[Puchevillers.]

Here we are at the end of our first march. We left at 9.00 a.m. and got in here at 1.00 p.m. Fine sunny day; roads very heavy; about 12 miles. Lambton came out to see us, and the Battalion looked well. The Qr. Mr. [Quartermaster] of the 1^st R.I.F. and Eric Fforde came out to see the Battalion pass. The Qr. Mr. (Bunting, a Portadown man,) was greatly struck with the Battalion, and said the ‘Baby’ was a very fine one. Half the 12^th R.I.R. is here also. They had a rotten time. Only in the line by Coys., remainder under canvas. This is the third time we have been here, P-v-s [Puchevillers] and a different billet each time. I’ll write a line to Miss Fforde to say I’ve seen her brother. He was looking well, transport officer and back well from the front line. We had all yesterday for baths and changing clothing, and the men turned out well today. Very cold here but splendid for marching. If it will only keep fine for tomorrow’s long march.