Monday, 22nd February 1915

Pte. Carl Parrington Branthwaite (see 16^th November) who had been taken ill during training at Frensham and subsequently transferred to 11^th Battalion West Riding Regiment, underwent an operation (location and details unknown).
 

Priestley wrote to his family, telling them that he, along with the whole 23^rd Division, was about to begin an extended march which would take them from Aldershot to Folkestone: “We are spending all day in preparation for the great event”. He also shared his clear sense of apprehension about the rigours of the march:“This is a test march and Kitchener inspects us on route (Priestley had clearly heard the rumours which had resulted in the issue of khaki uniforms to the Division – see 16^th February). We travel with full pack and what a weight it is, I assure you. We carry rifle, ammunition pouches, greatcoat – folded, bayonet, water bottle, shirt, drawers, socks, towel and soap, razor etc etc, mess-tin – a sort of combination frying-pan, pot and plate etc etc. It is no joke marching with that lot”. He also shared his view that, “The Great New Armies have started moving, slowly, but surely, and the end of the war is in sight, though afar”.