mporary command of "B" Company.

On the afternoon of the 7th June, the Brigadier of the 7th Brigade,
Colonel J. Burston, V.D., accompanied by his Staff Captain, Captain M.
J. G. Colyer, visited the camp and made the acquaintance of this portion
of his command. The Brigadier, who had been personally known to the C.O.
for some years, expressed his pleasure at what he saw of the unit and of
its promise for usefulness and efficiency.

FOOTNOTES:

[A] _See_ Appendix A.

[B] This establishment was maintained until early in 1916, when
modifications were made during the Battalion's stay at Ferry Post.
Further material changes took place from time to time in the two years
and eight months of the unit's campaign in France and Belgium.

[C] _See_ Appendix G.

[D] Afterwards Captain (temporary Major) E. C. Francisco, 50th Battn.

CHAPTER II.

EN ROUTE.

The riding horses, transport wagons, and heavy baggage, having been sent
to Fremantle the previous day, shortly after noon on the 9th June the
Battalion proceeded in two trains to the port. Although officially the
date and hour of departure had not been disclosed, certain indications
had conveyed that information to the public. The consequence was a
series of demonstrations along the route. The engines in the railway
yards made loud and prolonged noises in imitation of barnyard
inhabitants, flags and handkerchiefs were waved, and many cheers given
to speed the Battalion on its way. On Victoria Quay was a large
concourse of people for the purpose of bidding farewell to relatives and
friends. This somewhat interfered with the embarkation, but by 4.30 p.m.
the last man and horse and the last piece of impedimenta were on board.
The District Commandant personally superintended the operation. He was
accompanied by the Chaplain-General, the Most Rev. Dr. Riley, Archbishop
of Perth, whose kindly and encouraging words gave great heart to those
setting out on so serious a task. In a letter to the Commanding Officer
he had written--"Will you tell your officers and men how proud I have
been of their conduct in camp and how we all trust the honour and
reputation of W.A. in their hands with the utmost confidence. Good-bye
to you all, a safe journey, valiant work, and a speedy return crowned
with victory."

About 5.30 p.m. the transport left the quay and moved towards Gage
Roads. Although the evening meal had been arranged for on the troop
decks, very few attended. Nearly all