yond with their apple trees in bloom in every direction. During the last two weeks, enemy shelling al­ most ceased, and we didn't have to worry about Boche observation balloons seeing us, as we were well behind the crest. Occasionally an aeroplane came over, but the Allied patrols quickly chased it away. We were also fairly close to civilization. A few resolute farmers still tilled the land below in the valley. The city of Commercy was only seven or eight kilometers away. Luxuries like beer could be easily obtained and a crate of the latter would be sent up from the echelon every other night or so.

In order to strengthen and develop the position, a large amount of work had to be done. Originally none of the gun pits had any protection whatever. Their platforms and trail pits were not finished, and there were no ammunition niches. The dugouts were little more than deep, damp holes in the earth, with no sleeping quarters and no gas protection. The kitchen was in the open. No trench system linked up the various parts of the emplacement. After a couple of weeks work, however, things began to take shape. Each gun pit had it double trail log. Sand bag walls and sand bag and tole iron roofing made them splinter proof. Ammunition shelters were constructed for over five thousand rounds. Splinter-proof outdoor sleeping quarters were built beside each gun pit. Dug- outs were "shored up" and made water proof. Double gas proof doors were installed. A trench was dug, linking up the Special Detail shack with the kitchen and the third and fourth section abris. The whole place was made really strong and livable.

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