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.

* * * * *

_At_ ----


I arrived here last night after a slow and tiresome journey, which was
somewhat alleviated by an excellent bottle of French wine which I
purchased whilst in the Champagne district.