16 February (21 to 23) 21 Monday (52-314) 2nd Month 1916

Verdun - Attack begun by assault on positions East of Brabant-sur-Meuse Haumont Wood occupied.

On Duty all day. Inspection by 'Brass Hats' in the shape of a Brig-Gen (characterised as an "old rooster" by Col. Ewan) + staff. Volunteers from AA Coy. officers for cavalry wanted, but not taking any. Lt. Jones off on leave - thinks he should have one week a month - and do nothing between. 22 Tuesday (53-313) Haumont evacuated by French Fine sunny day, turning cold. E. Wood Walk to Marloes Beach in morning - in afternoon tea with Col. Ewan at the Vicarage (Rev. S. B. Williams) - German wife - Talk turns on class distinctions here. Farm labourer with 6 children earning 17 s per week - refuses to enlist. 23 Wednesday (51-312) Brabant-sur-Meuse evacuated On Duty - Col. very virtuous in that he comes and sits with me in the F. C. Post + discusses French badges of rank - Receive news thru Baxter that Brig. Gen. Lackie shot through both thighs on a moonlight recon.

BC Archives, MS-0392 Frank Swannell Papers

Box 1, Volume 5 Diary and Enclosures, 1916.