One volume of my war–journal completed, and I must confess it is dull reading.
I could not help smiling as I read my enthusiastic remarks at the outbreak of war, when we visualized battles by the week. What a contrast between our expectations and the actual facts.
Months of monotony, and I haven't even seen an Englishman yet.
Our battle cruisers have had a little amusement with the coast raids at Scarborough and elsewhere, but we battle–fleet fellows have seen nothing, and done nothing.
So I have decided to volunteer for the U–boat service, and my name went in last week, though I am told it may be months before I am taken, as there are about 250 lieutenants already on the waiting list.
But sooner or later I suppose something will come of it.
I shall have no cause to complain of inactivity in that Service, if I get there.
* * * * *
I am off to–night for a six–days trip, two days of which are to be spent in the train, to the Verdun sector.
It has been a great piece of luck. The trip had been arranged by the Military and Naval Inter–communication Department; and two officers from this squadron were to go.
There were 130 candidates, so we drew lots; as usual I was lucky and drew one of the two chances.
It should be intensely interesting.
* * * * *
