We were relieved on February 5th by the 2/7th K.L.R., and took over new dispositions as reserve battalion to the Brigade. Two companies remained in the subsidiary line of the 2/7th and 8th K.L.R., a third being in Nouvel Houplines itself, and another at the Jute Factory in Armentières. Headquarters were at the Convent as before. On February 7th "B" Company were relieved in the subsidiary line by a company of the 2/7th K.L.R., who had just completed a successful raid on our old spot at Centaur Trench, and moved to the Jute Factory. This was a fine large building close to the wooden bridge over the Lys, with massive walls and concrete floors. In the cellars tiers of bunks had been erected, and there was excellent shell-proof cover for a whole battalion. The next day the 2/7th K.L.R. relieved us in reserve, and we went to Pont de Nieppe in Divisional Reserve. The main attraction at the time was a "demonstration platoon" of another regiment which was on tour. All the officers and N.C.Os. were required to go and see this performance, but the distance was great and the display not above the average. However, it fired the Commanding Officer with enthusiasm to produce something better, in order that the battalion might have ocular proof how admirably drill and similar things can be carried out if the requisite trouble is taken. The billets in Pont de Nieppe were indescribably dirty, and a great deal of work had to be done in cleaning and improving them. The Pioneer Platoon were invaluable in making ovens and other even more necessary conveniences; and their services were also required to repair and adapt some dilapidated rifle ranges. Units of the 38th Division, too, were in Pont de Nieppe, and the band of one of the battalions used to play daily in the streets, whence it was quite audible in the front line. However, the enemy was very good to us, and never put a shell into the place, which, considering that most of the houses were cellar-less, was on the whole, perhaps, as well for us. An attempt was made at this time to force us to change our green diamond for the green square previously used by the 2/5th K.L.R., but happily we were able to prevent this.