More than sorry to hear that the poor skipper had been killed

27 September 1916 Wednesday

Went into Valetta and had tea. Went to Tigne to see Cross and learn how things had gone with the Regt. More than sorry to hear that the poor skipper – Max Anderson, King, Norman Day, Hilditch and Humphries had all been killed. Anderson by shell before the scrap, Humphries on reconnaissance, King, Day and Hilditch during the show. About 200 men casualties, killed and wounded. However the Regt did very well and gave far more than they got. I wish to God I had been there to take a hand. Nothing is more disheartening then to have to hear of fine fellows gone when I am safely in hospital. I would a thousand times rather have taken my chance.