The next day we rested.  Troops having been sniped at by natives, a party from the Squadron was detailed to make an example of two offenders who had been caught “red-handed”.  They were taken back to their village, and after their crime had been publicly announced by an interpreter to the chief of the tribe and the inhabitants, they were shot by the firing party.  At 18.00 the Brigade moved off through the village along the main Damascus Road.  About nine miles out they were brought to a halt, as the Australians in front were “held up”.  Later, they cleared the way, however, and we moved on again at 04.30.  A halt of half an hour was made at 07.00 to water in the Nahr Mughaniye, after which part of the distance was covered at the trot.  At 11.30 the head of the column reached Khan-esh-Shiha, 14 miles south-east of Damascus.

The enemy was seen on the Deraa Road, eight miles to the east, retreating northward, evidently being chased by the 4th Division and Hedjaz troops (Sherifians).  It was reported by aeroplanes that the enemy force numbered about 3,000, and the 14th Brigade (less the one regiment left at Haifa), was allotted the task of cutting them off.

ALL SECTIONS DO GOOD EXECUTION.

Turning to the right across country, we proceeded at a fast pace through fields of maize, gardens, orchards and then open country, arriving at the hills north of Kiswe overlooking the Deraa Road.  These we occupied, and came in touch with the enemy who had sent out troops to attack.  “No. 1” Section was in action along with two squadrons of Deccan Horse.  They only reached their positions a few minutes in front of the enemy’s flank guard, who, owing to the steepness and rocky nature of the ground, was able to approach within a few yards of the guns before being repulsed.  During this encounter it is much regretted that Pte.  Staniland was killed.

“No. 2” Section was in action on the hill occupied by Brigade Headquarters against the enemy, on a hill 600 yards to the front.  After repulsing them, they went round and occupied the hill, being joined shortly afterwards by “No. 1” Section.  Here an extensive view was obtained of the surrounding country—­in front, the Deraa Road from Kiswe village and station, on the right (and beyond) and on the left the town of Damascus itself.  It is impossible to imagine a more beautiful sight than that which Damascus presented from this spot, with its white minarets shining in the sunlight, above the orange groves, vineyards and orchards which surround it.  The panorama was more particularly striking because of the contrast it presented with the rest of the country we had previously seen.  Some good “shooting” was obtained from here, and the road was soon cleared.  Parties of the enemy could be seen making off eastward up the hills, but out of range.  The railway from Damascus runs parallel to the road, and beyond it.  A train which was then en route was fired at, but it was also rather out of range.