[Illustration: OFFICERS OF THE BATTALION AT MAR LODGE, TROON, 1915. _To face page 24._] [Illustration: VISIT OF THE DIRECTORS OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, TROON, 1915. _To face page 25._] At last word was received that the Battalion would cross to France on November 22nd. Only fifty per cent. got week-end leave--there was no time for more. Training was over. Few will forget the brave skirl of the pipes as the Battalion swung home in the morning from Yarnbury Castle, file after file silhouetted against the orange and gold of the rising sun. Always, when the wind blows fresh and sweet in the morning, those who are left of those happy times will think of Codford, the "jumping off place" of the Seventeenth for France. The following message of God-speed and goodwill was received by the Battalion as part of the 32nd Division before setting out:-- "17TH SERVICE BATTALION HIGHLAND LIGHT INFANTRY. "BRIGADE ORDER NO. 1285, OF 19TH NOVEMBER, 1915. "MESSAGE FROM HIS MAJESTY THE KING. "Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers and Men of the 32nd Division, on the eve of your departure for Active Service I send you my heartfelt good wishes. "It is a bitter disappointment to me, owing to an unfortunate accident, I am unable to see the Division on Parade before it leaves England; but I can assure you that my thoughts are with you all. "Your period of training has been long and arduous, but the time has now come for you to prove on the Field of Battle the results of your instruction. "From the good accounts that I have received of the Division, I am confident that the high traditions of the British Army are safe in your hands, and that with your comrades now in the Field you will maintain the unceasing efforts necessary to bring the War to a victorious ending. "Good-bye and God-speed." To the above message the following reply was sent:-- "Please convey to His Majesty the heartfelt thanks of all ranks of the 32nd Division for His gracious message and their determination to justify His expectations. "The Division deeply regrets the accident which has deprived it of the honour of a visit from His Majesty, and humbly offers its best wishes for His Majesty's speedy and complete recovery." On Sunday, 21st November, 1915, the Battalion paraded in full strength, 1,032 all ranks, at their hutments, Codford. A minute and final inspection was made, and everything pronounced to be in order. A memorable feature of this parade was the head-gear, Balmoral bonnets of the war service pattern being worn for the first time. Next morning the Battalion left Codford in three parties for Southampton, and without any delay embarked on two transports for Havre, the remainder of the Division going _via_ Boulogne. It was a perfect crossing, no wind, bright moonlight, with everyone in the best of spirits.