At 11 p.m. the Division was still fighting on the ground it had taken up the previous night, with a large extension of front, which had been increased from the original 4000 yards to nearly 10,000, with both flanks in the air, and the Divisional Reserve consisting of two half-companies of machine-guns, one company of pioneers, and a Field Company R.E. as escort to the guns. The right was now thrown back, with two Field Companies and the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers holding the railway, covering the gap between Achiet-le-Grand and Achiet-le-Petit. On the right the 127th Brigade held the spurs covering the former village, its left joining up with the 125th Brigade, which was fighting in the outskirts of Behagnies and Bee Wood, and the 126th, slightly echeloned back, continued the line to the trenches and Sunken Road just west of Ervillers. The Divisional Artillery were now ordered to withdraw to positions south of Ablainzevelle and, a few hours later, to the Essarts Valley. The transport rejoined late at night. The arrival of fresh divisions and the withdrawal of those which needed rest had blocked the roads for a time. Most of the roads crossed in Bucquoy village, and before noon on March 25 these were completely congested by masses of vehicles which could neither get on nor get out. The confusion appeared hopeless, and had the enemy seriously shelled or bombed these roads the result would have been appalling. The prompt freeing of the roads was essential, and the “A” and “Q” Staffs and the A.P.M. were ordered to concentrate their energies on this job. Ditches were filled in, barbed wire cut down, traffic diverted across country, and efficient controls posted. By 4 p.m. a steady stream of traffic was moving along the roads, and by 10 p.m. the Divisional Transport reached its rendezvous. The R.A. and R.A.S.C. were then admirably prompt and efficient in locating and supplying units under the most trying and difficult conditions. In particular the congestion on the Hannescamps—Essarts road during those days could only be overcome by combined skill, determination, and coolness. On this road the Divisional Artillery lost more drivers and horses than in any other place. But even under such abnormal conditions rations and ammunition never failed to reach the troops, and hot meals were frequently served to the men in the front line. For four days Dispatch Riders[14] were in the saddle day and night, and their endurance, pluck, and skill in dodging the traffic and getting their messages through had been of invaluable service to the Division.