nt in the heap beside the standing rifle. Men coolly fired at
each other at point blank range, and sniping became the chief cause of
casualties. It resembled a duel between two men who had had a deadly
quarrel--so intensely deliberate. On the morning of the 2nd of July we
handed over the front line of attack to Divisional Reserves and went
into support. At sunset we were relieved by the Cheshires, and moved
back to the dug-outs at Crucifix Corner. We had a number of casualties
coming out of action. We were given tea, food and rum, and went off
into a heavy sleep."

HULLUCH AND THEREABOUTS.

_Senlis--last parade under Col. Morton--Bombing raid north of
Ovillers--Move to Bethune--1st Army Area--inspection by General
Munro--depleted ranks--trench warfare about Hulluch--Cambrin
Sector._

In the sadness and stress of the first days after the Somme, there
came messages round to say the Battalion was saying "Good-bye" to its
Colonel. Worn out with fatigue he had been reluctantly persuaded by
the Brigadier and the doctors that if he wished to live and serve his
country more in the war he must retire from the dreadful strain of
command. In a field at Senlis, on the afternoon of 8th July, the
remnants of the Battalion, on their last parade under Colonel Morton,
were drawn up, silent and deeply moved. In a few words the Colonel
told the Battalion what he was going to do and all stood there with
their losses and their heartbreaks, hardly able to keep down the
tears. Addressing the men he congratulated them in warm and feeling
terms for their devotion while under his command and wished them well
in the uncertainties of the future.

Colonel Morton had started them, trained them, and cared for them;
fought Brigade and authorities for them; led them and loved them--and
now they were to lose him. He said little, for much of a speech would
not come, but he knew their memories and he knew what they felt. Major
Paul, on behalf of the Battalion, expressed the profound regret of all
ranks in losing the guidance and leadership of Colonel Morton, who had
raised the 17th to such a high state of proficiency, and to wish him a
well merited rest and all happiness. Just these few words of
"Good-bye," then they cheered him and, with a lump in their throats
they were not ashamed of, they dismissed. All said good-bye in their
hearts and wished him God-speed. It is sad to part with a loved C.O.
who, too, feels the parting.