At nine this morning the Turks very heavily bombarded our reserve lines and our batteries on our left. They were very prodigal of ammunition, showing that their supply had been replenished, probably from Bulgaria. They put in some very large stuff, 9-inch at least, and at very long range. Our batteries and ships were active in reply. It is cold and windy and raining.
Went up to Brigade with Way, and later to 86th, where the Padre was holding Sunday service. Beach shelled a little while we were away.
To-morrow is the great Mohammedan feast-day, and we expect a general attack on the part of the Turks.
October 18th.
Rainy morning. Bit of shelling in morning and early afternoon, but not very damaging shells.
At four they started dropping large shells, about 11-inch, which whistled over with a tremendous shriek and burst with a thunderous crack. They must have come a long way, as we could not hear the report of the gun. They were bursting too near for our liking, and we were glad when they stopped. Some say they came from the Goeben. They finished up their bout with 5·9 shrapnel. So far no attack by the Turks.
News that Sir Ian Hamilton is going and that General Munro is taking his place reaches us.
October 19th.
A quiet morning, but at four we were shelled as usual. Not much damage.