PREVIOUS - OCTOBER 1918 (Visits)



01.11.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters British 248 Overseas 66
Matron-in-Chief, BEF returned yesterday from London where she had attended on the 30th instant a lunch given by a Committee representative of women in the Government and Public Services, the Arts and Professions, in honour of the Matrons in Chief of the British and Overseas Nursing Services, in recognition of the magnificent work of the Nurses, both British and from Overseas.
General Service VADs: During last month there has been some correspondence on the subject of General Service VADs who are being attached to hospitals as Ambulance Car drivers. Requests have been made as to whether they may join the Sisters’ Mess for lunch or tea. This question has been gone into.
NZANS Reinforcements: Received War Office letter authorising the embarkation on the 5th instant of 1 Sister, 6 Staff Nurses of the NZANS for duty with No.1 New Zealand Stationary Hospital.
Resignations: Forwarded to DGMS list of members of the Nursing Services serving in the BEF who have sent in applications to resign during the last two months, 9 of which were for marriage.
Transfer: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application from S/Nurse E. R. Gladden, TFNS to be permitted to transfer to the Home Establishment, as her fiancé has been killed in action and she wishes to be near her friends.
Sister Martha Jones, QAIMNSR: Reported to DGMS and wired Matron-in-Chief, War Office, that Sister Martha Jones, QAIMNSR was dangerously ill with Broncho-Pneumonia.
Leave return: Forwarded to DMS, L of C monthly leave return showing 609 Trained Nurses eligible for leave, and 329 VAD members (Americans are not included).

02.11.18
Sick Sisters British 255 Overseas 65
Army Ordnance Department: Received circular notice from DMS, L of C to the effect that authority is given to all British Nurses and nursing VADs serving in Military Hospitals in France to purchase from the Army Ordnance Department Clothing Depots such articles as are suitable, provided stocks admit.
Fractured Femur Wards: DMS, L of C forwarded ruling received from DGMS that arrangements could be made that Nursing Sisters in Fractured Femur Wards could be relieved by Trained Nurses after six months. If sufficient trained Nurses do not exist to carry out the reliefs arrangements should be made for such Nursing Staff and VADs to be trained in this work to meet requirements.
Servants Allowance: Received War Office letter authorising the payment of £20 per annum servants’ allowance to the Matron-in-Chief, and the Principal Matrons Boulogne, Rouen, and Etaples.
S/Nurse S. E. Baker, SAMNS: Wired Matron-in-Chief, War Office, and reported DGMS that S/Nurse S. E. Baker, SAMNS was dangerously ill with Pneumonia and Influenza, and that her relatives had been notified by cable.

03.11.18
Sick Sisters British 244 Overseas 68
Matron H. R. Oates, TFNS: Reported to DGMS that Matron H. R. Oates, TFNS who had been granted 2 months’ leave without pay, reported her return to duty on 24.10.18.
Extension of leave: Received War Office letter granting extension of leave to Miss A. F. Griffiths, VAD on medical certificate, and to Miss A. Segar, VAD and Miss L. Donald, VAD on medical certificate; also 7 days’ extension to Miss F. Waller, VAD on account of the death of her father, to Miss Chapman, VAD on account of the death of her sister; and Miss B. Meservy, VAD and Miss E. Gardiner, VAD, now on leave in the United Kingdom, should be struck off the strength of the BEF as they have been transferred to the Home Establishment.

04.11.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters British 255 Overseas 62
S/Nurse I. K. Johnson, QAIMNSR Aust.: Reported to DGMS that since the application from S/Nurse I. K. Johnson, QAIMNSR Aust. for permission to be married and retained in the Service was forwarded, her fiancé has been killed in action.
No.4 Stationary Hospital: Reported to DGMS that a Sister in charge and 6 Sisters had been posted to No.4 Stationary Hospital for temporary duty at the request of the DMS 2nd Army.
SJAB Hospital: Reported to DMS, L of C the arrival of the Nursing Staff of the SJAB Hospital from the United Kingdom for duty at Trouville: total of 60.
American Nursing Service: Wrote to DGMS through DMS, L of C on the subject of the granting of leave to American Nurses serving with the BEF. The present system is not satisfactory. From the Dieppe Area alone, 59 nurses, out of a total of 105, have had no leave for 17 months, and 37 have had no leave for varying periods of from 6 to 9 months. Applications have been resubmitted 4 times to the American Mission before approval has been received. Asked if it would be possible to reconsider the question of granting leave to the American Nursing Service with the British Forces, and to authorise a special allotment to be allocated from this office, as is done for British and Overseas Services. There are 696 American Nurses serving with the BEF.

05.11.18
Sick Sisters British 267 Overseas 66
Hospital Ship “Wandilla”: Reported to DGMS that 2 Sisters and 3 Staff Nurses joined the BEF from the Hospital Ship “Wandilla” on 14.10.18, giving names, also those of their reliefs who joined the Ship from France.
SAMNS: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application from Mrs. Scott, SAMNS Probationer, to resign her contract. This lady is under instructions to join for duty at the South African Hospital, Richmond Park. Notification of her departure will be forwarded in due course.
Miss F. Cowper, VAD: Wired Matron-in-Chief, War Office, and reported DGMS that Miss F. Cowper, VAD was dangerously ill with influenza.
S/Nurse E. H. Watson, QAIMNSR: Wired Matron-in-Chief, War Office, and reported DGMS that S/Nurse E. H. Watson, QAIMNSR, died on 5th instant at 4 o’clock of Influenza.

06.11.18
Sick Sisters British 266 Overseas 65
Reinforcements: Received War Office letter notifying that 19 VAD members have been instructed to join for duty on the 1st November in relief of 20 retained in the United Kingdom owing to demands for extension of leave and ill health.
Harvard Unit: Received War Office letter stating that there is no objection to a suitable Sister from 22 General Hospital (Harvard Unit) being deputed by the Matron for conducting duty when the necessity arose, provided all instructions are issued with regard to the duty.
S/Nurse Baker, SAMNS: Wired Matron-in-Chief, War Office, and informed DGMS that S/Nurse Baker, SAMNS had died of Influenza.
Miss Colwell, VAD: Wired Matron-in-Chief, War Office, and informed DGMS that Miss Colwell, VAD was on the “Dangerously Ill” list with Influenza.
Reinforcements: Reported to DGMS that of the 20 VAD members notified to arrive for duty in France on 1.11.18, only 13 had reported, i.e. 10 VADs, 2 VAD Assistant Nurses, 1 Special Probationer Assistant Nurse.

07.11.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters British 272 Overseas 64
Michelham Convalescent Home: Received from DMS, L of C copy of GHQ letter in connection with the War Establishment for the Michelham Convalescent Home for British Officers. Nursing Staff suggested – 1 Matron, 3 Sisters, 5 VADs.
N/Sister Willett, CAMC: Wired Matron-in-Chief, CEF and reported DGMS that N/Sister E. Willett, CAMC was on the “DI” List with measles.

08.11.18
Sick Sisters British 274 Overseas 64
Miss Richards, RRC, QAIMNS: Miss Richards, RRC, Principal Matron, QAIMNS arrived from England by Hospital Ship en route to the South of France for convalescent leave after her recent illness.
Promotion: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application for the promotion of S/Nurse A. Thompson, TFNS to the rank of Sister, attaching confidential report. This lady mobilised in 1914, and has been on Active Service in France since May, 1917.

09.11.18
Sick Sisters British 273 Overseas 59
Miss M. Morgan, VAD: Received War Office letter ruling that the claims for refund against Miss M. Morgan, VAD who had signed AFW 3542 might be waived. This lady has been obliged to resign under special circumstances, namely, that having lost her sister, she is now the sole support of her mother.
Trouville Area: DMS, L of C forwarded authority for the provision of hutted accommodation at Nos.72, 73, 74 General Hospitals for 5 additional Nursing Sisters.
Sister Lockhart, TFNS: Received notification from Sister Lockhart, TFNS on leave in the United Kingdom, that she intended to be married on the 6th inst. Wired instructions to report in person to the Matron-in-Chief, TFNS and notified all concerned.
No.8 Stationary Hospital: Received from DDMS Boulogne forwarded by DGMS correspondence in connection with an official complaint which had been made by the Surgical Specialist with regard to the supply of Nurses to this Unit, for the remarks of the Matron-in-Chief. Returned correspondence attaching remarks shewing War Establishment allowed for a normal Unit of 1040 beds, i.e. 85 Nurses, and the special authorised establishment applied for by No.8 Stationary Hospital on account of its Fractured Femur Wards, i.e. 93, and the weekly Nominal Rolls for the last 3 months, as rendered by the Unit, shew the total strength averaged 100 Nurses, and in addition an average of 4 members of the Almeric Paget Military Massage Corps. The requirements of this Unit have always been borne in mind, and whenever possible reinforcements have been sent.

10.11.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters British 277 Overseas 62
War News: Received news that the Kaiser and the Crown Prince had abdicated.
Resignation: Received memo from DMS, L of C approving the institution at No.74 General Hospital of a course for the instruction of members of the Nursing Service in the administration of Anaesthetics.
American Nursing Service: Received from DMS, L of C copy of letter sent by him to the DGMS on the subject of leave for American Nurses, and recommending that a special allotment should be allocated to this office to deal with these ladies, as is already done in the case of British and Overseas Nursing Services.
War Establishment: Sent memo to DMS, L of C with regard to No.1563 of Part 7a, shewing War Establishment for General Hospitals in France of 1560 beds (including 60 beds for Officers) asking if number of members of QAIMNS authorised could have been misprinted. The number shewn is 78, and the number authorised by War Establishment Part 7a for a Hospital of 1400 beds for other ranks only is 73. The number sanctioned by the Adjutant General for Hospitals of 1586 beds in France (a difference of 26 beds) for other ranks only is 94, which number has been calculated as a minimum by which the Hospital of this size can be worked. It is not considered possible for a Unit of 1560 beds, including 60 for Officers, to be nursed efficiently or even satisfactorily by a Nursing Staff of 78.
Harvard Unit: Replied to memo received from DMS, L of C for authority for embarkation of 8 Staff Nurses whose arrival at the Harvard Unit was reported on 26.10.18, that the only authority in this office was a copy of a wire received from him instructing DGMS Etaples to send Matron Hagar to England to conduct 12 Nurses arriving from England.
Resignation: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application to resign on account of fiancé’s health from S/Nurse T. Leech, QAIMNSR. Owing to the urgency of the case this lady has been granted special leave from November 9th in anticipation of approval of her resignation. Asked for a relief to be supplied.

11.11.18
Sick Sisters British 277 Overseas 62
War News: Armistice with Germany signed 5 a.m. to take effect from 11 a.m. Mons taken at 4.30 a.m. Great excitement and rejoicing in the town.
Resignation: Forwarded to DGMS statement from Sister M. I. Johnston, QAIMNS in connection with her application to resign. This lady reported that she had had no leave during her tour of duty in Egypt, and that she was very anxious that her resignation should take effect at the earliest possible date.
Principal Matron Ridley, CAMC: Sent memo to DMS, L of C with reference to communication received from DGMS asking whether any arrangement had been made with regard to Miss Ridley’s move to the office of the DMS Canadians. When the Matron-in-Chief, BEF was in London, she had seen the Matron-in-Chief, CEF who appeared to think that the question was one which should emanate form the DMS Canadians.
Circular letter: Sent circular letter to all Units asking Matrons and Sisters in charge to let all members of the Nursing Staff know how much their work and devotion at the present time was being appreciated.
Resignation: DGMS returned application to resign forwarded by Sister G. E. M. Burke, TFNS with a minute to the effect that in view of the serious shortage of Nurses in this country, this lady’s reason for desiring to transfer to the Home Establishment did not warrant recommendation at present. This application may be submitted at a later date when the military situation may be more settled.
Transfer: Received War Office letter approving the transfer to the 4th Scottish General Hospital, Glasgow, of Miss J. H. Watts, VAD.
Nurses’ Hostels: Returned to DMS, L of C correspondence in connection with the opening of Nurses’ Hostels in Front areas, and the present means of transport. Reported the situation as found on a recent visit to the Armies, i.e. Nurses from No.12 Stationary Hospital could still be conveyed to 1st Army CCSs, from Nos.6 and 12 Stationary Hospital’s to 3rd Army CCSs, from No.41 Stationary Hospital to 4th Army CCSs, and that they could be conveyed from L of C direct to Lille by Train to No.39 Stationary Hospital for duty in CCSs in the 5th Army. In consequence of the distance from one Army to another it would appear that one Hostel alone opening up in the advanced part of the L of C Area is not enough help. Suggested that if Stationary Hospitals were established with their Hostels in each Army in their new positions, it would be better to arrange as suggested by the DMS 3rd Army for transport to be supplied as at present by L of C to the nearest back area CCSs …[Illegible phrase] the Army to complete the journey where train service is impracticable.
N/Sister O. G. Nicholson, CAMC: Forwarded to DMS, L of C correspondence in connection with N/Sister O. G. Nicholson, CAMC who was reported by the Matron of No.3 Canadian General Hospital as having been absent from her quarters without leave after 22 o’clock Saturday night, the 2nd instant, and did not return till on or about 2.30 Sunday morning the 3rd instant. Recommended that this lady should be transferred to the Home Establishment.

12.11.18
Sick Sisters British 280 Overseas 64
Resignation: Forwarded to DMS, L of C resignation of Miss S. Blunson, VAD who gave as a reason that she had had no leave for 7 months, and her health was consequently suffering. Suggested that as an alternative this lady might be given sick leave.
Miss D. Johnson, VAD: Wired Matron-in-Chief, War Office, and reported DGMS that Miss Doris Johnson, VAD was ill with Pneumonia at Mentone.
N/Sister E. M. Prout, CAMC: Wired Matron-in-Chief, War Office, and reported DGMS that Miss E. M. Prout, N/Sister, CAMC had been placed on the “DI” List with NYD.

13.11.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters British 270 Overseas 65
Transfer: Received information that VAD Miss A. Paris, should be struck off the strength in France from 7.11.18 on transfer to the Home Establishment, and that Miss E. A. Churchcourt, VAD who was struck off the strength in France by War Office letter, has returned to duty. Request that she should be struck off the strength is therefore cancelled. Reported to DGMS that no previous correspondence in connection with this lady had been received.
Miss Lytle, VAD: Received War Office letter confirming the statement that Miss Lytle, VAD had been provided with no railway warrant for her return journey to London.
Monthly Return: Received War Office letter shewing the total number of reinforcements sent to France during the month of October: new arrivals including QAIMNSR, Special Probationers, VAD Assistant Nurses and SAMNS to total 110: returns off sick leave including QAIMNSR, TFNS, VAD, USANC to total 32. Forwarded to DGMS statement shewing figures from records in this office to be: new arrivals 100 and returns off sick leave 33.
AANS: Received wire from DMS, L of C instructing Head Sister E. Paton, Sisters B. C. Crago, E. M. Crabbe, J. M. Simpson, C. O’Connor, E. A. Foster, to proceed forthwith to Marseilles for embarkation on Australian Hospital Ship “Karoola”. This Hospital Ship had been at Alexandria, and would arrive at Marseilles on or about the 14th instant. The OC “Karoola” has been instructed to have 6 Nurses ready to exchange for duty in France, and outfits for these Nurses have been despatched from HQ, AIF London to the three Hospitals concerned: No.25 General Hospital, No.1 Australian General, and No.2 Australian General Hospitals.
Lady Norman: Sent to DGMS copy of a wire received from Lady Norman to the effect that she was unable to go out to France on account of sickness.

14.11.18
Sick Sisters British 264 Overseas 60
Circular: Sent circular to all A/Principal Matrons with regard to the procedure to be adopted invariably when it is found necessary to report officially any matter affecting the Nursing Staff.
Reinforcements: Reported to DGMS that the following reinforcements arrived for duty in France on 9.11.18, 15 VAD members, 1 VAD Assistant Nurse, and 4 Special Probationers.
AANS Transfer: Received wire from DMS, L of C requesting that S/Nurse J. Proctor, AANS should return to England forthwith and report Headquarters, AIF in London for transport duty to Australia. She would be replaced by S/Nurse C. E. Morehead, AANS. Wired DGMS that this lady was on leave in the South of France, was due to return on the 19th, and was unable to be in England in less than 5 days’ time. Asked what action should be taken under the circumstances. DGMS replied that she should be instructed to report in England as soon as possible. Wired DGMS with reference to Miss Simpson, AANS under orders to join the Hospital Ship “Karoola”. This lady has neither Camp Kit nor Pay Book. OC No.3 Australian General Hospital requests permission to substitute Sister Forsyth. Asked what action should be taken.
S/Nurse C. Campbell, QAIMNSR: Received wire from Matron-in-Chief, War Office, asking if S/Nurse C. Campbell, QAIMNSR was still serving with the BEF as her application to withdraw her resignation dated 24.9.18 has only just been received. Replied yes.
Harvard Unit: DMS, L of C returned application from No.22 General Hospital (Harvard Unit) for the appointment of Sister C. Birtles to be a member of their Staff. In view of the altered conditions this application should be re-submitted in one month’s time, provided that the situation then calls for the services of this lady.
Nursing Staff in Front Areas: Received wire from DMS, L of C requesting that the total number of Nurses employed in Casualty Clearing Stations prior to the cessation of hostilities should be wired to the DGMS. Replied by wire that on the 10th instant in CCS all Nursing Services included, there were 779 in British Units, and 175 in Overseas Units: total 954. These figures shew the total number of Nursing Sisters on duty from the 9th to the 10th inst. They include (1) members of all British, Overseas, and American Nursing Services. (2) Nursing Sisters employed on Anaesthetic and Surgical Team duties. They do not include Nursing Sisters in Stationary Hospitals in Front Areas.

15.11.18
Sick Sisters British 262 Overseas 58
Reinforcement: Reported to DGMS that Assistant Matron F. Carter, RRC, TFNS arrived for duty in France on 12.11.18 and was posted to the Portuguese General Hospital for duty as Assistant Matron.
Fractured Femur Wards: Sent circular to all A/Principal Matrons instructing them to make arrangements for the Nursing Staff in Fractured Femur Wards to be relieved by other Nursing personnel every 6 months.

16.11.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters British 237 Overseas 47
Resignation: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application from Miss P. C. Havelock, VAD to resign owing to private personal affairs at the end of her contract which expires December 30th. This lady applied at the same time to be transferred to the Home Establishment for the month of December in order to be able to obtain a satisfactory post as a teacher on her return to civil life.
Nursing Personnel on L of C: In accordance with request from DMS, L of C wired numbers of Nursing personnel on L of C on November 9th. British Trained Nurses 1754, VADs 1729, CAMC including VADs 682, AANS including Red Cross Workers, 339, Americans including 22 General Hospital and civilians attached 198, New Zealanders 34, SAMNS including Probationers 79, Almeric Paget Corps 34. These figures refer to Imperial and Overseas Units only, and do not include any members of the BRCS, but they take in all Stationary Hospitals whether on the Lines of Communication or in Army Areas.
S/Nurse E. A. Moorhouse, AANS: Wired Matron-in-Chief, AANS and reported DGMS that S/Nurse E. A. Moorhouse, AANS was seriously ill with Pneumonia.
Military Medal: Received notification from AAG of the award of the Military Medal to N/Sister H. E. Hanson, CAMC and B. McNair, CAMC of No.7 Canadian General Hospital.
American Nursing Service: Reported to DGMS that Miss I. F. Preston, Stenographer, attached No.9 General Hospital American Unit, had been transferred to Headquarters, American Expeditionary Force on 23.10.18.
Return of Nursing Sisters: Forwarded to DGMS statement shewing number of Trained Nurses and VAD members on duty with the BEF on 10.11.18. Total deficiency on establishment: Trained Nurses 665, total working deficiency 831. Total surplus on establishment of VADs 282 and total working surplus 95.

17.11.18
Sick Sisters British 235 Overseas 47
Resignation: Received War Office letter requesting that Miss M. H. Daly, VAD who applied to resign under special circumstances, namely the ill health of her mother, should forward a medical certificate to that effect, with a view to waiving the refund.
Contract: Received War Office letter returning renewal of contract form signed by S/Nurse B. Blagg, QAIMNSR requesting that this lady should be informed that as she has already signed AFW 3537 to serve for as long as required, it is not necessary for this renewal to be forwarded.

18.11.18
Sick Sisters British 237 Overseas 46
Miss M. H. Daly, VAD: Reported to DGMS that the Medical Certificate required by the War Office in respect of Miss M. H. Daly, VAD could not be procured, as this lady proceeded to the United Kingdom on resignation on 26.9.18.
Sister E. Williams, TFNS: Wrote to Matron-in-Chief, TFNS in connection with Miss E. S. Williams, TFNS who was evacuated sick to the United Kingdom on 26.10.18, in reply to a letter received from her. Said that it was regretted that Miss Williams should be feeling unjustly treated, and that probably the state of her health made her imagine this. From the correspondence regarding this lady, this seemed to be the general opinion of the Medical Officers who saw her. Sent correspondence in connection with this matter to DMS, L of C for his information.
Casualties: Forwarded to DGMS list of deaths of Nursing Sisters and women workers in France since October 1st, 1918. 10 Nursing Staff, 2 other workers, and 2 QMAACs
American Nursing Service: Forwarded to DMS, L of C correspondence in connection with the kits of American Nurses. Enclosed copy of wire received from Matron-in-Chief, War Office, stating that 128 kits had been sent on 16.9.18 and 68 on October 8th, 1918. Notification has now been received from the A/Principal Matron, Rouen, that 128 kits have been received by the OC 12 General Hospital, and handed to the American Nurses serving in this Area. There is no information about the 68 kits sent on October 8th: every endeavour has been made and is still being made to trace them.


19.11.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters British 230 Overseas 48
Reinforcements: Received War Office letter authorising the embarkation of 1 Sister, 7 Staff Nurses, of the QAIMNS Reserve as reinforcements on 14.11.18. Reported to DGMS arrival of these ladies on that date. Received War Office letter authorising the embarkation on 16.11.18 of 25 reinforcements; VADs, Special Probationers, and Assistant Nurses (6 Assistant Nurses, 2 Special Probationers, and 17 VADs). Sent memo to DGMS asking if, in view of the present situation, and the probable reduction of the strength of Nursing Sisters in Army Areas, it is considered advisable to cancel temporarily all applications for reinforcements.
AANS: Forwarded to DMS, L of C explanation from OC No.2 Australian General Hospital with regard to the substitution of Sister Forsyth, AANS in place of Sister Simpson, who had been instructed to report to the A/Principal Matron, Marseilles, for duty on Hospital Ship “Karoola”. The OC had no authority to do so, but acted in this way as Sister Simpson was not in possession of a Pay Book, and her main kit had been left in London. Received wire from DGMS instructing the Sisters detailed for duty on Hospital Ship “Karoola” to proceed to England at once, as this Ship was not going to call at Marseilles. Recalled all Sisters from Marseilles, and instructed Sister Forsyth to return to No.2 Australian General Hospital, and Sister Simpson to proceed with the party to London in accordance with orders.

20.11.18
Sick Sisters British 215 Overseas 45
HRH Princess Mary: accompanied by the Lady Ampthill, GBE, Commandant in Chief, VADs arrived in France on her first visit to the BEF.
Resignation: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application from Sister M. Richardson, TFNS to be permitted to resign her appointment owing to the death of her mother and of her sister, who has left a baby in delicate health, of which she is to take charge. Sister Richardson states that she is unable to refund the extra pay she has drawn through having signed AFW 3545. Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application from Mrs. E. A. Carter, VAD to break her contract as her husband has been transferred from Malta to Hull, and he is anxious for her to keep house for him. Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application from Miss F. Shingleton, VAD to be permitted to resign in order to take up work which has been offered to her in India.

21.11.18
Sick Sisters British 228 Overseas 48
HRH Princess Mary visited Abbeville and lunched at Princess Victoria’s Rest Club for Nurses; the luncheon was cooked and served entirely by VADs.
Miss Thurston, RRC Matron-in-Chief, NZEF arrived in Boulogne in order to visit the New Zealand Stationary Hospital.
Resignation: DMS, L of C returned application and correspondence in connection with application to resign from A/Sister P. King, QAIMNSR, on grounds if ill health, ruling that this lady should be sent to Hospital and dealt with in the usual way.

22.11.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 229 British 48 Overseas
Resignation: Received War Office letter accepting the resignation of S/Nurse H. P. Douglas, QAIMNSR and requesting that the date this lady relinquishes her appointment should be notified to the War Office. It has been pointed out that Miss Douglas need only refund a proportionate amount of the Service pay issued to her, if entitlement to this pay has been granted for only one year, the amount to be refunded being £10. If less than a year the whole £20 must be refunded.
Passage to Australia: Forwarded to DGMS application from S/Nurse E. A. Forrest, QAIMNSR (Aust) to be granted a free passage to Australia when her services are no longer required. Asked DGMS whether the provision of War Office Letter 2/693/AMD4 of 20.10.17 applies also to members of the QAIMNSR who joined Army Service from the Australian Voluntary Hospital on 1.7.16, that is that members of the Reserve from Overseas renewing their contracts for a further period of service will be granted a free passage within 6 months of the termination of their renewal of contract.
Return to Canada: Forwarded to DGMS for consideration application from Miss A. M. S. Lighthall, VAD who is anxious to be released from contract signed by her to date from 19th November, as she wishes to return to Canada with her brother.
Harvard Unit: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application from Mrs. J. F. Milne, VAD, Harvard Unit, to be permitted to resign her appointment as her husband is missing. She is anxious now to be in England as she hopes that he may be returned as a prisoner of war.
Contracts: Forwarded to DGMS renewal of contract forms for 5 members of the Reserve who joined for Army Service in October and November, 1914, 1915, 1916 and 1917, and who have renewed their contracts for a further period of 6 months. Also of 18 members of the Reserve who joined for Army Service in October and November, 1914, 1915, 1916, and 1917, and who have renewed their contracts for a further period of 12 months. Also for 9 members of the Reserve who joined Army Service in April and May 1915, 1916, 1917, and who have renewed their contracts for a further period for 12 months, with the exception of A/Sister K. Murphy, QAIMNSR who has renewed for a further period of 6 months.

23.11.18
Sick Sisters British 237 Overseas 49
War Establishment: Received memo from DMS, L of C with reference to the question of War Establishment for 1560 bedded Hospitals in France. DGMS ruled that in view of the fact that no Hospitals in France had mobilised as 1560 bedded Hospitals, the scale of Nurses authorised by the AAG should be followed in this country.
Resignation: Received from DDMS Trouville, application submitted by S/Nurse I. Clifton, QAIMNSR, requesting that she might be permitted to resign on termination of contract on December 14th giving as her reason that recent events have made her feel that her services will not be so much required. Returned correspondence saying that the reason given by this lady does not appear sufficient to recommend this application. No instructions for demobilisation have yet been received, and the services of all are still required.
Forwarded to DGMS for consideration application submitted by S/Nurse M. A. Coates, QAIMNSR to be permitted to resign on the termination of her contract on December 14th, as she does not feel that she has any chance of promotion. This lady joined Army Service on 14.12.17. She has been informed that there are no vacancies for Sisters in the BEF at present, and as there are many on the waiting list who joined Army Service previous to this lady, her request cannot be considered at present. As she still wishes to resign and has applied for leave which is overdue, it is proposed to give her 14 days’ from December 1st.
Efficiency Stripe: Forwarded to Matron-in-Chief, War Office, duplicates of certificates for the Efficiency Stripe in respect of 19 VAD members who have been transferred to the Home Establishment since October 1917. Forwarded to Headquarters, Devonshire House, duplicates of certificates for the Efficiency Stripe awarded to 77 VAD members who have resigned since June 1918. Also in respect of Miss N. C. Young, VAD who died on July 30th, of Miss E. A. Ingram, who was killed on August 13th, and of Miss S. V. Barrett, who was drowned in October, 1918.
Sister I. Curnow, AANS: Received ruling from DGMS with regard to application from Sister I. Curnow, AANS who applied for a transfer to England. It was considered no useful purpose would be served by resubmitting this application at present.
Confidential report: Forwarded to DGMS confidential report on Miss J. H. D. Watt, VAD who proceeded to the United Kingdom on transfer to the Home Establishment on 17.11.18; also on Miss M. A. Sharpe, VAD who has been retained for service in the United Kingdom. Sent to Matron-in-Chief, War Office, duplicate certificate authorising this lady to wear 2 scarlet efficiency Stripes.
Sister M. Marmion, QAIMNSR: Wired Matron-in-Chief, War Office, and reported DGMS that Sister M. Marmion, QAIMNSR was dangerously ill with Influenza.
Belgian Military Hospital Bruges: DGMS wired instructions sent from the War Office to the effect that the Belgian authorities urgently request 24 Nurses and 1 Matron should be sent for duty to the Belgian Military Hospital, Bruges. This request was to be complied with as soon as possible. This personnel was to be detailed from this office under arrangements to be made by the DMS, L of C who will notify Belgian Hospital Bruges of time of arrival and request that arrangements will be made for accommodation. Wired DMS, L of C that if accommodation available proposed sending 1 Matron and 11 Sisters by road to Bruges on Monday 25th, and 13 on Tuesday, if he concurred.
Miss E. Thomson, Special Probationer: Forwarded to DGMS application received from Special Probationer Miss E. Thomson for 4 days’ special leave to the United Kingdom. This lady states that the Foreign Office wishes to interview her at once with a view to applying for her to be seconded for duty in a Sick Bay attached to the British Mission of the Peace Conference, where she will be required on the 15th December. She is anxious to proceed to the United Kingdom on the 24th instant. Asked for advice on this matter. This lady returned from her last leave on July 6th. The DGMS wired there was no objection to leave being granted, and the correspondence was being forwarded to the War Office.

24.11.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters British 237 Overseas 53
Miss E. Thomson, Special Probationer: Arranged for Miss E. Thomson, Special Probationer to proceed to England for duty today and return on the 28th instant. Instructed her to report on her arrival in London in writing to the Matron-in-Chief, War Office.
Evacuation from Malta: Received from DGMS copy of wire sent by Headquarters, Malta, notifying that 2 Staff Nurses of the Reserve, 1 S/Nurse of the TFNS, 1 Special Probationer QAIMNS, and 3 VADs were being invalided from Malta through France.
Weekly return of Nursing Services: Forwarded to DGMS weekly statement shewing the deficit of Trained Nurses in France on November 23rd to be 667 on establishment, and a working deficit of 851; also a surplus of VADs to be 237 on establishment, and a working surplus of 57.
Miss Shingleton, VAD: Wired to DGMS that Miss Shingleton, VAD had been offered a berth to India on the 29th inst. and asked if resignation might be expedited or leave granted.
Military Hospital, Bruges: Received wire from DMS, L of C concurring in the proposal with regard to the Nursing Staff for Bruges Military Hospital, and stating that he was instructing the DDMS Boulogne to appoint an Officer in charge of the party each day. Replied by wire first party proceeding Tuesday, 8 a.m. and 2nd party Wednesday.

25.11.18
Sick Sisters British 244 Overseas 50
Military Hospital, Bruges: Received wire from DMS, L of C cancelling previous instructions with regard to Bruges, and requesting 2 representatives should be sent to Bruges to look into the matter of accommodation, and asking that a report of the arrangements should be submitted to him. Miss Wilton Smith, RRC Matron, QAIMNS proceeded to Bruges accompanied by Miss I. Barbier, RRC A/Sister, QAIMNSR.
Promotion: Received War Office letter authorising the promotion of the following S/Nurses to the rank of Sister:- Miss E. M. Cryer, Miss E. H. Cripps, Miss H. E. Panton, Miss A. Phillip, all members of the TFNS. These promotions to date form 19.9.18.
Miss D. Moseley, VAD: Received War Office letter notifying that Miss D. Moseley VAD was given extension of leave on the understanding that she could be transferred to the Home Establishment. Miss Moseley did not take the extension and returned to France without informing the War Office. As this lady did not take extended leave and is now in France, it is not proposed to ask that she should be sent home.
Sister D. Moorhouse, AANS: Wired Matron-in-Chief, AANS and reported DGMS that Sister D. Moorhouse, AANS had died on the 24th inst. at 6.30 p.m. of Pneumonia.
R/Nurse L. Pepoon, USANC: Wired Chief Nurse AEF and reported DGMS that R/Nurse L. Pepoon, USANC had died 05.11 on the 24th of Septicaemia.
CAMC: Reported to DGMS Canadian Forces that N/Sister C. W. Harrison, CAMC and N/Sister A. M. Tate, CAMC were both dangerously ill at 1 Canadian CCS. Also notified DGMS British Armies in France.
Free passages to Dominions: Forwarded to DGMS memo stating that several applications had been received from members of the QAIMNSR from Overseas asking whether when their services are no longer required they will received a free passage back to their respective Dominions. Asked whether War Office Letter 2/Res/693 AMD4 of 20.10.17, stating that all members of the QAIMNSR from Overseas who renew their contracts for a further period of service will be granted a free passage within 6 months of the termination of their contracts, applies to all members of the Reserve from Overseas, irrespective of whether they joined Army Service from the Dominions or in the United Kingdom, and if the latter case, whether there is any qualification in respect of time elapsed between date of leaving the Dominions and joining Army Service.

27.11.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters British 238 Overseas 52
Madame Peeke, BRCS: Received communication from DMS, L of C enclosing ribbon of “La Reconnaisance Francaise” for Madame Peeke, No.1 Red Cross Hospital. DGMS had asked for the correct description of this lady, as he had no record of the award. Replied that enquiries had been made at Headquarters, BRCS and it had been ascertained that a VAD member Mrs. Peeke had served at No.1 BRCS Hospital before this Unit disbanded. Suggested that correspondence might refer to this lady; there is no-one of this name on the books of this office.
American Nursing Service: Received from DMS, L of C copy of letter from the DGMS notifying that sanction had been obtained for American Nurses serving with the British Armies in France to be dealt with in the same manner as Medical Officers of the Reserve Corps USA who are attached to the RAMC. These Nurses to be placed on the leave roster of the British and Overseas Nursing Services, and to be given leave vacancies out of the allotment given for the Nursing Services, which will be increased from 30 to 33 per day. Leave warrants and ration books will be issued and leave regulations applicable to British and Overseas Nursing Services will apply to them.
N/Sister E. A. Marshall, CAMC: Forwarded to Principal Matron, Canadians, all correspondence in connection with N/Sister E. A. Marshall, CAMC who had intentionally sent a patient to England with another patient’s history and cards. Requested Principal Matron, Canadians to interview this lady personally on the matter, and report action taken.
HM King George arrived in France accompanied by HRH the Prince of Wales, and HRH Prince Albert. They received an enthusiastic welcome at Boulogne.
Sir Douglas Haig: The Commander in Chief, Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig, called at my office on his way to meet HM The King of England.

28.11.18
Sick Sisters British 235 Overseas 55
Military Hospital Bruges: Sent DMS, L of C and DGMS report given to me by Miss Wilton Smith, RRC A/Matron, QAIMNS on her return from Bruges. After an interview with General Mellitz and the Inspecteur General de Service de Santé, it was ascertained that a Matron and 24 Nursing Sisters had been asked for by HM Queen Elizabeth. The services of these ladies were required at the Hopital St. Michel, where Colonel Noltz, Physician to Her Majesty, was Commanding Officer. The present Nursing personnel is being transferred to Brussels. The Hopital St. Michel was formerly a lunatic asylum; there were 700-800 beds, and it was capable of expanding to 1000. The Nursing quarters are in a wing of the Hospital, and are quite suitable, airy rooms, and there is good dining accommodation. Colonel Noltz stated that there would be a number of Nuns and other voluntary workers who would assist the British Nurses, there were also 100 German Prisoners of war who would be employed as stretcher bearers and General Duty Orderlies. Having ascertained that the services of the Nurses were required, a wire was sent to this office and it was arranged for the first part of 12, with Miss A. P. Wilson, RRC, QAIMNS as A/Matron, to leave by road on the morning of the 27th, and the remaining 13, with Miss McCormick, QAIMNS, in charge of the party, to leave on the morning of the 28th.
AANS Transfer: Received letter from Headquarters, AIF, requesting immediate transfer to the United Kingdom for transport duty to Australia of the following members of the AANS; Sister D. Newton, and Sister M. Stevenson, S/Nurses J. B. Just, J. Penney, C. M. Blake (if fit to travel), M. E. Cattoway, I. M. Ware, I. Curnow and H. R. Mead, AANS. It was requested that the Australian authorities should be informed by wire if these Nurses were to be replaced. Made all arrangements for their immediate transfer, and wired that reliefs would not be required at the present time.
Contract: Forwarded to DGMS application from the Hon. U. Lawley*, VAD to proceed to the United Kingdom on 20.12.18. This lady’s contract terminates 24.12.18. Forwarded to DGMS application from the Hon. C. Lawley*, VAD to be permitted to remain on duty till 20.12.18 in order to proceed with her sister to the United Kingdom on that date. This lady’s contract terminates 12.12.18. Forwarded to DGMS for consideration application from Miss Sloggett, VAD to proceed to England on the 20th instant. This lady’s contract terminates on the 26th, but she wishes to spend Christmas with her father**.
Resignation: Forwarded to DGMS for consideration application from Mrs. C. Macdonald, VAD to be released from her present contract, as she wishes to return to Canada with her husband on or about November 30th. This lady signed AFW 3542 to serve for the present emergency, and has not yet received an increase of pay.
Reinforcements: Received War Office letter authorising the embarkation on 28.11.18 of the following reinforcements:- 3 Sisters, 5 Staff Nurses of the QAIMNSR, 4 Assistant Nurses and 10 VAD members.
Miss K. E. Luard, ANSR: Forwarded to DGMS for favourable consideration application from Miss K. E. Luard ANSR to be released from Military Service as soon as possible, owing to the advanced age and the ill health of her father. Miss Luard has served in France since 1914. If there is no objection it is proposed to grant this lady leave to her home immediately pending her release.

* The Misses Lawley were the daughters of Sir Arthur Lawley, Commissioner, British Red Cross Society. 
** Miss Sloggett was the daughter of Sir Arthur Sloggett, former Director General Medical Services, France and Flanders. All three women were friends, and had always worked together during their time in France.

29.11.18
Sick Sisters British 231 Overseas 52
Convalescent Home, Cannes: Sent to DMS, L of C memo received from the Medical Officer in charge, Hotel de l’Esterel, Cannes, which had been forwarded by the ADMS Marseilles stating that patients convalescing from Pneumonia after Influenza are being sent South at too short intervals after leaving their beds, and are arriving tired out after their long journey, and are running risks which a little more delay in starting would avoid. Attached draft of letter for circulation to administrative medical officers requesting that the attention of medical officers in charge of Sisters’ Hospitals be drawn to this, and also to the following facts: (1) That there is no trained nurse on the staff of the Home, so that the patients should only be sent when convalescent and fit to travel. (2) Applications for leave to the South submitted to this office in respect of members of the Nursing Service who are recommended from Sisters’ Hospitals for sick leave should always shew period for which leave is recommended.
HRH Princess Mary: accompanied by the Lady Ampthill, the DDMS Boulogne, and myself visited No.55 General Hospital and No.32 Stationary Hospital, where the Matrons of the Hospitals in the Boulogne Area were presented to Her Royal Highness. Later she inspected Detachments of VAD members (Nursing and General Service Section) and QMAACs and left by the afternoon leave boat.