Germans started our game of artillery bombardment, and gave it us hot all day. Understand they counter-attacked twice but were repulsed. Not moved out of reserve line.
Tuesday, April 20, 1915
Our chaps getting it hot all day, and at 6 P. M. we were moved up to firing line under perfect torrent of shells, shrapnel, and machine guns—most awful hour ever experienced and nerves absolutely gone. Two of our companies have had very hot time, losing many men. Luckily we did not have quite so many casualties. At dawn moved back into supports, our position being taken over by regulars. I pray I may never have a similar experience. Too ghastly even to write about.
Wednesday, April 21, 1915
Laid in supports all day. Situation apparently died down a bit, but we are staying here through night.
Thursday, April 22, 1915
Relieved and returned to billets. Had not been there ten minutes before to our horror we saw French retreating on our left in a panic. Battalion rallied and dug trench prepared to do our best. At 12 midnight informed that Canadians had saved situation, but French trenches still in hands of enemy. Our Brigade told off to retake them.
Friday, April, 23, 1915
Moved to new position north of Ypres, and trenches retaken by Kings Own Scottish Borderers and West Kents, we acting as supports. Stayed all night making fatigue journeys to firing line, and oh! how I should like some sleep.