Maktau, 22nd Aug., Sunday.
Trench work in early morning and again in forenoon; then “knocked off” all hands for Sunday relaxation.
Early this morning enemy again on Voi railway near here. This time they succeeded in laying mines which blew up the line and derailed an incoming train. Enemy got clear away.
Maktau, 23rd Aug., 1915.
Railway line repaired and open to traffic this morning.
A WATCHFUL ENCAMPMENT
On outpost last night on kopje below Signal Hill. Nothing untoward occurred, though this picket had been twice attacked lately. Strong S.W. Monsoon blowing: bitterly cold for sentries on windward front of kopje. Damp mist driving over the level bush-land below us, obscuring everything in the early morning.
Silent dawn, except for the strident cry of guinea-fowl, spur-fowl, and hornbills; and the lesser “cheepings” of awakening songbirds that mouse-like stirred amongst the surrounding foliage.
Picket relieved at 9 a.m. It was dark at 6.15 p.m. and day dawned at 5.30 a.m. Sunrise three-quarters of an hour later.
Maktau, 28th Aug., 1915.