“I know how magnificently they have fought, and thank them from me for their gallant performance. Tell them that I consider the situation is now far more satisfactory than at one time I expected it could be. If necessity arises I know that I can rely on the 42nd Division to do as well again as it did before.” On May 7 the Division was relieved by the 57th Division, and the troops returned to the Pas district, where the greater part were now accommodated under canvas in the woods at Pas, Henu, and Couin, while some were in billets. Here they remained until the beginning of June. The Divisional Artillery, however, continued in action, occupying positions successively at Monchy-au-Bois, Hannescamps, Fonquevillers, and Gommecourt. There was much work to be done on the defences of the Red Line and La Haie Switch, which would be manned by the division or divisions in Corps Reserve in the event of a strong enemy attack. It was essential that every company, every platoon, and indeed every man, should know the exact position to be taken up at any time of the day or night, however short the notice. The lines were thoroughly reconnoitred by all officers, and the manning of battle-positions was practised until all was perfect. The Divisional Commander laid stress on the importance of the prompt and correct transmission of messages and orders, and warned subordinate commanders against placing too much reliance upon the telephone. Visual signalling and other methods of transmission must be practised assiduously and made full use of. The action of the hateful mustard-gas was explained and practice ordered in the fitting of respirators and their daily use on ordinary parades and at musketry. The Major-General complimented the Divisional Artillery on their excellent discipline during gas concentration on battery positions on the night of the 12th of May.