up on their hind legs and romping about with each other.  The natives’ usual method of riding a donkey in the East is rather comical.  They sit well to the rear, in fact right over the hind-quarters, and with their feet forward, these they wave in and out between the animal’s legs, and thereby make him increase his pace.  A turn to either flank is accomplished by their hitting him on the neck with a stick, or putting their toe in his eye!

[Illustration]

On October 1st-3rd “A” Sub-section went on a reconnaissance with the Brigade, which, however, was “in support” at Reshid Beck, and not called upon for active work.  Meanwhile the training continued—­Squadron drill, section schemes and N.C.O.’s rides.  The completion of the Squadron to the full establishment of six Sub-sections (12 guns) was sanctioned on October 9th, although the supply of horses was stated to be doubtful.  On that date the Squadron was inspected by the G.O.C. the Brigade, Brig.-Gen. J.T.  Wigan, C.M.G., D.S.O.

DRAFT FROM MARESFIELD PARK, ENGLAND.

Lieut.  Raynor arrived with 47 “O.R.’s” on Oct. 9th.  These were part of a draft of 15 officers and 250 men under Capt.  R.O.  Hutchinson, who had left England on September 13th.  Before starting on their journey the draft had been complimented upon their appearance by the C.O. of the Training Centre, and told that “they should consider themselves lucky to be going to a country where real cavalry tactics could be employed”.  And so it proved to be!  This draft arrived at Alexandria on September 27th, and proceeded to the M.G.C.  Base Depot, Helmieh, Cairo, after a very pleasant but uneventful journey, via Southampton, Havre, Marseilles and Malta.  The journey through France was by a route not previously used for troops, and the French people were very friendly and enthusiastic, cheering frequently.  Apparently the population here were not accustomed to the sight of British troops.  At Marseilles they embarked on H.M.T.  “Minetonka” (a splendid ship, but very crowded), which, being built for the North-Atlantic traffic, was rather hot for the Mediterranean.  Two very efficient Japanese destroyers escorted her throughout the whole journey.

At first, it was thought that the “draft” was intended to form an entirely new unit, but they had not long been in Egypt before officers and men were posted to various existing Squadrons.  The importance of this draft is indicated, to some extent, by the fact that within a short time every Machine Gun Squadron in the E.E.F. (except one), was commanded by an officer who had come out with it.

PREPARATIONS FOR WAR.