It was not long before the advantage a "M.G." Squadron possesses, in being
able to change "pack" mules to "draught" and _vice versa_, was seen, this
method relieving sore shoulders and sore backs by one simple operation.
Although an early start was made every day, many miles had to be traversed
with the sun right overhead; the afternoon was usually well advanced before
the horses had been watered, lines put down, and shelters erected,
blankets, rifles, bayonets and bits of string being used for this purpose.

The following were the days' marches:--

1917.

August 12th to El Ferdan.
" 13th " Kantara (Hill 70). Long day in great heat.
" 14th at Kantara drawing ordnance stores.
" 15th to Pelusium 13 miles.
" 16th " Romani 7 miles. Heavy going.
" 17th " Khirba 14 miles.
" 18th " Bir el Abd 7 miles. Heavy going.
" 19th " Tilul, watering at Salmana.
" 20th " Bir el Masar 8 miles.
" 21st " Maadan 15 miles. Very heavy going and particularly hot.
" 22nd " Bardawil 8 miles. Good going.
" 23rd " El Arish 8 miles. Heavy going.
" 24th Rested.
" 25th to El Burd 11 miles.
" 26th " Sheikh Zowaid, by the shore. Very heavy.
" 27th " Rafa.
" 28th at Rafa obtaining stores which were sent forward by rail.