We marched on in close formation

TCD MS 10516 folio 28 verso

TCD MS 10516 folio 28 verso

[14th September 1916] it was necessary to “make assurances doubly sure”, so the precaution was taken of seizing four hostages from the village, who were assured they would be instantly shot if the inhabitants of the village attempted any hostilities against us. Having disposed of the precautionary measures in respect of this village, we marched on in close formation, with flanks well protected and a cavalry patrol far out on our left. We soon heard the sound of guns and a little later of machine gun and rifle-fire. This came from the East, so it was evident that the 12th Brigade were already in contact with the enemy.
I did not expect that our Brigade would encounter the enemy for some little time. What I hoped and anticipated was that all the Arabs /