b with the heroes of the 29th Division, and their utter
unconsciousness of their own glorious conduct have moved me to write
these few words in their honour:--

GENERAL HEADQUARTERS,
_12th May, 1915._

For the first time for 18 days and nights it has been found possible to
withdraw the 29th Division from the fire fight. During the whole of that
long period of unprecedented strain the Division has held ground or
gained it, against the bullets and bayonets of the constantly renewed
forces of the foe. During the whole of that long period they have been
illuminating the pages of military history with their blood. The losses
have been terrible, but mingling with the deep sorrow for fallen
comrades arises a feeling of pride in the invincible spirit which has
enabled the survivors to triumph where ordinary troops must inevitably
have failed. I tender to Major-General Hunter-Weston and to his Division
at the same time my profoundest sympathy with their losses and my
warmest congratulations on their achievement.

IAN HAMILTON,
_General._

[Illustration: GENERAL D'AMADE]

Also I have penned a farewell line to d'Amade:

GENERAL HEADQUARTERS,
MEDN. EXPED. FORCE,
_12th May, 1915._

MON GENERAL,

With deep personal sadness I learn that your country has urgent need of
your great experience elsewhere.

From the very first you and your brave troops have done all, and more
than all, that mortal man could do to further the cause we have at
heart. By day and by night, for many days and nights in succession, you
and your gallant troops have ceaselessly struggled against the enemy's
fresh reinforcements and have won from him ground at the bayonet point.

The military records of France are most glorious, but you, Mon General,
have added fresh brilliancy, if I may say so, even to those dazzling
records.

The losses have been cruel: such losses are almost unprecedented, but it
may be some consolation hereafter to think that only by so fierce a
trial could thus have been fully disclosed the flame of patriotism which
burns in the hearts of yourself and your men.

With sincere regrets at your coming departure but with the ful