On February 11th we relieved the 8th K.L.R. in Houplines, and occupied those trenches, so rich in memories for the battalion, for the last time. "B" Company occupied the right sector, "A" the left sector, and "C" and "D" the subsidiary line. We found the trenches much improved as regards water, but still in need of most urgent attention to prevent a complete collapse of all breastworks. Except for one or two angry bursts on Tissage Dump, the enemy was exceedingly quiet; and at 8.45 p.m. on February 14th, the first anniversary of our departure for France, we handed over to the 13th Welch and said good-bye to Houplines. Of the many men who served with the battalion, few, if any, will look back on Houplines without some feeling akin to affection. Tissage Dump, the Cemetery, Edmeads or Hobbs Farm, Cambridge, Irish or Spain Avenues--what memories these names conjure up! Some happy, some tragic, but all happily tempered now by the softening touch of years. We spent from February 15th to March 1st in reserve at Pont de Nieppe, engaged in strengthening the defences of Armentières and the River Lys. This work the 38th Division had already commenced, and we took it up where they left off. About 260 men per day were employed in digging and wiring, and a great deal was achieved against the day when the great German offensive should commence. Unfortunately, we learnt afterwards that no men were available to hold our trenches, which in the end caused little, if any, inconvenience to the enemy, as perhaps was not unnatural. These great working parties did not end without a certain amount of friction developing with the R.E., and a memorable meeting took place at Headquarters between the Commanding Officer, the C.R.E., and the G.S.O.1. So warm grew the discussion that a considerable quantity of Benedictine had eventually to be consumed in order to restore that feeling of harmonious co-operation on which the text-books dwell so persistently. The demonstration platoon composed of riflemen was trained during this period, and really reached a very high pitch of efficiency by the time it was called upon to exhibit its powers to the battalion. On February 27th, about 9.30 p.m., we received a message from the 38th Division, warning us that it was understood that a German offensive was to start up north at dawn, and that a barrage was to be put down on Pont de Nieppe as a feint. This encouraging piece of information caused a considerable stir. Arrangements, of course, had to be made for the speedy evacuation of billets, should it be found necessary; and also for providing some cover for Battalion Headquarters, which would have to remain in position, bombardment or no bombardment. Fortunately, nothing happened, and the night proved as quiet as any other.