Ferne Grand-Westho

Finished putting English German trenches on white print. Went to Steenwerck and achieved a threepenny both - 3 tubs in a 6x8 room - Baxter; ASC Sgt. Maj. stewed together - um chope de biere given for the price in addition to bath, towels & soap - dined estaminet au Cerf - malaga wine as usual.

Move back again to Ferme Grand Westhof - get in late & have frugal supper off a "MV" ration. 2 tartines de buerre & a bottle of vin blanc. Notice lancejack & 2 others in arbour of an estaminet - Baxter enquires way - voice comes out "Don't dare pop your head in and ask an officer a question next time" - thinking it some of our boys joking I make a retort - fat little lieutenant bounces out speechless with rage - "Beg pardon, took your for a private, sir" from me - makes him foam at the mouth - expect to be shot at dawn. Long tail our cat has, now.

Preview by Sam. Hughes - we are working on dining table in the General's room - putting trenches on white prints. Go to Steenwerck in evening & have supper with the Oliviers - find them all except the old lady binding sheaves.

BC Archives, MS-0392 Box 1 Volume 4 / FRANK SWANNELL PAPERS / Diary and enclosures, 1915.