last until Wednesday. I am rather stiff in the muscles now because for the last few days I have suffered from a cold in the head and throat. I sent my second roll of film to the Kodak today to be developed and printed. The first the Egy[ptian]. did were not a success. March 4th 1916 Saturday 10.30am Have still been doing hard work on the desert. Weather was very warm. We had a sandstorm for the first time on Thursday. Was on picquet MATURICH from 6pm until 6am on Tuesday last (evening). Wrote to MARJERY yesterday. Am in charge of the HELIOPOLIS Motor Garage Motor Guard tonight. We are inlying picquet today and so this morning have had a medical inspection. I am back again in about 5am. Our tents have been removed away. Met STEVE RICE last Thursday. Sunday March 12th 1916 4pm I am writing this on the desert at the spot where the Turks had their artillery guns in 1915. I forgot to mention on late mens that we passed through on our way here TEL EL KIKER on Tuesday on our way here. We are now all C Corps until efficiency is proved, i.e. all former NCOs. March 14th 1916 Saturday 8pm We left Zeitoun on Tuesday and took train to ISMALIA from whence we marched across the SUEZ Canal on pontoon bridge, thence to a spot on the desert five miles out. We carried full pack and arrived about 7.30pm very tired. We bivouaced on the desert for two evenings and now we have tents and are very swamped - 15 in a tent, and more in some cases. We saw several monitors, warships, etc on the canal lakes. ISMALIA is a very beautiful place - fine mansions & tropical verdure, plenty of canals and fine roads. The country is all sandy. Past our present camp are the road and railway (petrol engines) which run to the trenches. The hill on which we are camped is the place where the Turks had their artillery guns in the action of 1915. Aeroplanes pass very high overhead to and fro the Turks positions. Daily we see the observation capture balloon rise from the warships in the canal. I am now in the 3rd Auckland Coy of the 2nd Battalion. Our old Coy is scattered all over the place amongst the 15th NA, 16th Waikato and 6th Hauraki's. MAC and JERRY have gone to the machine gun section. Cpt KIRKER is our O.C. All NCOs have been reverted to the ranks, but some of us will soon be promoted. There are stacks of great bugs, small lizards and snakes on the sand here. I am in 2nd Pl[atoon] at present under Lt. THOMAS from Epsom. I made myself known to him tonight and he showed me photos of old Epsom pupils. Our tucker comprises bully beef, bread, jam, tea and cooked meat & spuds - the latter 2 if we are lucky and stewed only. I am now drilling 4 [times] a day in shorts - the weather is so warm. The nights are very cold on the sand and the dew is very heavy. We have had no mail for nearly four weeks now. Mr MCFARLAND told us yesterday that we are going to Europe in about 3 weeks time. Today I had a section to drill - a test I expect to see if I am efficient for NCO rank March 20th Monday (noon) On Friday night at 7.30 we started on a march over the desert from the Reserve Camp & arrived back at about 9.30pm after a very strenuous hot march. On Saturday at 7.30am we started (30 of us) as an advance party to MOASCAR on the African side of the canal. We are at present busy fixing up the new camp where we are to be re-equipped for the front. Great numbers of Australians left for France last night. I saw the PRINCE OF WALES last night - he is only a boy. On our march to MOASKA on Saturday we caught in a sand storm - something awful - could not recognise ourselves for fine sand - could not see more than a few yds at times. We are now along side a fresh water canal where there is plenty of water thank goodness - now we can have a wash. Indian transports are carting our tents. Wednesday March 29th 1916 (5pm here) The 2nd Batttn arrived on Tues. 21st and we had stiff work pitching tents for them. Since then we have been doing batt. work 3 or 4 miles out on the desert -very solid work. This week we are having night parades nightly. Yesterday I was Bt. Ord. Cp. I met ARTHUR ROBERTS last Saturday eve. I also saw met a number of teachers whom I met in the past at the Training College. We walk twice or thrice a week to the better lake (photo taken) and have a swim. It is a perfect place from the point of view of a swimmer. Last Sunday some officers and a few of we NCOs reconnoitred the country over which we are working this week daily & nightly. This week I have received letters from Mum, EVE, REX, LES, JANET SUTHERLAND, LAURA, JIM, MARJERY, the 2 Misses from Hobart, ELLA and was pleased indeed. Have never received a parcel yet. MOASCAR is a hot, hot hole - flies galore. Wednesday [April] 5th 1916 7.30pm Last Monday we & others (1st & 2nd Brigades), trents, artillery, ambulance, etc etc) were finally inspected by Mj General MURRAY who is in charge of forces in Egypt - proved ourselves fit & suitable. Tuesday we were issued with the high velocity rifles (shorts) which are point blank at 500 yards. Went for a swim in the "Bitter" (once better) lake in the afternoon. We have also been issued with 120 Mark VII ammunition and already iron rations. We have on our backs our black squares with red diamonds as distinctive badges. Our tunics have in them now the service bandage and gas helmet pockets. Today we had a full kit (bau) and service valise inspection. We had to throw out all spare personal gear - 20 lbs back? kit weight allowed per man. The 1st Regiment left - probably for France today. Also the medical corps. We leave at the end of this week. HARCOURT, ARMITAGE & I have charge of the MOASCAR ordinance stores guard today and tomorrow. I am writing this in the guard tent. I am writing home & elsewhere tonight. ======================================================================= FIELD SERVICE POST CARD Miss V. B. HALL, c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand Stamped 14 AP 16 Reverse: NOTHING is to be written on this side except the date and signature ... I am quite well. I have received your letter date Feb. Signed HF HALL 6/4/16 ======================================================================= DIARY Sunday 9th April 1916. 5.30pm I did not have time to write letters so sent F.S. cards away to home etc. Received 9 letters yesterday from SYLVIA, Mum, Bar, ELLA, EVE, FLO, etc Last Friday we had another inspection by General BRAITHWAITE and Col. ALDERMAN - pronounced fit for France. Our platoon was made baggage guard for the journey on Friday night at 11pm. The train I was on left NEVASCAR. There were many train loads & we arrived at ALEXANDRIA about 6am Saturday. Embarked immediately on several transports. I am on the (Cunard line) ASCANIA. We left ALEXANDRIA at 6am this Sunday. We are well escorted by destroyers. We are zigzaging all over the place to avoid any submarines which may be about. Today we had drill in fallings? our accident posts. Machine guard the 4.7 gun astern practice today. I am allotted to a raft in the event of our striking a torpedo. I am sleeping in the Sgt's quarters & dine in their mess - good .. We are bound for MARSEILLES & expect to arrive in 6 days - God willing. The 10th advance party arrived just as we entrained at MOASCAR. ======================================================================= Envelope marked On Active Service 12/3343 Miss V. B. HALL, c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand Censored by: - F THOMAS. Stamped PASSED FIELD CENSORED 1280, 14 AP 16 NEW ZEALAND BRIGADE FIELD POST OFFICE (At Sea) April 14th.16. Dear old Bar, I received your decent letters last week and needless to say, was delighted. I envied you in a way - having such good times tripping all around. You must have been highly flattered when you read the Ham. papers. Thanks for telling EVE to write. I have not yet received her letter but am looking forward to receiving same. Look Bar, I have about twenty minutes to catch the mail, so I know you will excuse a short scrawl this time. I meant to write last night. You see, yesterday I was inoculated (6th time) again and so did not feel like writing. Lately I have met al lthe old Shore chaps, including ARTHUR ROBERTS. He is still as happy as ever, although he has had some trying times. How is the old "Keruru"? - A thing of the past I expect. LES gave me a very graphic account of what happened. He and REX are a pair of doers. You must have a rich time keeping them in order. Well old Sport, tell them all I am going to write long letters next mail. Best love to you and all. Don't forget it's letters galore I want. With best love, From Harry xxxx ======================================================================= DIARY Saturday April 15th 1916 - 10am I am lying down on my bunk writing this. The seas are very big and our 9000 tonner ASCANIA is pitching a great deal. The engines are going dead slow more or less. We were inoculated on Thursday & (it being in the arm) made us all very sore. Many (40 or 50%) are down with seasickness or Seine- seasickness. I wrote small letters to Mum, VERA, & E. yesterday. We passed MALTA on Wednesday. On Thursday we passed PANTOBERE Island. Yesterday we sighted what was probably SARDINIA & CORSICA. We expect to reach FRANCE tonight. We have seen submarines, trawlers (mine) and war vessels of a small escort type. Concerts are held nightly in the saloon by different units and the Brig. General always attends. Tuesday April 18th 1916 noon I am now in the train travelling from MARSEILLES to FLANDERS. Passed through LYONS over the RHONE River through all sorts of towns - over rivers past farms, castles, monasteries, over the SEINE River. Saw PARIS & Eiffel Tower in the distance. Marched 10 miles to REBECQ over hard road. Stopped for lunch at AIRE - a beautiful French village which was once overrun by the Germans. We are now billeted in barns & farms - sleep on straw - cook our own meals - wood very scarce - we buy eggs etc from the peasants - beer 1d a glass - wine 1d & 2d. Good Friday (continued) On our way to PARIS we passed through miles & miles of vineyards - factories. The railways are wonderful & very fast (ie expresses). It is extremely cold here & is now raining - ground very sloppy. We are 10-20 miles from the firing line - can hear sometimes, the guns & see the flashes at the front. The Australians are also here - some at the front. ======================================================================= Coin or articles of value should not be sent in this envelope ... NOTE - Correspondence in this envelope need not be censored Regimentally. The Contents are liable to examination at the Base. ... I certify on my honour that the contents of this envelope refer to nothing but private and family matters. Signature (Name only) [signed] HF HALL "On Active Service" [stamped 3 JU 16] Miss Bar HALL, c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand April 25th. [19]16. Dear Bar, What ho! for a few lines to my old pal. I got your decent letter some few mails ago, but lately have not heard from you. I am anxiously looking forward to next mail for word. I have been fortunate in getting word from NZ lately. Keep the ball rolling and tell them to keep on writing letters, where we are now, are like good wine - they keep our pecker up. Lately we have undergone many experiences - but "Mum's the word" says the censor. What sort of an Easter did you have? Ours was not much good. Everything was so wet and cold. On the Sunday Morning some of us were marched to a field close by and there our Chaplain held a service. But it was so beastly wet and cold that much of our time was occupied in thinking of what we did the same time last year. At present we are doing all sorts of work and soldiering. During spare moments there is nothing else to do but play cards, wash clothes (when opportune) and cook our tucker. You doubtless will have heard of all our doings by the time this letter reaches you. How is EVE? I concluded from your last letter what was brewing at EDENDALE. LAURA had good luck. Is EVE's a good thing? I met ARTHUR ROBERTS a few weeks ago and we had a good laugh over the bet I had with him concerning FLO's last. Ask FLO about it? Well dear Bar, I shall send cards regularly. Give my best to all and keep smiling - there's a good time coming. Write like a dear. With best love, I remain Your affec. bro. Harry xxx [Enclosed is a book lining of gold and green clover] ======================================================================= DIARY Thursday April 27th 1916 4pm We have been doing route marches galore. We have given in our gas helmets & have been issued with the latest type - 2 of them. Also goggles for lacrimating gas & an extra F. dressing. Today we were taken through a gas laden trench to test our helmets & to give us confidence in them. We also went through a tear gas trench - the stuff is awful & produces blinding tears. At night when the guns at the trenches were firing 1.6 miles approximately) we can plainly see the flashes and plainly hear the flashes. We are now having very short rations and are having hard work. We accordingly are having to buy eggs etc to substantiate our meals. I received 2 Weekly News (24th Feb) today from home & FLO I think. Occasionally some of us are to get leave to LONDON etc which is only 8 hrs trip from here. I hope my turn will come soon. Today was extremely hot - we left our billets at 7am & returned at 2.30pm - continuous going. Sir DOUGLAS HAIG inspected us during the course of the day. We must be off again very soon I think. Saturday April 29th 1916 1.50pm The colonel had all Butt? NCO and many of the officers frame out yesterday afternoon & practised us in fire control and bearing. It was warm work indeed. Today we are having off so as to rest for Monday's march. We were paid yesterday. I received 57 francs. To show you the extent of my appetite I ate 8 eggs & 2 slices of toast & drank a billy of tea for lunch today. A French tart is putting new pockets in my tunic tonight. Today is very windy & looks like a change for the wet again. Sunday April 20th 1916 1pm Today we had church parade at 9am. Since 10am we've been busy packing in order to move off at 1.30pm. Our full packs are very heavy & as we have a 7.5 mile march to -- we doubtless will be tired before evening. We are approaching the F. line. On Monday we have a 14 mile march & then we shall be only 5 miles from the front trenches. For her kindness in giving us hot water, etc we gave the French woman of our billet a F.D.G. as a souvenir. The women here work hard in the fields etc. Much hard work is done, each village being apparently a centre making its own goods. Tuesday May 2nd 1916, 5.30pm We marched 7.5 miles on Tuesday & reached BOEYHAM? very tired. We passed through many villages & towns. On Monday we set out at 7am & after marching 15 miles we reached BLEYS? at 4pm absolutely dead beat. Hundreds dropped out - some were picked up by ambulance & others arrived on foot today. Personally I was not blistered or chafed much, but was fatigued in the muscles to an extent you cannot imagine. Our packs were complete with blankets & rations. Complete - 70 lbs (estimate). We can now see the flashes - hear the machine guns, grenades, etc plainly. We are only a few miles from the observation balloons & aeroplanes & are the 2nd line of reserves. Only last week 4 Germans were caught in this billet. These French people were, only a few months ago, driven out at the point of the bayonet by the Huns. Motors of wounded pass inwards daily. We had a severe storm (hail) for about half an hour today. There are 60 of us billeted in this house. Some more of our Battn went to England last night. We have to be in readiness to advance at a moment's notice at any time. Our gas helmets have now to be worn at all times. Gas reaches this far - it has killed a great field of clover close by here. It makes many of the inhabitants vomit & sick. These are the parts from which the Huns were driven back a few months ago. Friday 5th May 1916, 8pm We've had some great experiences watching air fights, aeroplanes fly over the trenches at a great height & are constantly shelled. When German machines fly over they are shelled by the scores. Yesterday a shell burst at the back of our billet about 200 yards away - made a great hole. I picked up several pieces of the case - awfully jagged things. The Germans appear to be doing some damage as cartloads of furniture passed by away today - followed by the poor people. We are moving to the trenches in a couple of days. Got a letter from MARJERY HALL today. Yesterday I received 9 letters - awfully glad. Heard from LAURA, LES, REX, BAR, EVE, FLO, ELLA, MCSWAN, HIX. Have been issued with steel helmets (May 3rd). Our gas helmets & lacrimatory goggles are daily (?) inspected. We had an alarm (false!!) at 11pm in the 3rd mist? The colonel biked into a 4' deep ditch in the dark - very funny - much fun created (up our sleeves of course). Thursday May 11th 1916 8.30pm Well here I am still at BLEU. We are taking up the right wing of the trenches (NZ Brigade allotted portion) on Sunday. We have 11 miles to march to ARMENTIERE. On Saturday night I think. Today General BRAITHWAITE inspected our bayonet fighting and seemed pleased. This is a newer & much quicker way of fighting. Our company is awfully cut up now what with signallers, trench mortarers, bombers, etc. The French mortarers went away today. We had our rugs steamed to kill all the lice. This was on Tuesday. The lice are more than abundant now. On Tuesday I received poor old Mum's box of varieties. The cake etc was a real luxury - such things are unobtainable here. My word I was pleased to know I was not forgotten. I wrote to Uncle JACK on Tuesday. MARJERY sent me 3 papers & 2 decent letters. I generally buy my breakfast or eggs at this billet. These eggs are some luxury & of course I am making of it. All our O.C.s have had a turn at visiting the portion of trench we are to occupy. I believe we shall have to work very hard indeed deepening the trench. Well I have just had a good supper of 3 eggs & coffee, so think I shall turn in & have a smoke. Sunday May 14th 1916 10.30pm Last night at 6.30pm we started for the trenches. We arrived ARMENTIERES at 1am this morning. Talk about dead beat - full pack for 13 miles. I had new boots on - a six too big & so I suffered in consequence. Now I have 2 pairs of socks on to fill up the gaps - cold footed! I don't think. We slept in an old school or factory or some such thing. All the buildings etc are more or less knocked about here. The fire trenches are only 25 minutes walk from here so things are close indeed. We have now to wear our steel helmets. Last night we got covered with mud - some parts were awful. All the cellar tops have about 4 feet of sandbags around - protection in case of a bombardment. I heard yesterday that GEORGE B [FLO' s husband?] had joined - saw it in a cutting. Monday May 15th (8am Monday) We left ARMENTIERE under guidance at 7.30pm & after passing many smashed-in churches & buildings, entered the communication trench which proved to be a cap? 1 hour walk from the F. trench. It was very dark and rainy - some places with no duckboards. We left our valices at 2m S stones in ARMENTIERES and took only our bare necessities. We took post at approx. 10pm & relieved some Tommies. I was in charge of a good post (No. 3) but later was moved to No. 5 to assist Cp. ARMITAGE. No. 5 is most dangerous & is in places exposed to direct fire - there are no bivis attached to it. The night was as cold as ice & gusty wind wrong for German gas which is the deadliest enemy. Machine guns & company? we at work all nights - luminous rockets - bombs - no casualties in this vicinity - things very quiet today - no sleep (rather 1/2 Hour). Got in couple? shots. One portion I had to take a patrol to report to the Grenadiers - 25 yards back & raked at .. by searchlights and rockets - but Kia Ora was mine? Thursday 18th 1916 (3.30am) So far I am alive & kicking. We spent Sunday night & Monday in the left bay of our sector. We had to work hard in the mud deepening & repairing parapets - it was raining most of the time. At 7pm Monday we went into the supports. On Tuesday at 6pm we returned to Bay 17 past . in the F line. Been here since. Have had many shots but can't tell the results. The Huns are 150 yards away now & they give us Hell - bombs, shells, machine guns & rifle fire. Flames used at night - 3 gas alarms last night & this morning during darkness. There have only been about half a dozen casualties in our NZs so far. ARMENTIERES is being badly bombarded by the Germans - more ruins - 6 Tommies killed there by a shell - I hear that 11 women were gassed there this morning. I have a fair bivouac - get comparatively no sleep - fair tucker - mail often - I have been here 5 days (nearly) & have not yet had a wash or a shave or been undressed. You should see me now! A lot of us have had some narrow squeaks. There are myriads of great rats here. This battlefield was once an agricultural land. The farmhouse remains, churches, barns, etc stand yet - awful in appearance and tokens of severe artilery fire. This morning is very misty and we can't see the Hun trenches but are peppering where we think fit. This is a wonderful village - a sandbag town! The trench leading to my post I have named and signposted BEACONSFIELD ST. [Referred to as S.78 trench on p-8.] Monday May 22nd 1916 6.30pm Most of us got over our excitement of being first in the Front Line and are now quite used to the roar and whistle and boom. Double sentries are kept all the time. We are going away from the front trench tonight being relieved by DICKINS I think. Poor GEORGE BROWN was shot on Friday night about midnight. A M.G. caught and blew the right side of his head and brains for yards around. It was in my trench and so we all were filled with sadness here. Several casualties have happened. It was awful - a man has no individual chance of retaliation when the shots and shells fly. At Friday morning at 4am (very thick fog) I volunteered to go into "No Man's Land" to investigate some peculiar sounds in the German lines. Returned safely with the supposition that the Germans were line laying or trench post driving. Doubtless such a Centure? metric one. Scared - very nervous the best of us. I arrived back and the fog lifted and the Germans started firing. The planes are wonderful here. Aeroplanes are almost daily fired upon by hundreds of shells but they are hard to hit apparently. The were 13 captive balloons up am serving on Saturday. At present the British are bombarding the German supports and artillery heavily. The Germans for days past have poured big shells into our artillery and ARMENTIERES. (Our dugouts here are about 5 by 5 by 5 feet and afford poor rest and protection. I have only had small snatches of sleep this week but today I slept all morning and wrote letters to the accompaniment of shot and shell. Received Dad's cigaretttes yesterday. Also Uncle JACK's first letter. Got 2 good ones from Dad. I shall be glad when this war is over & all can return to a natural way of living. This is Hell!! ======================================================================= In blue envelope "On Active Service" [stamped 25 MY 16] Miss Vera B HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand New Zealand. Stamped on back Devonport 18 JL 1916 Postcard of 2 dogs with "To greet your birthday" with a poem Folded blue envelope with PS Don't forget my new address. 22/3343 Cp. HF HALL, 2nd Batt. 3rd (Auck. Reg.) Coy, NZ Forces - The same Coy as REG is in I think. [P16]: A small spray from No Mans Land - ie land between us and the Hun. It was very foggy last wed morn about 3.30 - (daylight 3am here) and I was told off to take an investigation patrol to try and spy. We had to crawl on our tummies and listen - a nerve-wracking piece of work. Yours truly landed back again whole thank goodness. Well dear, this is where the spray enclosed as a souvenir come from. Harry France (Monday) May 22nd 1916. My dearest Bar, Here I am again old pal. Your letter written at your new employment arrived on Saturday along with 9 others including one from MARJERY HALL and one from Uncle JOHN. Dad's 3 letters also came accompanied by 100 cigarettes. Many, many thanks to the dear old people. I always put these thanks on all the letters to home, and then if any are lost in delivery, the news has a better chance of reaching you. Uncle JOHN has written to me and invited me to the freedom of his house in the event of my getting leave to England. Of course my turn for such leave will come in the course of a couple of months provided all keeps well. Poor old Mum! My word Bar, I am continually wondering about the old people and Mum's complaint. I was awfully sorry when I heard of the bad turn, but again, awfully pleased and relieved to hear that things are well again. I only hope Providence spares us all to meet again. Then, won't there be happiness and contentment. You have no idea how I am looking forward to the time ahead when we all shall meet again. Give Mum and Dad my love. So you are back again in "Lebu" - a decent place too. Fancy old REG and the launch. What a time those lads at Mototapu must have had when in camp. I saw a picture in a "Weekly News" which was floating around here, and I could not keep thinking of the contrast between training camp and war camps. How is the camera Bar? The photos LES sent were taken by your VPK apparently - not bad either. I had to place my camera in the base stores the same as everybody else. Court martial awaits the man found with a camera here. I was sorry to part with same. I say Bar, I sent home a good few photos and films I took in Egypt by IAN MACKENZIE, so look out for them. I met him at MOASCAR some time ago. Inquire for them as they are very good ones and tell me what you think of them. We getfair food here under the circumstances -dam dangerous. These are items: army bread & biscuits, jam, ham, cheese, bully beef, army rations (consisting of tinned meat and vegetables), tea and stews. Healthy, but possessing the army ration virtue - invariably the same. At present we have no sport and snatch a little sleep whenever we can. We have to work hard doing navying and such work. We have been in the trenches for a week now (8 days) and have had a good sprinkling of war - otherwise Hell - the only suitable expression I can think of. I have been right up in the five trench all the time - only a matter of 150 yds from Fritz. We have had four gas alarms and have had to don our helmets -rotten things stinking like a mixtures of a dozen dentists' shops and 1/2 dozen latrines. This is indeed a sandbag town. Streets named, dugouts numbered and trenches named also. I named the one I am in charge of Beaconsfield Road. It is 20 feet long and contains 7 men and yours truly. We have had several casualties - one in my trench. Well dear, I hope things are well with you and all. I am as right as rain. I hope to hear from you very soon now. With very best love and tons of good wishes, I remain Your old pal, Harry xxxx PS Fancy GT and HD getting married. You know where their chaps should be, don't you? ======================================================================= In blue envelope "On Active Service" [stamped 24 MY 16] Address: Miss Bar HALL, Lebu, Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand contains [P17] a French postcard of 2 children shaving their grandfather: on back Souvenir picked up in a ruined house in a deserted town on the French-Belgium frontier. May 29th 1916. [So in the wrong envelope] [P18] unsigned photo of soldier sitting in a field with 3 stripes -looks like REX. ======================================================================= DIARY Tuesday May 30th 1916 6.45pm Well here I am again - a week late in writing - all is well. This week we have been in reserve/ in billets in ARMENTIERES. We got out of the trenches last Monday - rather Tuesday at 3am & were glad for the relaxation. Every day or night (alternatively). Several more NZs have been killed and wounded. Bombardments daily here - a big church was burning yesterday - fearful & a shame. Last night my 2 stripes were confirmed ie made substantive. They evidently would not do so until we had been in the trenches. Had a hot bath in a great beer vat last Wednesday. Had clean underclothes & towel issued in lieu of the dirty ones (a great arrangement are the old vats - about 20 men to a tub). Had a swim in a fresh water bath on Sunday morning after a church parade - a lovely bath - water ice cold. Have had a rotten cold lately. I celebrated the 29th May (28th anniversary) in the shape of a good tea - eggs, chips, tea and cakes & sweets. Went to the pictures on the 28th nist & reminded me of the good old pictures in NZ. We were issued with had & collar badges today - much envied things. Cpt ARMSTRONG & PRINCE went to the school on the 27th inst. Have sent home kerchief & cards this week. Saturday June 3rd 1916 (2.45pm) A perfect day in the Support (S.P.Y.) King's birthday. The S. Africans - to our left - were heavily bombarded for 5 hours (11-4) last night. They retaliated & the row was awful. We had a gas alarm at 1am this morning & had to don our gas helmets. Machine guns played up last nights on both sides. Now and again shells burst around one never knows when ones time will come. We are having an easy time here - just waiting - listening - sleeping & a little fatigue. I wrote to HUGH C yesterday. Our q.m.8 brings me an English newspaper (yesterday's) daily, and I always devour its contents eagerly. Our dugouts here are numerous but poor - overhead cover only 2 or 3 bags in thickness. [P19] SKETCH of him smiling lying on corrugated iron on mud in trench; above are 5 rows marked sb (sandbag), b (brick), sandbag, brick, sandbag. Caption: Side elevation of our dugout. HARCOURT, ARMITAGE & self - safe from earth and flying fragments only. (See http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/2123/hall/harrysketch2.jpg) ======================================================================= In blue envelope "On Active Service" [stamped 6 JU 16] Miss Vera HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand New Zealand. Stamped on back Devonport 28 JL 1916 France June 4th 1916. My dearest Bar, Sunday afternoon - 3pm in the trenches. I suppose by now you have stern old winter well in company while we are having, generally speaking, lovely weather. But our nights are very cold, especially sleeping on the firestep (a standing place in the trench) or else in our dugouts. Yesterday was the King's Birthday although few of us had much time to think of it. The Germans strapped us a little extra on account of this I expect. At present I am feeling rather dirty because I have had no wash or shave for some few days. My clothes are in an awful condition - covered with grease, oil, dirt and stains of all kinds. Last week, when we were in ARMENTIERES having a rest or spell, we had two hot baths and a cold swim provided at different times during the week. The hot bath business is most deserving of praise and reflects great credit on the Home authorities. Each tub holds about a dozen to twenty men and the water is about four feet deep. There are about a score of tubs. The place was apparently once a brewery & the tubs were beer vats. After the bath we hand in our dirty, licey underclothes and in exchange get ones which have been washed properly. We also get clean socks. We all look forward to our spell from the trenches mainly in order to get the wash & clothes. Of course we also like the spell from the noise and excitement. We have numbers - myriads almost - of rats ranging from the size of mice to that of cats, and fair-sized cats too. But we are quite accustomed to them by now and don't mind them patrolling over our chests, etc, during our moments of slumber. Most of our scran is tinned stuff. We get stew of a kind once a day, so we can't growl. I often think when I look at the grass and trees around what a damnable thing this war is. The trees more than get knocked about, but the grass seems to flourish. We have artillery duels daily and the effect of high explosives is most awful. Bags and timbers and sometimes odies are blown to bits when the shots are well put. The shells from the artillery scream over our heads and when they explode headaches and rude shocks are not few. I have quite a collection of shrapnel bullets, pieces of shell, etc in my valice at the base. Our dugouts are holes in the grounds or under the paradosses where we crawl when the high explosives come. That is if we have timely warning. Of course when the shells lob on or near to the bivouacs, then it is "finish New Zealand" as the Frenchman says. Today a mail came to the trenches but I struck a total miss (although I get three from the school a few days ago). There were about half a dozen "Weekly News" lying about today - they were almost "eaten and digested". Well dear old Bar, I am alright and think I am doing well enough and so do not worry much. How is the business going? I hope you can still pronounce "all's well". Give the boys my best wishes. Old Rix has not forgetten the two doens. How is dear old Mum? and Dad? I trust they are well and happy. Let me hear all the news Bar. With very best love and wishes. Your old pal now concludes. Harry xxxx PS Tell them all I write whenever I can. Harry (in the dugout) [SKETCH of him lying in the dugout with artillery shells flying.] I share mine with HARCOURT [&] ARMITAGE this time. [Enclosed: a stalk of grass] ======================================================================= DIARY Thursday June 8th 1916 (7.30pm) We had some exciting and vivid experiences during our 6 days in S.P.Y. We worked fairly hard at making brick and sandbag sandwich overhead dugout cover. Went out on a wiring party 3 times - twice in daylight at 3.30 onward a.m. Was lucky as SMALL stopped it in the thigh. A. YATES received an awful wound - the bullet entering above knee - turned and blew out a hole (egg size) 4 inches below the knee. I was guide to the No. 5 p[latoon] of 8th SOUTHLANDS to S.P.Y. last night. It was dark, wet and slippery - took us over an hour to pass up the comm. trench. We are getting very short rations. Received a letter from Uncle JACK. We are now in HAUPLINES in Reserve, sleeping in dark cold cellars. Alison? bombarded us severely with 9.2 inch for an hour this morning - on art. gun was unwheeled - an awful noise to wake up to at 5.30am. Slept in today as a rest. Pinched! some cherries from a deserted orchard today - they were a small luxury. Hun put over a messafe? over their front line trench yesterday. "Five .. British pence in 8 days". I wonder what their game is! Sunday June 11th 7.45pm I had 9 letters last night including from Mum, Dad, REX, EVE, FLO, etc ======================================================================= France Monday Evening June 19th 1916 My dearest Bar, Just the usual from your old pal. It is quite a long time since I had a letter from you, but don't worry Bar, because I think a NZ mail is due here next week. We have been having a good rest and change for about a week in this place. We have been living in strong brick cellars which are, in some cases, proof against most shells. Tomorrow we return to the firing line for another two weeks agony, (or otherwise). The buildings all around here are in a frightful state - all broken and smashed to atoms. The German shells are fearful things themselves and cause awful damage. They are capable of destroying weeks ad weeks of work in a second or two. I have sent some comic books home to Dad and Mum. The pictures in them are exaggerated as far as the expressions and appearances of them men go, but not otherwise. The broken buildings, dugouts and trenches are very much like what does happen here. We never have water to walk in in the trenches at this time of the year except when we take up the duck-boards (boards to walk upon). I had to take a fatigue party down to a battered old church two days ago. We went to procure some of the posts & rafters from the church. They are used in strengthening our dugouts. The church was once a very big one, but now is roofless and in its walls and tower are great shell holes through which one can easily walk. I found a small St Matthew's Gospel in French amongst the mess and am keeping it as a souvenir. We never go short of plates, spoons or forks here. We can find plenty in the old broken deserted houses in this town. Chairs and mattresses are plentiful too - from the same source and our cellar (once a wine cellar under a pub) is well furnished considering we shall be sorry to leave it tomorrow and go to the cold trenches again. We don't get too much tucker but are able to supplement it now we are here. You would have roared if you had seen me frying twelve eggs in an old tin this morning. I was getting nicely when the seventh one I broke proved rotten - stinking too. I scooped the stinking stuff out off the good ones and continued. My pal reckoned the eggs were stale at breakfast. No wonder eh Bar. But that was a mere item. Better eat them than have dry bread and jam. We have all sorts of such troubles, but most of us make the best of it and by so doing enjoy ourselves even under trying circumstances. When I come back home I am sure I shall prove a rough customer and will want breaking in to civilised customs again. I received a lovely box of biscuits from FLO and BUSTER last Saturday Uncle JACK and MARJERY sent me two decent cakes (the second lot) last Friday. On Sunday I received a box of good stuff from MAY RENSHAW. So you see I have been extra lucky this week. Bar, how is poor old Mum? And Dad? Give them my best love. Tell EVE & the boys I am writing as soon as I can. Don't forget your old pal and write. Best love to all and yourself. How is REX? From your affec. pal Harry xxxx PS A pal of mine went to London on his leave last week. I told him to go to Uncle's for a chat. He went and stayed for a few days & he reckons he had a really pleasant time while there. Says MARJERY is a lovely kid. ======================================================================= DIARY Monday June 19th 1916 (11pm) Have been in HAUPHIN's since Wednesday the 7th inst. living in a cellar, working in the trenches nightly - shelled daily - parcels from MAY R, Uncle JACK & FLO. FRANK WARRI[NGTON] visited Uncle JACK & had a good time. Had a swim today in the hot tubs. Had a concert tonight - proved very nice. Recollections of the 20th June 1916. The time 7.10pm on the 20th June. Arose at 8.30am. Last night we talked until about 1am or 1.30am. Watched aeroplane being shelled and the shells bursting. Saw church in the distance which was set alight by the Germans.Took our valises and blankets to the QM stores in ARMENTIERES. Bought a new pipe and .. Sunday stores for the trenches. We are going out there at 9.30 tonight to a new sector. Just now it is lovely and quiet after a shower. Wrote to FLO, BAR, MAY RENSHAW, MARJERY, Mum & Dad. Friday June 23rd 1916. 9pm (8pm) Last night we were subjected to a most severe bombardment from the German artillery. We fortunately escaped by hugging to parapets. We are in the S. trench (i.e. No. 2 platoon) of a gap. Fatigues are strengthening up in front of supports and in near of Five/Fire trench the unlevel soil. Last night the parties both to exit post haste. I made some porridge this morning about 3am - also cocoa. We are busy making new bivouacs. I am suffering from an awful throat soreness. My? throat and uvula seem to be inflamed and are awfully sore. Of course I have to grin and bear it. I got letters from Mum, Dad, BAR, EVE, FLO, LES, REX, LAURA, JIM. LES sent me more gaslight photos - not bad either. Today we have had some? thunder, lightning & rain. Our trenches now smell abominably and are very muddy. I and 3 privates (as sentries) are on gas picquet from 9pm 24 hours on. Tuesday June 26th 1916. (0.40am) This is rather a queer time to be writing, but I am going out on to No Man's Land at 2am on a listening patrol and so wish to be wide awake for the occasion. Things have been very unpleasantly warm from a warrior's point of view for two days now. On Saturday we were given an awful bombardment in return for same thing. We had to take to our dugouts for hours and had little or no sleep for 2 and 3 days. But we gave the Germans worst and blew in their parapets and workings in many places. We also destroyed a portion of their barbed wire. They wounded a few of our chaps - a NZ raiding party received 9 prisoners including 4 officers and one dead (June 26th continued) Our patrols located also a sniper's posse in a tree trunk. This afternoon at about 6pm 3 of our aeroplanes flew over to the German observation balloons. They flew above the clouds and out of vision and when over the high big balloons dropped some fire shells (new invention) on the balloons and four of the great ships fell in a wild medley of flame and smoke to the ground. Our boys went half mad and cheered for all they were worth. It was the most wonderful and awful sight I have seen in the air since being at the front & in my lifetime. Great blazing things dropped down with their observers, all of which were enveloped in awful running and dropping flames. The Aussis are making a raid tonight by the sound of their guns. One Sunday afternoon I saw a TAUBE [plane] hit and fall just recovering herself in time. Last night - bombardment. Coy's [company's] out?house shattered NZ mail burnt - some of mine - I nearly cried at the loss. On Saturday I had letters from MARJERY, MILL, AUNT RUTH. Synopsis from the Pelman. Cpt ARMSTRONG returned yesterday and relieved Cpt KIRKER who goes to hospital - pleurisy they say probably to NZ. On Saturday I caught a running? baby mole and killed it - very pretty .. they passed? The dugout where I have been busy for a week is the one in which Cpl JOYCE was killed in. A shell landed plump on the right hand corner and going through burst inside with frightful results. But I blocked up the hole with .... I make a fire in a pot in it every morning about 2 or 3am and make either cocoa and toast or Quaker oats or both. These are good and scarce here particularly in the front line. We are not in a location but a jar? and in the supports (S.Y.O.?) so really in the front line as the real front line is not manned. Wed. June 28th 8.45pm We have had daily bombardments - awful concussions and row. Thursday 29th 1916 8am I have been up all the night except 1 and a half hrs sleep early am. There was a terrific bombardment on our left flank last night- presumably by the S. Africans. I saw our T mentors at work yesterday - the bombs can be plainly seen going high up in the air, dropping in the Hun's front trench and then !! awful! Got a letter from Uncle JACK last night. We were expected to liberate some Roger (gas) last night, but too wet. On Monday night I was out on No Man's as a Listening patrol. On Tuesday night I was out as a covering party for Cp. ARMITAGE's wiring party - very dicky jobs. [ 4 pages missing] particulars in reference to my past occupation, age, condition and education. He said I might go - to England - 2 or 3 months in school. It would be just decent to gain a commission. Have had cards and letters from MARGERY for 3 days running. We had another strafing this morning and on our right and left flanks this afternoon. Our trench mortars played particular havoc with the German front line this afternoon. The Huns are now retaliating with their mortars and I think mine sweepers? which are awful in their effect. May we escape them. We have now been in S.78 for 16 days - too long for a hot place. JERRY LUNN is in the hospital suffering from nerves. DICK TURPIN has gone away with shell shock. 4 and myself had to work in the gap last night from 11 to 1.30 - filling in front trench. Had a gas alarm there and the machine guns made us more than careful. Sunday 9th 1916 (July) Noon On Friday four poor chaps (MILLS, LONG, HOBSON, HURSTER?) were blown to pieces by a Howitzer lobbing right in their bunk? We were strafed by all sorts of explosives yesterday and last night from 9 to 12 particularly. Many casualties in the 1st Brigade. We moved down to the stripdosing? line last night at 11 .. we have poor bivis and so don't expect much protection from the shells which come over. Today is perfect and reminds me of the paddocks at home. We spent 19 days - the S.78 are here for 2 weeks and then back to the front line, or so I am told. We hear of German socialist riots and British reverses - I wonder! Have heard nothing about our trip or? commissions. The snipers and observers are back with us for a time. We and Hun have the observation balloons up today. Mr TAYLOR - our P. Off. [patrol officer?] was wounded over the temple. Mr THOMAS is with us again. Tuesday July 11th 1916 6.30pm On Monday pm PHILLIPSON and I had to go to Regimental Headquarters and be interviewed by GENERAL RUSSELL. He recommended me as suitable for commission and this morning CPT ARMSTRONG told me to be in readiness as I have to be in England on 15th inst. I had a hot bath and tea in town yesterday. I was one of a big party which had to parry up gas (roger) cylinders last night about 11.30pm . Had to return during a heavy bombardment early in the morning and it was not pleasant. Sq. CRAWFORD & Cpl ARMITAGE have gone (today) to PARIS as representatives from 2nd Battalion to attend some Allies Review - lucky beggars. Today we had a heavy T.M. bombardment and the Hun trenches could be seen flying in all directions. The Huns returned a heavy H.E fire - but they escaped our Subsidiary Line fortunately. Several shells lobbed in the graveyard alongside. GEORGE MACK is in hospital - shell .. in arm and shoulder. Mr THOMAS has gone to a job some place a way back. Monday 17th July 1916 7.15am Last Thursday eve. the O.I.B. [OTAGO INFANTRY BATTALION?] next to us had a smack up raid - 140 out and 12 or so returned - the wounded were something awful to look at. On Friday at 5pm I reported at Battalion Headquarters to proceed to England to OTC [Officer Training Camp]. Went down to LUIBER? Station in a kinker - arose on Saturday morning at 5am and took a timber? to STEENWERCK - the R.T.O. instruct ed me & others I met there to proceed to ETAPLES for passes. Arrived ETAPLES at 4pm Saturday. We are still detained here but hope to get away tomorrow. This is a real good rest after the strenuous time we put in the trenches. Food and beds bon. Yesterday we took a slow walk to a pretty village - purchased food in a French house and the people were good in the manner they bothered with us - of course we paid them. I have a bit of a cold contracted in the train journey trip to this place. This is an enormous camp and here one sees all sorts of wounded, sick and otherwise. The cookhouse and cauldons are perfect arrangements. Thursday July 20th 1916 8pm We are still at ETAPLES. On Tuesday a small party of the "MASSY? TOURISTS" as we style ourselves, went on leave to PARIS DE PLAGE - a beautiful watering place of fame - lovely esplanade, houses - something of the great nature one reads of in books. Today we walked to FRANC, a peaceful village - had a French luncheon and wine -appreciated! We don't know what is going to happen to us now. I am in the OTAGO temporarily. Tuesday July 25th 1916,10.30am On Sunday PAT HANNAH & I walked to CAMOIS and had dinner once in the village and once on the beach at a hotel. The place is a great watering place and so remarkably pleasant - .. scores of boats passing along the English Channel. Had a bath at LADY ANGELA's home yesterday. I have been supplied with breeches, thru boots etc in readiness for BLIGHTY? I am still at ETAPLES lounging around. The sky is dull and we expect rain. Friday 4th August 1916 5.30am 2nd anniversary of war. Wrote home & to England on Tuesday. Am still at ETAPLES. Have had no word of moving et. Lovely warm weather. [crossed out: 12 & 13th Rifles/Regts arrive today.] Moved camp and made tents compact yesterday. Am now an Acting Sg [Sergeant] and enjoy all the privileges of the Sg's Mess and Bar. Had a swim in the Channel at PARIS PLAGE on Tuesday. The water was beautifully warm. Saw the broken halves of the SOCOTRA. Monday August 7th 1916 10am Yesterday an aeroplane with a leaky petrol tank (hit by shrapnel likely) settled down in the midst of some cornfields close by - still there. P HANNAH and I went to ETAPLES yesterday afternoon - dined and had a look around there. Received a letter from Mum yesterday and was very pleased. The weather is dull now and rain is probable. Another detachment exit for the Front Line at 3am today. Thursday 10th August We travelled via BOULOGNE and FOLKESTONE yesterday to LONDON. Put up at PEEL HOUSE. Early this morning took train tube & motorbus to 99 D[Drayton] GARDENS. [S Kensington, London SW. Home of Uncle Jack, Mr John James HALL.] Met MARJE and aunt. Am now at 99 DG. Have not met Uncle yet. Monday August 14th 1916 8am I am now in CODFORD on Salisbury Plains. Uncle is a real good chap and Dad's double in profile only much smaller. Went in St Paul's on Thursday afternoon - wonderful - went down Leicester St, Charing Cross, Piccadilly, etc Saw Trafalgar Square. The Underground and tubes are wonderful inventions. On Tuesday Int. went to the Empire and after dined at some cafe - immensely interesting. We journeyed in a 50 ml train to here. We are now endeavouring to get a weekend furlough before our hard spell of training. I met ALICE MENZIES in the Q.M. store and he refitted me with all I want. It is now raining heavily. Last night I walked to CHITTERNE [Chiltern?], a small old village. We are in Wiltshire. Friday August 18th 1916 8pm Spent from Monday eve to Friday eve in London. Stayed at Uncle's and saw many sights. Went to the theatre with MARJ, Uncle, Aunt & PAT HANNA on Tuesday eve. We went to see about the stick flave and got a good hearing. Uncle Aunt & MARJ are real good sorts. We expect our reg[imental] leave at any time now. QUANTON went on 3 weeks leave from today. Met F. GREEN in LONDON in Records Office. Have had no mail for ages. ======================================================================= In white envelope with a penny red stamp Miss Vera HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand Stamped on back: Devonport 11 OC 16 NZ EXPEDITIONARY FORCE ONWARD Letterhead: NEW ZEALAND COMMAND DEPOT, CODFORD, WILTS, NZ EXPEDITIONARY FORCE August 19th 1916 My dearest Bar, In Blighty Bar! I came over from France a week ago and since my arrival have had a good look around a few places. I had a lovely trip across the Channel in a very quick boat which zigzaged all the way across and was guided and escorted by destroyers. The Captain of the boat made us all wear life-belts as an extra precaution. We got across in about an hour and reached FOLKESTONE full of curiosity. We reached LONDON when it was dark. I met MARJERY, Aunt & Uncle there the other day and stayed at their place for four days. Uncle is a bouncing chap and treats me real well. Aunt and MARJERY are darlings. I went out to dinner several times with MARJERY and thrice to the theatre. She is a fine kid and full of sport and life. I think she would suit you as a chum. While in London I went through the Tower, St Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Madame Tussaud's and several other notable buildings. The theatres and restaurants here are most gorgeous. Uncle JACK took us to the Empire one night and we saw "We're all in it". Afterwards he shouted us all to a good supper in some flash cafe. You can't imagine what these London underground and tube trains are like. You go down for quite a distance in a great elevator which carries about 30 people or more. At the bottom you get out and find yourself in a great station with offices and stalls galore. The train comes, you get aboard with a penny ticket and travel half way across or rather under LONDON - all the time in a big tube or tunnel. It is absolutely the limit in wonders. I have been sent over to England for the purpose of studying and training for a commission. I think I shall be here for about three months. As soon as I know what the school is like I shall let you know. At present I amwaiting orders here to proceed to the place. In a few days I hope to get leave for ten days or so. I want to go to Sheffield and also to see more of wonderful London. I write to Aunt RUTH and last Thursday I wrote saying I was in England. It is pleasant to be away from the fighting for a time. How is REG? You young monkey - while I am away the mice play. I wish you Kia Ora Bar dear. I have not heard from you for weeks and weeks. But now I am in England perhaps I shall hear soon. Get my temporary address from Dad. I am writing to all immediately - wrote to Dad today & to Mum on Thursday. Best love to all. I hope Mum & Dad are in best of health. With love, I remain Your affec. Bro. Harry xxxx ======================================================================= DIARY Monday August 21st. 1916. 10.10am. We spend 2 hours in phys. drill & work in a.m. & 2.5hrs p.m. in marches,etc. yesterday being Sunday I went for a stroll to CODFORD to another village. Went in an old church built 1624 - very old and worn but good. I have had no letters again yet. Thursday 24th August 1916 8.30am Received a letter & cutting from Dad yesterday per medium Uncle JACK. Went to YMCA concert that night. On Tuesday inst. went to opening of AOTEA ROA HUT - good - free supper. We continue to carry on with physical jerks, bayonet & shooting & musketry and have had no word of leave yet. A big draft left here last night for sling for Front. Bought a new hat and slacks yesterday. Saturday 26th 1916 1.40pm Yesterday was very wet at periods. We did physical stunts & bay practice a.m. In afternoon opening of AOTEA ROA tearooms by Hon. TOM MACK. Gen RICHARDSON present also. Latter inspected us pm. Said he was going to see to us immediately. Expect to enter an OTC at any time now. We may get leave .. .. Went to CODFORD pictures in evening - crowded and I had seen most of the pictures in NZ. Had supper at YMCA at 9pm. Have heard from Mum, Dad, MARJERY since arrived here. Monday Aug. 20th 1916 8am Yesterday it rained heavily - PAT and I walked to WYLYE? - had tea there & walked home. Wrote to Mum. Acknowledgement to MARGE re Dad's letter - church in Aotea Roa Hut yesterday. No word yet from War Office. When in LONDON, MARJERY had the films which I carted all through the trenches undeveloped - good - although they suffered from time. Dad has received the films I sent home per IAN MACK. Arrived LICHFIELD? on Sept. 5th. Tuesday 9pm Sept 12th 1916 Have not attended to diary lately - was at LONDON, Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sunday am 31.1.2.3 Spt. Saw last Uncle JACK. Had a good time - on Serpentine one day - Rt. (Sunday) of Zepp - fall & wired for 30 pounds. 20 pounds remitted yesterday - drawing same through MARGE. 17 letters yesterday. Am at LICHFIELD CADET SCHOOL - hard training. MARGERY sent a dozen photos of her dressed up [see P20-P22] and on Serpentine. Met AUNT ALICE [P20]- nice. Letter from COUSIN OLIVE. Passed through BATH, BRISTOL, BIRMINGHAM - arrived here on 5th - been here a week today - food good - waitresses. Photo of Mum from LES. Measured for dress tomorrow. Very little leave here. Was at practice wiring all this afternoon. Have met some very nice chaps here. We have a nice ante-room, gymnasium, etc. 2 letters from Aunt RUTH & MILLY. Heard H. ARMITAGE had been killed. Sept. 2th 1916 Wednesday Still have continuing our training in drill and theory. Had 20 letters last week and 17 yesterday. A lot of them were old ones and were from NZ. Very urgent letters from cousins re money - a very funny episode. Heard through BAR that CYRIL CALTMAN? has been killed. Heard from HARRIS last week. Football practice has started. Our sports were last week. 7 letters from school kiddies yesterday. I get leave on the 7th instant. Heard NZ advancing in SOMME. Very cold nights and mornings here. Oct. 4th 7.30pm Went to SHEFFIELD last weekend and met AUNTS RUTH, MAUD, COUSINS JOE, ALF, MAGGIE. UNCLE HARRY. All so pleased to see me. Account of places I saw in back of book. Was held up at DERBY for an hours. ZEPPS on guard tonight. Oct. 9th 1916 9pm Went to LONDON the 7th weekend. Went to Theatre Royal in Drury Lane. On Sunday went to the parade in Hyde Park - Hampton Court - Richmond. Arrived back in barracks at 2am this morning. Have just written to FRANK WARRINGTON in hospital. Being fitted with uniform this week - HAZEL & Coy - London tailors. Our C Company 3rd in Competition Drill. ======================================================================= In white envelope with a penny red stamp [stamped 16 OC 16] Miss V.B. HALL, [crossed out: c/o W.S. & W., Solicitors, Fort Street] "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand Stamped on back: Devonport 7 DE 16 Oct 15th 1916 My dearest Bar, Yrs truly gets his frame on an easy chair and endeavours to write! [SKETCH OF HIM WRITING] Kick off 2pm Sunday:- How is the game? I received your interesting budget of letters some time ago. I am so glad to hear you are getting my correspondence regularly now. I am still anchored at the above address and am having a safe and comparatively quiet time - a time fully appreciated as you can imagine. Sorry to hear that you, at the time of your writing, were suffering from influenza. But the trip you contemplated taking to SYLVIA's farm must have done you a world of good. Did you go out much in the motor car? I was so pleased to get a letter from SYLVIA last week - thought she had forgotten this child altogether. I can tell by letters that MARGERY has written, that the youngster is growing and developing fast. I received MARGERY's p.c. [postcard] she sent when you were there. Did GEORGE pass his officer's exam? I wonder where he is now - perhaps in France? I don't think you know the pal I sent along to Uncle JACK. His name is WARNINGTON. I suppose by now you have had my letter telling you all about my first visit to London. I was there again last weekend and had a splendid time. Uncle JACK has joined the ASC but I have no word from him since he left. The weekend before I went to SHEFFIELD and met Aunt RUTH and Aunt MAUD. I stayed with Aunt RUTH and had a basker time. I am going again when the opportunity comes. Next Saturday I am to visit Aunt JENNIE. Yes poor old MAC stopped a bit of Hun steel. I heard from and wrote to him last week. Stacks of our boys are going and have gone - rotten affair this war. But wait until it is over - then I shall be best man at the affair. Write straight away Bar old dear. Love to all and yourself. Your affec. brother Harry xxxx PS Shall write more next time - I have a score of letters to wipe off this afternoon. H ======================================================================= In white envelope with a penny red stamp [stamped 1 NO 16] Miss Bar HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand Stamped on back: Devonport 19 DE 16 C Coy, No 8 Cadet Battalion, Whittington Barracks, Lichfield, Staffs, England 31/10/16 Dearest Bar, Very decent was your welcome letter written on Sept 5th. First and foremost please accept brotherly congratulations and please convey same to REX. I am glad to know you two are well pleased with each other and I wish you both every success in your happy venture. Of course you are indeed lucky . If only I were so situated what would I do? I am glad you received my cable. I worded it in such a manner that I thought was concise and understandable. Yes - I am A1 and only wanted you all to know so and to send me some of the necessary. Tell Dad I received the money for which many thanks. Well Bar, I expect you have long since this had letters from me in England. By the time you get this I suppose I shall be back in France as our course here ends in three weeks. So far I have done well, I think, but of course the final exam will show. Last Saturday we had a trial test in which I think I did fairly well. Last week-end (and I have been to the place once before) I went to BIRMINGHAM again and had a most enjoyable time at Aunt JENNIE's place which is very comfortable. There I also met Uncle (by marriage), cousins LEN, OLIVE & MABEL. OLIVE and MABEL (ages respectively 21 (or so) and 17) showed me all about and it was quite pleasant. I was to have motored to Stratford-on-Avon - but the weather was too inclement for this. LEN and MABEL are twins and are LESLIE's age. A few weeks ago I was in SHEFFIELD - a good time as per usual for Rix. In LONDON I had a most excellent time - but of course I mentioned all about this in previous correspondence. Was so sorry to hear that poor old FLO had such a rotten time. I hope she is A1 by this time. EVE sent me a very nice letter - NB gave me all the news - the great anticipation according to EVE's wish - I am the God-pa. LAURA has sent word too. I hope dear old Mum & Dad are still well & happy. I shall write later - more. Best love Bar dear & best to REX. From your affec. Bro. Harry xxxx PTO PS Love to FLO - Mum - Dad, Boys. Tell them I am writing immediately. I heard from G MAC last week - he is convalescent - doing A1 at Hornchurch. I have not heard from JENNY - was sorry to hear about VERA LUNN's sickness. Love to all, Rix ======================================================================= DIARY Nov. 3rd Went to BRUM? for 31st & 24th weekends. Met AUNT JENN. and UNCLE, OLIVE, LEN, MABEL - had a pleasant time. We met? at present. Had an exam. last Saturday 31st - fair results. Today we are having a NZ and BF competition with other companies. Heard last week BAR is to be married this year. Have not heard from Uncle JACK yet. Dec 9th Dec 2nd - George 2 Nov 24th Nov. 23rd Left the Barracks at 7.30pm and stayed the night at TAMWORTH? Went in train from Tamworth to LONDON on Sat. morning 24th at 6.30am. Went to AUNT LOUIE's place where I am now staying. On Nov. 21st (Tuesday) we had examination (War Office). I passed with a middling p.r. ======================================================================= In white envelope with a penny red stamp [stamped 29 NO 16] Mrs Vera RUSSELL, c/ Mrs H HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand Stamped on back: Devonport 22 JA 17 [Card for the New Year] To dear little Bar and my brother Rex 2nd, From Harry [P20] PHOTO of Aunty ALICE, "self" (MARJERY?), "Mum" [P21] PHOTO of MARJERY? on horseback Easter 1916 [P22] PHOTO of MARJERY? Easter 1916: reverse- Dear Bar, MARJERY sent me this. Mind them for me. They are too heavy and will only get broken up if I try to cart them around. Rix x PHOTO Bandxstand at Westcliffe-on-Sea ======================================================================= DIARY Monday 21st - breaking up concert Nov 23rd - spree at Tamworth Nov 27th - met GEORGE BRAMBLEY Dec 2nd - met GEORGE MACK Dec 6.7 - with G MAC. in LONDON Dec 9th MARGERY has been at home for several days showing me LONDON. Dec. 8th notification of appointment as 2nd Lieutenant. Had photo taken - got some today. Was also taken with G BRAMBLEY and later with G MACK. Last Thursday went to Mrs CANNA's (Mrs LUNN's sister) for tea with MAC. Also on Thursday afternoon went to see Mrs EMSLEY? (LUNN's sister). Have to report on Dec. 20th. In LONDON I go to Lyon's Conner house in the Strand or Regent's Palace in Piccadilly Circus (to popular in Pris. once). At night to the pictures and theatre often. I am very low financially at present and I am still at Aunt's place at 99. Heard last week EVE has a kid [PEGGY TRAYES b1916] & BAR is married. Last week I sent home Xmas numbers of various books & many cards to NZ. Heard from RUTH PACKLEY today. Dec. 10th 1916 Sundy 11pm Went to Chelsea band last night & to the pictures tonight at PUTNEY. Stuck indoors most of today. Wrote to RUTH BASHLEY [? Mabel Ruth PASHLEY 6473 of http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/rathbone/rathbone.html ], AUNT RUTH [648 of rathbone.html], REX RUSSELL today. Dec. 19th 1916 8pm Spending my last night of leave at AUNT LOUIE's house. [WHO IS SHE? Not the wife of Uncle Jack, 3 at hall.html & father of Margery.] Every day I have been dining with COUSIN MARGERY or else some of the boys in town/Jasons? Every day almost I have been attending some show, picture or otherwise. I have to report tomorrow. VERA's wedding papers (Heralds) arrived today. LONDON is very cold now with fogs and snow. Fogs for almost 3 weeks in succession. Had a letter and card from BAR today. [This was the last diary entry.] ======================================================================= In white envelope with a penny red stamp [stamped 21 JA 17] Mrs V. RUSSELL, No 1. Lover's Walk, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand Dearest old Bar, Today yours of 15/10/16 came and as it is your last Vera HALL letter to me, it is a bit of a souvenir. Of course by now I guess you and REX have received my letters of congrats. In case they went astray, let me repeat my wishes that you both will be happy. I am still in England, but not for much longer. At present I have tons of work to do, and how I manage to squeeze in hosts & hosts of correspondence I cannot explain. If this letter is brief, you will let me off with a caution, wont you Bar. I had a Hell of a good time in London, etc, the return to military routine seems more than rotten. I had about a dozen epistles from NZ last week - from Mum, Dad, EVE, you, FLO, etc. At present England is some place - all damn snow which is cold and gives the country and trees a grand appearance. Several times I have met GEORGE in England & of course we have always made the best of our meetings and have together "seen things" in several senses of the term. Last Saturday I journeyed to the Waterloo Station in order to see the "RED CROSS MARAMA" train leave for Plymouth. ARCH TURNER was aboard & expects to be in NZ in five weeks. He is taking home to all my best messages verbally and so met him and he will let you know how things are with this youngster. I am very pleased that Dad & Mum purchased for you a gift from me, and though I have not seen the present, I hope it is a good one & that you like it. Last week I had several parcels from NZ. A real dinkum one from Mum & Dad and all, one from LAURA and another from HIX & GEORGE WRIGHT. I was so pleased and am writing to all tonight. I also had a lot of cards from the old school kiddies. They have sent me a combined present, but so far, it has not arrived. How are all at home Bar? and you & REX? Write & let me know all. Next time I shall let you have more news. Uncle JACK is still in France and it is long since I have heard from him. But he is A1 so Aunt tells me. What did you think of the Somme Push? It was indeed some go and was not attended without the feature of sorrow. Well Bar, I hope you are well and happy. Best love and wishes to you and Rex. From your affec. bro. Harry Enclosed business card: Lieut. H. F. HALL, 1st (changed to 2nd) Battalion, Auckland Inf. Regt. NZEF. ======================================================================= On Active Service Stamped Army Post Office 19 FE 17 SWZ Mrs Rex RUSSELL,No 1 Lover's Walk,Cheltenham, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand Censored: HF HALL NZIBD, APO s17, France Feb 18th 1917 My dear Bar, Just a line or two from your old pal. Once again I am back in this beautiful (!!!) land of France, and expect to reach the dear old wavering line in a day or two. The last time I wrote was from London, where I was just concluding a most glorious spell of joy, etc Such a time as I have had, I never shall forget. The relations are absolutely decent - at least those I came in contact with - including Aunts RUTH, JENNIE and Uncle JACK, and their children. France just at present is an eyesore compared with London and the other places I frequented. Tons & tons of snow and ice here, and consequent intense coldness. But I have a fairly decent time at present - in the anteroom reading, writing or playing at cards. Outside I have good times trotting around with some of my brothers, and visiting different places. This morning is Sunday, and so, like the good boy(?) that I am, I went to church. I wonder how my little sister Bar is doing! I can see you and your REX lounging on old Chelty or dipping in the brine. How is poor old FLO and her illness? I met GEORGE at Slip in England, and he is doing A1. Well dear, I must conclude. Give my best love to all and tell them to write. Best wishes and love to you. Remember me to REX. Your loving Bro. Harry. ======================================================================= On Active Service Stamped 1 AP 17 C1 Mrs Vera Russell,No 1 Lover's Walk, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand PASSED BY CENSOR 2331 Censored HF HALL Friday March 30th 1917 3rd Coy, 2nd Auck. Batt. NZEF France My dearest Bar, Yours of the 27/12/16 here - also the decent little puddin' which was a bit of the very best and was, I can assure you, well appreciated. I got our mess- cook to bail it for me. Thanks dear, yes, time, as you say, does fly. It seems a long time since I was at home though. Have you met GEORGE MAC' since he returned to New Zealand? I don't think he will ever be able to return. PERCY BRAMBLEY [brother-in-law of 43 FLO] is dead - from serious wounds received in the trenches. Poor chap - and I never met him out here. Yes, I did tell Mum I would cable when I received advice to embark. But, really Kid, I was not quite wealthy enough to run a cable at that particular time. Mum, by now, has had my letters from France, I suppose. I wrote you a letter on Feb. 18th. Did you get it? This is the first I have had from you since Jan. 17th. I expect some have gone astray. I am glad you had such a good time at Xmas. You seem to be very comfortable & happy - you deserve it Bar dear. LES and REG gave me glowing accounts of their cruise - fishing, shooting, etc We get tons of the latter here. I have just spent a few days out of the fighting - am A1 and as tophole as can be. Am going into another stunt very soon, and shall let you know from time to time how things go over here. I am glad FLO is comortable. Give her, Mum, Dad and all my best. I think the war shows good progress at present. We certainly are winning. Hope to see you in NZ sometime this year. Best love & wishes to you and REX. Harry x ======================================================================= On Active Service Stamped FIELD POST OFFICE 6 AP 17 C1 Mrs Rex Russell,No 1 Lover's Walk, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand PASSED BY CENSOR 2331: Censored HF HALL [on back] Devonport 11JE17 April 4th 1917 3rd Coy, 2nd AIB, NZEF France My dear Bar, I was very glad to hear from you - your letter written 27/12/16. Your Xmas dumpling in good order and condition proved a real delicacy. I am back again in the trenches, and here, the old noise and strife carries on. One thing is particularly noticeable at present - we certainly have superiority. Of course we do not continue without losses. Poor PERCY BRAMBLEY has "gone West" - has followed many others. GEORGE [brother of Percy & husband of 43 FLO] wrote to me last week from England, and he seemed very "cut up" over the unfortunate affair. I believe you all had many good picnics during Xmas. Next season we all shall join hands at such occasions. The weather is very unreliable in these parts. Signs of Spring - and then heavy snow! Have you met GEO. MACKENZIE or ARCH. TURNER since their return to the Sunny Land? Well Bar dear, I hope to hear from you soon. Give my best wishes and love to all and accept same yourself. Your Affec. Brother, Harry X PS Am writing this in a dugout - no time to write any more just now. H. ======================================================================= On Active Service Stamped FIELD POST OFFICE 23 MA 17 Mrs R. RUSSELL, Derby Street, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand PASSED BY CENSOR 2331: Censored HH HALL [on back] Devonport 22 JL 17 May 16th 1917 My dear old Bar, I am sorry that you had not heard from me for such a long time - I can only say I have written - if not letters - postcards. In the future I must pull myself together and be more regular in my writing. But, really dear, when the time does come to write, the inclination and matter often fail me. I was very glad to receive your nice interesting letter - to know that you and REX are progressing well. By this time I can picture you snug and settled in the new little crib. Right alongside Mum and Dad is a boon and splendid for the old people. Both Dad and Mum seem very pleased and excited at the prospect of having their baby girl living next to them. Before being dispatched to my regiment I had four days leave and spent the time in London where I made ready as far as I could and purchased more kit. I hae been back with my old company for three months now and so far am A1 - never felt better in fact. At present we are having another rest - spells which very necessary to keep us strong and enthusiastic in our efforts. The place where I am billetted is a French farmhouse where live a peasant, his wife and family. They are very good people and the old Madame treats me as a kind of son. I have a nice room - shared by another company officer. We are provided with beds- sheets and all complete. These French people (in this district) think the NZrs are their saviours. The Huns were here once and did not leave a good impression behind them as you can imagine. We are having lovely weather now. Spring. Oh MARGERY? No, she is not flash in her dress. She is a very neat youngster - treats me as a brother. They all were good to me when I was in England. I regularly hear from Sheffield, London and Birmingham - from the relations. Yes, as you suggest, I am sure REX and I would get on well together. How is FLO? I hear from her often. She sent me some lovely letters and photos. Tell her I often write and am doing so again tomorrow. Yes, I remember the house at the corner of VAUXHALL ROAD and V. TERR. Truly, as you say, Mum and Dad are the best of people. After I have mixed with thousands of people in several parts of the world, I can vouch for this. I wont bother writing "war" except to say we have had some exciting experiences which make one's old pumping machine inside go full speed ahead. We have, of course, had many losses all round. But we are doing quite well - we are winning I know from what I have seen. Torpedoes and barbarism are our only stumbling blocks to success now. But wait awhile! No, I shall never settle down to the old game if I return. It will be too slow and crawling. LES and REX are doing well from all accounts. I have just had letters from EVE and ERN - decent! I hope REX has not to come here. Well Bar dear, I shall write again soon. Please give my best to all at home. Best wishes to REX. With best love and wishes, I remain Your affec. Bro Harry X. Flowers from a wood in France. [P23] CONTAINS 3 species of pressed flowers and other leaves ======================================================================= [P24] undated: fine silk handkerchief with regimental flag? (red with Union Jack in one corner) and French flag, all folded in embroidered lace container with 5 flags (Union Jack, French flag & ?) For Right and Liberty mounted on postcard on which is written: To dear Bar. From Harry xx On reverse: Fabrication Francaise ======================================================================= [P25] Card "Remembrance sweet" ======================================================================== [The following notes are at the end of the diary.] Page -10: A. Ebuorton?, 69 Brougham Rd, Seacombe Cres. NZ wine for AUNT LOUISE. Page -9: MALAGAR Page -8: Auckland to Wellington, Trentham Tauhherenikau. Featherston Masterton Woodville Palmerston North. Upper Hutt. Christchurch. Hobart Albany. Aden. Suez. Zeitoun. Cairo. Ismalia. Albury Hills. Moascar. Alexandria. Malta. Marseilles. Rebecq, Peleu, Armentieres, Firing Line (S.P.Y.), Houphines, S.78 trench. [NB Where the diary refers to F. line, I have written this as Front line, not firing line.] Carlyle St across Altercliffe Rd - along Effingham Rd A town - Car home. Grandparents & Gt.Gd. parents' graves (on Mum's side), Met AUNTS RUTH, MAUD, COUSINS MAGGIE & UNCLE JACK's two lads. Saw bomb effects. ANDERSON, Bowling Av., Epsom GEORGE MAC Forest Park, Harf. Brocklehurst, Hants. [This address replaced by] NZ Conv[alescent] Camp, Hornchurch, Essex FRANK WARRINGTON Bed 17, Ward 4, NZ General Hospital, Walton on Thames LAURA Ohura School, King Country JJ HALL 2400 Pte c/o officer in charge, Exp. Canteen Force, BOULOGNE ELLA Molesworth St Wng [Wellington] C LLOYD, 9 Burrows Rd, Devonport J SUTHERLAND, Domain St, Devonport Page -9: Kamate (2) Kaora (2) Tenei te tangata puhururu Nana iwhaka whiti mai tera Whaka whita tera Hupana (2) Kopani Whiti tera (defiance) Base Hosp. BROMHALL Cloakhouse Rd, Wesley Coll. (old) King Edward VII School JG GRAVE's Manuf. Off. - Univesity - ELLIOT's monument from MK place to WESTON PARK- WP Museum - Art Gallery - Winter St Hosp. (now a military hospital) - Oxford St arms tip (valley_ = Ox. St Chapel - Royal Infirmary Children's Hospital - top Portland St Saw shop & house in Daniel Hill St Phillips Kirk (inside) - James DIXONS works - over Ball Bridge - Mowbray St - white railings - Wicker Arch (under) up Peter R St (bombs) - cross Page -8: WAINWRIGHT Melrose Devonport BLOMFIELD Tel. Bureau Wellington L MARQUAND 78 Terrace Wellington LLOYD Devonport SOUTHERLAND Devonport ISMONGER Epsom HUTTON Epsom TRAYES Devonport JAGGS Stanley Bay ANDREW Devonport School CRAWFORD Epsom YOUNG & CLEARY Hobart, Tasmania BROCKETT c/o FARRINGTON, Auckland WRIGHT Wellesley St Jeweller CLAYTON The Terrace, Wellington DUNSTAN Evans St, Waihi DONALD Epsom pupil Epsom pupils BETHUNE G/Calliope Rd RENSHAW ROPES Te Kopuru, N Wairoa FROOD G. c/o GRAY Bros c/o MEREDITH MEREDITH GRETY Bro. Symonds St DEMPSEY Remuera MCSWAN Margery HALL Uncle Jack Aunts Jennie and Ruth Page -7: E YOUNG, "Valma", Cromwell St, Battery Rd, Hobart E CLEARY, "Fairview", 66 Forest Rd, Hobart Mr & Mrs WR ALLEN "Goldhurst", 58 Priory Rd, West Hampstead, London Eric MONTEITH Page -6: May BOURKE, Wireless St, Kaitaia, Auckland, NZ Page -3: Miss M HALL, 99 Drayton Gardens, S Kensington, London WS Miss BLOMFIELD tel No 1484, c/ Tele. Bureau, Wellington Mrs LE MARQUAND?, 73 The Terrace, Wellington or Delivery per favour Mrs CLAYTON, The Terrace, Wellington Page -2: Aunt Ruth: Mrs BABBINGTON, 59 Thompson Rd, Sheffield [mother of Milly: 12.9.16] Aunt Jennie: Mrs PASHLEY, 94 Grassweld Rd, Sparkhill, Birmingham [His letter to Vera of 31.10.1916 talks of his visit to her, her husband and their children LEN, MABEL and OLIVE. Jennie is a sister of Harry's mother, 647 of http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/rathbone/rathbone.html Uncle Jack: Mr John James HALL, 99 Drayton Gardens, S. Kensington, London SW Aunt Sarah Ann: Mrs J LONGWORTH, No. 8 Flaxton Rd, Plumstead Common, Woolich, England Miss Nellie DONALD, Queens Av., Epsom, Auckland [Crossed out: Corp. PR BRAMBLEY, 10th NCO Reserves, Trentham MC replaced by Lieut. PR BRAMBLEY Was Percy a BROTHER of FLO's husband George?] Miss Ella BLOMFIELD, c/0 Mrs CLAYTON, The Terrace, Wellington (or c/o Tele. Bureau, Wellington) Page -1: [Stamp] 14 Oct 1915, Auckland Infantry 8th Reinforcements, A Company 12/3343 2nd Batt. Auck. Inf. R, NZEF D.R. KIRKER, Capt NZGA, Officer Commanding A Company, 8th Miss Marjery HALL, 99 Drayton Gardens, S Kensington, London SW --------------------------------------------------------------------- [P26 Photo of REG HALL from his daughter June McArthy.] [P27 Memorial card and photo from June McArthy:] "In Loving Memory of Lieut. HF HALL ..." ======================================================================= APPENDIX OF SHIPS HEREIN ASCANIA 9000 tonner 15.4.1916 the OTAGO 20.7.1916 the SOCOTRA - saw the broken halves 4.8.1916 TOFUA HMTS WILLOCHRA ======================================================================= APPENDIX OF PLACES HEREIN ADEN 14.12.1915 AFRICA The Cape & Iocotra? Island 13.12.1915 AUSTRALIA Albany 1915 - King River Tasmania: Hobart 1915 BELGIUM Messines where Harry was killed in action 9.6.1917 CORSICA 15.4.1916 ENGLAND Bath 12.9.1916 Bristol 12.9.1916 Birmingham 12.9.1916 Chitterne [Chiltern?], a small old village. We are in Wiltshire 14.8.1916 Codford on Salisbury Plains 14-26.8.1916 Derby 4.10.1916 Folkestone 10.8.1916 Lichfield Cadet School, Whittington Barracks, Staffordshire 20.8.1916 12.9.1916 31.10.1916 London 27.4.1916 10-19.8.1916 12.9.1916 9.10.1916 23.11.1916 19.12.1916 Sheffield 4&15.10.1916 where Harry's parents lived before moving to NZ in 1878 Tamworth? 23.11.1916 EGYPT Albury Hills p -8 Alexandria 9.4.1916 Cairo 22.12.1915-10.2.1916 Helmich Camp 20.2.1916 Heliopolis 24.12.1915-4.3.1916 Ismalia irrigation canal 18.1.1916-14.3.1916 Moascar on the African side of the Suez Canal 20.3.1916-9.4.1916 Nile 26.12.1915-8.2.1916 the Sphinx 1.1.1916 Suez 18.12.1915-14.3.1916 Tel El Kiker 12.3.1916 Zeitoun Camp 22.12.1915-20.2.1916 Wazza 26.12.1915 FRANCE Armentieres 11.5-19.6.1916 Bleu/Bleys? & Boeyham? 5-11.5.1916 Boulogne 10.8.1916 Camois 25.7.1916 Etaples 17.7-7.8.1916 Flanders 18.4.1916 Franc, a peaceful village 20.7.1916 Hauphin/Houphines 19.6.1916 living in a cellar, p -8 Lady Angela's home on the English Channel 20.7.1916 Lyons 18.4.1916 Marseilles 9 & 18.4.1916 Paris & Eiffel Tower 18.4.1916 Paris de Plage 20.7.1916-4.8.1916 Peleu p -8 Rebecq 18.4.1916 Rhone River 18.4.1916 S.78 trench p -8 Steenwerck 17.7.1916 MALTA 15.4.1916 NEW ZEALAND Auckland: Beaconsfield St, Devonport (Chiltenham Beach;"Lebu", Dominion Road), Edendale, Epsom School, Grafton School, Purewa Cemetery, Remuera, Training College Featherston 1915 Foveaux Strait 1915 Greytown 1915 Lyttleton 1915 Tauherenikau Military Camp 1915 Trentham Military Camp 1915 Wellington 1915 PANTOBERE ISLAND, Mediteranean 15.4.1916 SARDINIA 15.4.1916 ======================================================================= APPENDIX OF SURNAMES HEREIN (c141) References to No 2 platoon are from its autograph sheet: see 10.2.1916. 3521 A G AFAAG No 2 platoon AINSLIE G, Mrs. She is G MCKENZIE's aunt. 11.9.15 ALDERMAN Colonel. 9th April 1916. ALLEN J, Minister of Defence - undated: MESSAGES TO THE NEW ZEALAND TROOPS ALLEN Mr & Mrs WR,"Goldhurst",58 Priory Rd,West Hampstead,London; p -7 of diary ANDERSON Tom, Bowling Av., Epsom ANDREW Devonport School on p -8 of diary ARMITAGE Corporal/Captain 5.4.1916, 15.5.1916, sketch [P19] 3.6.1916, 4.6.1916, 29.6.1916, 11.7.1916; 3216 GCW ARMSTRONG Lieut. No 2 platoon; Heard H. ARMITAGE had been killed.- Sept 12th 1916 ARMSTRONG Captain; 11.7.1916; ASKEW Jim February 20th 1916, husband of his aunt Laura 3245 L? BAKER No 2 platoon BABBINGTON [Ruth Ann/Annie "Toby" BABINGTON nee RATHBONE, 648 at http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/rathbone/rathbone.html On p -2: Aunt Ruth:Mrs BABBINGTON, 59 Thompson Rd, Sheffield [mother of Milly: 23.6 & 12.9.16] June 26th 1916, August 19th 1916, Sept 12th 1916, Oct 4 & 15 1916, Dec. 10th 1916, Feb 18th 1917; diary p -8. 3261 C BERTELSEN No 2 platoon BASHLEY Ruth 10.12.1916 [? Mabel Ruth PASHLEY 6473 of http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/rathbone/rathbone.html] BETHUNE G/Calliope Rd on p -8 of diary BILKEY Monte Dec. 24th 1915 BIRDWOOD General Jan. 29th 1916 3254 DC BLACK No 2 platoon BLOMFIELD Ella, tel No 1484, Telegraph Bureau/ Molesworth St, Wellington; Nov 13th. 1915,Nov. 15th 1915; p -2, -3, -8: c/0 Mrs CLAYTON, The Terrace, Wellington BOURKE May, Wireless St, Kaitaia, Auckland, NZ; on p -6 of diary 3286 AJ BOWLEY No 2 platoon 3259 HW BOYNE Sergt. No 2 platoon BRAITHWAITE General May 11th 1916 BRAMBLEY George husband of his aunt Flo 43 in http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/hall/hall.html Nov 27 1916,9.12.1916, April 4th 1917; p -2 of diary BRAMBLEY Lieut. Percy Richard, George's brother;13.11.1915;March 30th 1917; April 4th 1917; p -2 of diary BROADY [February] 8th 1916 BROCKETT c/o FARRINGTON, Auckland; on p -8 of diary BROWN George was shot ... - May 22nd 1916; 3274 GW BROWN No 2 platoon BUDD Eddy is in Auckland ... Nov. 4th 1915 3271 WS BULL No 2 platoon 3270 FP BURTON No 2 platoon CALTMAN? Cyril has been killed. Sept. 2th 1916 CANNA Mrs in London (Mrs LUNN's sister) 9.12.1916 3279 CH CARSON No 2 platoon CLAYTON Mrs; Nov. 15th 1915; The Terrace, Wellington on p -8 of diary CLEARY Miss E, "Fairview", 66 Forest Rd, Hobart, Tasmania; on p -7,-8 of diary 20th Nov. 1915 CONN Pat 3287 JA COWLEY No 2 platoon CRAIG Sgt Jimmy C of Auckland; 3233 J CRAIG Plat. Sergt. No 2 platoon; [photo P6], Nov. 27th 1915, 30.12.1915, 13.1.1916, 1.2.1916, 2.2.1916, 8.2.1916, 10.2.1916, CRAWFORD Sq., Epsom on p -8 of diary; July 11th 1916 3288 A CROFT No 2 platoon DAVIES Moris January 13th 1916; 3293 ML DAVIES Corpl. No 2 platoon DEMPSEY Remuera; on p -8 of diary 3295 S DEVESCH No 2 platoon DICKINS May 22nd 1916 DONALD Epsom pupil; Miss Nellie DONALD, Queens Av., Epsom, Auckland on p -2 & p -8 of diary DUNSTAN Evans St, Waihi on p -8 of diary 3223 N DURHAM Sergt. No 2 platoon 3310 CL EARL No 2 platoon KA ECHACK? censor 2.2.1916 EMSLEY? Mrs (LUNN's sister) 9.12.1916 ENGLISH Mick Oct 26th 1915, 26.12.1915; 3313 A ENGLISH No 2 platoon FARRAR James married his aunt Sylvia FARRINGTON [P13]: Photo of 3 of them in uniform on camels 3323 A FAWSON No 2 platoon FORDHAM Roy 11.9.1915, 24.12.1915 FROOD G. c/o GRAY Bros c/o MEREDITH; on p -8 of diary 3328 AM GILL No 2 platoon 3527 ROY GHUMMERCK No 2 platoon 3330 HM GIRROS No 2 platoon GRAVE JP's Manuf. Off. on p -9 GREEN F August 18th 1916 GREY Alan has been hit by shrapnel in the eye and is going blind. 24.12.1915 HADDNO 26.12.1915 3340 HB HADDOW No 2 platoon HAIG Sir Douglas April 27th 1916 HALL Evelyn, Florence, Harry Frederick 3343 HF HALL Corpl. No 2 platoon, Henry, John, Laura, Leslie, Marjorie/Marjery, Reginald, Sylvia, Vera HANNAH Pat July 25th 1916, August 7th 1916, August 18th 1916 HARCOURT [April] 5th 1916, sketch [P19] 3.6.1916, 4.6.1916, HARRIS Sept. 2th 1916 3359 PM HOBSON No 2 platoon ... blown to pieces 9th 1916 (July) 3362 HE HOUSTON No 2 platoon HURSTER? ... blown to pieces 9th 1916 (July) HUTTON Epsom on p -8 of diary ISMONGER Epsom on p -8 of diary 3526 TC JACKAY? No 2 platoon JAGGS Stanley Bay on p -8 of diary CJ JONKAS No 2 platoon JOYCE Corporal was killed - June 26th 1916 3065 C KELLY No 2 platoon 3377 HM KENNEDY No 2 platoon KIRKER D.R. Captain 20.2.1916, 14.3.1916; NZGA,Officer Commanding A Company, 8th Reinforcements (on p -1) KITCHENER Earl -[P2] undated: MESSAGES TO THE NEW ZEALAND TROOPS LACITY 26.12.1915 LADY ANGELA's home in France July 25th 1916 3478 SJ LAVADERSON No 2 platoon 3385 JW LAWSON No 2 platoon LE MARQUAUD/MARQUAND? Mrs, 73 The Terrace, Wellington or Delivery per favour; 15.11.1915, p-3 & -8 of diary; see also MARQUAND L 3383 CP LEAITY No 2 platoon LLOYD Connie 15.11.1915, 2.2.1916; p -8 9 Burrows Rd, Devonport 3387 SJS LOCK Corpl. No 2 platoon LONG ... blown to pieces 9.7.1916 LONGWORTH, No. 8 Flaxton Rd, Plumstead Common, Woolich, England; Aunt Sarah Ann p -2 of diary; she is 1 in http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/hall/hall.html 3392 J LOWTHERN No 2 platoon LUNN 3395 LV LUNN No 2 platoon 11.9.1915, 1.2.1916 ; Jerry LUNN 1.2.1916, 29.6.1916 in the hospital suffering from nerves; Vera 31.10.11916; see also CANNA, EMSLEY MACK George July 11th 1916 is in hospital - shell .. in arm and shoulder, 2.12.1916, [P13]: Photo of 3 of them in uniform on camels; Ian 20.8.1916; Hon. Tom 26.8.1916; MACKENZIE George 11.9.1915, 4.4.1917; 3404 G MACKENZIE L/C No 2 platoon MACKENZIE Ian MARQUAND L, 78 Terrace Wellington on p -8 of diary; see also LE MARQUAUD 3415 C MASON No 2 platoon 3417 EC MATTHEWS No 2 platoon MCLEOD Meryl MCSWAN 5.5.1916, p -8 MELKEY Monty 13.1.1916 MEREDITH GRETY Bro. Symonds St; on p -8 of diary 3421 FS METTAM No 2 platoon MILLS ... blown to pieces 9th 1916 (July) MONTEITH Eric; on p -7 of diary MOORE 26.12.1915; 3426 LM MOORE No 2 platoon; 3427 RC MOORE No 2 platoon 3429 VM MORRIN No 2 platoon 3431 CL MOUNCE No 2 platoon MURDOCH 26.12.1915 MURRAY Major General 5.4.1916 in charge of forces in Egypt 3437 JACK E OAKDEN PACKLEY Ruth 9.12.1916 PASHLEY Mrs,Aunt Jennie, 94 Grassweld Rd, Sparkhill, Birmingham; p -2 of diary She is 647 of http://kitwithers.fortunecity.com/rathbone/rathbone.html 3440 JW PATTERSON No 2 platoon PHILLIPSON 11.7.1916 POPE Charles Dec. 24th 1915 POTTER Jack Dec. 24th 1915 3448 WA PRINCE No 2 platoon PRINCE OF WALES 20.3.1916 "he is only a boy." 3449 WA PROICE No 2 platoon PROSSER Bert 1.2.1916, 2.2.1916 QUANTON 18.8.1916 RATHBONE Laura - Harry's mother's maiden name. RENSHAW May 19-20.6.1916, p -8 RICE Steve 4.3.1916 RICHARDSON General 26.8.1916 ROBERTS Arthur 25.4.1916 ROBERTS Field-Marshal - undated: [P2] MESSAGES TO THE NEW ZEALAND TROOPS 3458 JJ ROBERTSON No 2 platoon ROPER C an orderly room sgt 24.112.1915; 3467 G ROPER No 2 platoon ROPES Te Kopuru, N Wairoa; on p -8 of diary ROSS Major 29.1.1916 RUSSELL General July 11th 1916 RUSSELL Rex married to his sister Vera: 10.12.1916, SAISSONS/SEISONS Tom 13 & 29.1.1916, 3468 JJ SALMON No 2 platoon SAUNDERS Major 29.1.1916 SHARPLES Rona 4.11.1915 7/2323 LJ SHAW No 2 platoon SIMPSON Frank 11.9.1915 SCHOFIELD Colonel 20.11.1915 SMALL stopped it in the thigh 8.6.1916 SUTHERLAND Janet, Domain St, Devonport, Auckland 29.3.1916, p -8 TAYLOR - our P. Off. [patrol officer?] was wounded over the temple. 9.7.1916 THOMAS F Lieut. from Epsom 14.3.1916, 14.4.1916, 9 & 11.7.1916 3318 HS TILE No 2 platoon TRAYES Ernest, Hix 4.11.1915, Eve [& Peggy] 9.12.1916 TURNER Arch 15/10/16, 4.4.1917; TURPIN Dick 29.6.1916; 3496 EJ TURPIN No 2 platoon UTTING, Shipping Agent, Ferry Buildings, Auckland 11.9.1915 WAINWRIGHT Melrose Devonport p -8 of diary WARNINGTON 15.10.1916 WARRINGTON Frank, Bed 17, Ward 4, NZ General Hospital, Walton on Thames p -8; 19.6.1916, 9.10.1916 WHEELER doctor on board 15.11.1915 WHITE is now our c.o. 20.2.1916 3506 T WHITFIELD No 2 platoon 3509 R WIEDENBOHN No 2 platoon; 3510 G WIEDENBOHN No 2 platoon 3516 EH WOODS No 2 platoon 3518 P WOONTON No 2 platoon WRIGHT George 15.10.1916; Wellesley St Jeweller on p -8 of diary YATES A received an awful wound 8.6.1916 YOUNG Miss E, "Valma", Cromwell St,Battery Rd,Hobart; p -7 of diary, 20.11.1915 ======================================================================= ftree/hall/harry_to_vera.txt First edition of 8 copies .12.99 to 4112 CG, 4222 JG, 442 VT, RJSW, 4212 EN, 4313 SR, 4321 AT, me; Copies also requested by 4113 Jan, 4215 Jane, ... Second edition 30.4.2002 of 10 copies: 2 to the Legal Deposit Office.