ure of the day-to-day life of a Tommy at
the front that it merits a separate chapter.

"I am glad that you like the idea of Questions and Answers.
I should never have thought of explaining some of the things
you mention had you not asked. Here goes:

"_Question No. 1._--How do you find time to write so much?
I've often wondered, as I should think you'd want to sleep
when out of the trenches.

"_A._--Well, for one thing, I am very fond of writing
letters. To me it's not a bore as it is to some. To me it's
a medium by which one can have a nice chat with one's chums
(both sexes), and looking at it in that way you can
understand. I write to you because I thoroughly enjoy the
little talks between us. So much for the inclination, which
has much to do with the time, as--where there's a will
there's a way. When in the trenches the sentry duty usually
runs two hours on, four hours off--all the way through. In
addition, we get five hours' work a day. Now the total hours
of duty are thirteen out of twenty-four: and as I only need
six hours' sleep, that leaves five hours for cooking,
eating, reading, or writing. I used to have a programme
somewhat like this: rest hours at night--sleep; rest hours
before 12 o'clock--sleep; and in the afternoon read or
write. Starting from 6 o'clock one evening it works out: 6
to 8 guard, 8 to 10 work, 10 to 12 sleep, 12 to 2 guard, 2
to 6 sleep, 6 to 8 guard, 8 to 10 breakfast and odd jobs, 10
to 2 work, 2 to 6 read and write, and afterwards tea. This
will give you a little idea. I have only two meals a day
whilst in trenches, and cocoa once in the night.

"By the way, when out on 'rest' we sleep up to midday the
first day, and as we go to bed at nine o'clock on the
following evenings we get plenty of sleep. The chief
advantage of 'rest' is the change of food and more exercise,
which the officers see we get. Whilst on 'rest,' it's drill,
etc., in the morning, sport in the afternoon, letters or
reading in the evening.

"_Q. No. 2._--Is a dug-out a hidden structure covered with
sand-bags where you only sleep, and are there such luxuries
as beds?

"_A._--I think I could write a small book on dug-outs, then
leave much unwritten. Let me describe two I have actually
been in. My first was on Hill 60.