of the Ambulances soon swallowed its peck of dirt. But with it all we
were healthy and vigorous. As an Ambulance we practiced all sorts of
movements. Under supposition that we might have to retreat suddenly,
the whole camp would be struck, packed on the waggon and taken down
the Suez road, where it was pitched again, ready to receive patients;
then tents would be struck and a return made to camp. Or we would make
a start after nightfall and practise the movements without lights; the
transport handling the horses in the dark. Or the different sections
would march out independently, and concentrate on a point agreed upon.
It was great practice, but in the end not necessary; for we went, not
to France, as we expected, but to Gallipoli, where we had no horses.
However, it taught the men to believe in themselves. That period of
training was great. Everyone benefited, and by the beginning of April
we felt fit for anything.

We were exceedingly well looked after in the way of a standing camp.
Sand of course was everywhere, but when watered it became quite hard,
and the quadrangle made a fine drill ground. Each unit had a mess
house in which the men had their meals; there was an abundant supply
of water obtained from the Nile, so that shower baths were plentiful.
Canteens were established, and the men were able to supplement their
rations. The Y.M.C.A. erected buildings for the men's entertainment,
which served an excellent purpose in keeping the troops in camp.
Cinematographs showed pictures, and all round the camp dealers
established shops, so that there was very little inducement for men to
leave at night. A good deal of our time was occupied in weeding out
undesirables from the Brigade. Thank goodness, I had not to send a man
from the Ambulance back for this reason.

Apart from the instructive side of our stay in Egypt, the sojourn was