The enemy who had been holding these trenches fled in considerable confusion, leaving their rifles behind them.
Point R. 32. c. 3. 9. was also occupied and direct communication opened with the 49th Division holding the LEIPZIG SPUR.
(b) On the 49th Divisional front 2 (diagonal) Lieut. Storm of the 5th York and Lancaster Regiment, who had been ordered to obtain an important identification, personally reconnoitred the enemy's trenches about R. 19. c. 8. 4. Returning he then led two platoons against the selected point and succeeded in forcing an entry. Considerable losses were inflicted on the enemy both by our surprise artillery barrage and during the bayonet and bomb fight which followed.
The one prisoner necessary for identification purposes was duly brought away and the raiders returned with a loss of one man killed and a few wounded.
(c) A German 5.9 Howitzer originally captured by the 48th Division near R. 32. c. 9. 1. and since covered by shell earth has been found again to-day.
2. A hostile balloon (location unreported) was seen to fall in flames about 3 p.m.
3. Artillery.
25 direct hits on emplacements have been reported during the last 24 hours.
At one position the pit was entirely blown away, 2 explosions occurred, and the dugout into which 2 Officers had been seen to run received 2 direct hits; several corpses were seen lying about.
About 12 noon to-day one of our batteries caused a large explosion at R. 26. c. 3. 4. This was probably an ammunition store which has been reported by several prisoners to be located at this point.