unded the enemy communications far behind his lines.

The assault was delivered over a wide area, early in the morning of the
15th of September, but in no way did it come up to expectations--in
fact, it might almost be counted a reverse. Some divisions did well,
and took their objectives, but others were completely held up, at
certain strong points, which necessitated the withdrawal of the
remainder, in order to keep the line uniform. The Guards met with
instant success, and took their final objectives, only to discover
that the Division on each side of them had made little progress (p. 032)
and could get no further. They were reluctantly forced to return, and
it was while doing so that heavy casualties were inflicted on them, as
they were raked with fire from the sides as well as in front. During
the withdrawal, a party of machine-gunners occupied a trench, and
attempted to screen the retirement of the main body of troops, by
holding the enemy at bay. In order to use this machine-gun to the best
advantage, the piece was placed on top of the parapet, exposed to the
full view of the oncoming hordes, but our men never wavered in serving
it, and, as soon as one gunner dropped at his post, another instantly
took the vacant place, although it meant certain death within a few
moments.

Next day they were pulled out to refit, and, as they marched back to
rest, a very touching sight was witnessed. A certain battalion, a mere
remnant, swung along, headed by its band. All the officers had become
casualties, and the Battalion Sergeant-Major was in command, but as
many of the dead officers as could be recovered were brought back on
stretchers and placed each in his proper position. Headed by the body
of their late Commander, the column proceeded on its way, the men
marching at attention, and, although covered with mud and
blood-stained, they might have been proceeding down the Mall. Such is
the discipline of the Guards, and every tribute of respect was paid
them by the troops through whom they passed.

The next battle was timed for the 25th inst., and our infantry came
back to the line a couple of days before that date. There was much
suppressed excitement and curiosity, for the mysterious Tanks were to
participate on this occasion for the first time, and it was thought
that the secret had been so well kept that they would come as a
complete surprise to the enemy. This proved to be the case, and the
attack was a great success