PREVIOUS - JUNE 1st – 15th 1917

CROWN COPYRIGHT: THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES, WO95/3989

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JUNE 16th – 30th 1917

16.06.17
Abbeville
Sick Sisters
141
AANS in Imperial Units: DGMS returned the correspondence relating to the proposal that Australian nurses now working in Imperial units should be grouped to work under Matrons of their own service. A scheme was to be submitted with a view to carrying out the instructions contained in War Office letter. It was assumed that the AANS Matrons named who were not already in France would be sent out from England, and they would be responsible to the Principal Matrons of the Bases and the Matron-in-Chief for all matters concerned with their nursing staffs. It was asked what numbers would be required to complete the staffs if the number of Australian nurses was insufficient to staff 3 hospitals, and in the meantime, they should be supplemented with personnel at our disposal.
Matron Strong, CAMC: DGMS requested that orders should be issued for Matron Strong, CAMC, 2 Canadian Stationary Hospital, to proceed to England on being relieved by Matron Urquhart, also that Sisters Floyd and Hastings, 1 Canadian General Hospital, should proceed to England on being relieved by Sisters D. N. and M. K. Copeman, CAMC.
Extension of leave: Received copy of letter from Matron-in-Chief, AIF stating that Sister E. Bleach, 1 Australian General Hospital, and Sister J. Sorley, 2 Australian General Hospital, had been granted extension of leave to June 25th and July 9th respectively, on the recommendation of a Medical Board.
Masseuses: DGMS forwarded copy of letter which had been sent by him to the War Office re Masseuses belonging to the Corps organised by Sir Almeric Paget.
DDOS: Forwarded to DDOS list of Nursing Services drawing rations on repayment and also of those entitled to free rations.
VAD Agreements: Forwarded to DGMS reports and signed agreement forms of VAD members who arrived in France in April and May, 1917.
Promotion: Received letter from Matron-in-Chief, TFNS enclosing copy of letter sent to DGMS authorising the promotion of Miss M. Cameron, TFNS to be Assistant Matron at 58 General Hospital.
Hospital Ship “Salta”: Received letter from Miss Wellman, Matron, 2 General Hospital, saying that the body of a Nursing Sister had been washed up, but could not be identified. Called at the Nurses’ Club and took plants – Mrs. Saunders and Mrs. Cliff out. Left Abbeville for Treport 10.30 a.m.

Arrived at 16 General Hospital 12 noon – saw Miss Dunlop, Matron of the Philadelphia Unit, and discussed the question of having VAD members as a temporary measure pending the increase to establishment of American nurses already there, viz. 65. Miss Dunlop said she would like 40. Arranged with Miss Willetts about leave for nurses – Miss Potts to proceed on leave at once for 14 days, and Miss Willetts after her return for 14 days. Saw Colonel Thurston and Major de Lancey, the CO of the American unit. Both he and the Matron were delighted with the unit and with the reception they had had. Had lunch at 16 General Hospital.
To 3 General Hospital – saw the CO and Miss Stronach, the Matron, re extra accommodation for nurses – 3 huts nearly finished and 3 Nissen huts about to be erected. Told Miss Stronach to put in for more leave for nurses.
To 47 General Hospital – Miss Lang, the Matron, was not in, nor the CO Saw Major Nimmo and Sister Buyers, and went over several wards in the hospital – all in good order.
To Lady Murray’s Officers’ Hospital – 70 officers in at the time of the visit. Saw Lady Murray and went over the hospital with her and the CO. Met Colonel Lister there. Two officers were dangerously ill. Two new huts wards have been opened. Left for Rouen at 5.45 p.m. and arrived at the Nurses’ Hostel at 8.15 p.m. to stay the night.

17.06.17
Rouen
To DDMS office at Rouen, 9.50 a.m. Arranged the nursing personnel to be left with the American (St. Louis) Unit, and that the Matron of 12 General Hospital, Miss Scudamore Smith, should be transferred to 10 General Hospital, and Miss Drage, Matron of 10 General Hospital, should go to Marseilles.
To 12 General Hospital – saw Miss Stimson, Matron of St. Louis unit, and her assistant, also Colonel Jamieson and the CO of the American unit. They all expressed the wish to avail themselves temporarily of the service of our VAD members to the number of 40, which would bring their nursing staff up to 104. Arranged for the disposal of the present staff with Miss Scudamore Smith. Miss Greaves, the Assistant Matron, to go to a Casualty Clearing Station. Miss Stimson arranged to take over the furnishings of the Sisters’ Mess, which would be valued by a Board. The Matron and Sisters of this unit all seemed most contented with the hospital and quarters. The Matron and CO asked that Miss Scudamore Smith should be left with them one week longer.
To 5 General Hospital to see Miss A. A. Wilson, the A/Principal Matron, and explain all arrangements to her. Returned to Hostel, 2 Rue Bouquet, for lunch. To the Nurses’ Club – saw Miss Archer, one of the VADs in charge, and told her how grateful the nurses were and how very much appreciated the club was. Arrangements for the nurses are all most comfortable and convenient. Saw Miss Drage, Matron of No.10 General Hospital, and told her she was being moved to Marseilles. Spoke to her re want of tact in management of staff. Left for Abbeville 5.45 p.m.

Sick Sisters 159
Application for QAIMNS: Received copy of War Office letter requesting that instructions should be issued for Staff Nurse M. Arnold, QAIMNSR and Staff Nurse D. Priestley, TFNS who had applied for admission to the QAIMNS, to report their arrival in writing to the War Office when next they were on leave in England so that they might go before a Selection Board.
Miss D. M. Bates, VAD: Received copy of War Office letter saying that Miss D. M. Bates, VAD was not entitled to a passage to Australia, but if she applied to the Australian Headquarters she might possibly get a duty passage if nurses were still being employed in invalid transports.
Resignation: Received copy of War Office letter accepting the resignation of Staff Nurse A. Y. Brotherton, QAIMNSR from July 1st.
Sick Sisters from Salonika: Received telephone message from A/Principal Matron, Boulogne, saying that 25 sick Sisters from Salonika had arrived in Boulogne that morning and were crossing to Folkestone by the ordinary boat in the afternoon.
45 CCS: Received letter from Sister Appleton, in temporary charge of 45 CCS, to say that the hospital had been quite busy and shells had been falling very near. The hospital cook and a patient had been wounded. The patients and staff had had to go to dug-outs.

18.06.17
Abbeville
Sick Sisters 159
Staff Nurse R. A. Kidd: Received copy of War Office letter from DGMS re Staff Nurse R. A. Kidd, QAIMNSR who had asked for extension of leave as she was unfit to return. She had been informed that a Medical Board would be arranged, but had nevertheless returned to France on the 9th inst. without orders. It was advisable that she should return to England.
Extension of leave: Received copies of War Office wires notifying that extension of leave had been granted as follows: 7 days to Miss M. E. Garner, VAD on medical certificate, 14 days to Miss Caulfeild, VAD on medical certificate, and 2 weeks to Miss Heywood Jones, VAD.
56 General Hospital: Received from DGMS copy of War Office letter with nominal roll of 48 VAD members proceeding to France on 19.6.17 for duty with 56 General Hospital.
58 General Hospital: Reported to DGMS the arrival of 47 VAD members and 1 Special Probationer on 15.6.17 for duty with 58 General Hospital.
3 Australian General Hospital: Memo received from the Matron, 3 Australian General Hospital, to say that Sister S. M. deMestre and Staff Nurse W. Hay have been selected to the surgical team, and asking if they should go through the gas school. Replied that they should do so, and arrangements should be made with the OC Gas School.
Sisters for Neurological Department: Received from DMS 4th Army application from Capt. Brown, Neurologist to the 4th Army, for retention of Sister C. E. Crawford, QAIMNSR in the Neurological Department at 41 Stationary Hospital. This lady’s work has been most satisfactory and she is suitable in every way. The application was approved. Miss K. Cameron, TFNS had originally been detailed for this duty, but her orders were now cancelled. Forwarded a copy of the correspondence to DGMS informing him of the appointment of Miss Crawford. Also returned his minute asking for the original correspondence to be returned, saying it was regretted that this had been mislaid and it was not possible to furnish a copy.
South African General Hospital: Received from DGMS copy of War Office letter with enclosures referring to reinforcements for the South African General Hospital. A request had been made by Lt. Col. Stock direct to the High Commissioner for 5 Sisters, 8 Staff Nurses and 18 Probationers at once – 12 more Staff Nurses and 7 additional Probationers as soon as possible. The request had been cabled to the Department of Defence, Pretoria. The Army Council has no objection to the Probationers being sent under the circumstances but the question of Lt. Col. Stock’s direct request should be dealt with. DGMS requested that a report on this subject should be forwarded to him. Replied to DGMS that Lt. Col. Stock had left for South Africa and that this was the first intimation that had been received in this office of any application for reinforcements made direct to the High Commissioner. Instructions had been issued with regard to the correct procedure to be adopted in such cases when demanding reinforcements.
Efficiency Stripe: Forwarded memo to DGMS with draft of certificate for the VAD Efficiency Stripe, asking if a similar form may be issued temporarily by Matron and OC, in the absence of further instructions from the War Office.
Rest Clubs: Replied to DGMS with reference to correspondence re VAD members employed in Princess Victoria’s Rest Clubs for Nursing Sisters to be allowed to draw rations on repayment from the Army, asking if these ladies could not be attached to regular Army units near the clubs from which they would draw their rations on repayment.
AANS in Imperial units: Selected 3 Hospitals – 38 Stationary, 25 General and 5 Stationary Hospitals, as the units to be nursed by AANS working in Imperial units.

19.06.17
Sick Sisters 156
Hospital Ship “Lanfranc”: Received copy of War Office letter enclosing Army Forms 3544 for Sisters who had previously served on Hospital Ship “Lanfranc”. Forwarded to Command Paymaster.
American units: Received copy of War Office letter asking that the Matron of No.2 Base Hospital U.S.A. should complete next of kin forms of all her staff. These forms were to be forwarded to the War Office.
Mrs. J. L. Rodrique: Received copy of War Office letter stating that Mrs. J. L. Rodrique, TFNS would not be returning to France. Informed DGMS that there was no lady of this name on the nominal roll of the BEF.
Transfer: Received copy of War Office letter stating that Sister M. Armitage’s application for transfer to Home Establishment was approved, and she had been posted to Queen Mary’s Hospital, Frognal, Sidcup from June 20th.
Travelling expenses: Received copy of War Office letter with reference to the refunding of travelling expenses of nurses who were shipwrecked whilst proceeding on the “Transylvania” to Salonika and who had been sent back to England. Nominal roll was attached, and information was required as to whether rations in kind had been provided on the journey (1) from Boulogne to Marseilles (2) from Savona to Marseilles, (3) from Marseilles to Havre. Information was also requested as to how the nurses were situated as regards food and accommodation whilst detained at Savona. It is presumed that they were provided with food and accommodation without expense to themselves whilst detained at the Musso camp, Marseilles.
Villa Orphee: Villa Orphee Convalescent Home closed on account of case of diphtheria.

Left Abbeville 10.30 a.m. – arrived Etaples 12 noon. Saw the DDMS and the A/Principal Matron about the extra temporary nurses required for the Chicago unit, and made the necessary arrangements.
To 18 General Hospital at 2.30 p.m. Saw Miss Urch, the Matron of Chicago unit, and her assistant. Both expressed themselves delighted with the hospital and arrangements made for their reception and comfort. Arranged that 30 VAD members be temporarily left with the unit with Miss Bennett, the Assistant Matron, to be responsible for contracts, claims, etc. and the general interests of the VAD members. Miss Williams, the Matron, to go on leave prior to being sent to a Casualty Clearing Station, for duty. Saw Miss Needham, who is being left at 11 General Hospital for a week or two to look after the VAD members temporarily left to augment the staff. Have arranged that later Miss Bennett should be responsible for the VAD members at the two hospitals, and shall live at 4 General Hospital. Miss Perkins, Matron of 11 General Hospital, is to go on leave.
To 4 General Hospital – saw Miss Barton, the A/Matron. Returned to Abbeville at 6 p.m.

20.06.17
Abbeville
Sick Sisters 150
Resignation: Received copy of War Office letter notifying that the resignation of Mrs. Townley, Staff Nurse, QAIMNSR was accepted from July 25th inclusive. Received copy of War Office letter stating that the resignation of Lady H. Keppel, VAD, had been accepted and she was to be struck off the strength of the BEF. A confidential report was asked for.
Reinforcements: Received copy of War Office letter – Sister O. English, QAIMNSR had been instructed to embark on the 19th for duty with the BEF also Sister K. Mann, RRC, QAIMNSR.
Return from sick leave: Received copy of War Office letter – Sister M. F. Garner, QAIMNSR had been instructed to return from sick leave in England.
Neurological Department: DGMS returned the correspondence re application from DMS 4th Army, for appointment of Sister Crawford, QAIMNSR in the Neurological Department, saying he had no objection.
Transfer: Forwarded to DGMS application from Staff Nurse E. Keogh, QAIMNSR (Australia) for transfer to AANS if this transfer could be effected without her return to Australia being necessary. Her present contract terminated 18.6.17.
American Units: Forwarded memo to DDMS Havre with reference to the application of the Sisters in U.S.A. Hospitals to draw rations on repayment – the Financial Adviser had no objection.
Transfer: Received copy of War Office letter re Staff Nurses Kirkcaldie and Welman, QAIMNSR who had applied for extension of leave whilst in England, and had been granted extension to the 6th inst. A second Medical Board was to be convened for these ladies but they had returned to France on the 7th. Under the circumstances, was it considered advisable that they should remain in France. Replied that it was considered advisable that these ladies should return to England and asked if orders might be issued accordingly.
Reinforcements: Forwarded to DGMS arrival report of Sisters O. English and K. Mann, QAIMNSR on 19.6.17 as reinforcements.
Transfer: Forwarded to DGMS confidential report on Sister A. A. Bowles, QAIMNSR on transfer to Home Establishment.
AANS Hospitals: Notified DDMS Boulogne, ADMS Calais and Dieppe, that 25 General Hospital, 38 Stationary and 5 Stationary Hospitals would shortly be staffed entirely by members of the AANS who were already serving in the country. These changes would take place at an early date and by degrees, in order that they should cause as little inconvenience as possible. A letter was sent to the Matron-in-Chief, AIF re the grouping of these staffs, asking if it were possible for the Matrons of 25 General and 5 Stationary Hospitals to join soon, and saying that Assistant Matrons were not usually appointed in small units. Asked for instructions as to who should relieved Miss Davidson, Sister in charge of 2 Australian Casualty Clearing Station.
Nurses’ Home: Arranged for Miss Amos, A/Matron, QAIMNSR from 2 Stationary Hospital to do duty as Sister in charge of the Nurses’ Home during Miss Baldrey’s absence on leave.
Alexandra Roses: Queen Alexandra’ roses distributed to all units in the BEF.

21.06.17
Sick Sisters 145
Hospital Ship “Asturias”: Received letter from Miss Becher, enclosing nominal roll of 12 Staff Nurses ex Hospital Ship “Asturias” asking that their claims for promotion might receive special consideration.
Resignation: Received telegram from DGMS notifying that the resignation of Sister H. Crawford, QAIMNSR Canada, was accepted. Repeated to DDMS Etaples.
Miss Hockey, VAD: Forwarded to DGMS application from Miss Hockey, VAD, for permission to be married whilst on leave and to return to France for duty. As this was the first instance of such a case, a general ruling was asked for. Miss Hockey wished to proceed on leave on the 26th June.
Miss N. Forde, VAD: Forwarded to DGMS agreement form signed by Miss Forde, VAD. This lady had previously stated that she did not wish to renew her contract.
Harvard Unit: Forwarded to DGMS arrival report of Staff Nurse N. E. Duffy, at the Harvard Unit, from the American Ambulance, Paris.
Staff Nurse J. Flynn: Forwarded to DGMS confidential report on Staff Nurse J. Flynn, QAIMNSR. This report had been wired for by the War Office.
Resignation: Forwarded to DGMS confidential report and gratuity claim for Sister M. E. Rogers, TFNS who had resigned to be married.
AANS: Received copy of letter from Headquarters, AIF stating that Sister Steele, 1 Australian General Hospital, had been brought before a Medical Board and found unfit for service until July 2nd. Also received copy of letter requesting that Staff Nurses McNeill and Hornsey, 2 Australian General Hospital, should be transferred to England as soon as possible, as they had been detailed for transport duty to Australia at the end of the present month. They would be replaced at an early date.
Extension of leave: Received copy of War Office telegram notifying that Miss A. M. Fitzgerald, VAD had been granted extension of leave without pay to July 5th.
Resignation: Received copy of War Office letter notifying that the resignation of Staff Nurse E. M. Martin, QAIMNSR had been accepted from July 7th.
Nursing Sisters at Marseilles: DGMS forwarded copy of War Office telegram – Matron Acton, TFNS and Sisters Coole and Carruthers, at present detained in Marseilles, should be posted for temporary duty if required.
AANS in Imperial units: DGMS returned the correspondence re Australian Sisters who had previously worked in our units being grouped together; he approved of the proposal that the units selected should be 25 General Hospital, 38 Stationary and 5 Stationary Hospitals. He requested that the staffs should be chosen and the change carried out as early as possible, and asked how soon 38 Stationary Hospital would be ready, and how many Matrons and Assistant Matrons referred to in the War Office letter are now in this country.
Resignation: Forwarded to DGMS confidential report on Staff Nurse K. M. Sambrook, QAIMNSR on resignation.
Left Abbeville office at 10.30 a.m. Called at the Nurses’ Club and saw Mrs. Saunders and Mrs. Cliff – discussed regulations for the club. Arrangements nearly completed and all most satisfactory and comfortable. Lady Algernon Gordon Lennox expected to stay the night.

Arrived Boulogne 1.30 p.m. To 83 Dublin General Hospital – visited the Specialists’ Huts. Major Valadier busy operating. Saw Major Curtis Webb and went over the new Therapeutic Hut put up by the Red Cross. Wards and annexes most conveniently arranged and special treatment room with all the latest appliances. Beds for 12 officers, with Mess and ante-room. Adjoining this hut is one for special ophthalmic treatment for officers and men – Colonel Lister’s department. Arranged about nursing staff required. Opened account at Cox’s Bank for the Trained Nurses’ Annuity Fund.
To 53 General Hospital at Wimereux – Matron and Assistant Matron out. Went round the hospital with Colonel Callender, the CO, and the senior Sister on duty. Only the Matron, Assistant Matron and 12 of the nurses are at present accommodated in the hospital, the kitchen not yet being completed nor the water laid on. They will be able to accommodate the complete staff in about a fortnight. The hospital is very well situated – about 4 miles from Boulogne – no patients yet admitted.
To 55 General Hospital – saw Miss McDonald, the Matron, and Colonel Burton Fanning, the CO. At present only 35 of the nursing staff are in camp, the remainder being in hospitals in Boulogne. The number of patients at the time of the visit was 200. Huts are in course of erection, but at present there are only tents and marquees available for use.
To 7 Stationary Hospital – saw Miss Barrett and arranged that she should take leave, and that A/Sister Martin, QAIMNS, should perform the duty in her absence. Left Boulogne 7.40 p.m. – St. Omer, arriving 9 p.m.

22.06.17
St. Omer
To 58 General Hospital – saw the Matron, Miss Humphries, and the CO the camp is not completed, the ground is very wet. Only 200 patients – all light cases. The Sisters’ quarters are not completed – no kitchen. Arranged to take away some of her staff for accommodation at 7 General and 10 Stationary Hospitals, till the camp is fully ready for work. The sleeping tents of the Sisters were all boarded and the Mess and recreation tent well in hand. Spoke about the Matron’s office being improved – the CO promised it should be boarded and made rain-proof.
Visited the Sick Sisters at 10 Stationary Hospital – only two in from Casualty Clearing Stations, one with a septic arm, and the other nervous debility. The Matron of 10 Stationary Hospital arranged to take 20 of the nursing staff of 58 General Hospital.
To 7 General Hospital – saw the Matron and CO about making accommodation for the nursing staff of 58 General Hospital – promised 17 beds. Also interviewed Miss Blunt, VAD, who was not recommended to renew contract, and has been given one month at another hospital. This lady does not appear suitable for nursing duties. Returned to Abbeville by 5.30 p.m.

Sick Sisters 152
Agreements: Forwarded to DGMS agreement forms of members of the QAIMNSR and TFNS who have signed contracts to serve for the present emergency. Also forwarded renewals of contract of members of the QAIMNSR who have signed for 6 or 12 months’ service.
Staff Nurse R. A. Kidd: Forwarded telegram to DGMS stating that Staff Nurse R. A. Kidd, QAIMNSR proceeded to England today.
Miss B. M. Browning: Received copy of War Office letter stating that Miss B. M. Browning had been accepted for the QAIMNS Reserve. The date she was taken on the strength and the unit to which she is attached to be reported in due course. This lady has a good knowledge of Italian which it is thought may be useful in her professional capacity.
Harvard Unit: Forwarded to DGMS report asked for with reference to the nursing staff of the Harvard Unit, saying that the present strength is 90 trained nurses and 6 VAD members. No further reinforcements are necessary at present.
CAMC Transfer: DGMS wired to ask if there were any objection to the recall of Sister A. J. Ross, CAMC from 1 Canadian General Hospital, for duty in England. Sister M. E. Miller was available as relief. Replied that there was no objection.
Promotion: Forwarded to DGMS recommendation for the promotion of Staff Nurse A. E. Millburn, TFNS to the rank of Sister.
56 General Hospital: Forwarded to DGMS arrival report of 48 VAD members of 56 General Hospital on 19.6.17.
Transfer: Forwarded to DGMS application to transfer to Home Establishment from A/Sister E. A. Webb, QAIMNSR, on account of private affairs.
Miss Hockey, VAD: Miss Hockey, VAD granted 14 days’ special leave, in order to be married.

23.06.17
Abbeville
Sick Sisters 146
Princess Victoria Rest Club for Nursing Sisters opened at Abbeville.
Convalescent Home, Etretat:  Received correspondence from DDMS Havre with reference to the subject of admissions and discharges for the Convalescent Home, Etretat. Asked that admissions of patients from Rouen should be made twice weekly on two specified days – Mondays and Thursdays most suitable. Two days per week are necessary in order that the 10 days’ limit may be complied with.
Pay claims: Forwarded circular to all Matrons and Sisters in charge of units, re the settlement of pay claims of nurses proceeding to the United Kingdom, asking that the pay list should be sent to Command Paymaster as soon as those concerned have embarked.
64 CCS: DMS 2nd Army reported that 64 CCS was to be opened on Monday, the 25th inst., and the nursing staff would be required on that date.
Matron-in-Chief’s allowances: DGMS forwarded memo re allowances, etc. of the Matron-in-Chief, pointing out that since the application was made to the War Office recommending that Lodging, Fuel and Light Allowances or Charge Pay should be granted, sanction has been received for her to draw allowances when travelling in the Army areas as a special case, and the reasons now put forward for the issue of Lodging, Fuel and Light allowances or charge pay, in addition to the special allowances now sanctioned, are not considered sufficient to submit the case to the War Office. If it is desired that the matter be submitted to the War Office, a letter should be forwarded to the DGMS stating fully the reason why the claim should be granted, in addition to travelling expenses.
Resignation: DGMS forwarded copy of War Office telegram accepting the resignation of Staff Nurse Pearce, TFNS, 55 General Hospital, from 16.6.17.
Extension of leave: DGMS forwarded copy of letter from HQ, AIF stating that Staff Nurse Packard, AANS had been granted extension of leave owing to the dangerous illness of her fiancé.
AANS Transfers: Received copy of letter from HQ, AIF stating that Sister M. Freeman and Staff Nurses Rodger, Munro and Reid, 1 Australian General Hospital, at present on leave in England, have been found unfit for further service in France, and will be replaced by Sister E. McMillan, and Staff Nurses Robertson, Hooker and Jolly, AANS on June 27th.
South African records: Received copy of War Office letter with enclosure from Officer in charge, South African records, asking that a special record should be forwarded to the War Office of any change of station, promotion or other casualty which may occur with regard to the nurses sent over by South Africa for service with the QAIMNS and who joined for duty on 11.12.16.
AANS Transfers: Received copy of letter from HQ, AIF requesting the transfer of Staff Nurses Potter, Hall, Betts, Taylor, Slack and Brown, AANS from 3 Australian General Hospital, to 2 Australian General Hospital for duty, so that a report may be obtained from the Matron of that unit as to their suitability or otherwise for promotion to rank of Sister. To be replaced by Staff Nurses Hodgson, Carey, Faulkner, Walsh, Killicoat and Margarey, from 2 Australian General Hospital.
Rest Club, Abbeville: Forwarded to AAG correspondence re the Rest Club for Nurses at Abbeville, saying that there are now about 250 nurses in Abbeville to whom the establishment of the Club would be a great boon. Similar clubs had been established in other areas with success.
Nursing Sisters at Marseilles: Wire received from ADMS Marseilles, saying that passages had been secured for Matron Acton and Sisters Coole and Carruthers to Malta. Orders which had been sent for Matron Acton to proceed to Abbeville and Sisters Coole and Carruthers to join 83 Dublin General Hospital for temporary duty were cancelled.

24.06.17
Sick Sisters 141
Visited 2 Stationary Hospital – 9 a.m. – and went round several of the wards.
Extension of leave: Received from DGMS copy of wire granting 14 days’ extension of leave to Miss Macrae, VAD, on medical certificate. Forwarded copy to Boulogne.
SAMNS: Forwarded to DGMS list of members of South African Military Nursing Service who reported in France on 11.12.16, notifying that instructions contained in War Office letter will be complied with (notification of moves).
Marriage: Application received from Staff Nurse Banham, QAIMNSR for 14 days’ leave in August with permission to be married and transferred to Home Establishment. Returned, asking if this lady’s retention in the service is recommended.
Resignation: Received from DGMS and forwarded to Boulogne copy of War Office letter accepting the resignation of Staff Nurse M. U. MacAuslan, QAIMNSR from 14 General.
Agreement: Received copy of War Office letter enclosing Army Form W.3538 for signature by Staff Nurse F. Broome, QAIMNSR, on answer to a private letter sent by this lady direct to the War Office. Forwarded to DMS 1st Army for information. Notified DGMS that Army Form W.3538 signed by Miss Broome had already been forwarded on 22.6.17.
Resignation: Received application to resign from Mrs. A. Johnson, A/Sister, QAIMNSR, together with gratuity form and insurance information, from DDMS Havre. Forwarded to DGMS.
CAMC Transfers: DGMS requested that instructions be issued for Nursing Sister A. G. Ross, 1 Canadian General Hospital, to return to England. Nursing Sister J. E. Miller available as relief. Necessary instructions issued to Etaples.
Transfer: Received copy of War Office letter notifying that Miss M. Davis, QAIMNS had been transferred to Home Establishment.
Agreements: Agreement forms for signature by Sisters K. Mann and O. English, QAIMNSR forwarded to 7 General Hospital.
Transfer: Received from DGMS copy of War Office telegram with instructions for Miss Hordley, RRC, QAIMNS to proceed to England and report at the War Office for duty.
Rest Club, Abbeville: Correspondence re Rest Club, Abbeville, returned by AAG, asking if there were any previous correspondence on this subject from GHQ as he had received no notification from the Base Commandant.
CAMC: Received letter from Miss Macdonald, Matron-in-Chief, Canadians, approving of moves of Sisters to CCS and giving names of proposed staff for 4 Canadian CCS. She states she is coming to France on July 3rd, with Matron E. C. Rayside, who has been appointed Matron-in-Chief in Canada, and Lady Perley, the wife of the Minister of Militia.
CAMC Transfers: DGMS sent wire asking if there were any objection to the retention in England of Sister H. Glasgow, 1 Canadian General Hospital. Sister L. Harvey, CAMC recommended as relief. Replied that there was no objection.
Sick List: Received telephone message from Miss Walker, A/Principal Matron, Boulogne, notifying that Miss M. E. Evans, VAD, had been transferred from Hardelot to 14 Stationary Hospital with cerebro-spinal meningitis. She also said that the electro-therapeutic hut at 83 Dublin General Hospital would be opened on Monday, the 25th inst.
New Zealand Stationary Hospital: Miss Price, Matron, New Zealand Stationary Hospital, asked when the two Sisters of their unit who had remained at Amiens on special duty with Colonel Hare, a sick officer would be returning. An answer was sent that they would be returning in two days’ time.
Hospital Ship “Asturias”: Letter received from Matron, 39 Stationary Hospital, in answer to an enquiry from the Matron-in-Chief, War Office, saying that the nursing staff of Hospital Ship “Asturias” have all received pay up to May 11th.

25.06.17
Abbeville
Sick Sisters 137
Sick List: Received telegram from DGMS asking for next of kin of Sister O. Hockey, SAMNS who was in Isolation Hospital, Havre, suffering from cerebro-spinal meningitis. Wired to DDMS Havre and forwarded reply. Wire sent to M. in C. reporting Miss M. E. Evans, VAD dangerously ill suffering from cerebro-spinal meningitis.
Marriage: Forwarded to DGMS application from Miss Morgan, VAD, 13 General Hospital, for leave to get married. Recommended for retention in the service.
Transfer: Miss Hordley, RRC, QAIMNS proceeded to Boulogne en route for England to take up appointment at the War Office.
Miss A. Shea, VAD: Received copy of War Office letter enclosing proceedings of Medical Board on Miss A. Shea, VAD of the Military Hospital, Curragh, stating that her resignation could not be accepted until she recovered from her present disability. There is no lady of this name serving in France.
Marriage: Received copy of War Office letter approving the retention in the service after marriage of Staff Nurse M. K. Hayne, QAIMNSR, asking that her married name be reported to the War Office.
VAD Appointments: Received copy of War Office letter approving appointments of VAD members who arrived in France May, 1917.
Return from sick leave: Received copy of War Office letter stating that Miss M. A. Crimp, VAD, has been instructed to rejoin from sick leave in England. This lady returned on 24.6.17.
Reinforcements: Received copy of War Office letter – Staff Nurse L. M. Bond, QAIMNSR has been instructed to join for duty with 40 Stationary Hospital. Arrival to be reported.
VAD Appointments: Received copy of War Office letter approving appointments of VAD members who arrived in France April, 1917.
Extension of leave: Received copy of War Office letter granting 7 days’ leave in extension to Miss M. Corsellis, VAD member. Also receive copy of War Office letter – Miss M. C. Bracebridge, Special Probationer, granted extension of sick leave to 27th inst.
Efficiency Stripe: DGMS sent memo with reference to the Scarlet Efficiency Stripe for VAD members, attaching copy of certificate to be issued, which must be signed by the Medical and Surgical Specialists, in addition to the Matron and CO. It was stated on this certificate that the efficiency stripe was only to be worn after 18 months’ consecutive service in a Military Hospital. The letter also stated that DGMS proposes going still further and selecting a certain number of these ladies who are in possession of the stripe for special recognition as VAD Staff Nurses. The white stripe showing length of service should continue to be worn as heretofore.
American Hospitals: DGMS sent reminder re reinforcements of Trained Nurses to complete the staff of 16, 18 and 12 General Hospitals (U.S.A. units).
Resignation: Received application to resign from Staff Nurse [Molli] QAIMNSR as she wishes to go to South Africa on private affairs. Forwarded to DGMS. Also received application to resign from Staff Nurse J. C. Adam, QAIMNSR on account of private affairs. Forwarded to DGMS departure and confidential report on Miss Lupton, VAD, who had resigned on account of her mother’s illness.

Left for Boulogne with Miss Hordley, who was proceeding to London for duty at the War Office.
Visited 14 Stationary Hospital to see Miss Evans, VAD who is sick with cerebro-spinal meningitis. Slightly delirious but case reported as favourable – her sister visits her daily. Saw Miss Todd, Sister in charge of Infectious Compound, and visited all sick Sisters and officers. There were only six Sisters in at time of visit, and no others seriously ill.
To 83 General Hospital – saw Miss Walker, A/Principal Matron, who asked for 5 additional VAD members for the new Therapeutic Hut. Saw Lady Algernon Gordon-Lennox about the proposed Nurses’ Club at St. Omer and advised her to write to Sir Arthur Sloggett to obtain the necessary authority for establishment, before proceeding further with it. Called on Miss Oates, Matron 57 General Hospital, who is temporarily with Miss Kaberry at 8 Stationary Hospital, pending establishment of the unit at Boulogne. To 13 General Hospital. Returned to Abbeville at 7.30 p.m.

26.06.17
Abbeville
Sick Sisters 138
Miss Hordley, RRC, QAIMNS proceeded to England.
Resignation: Received copy of War Office letter accepting the resignation of Staff Nurse E. H. Rankin, QAIMNSR from July 9th. Also received War Office letter terminating the engagement of Miss Robertson, VAD from 20th. Received copy of War Office letter accepting the resignation of A/Sister H. Crawford, QAIMNSR from June 24th.
CAMC Transfers: Received copy of War Office letter reporting that Miss D. M. Copeman and Miss N. K. Copeman, CAMC had been authorised to embark for duty in France as reliefs for Sisters Floyd and Hastings, 1 Canadian General Hospital.
Return from leave: Received reminder from DGMS re arrival report of Miss I. M. Baron, Special Probationer, who had had extension of leave granted in England.
8 Canadian General Hospital: DGMS returned application for increase of staff by 18 Sisters of 8 Canadian General Hospital, saying that War Establishment for a 250 bedded hospital is 43, including the Matron. He had therefore instructed DAG to demand 10 additional Nursing Sisters, CAMC, for duty with this unit.
Allowances of Matron-in-Chief: Forwarded letter to DGMS with reference to the allowance of the Matron-in-Chief, asking that lodging, fuel and light allowances be restored to her as a special case.
Visit to Compiegne: Received memo from ADMS Abbeville, stating that Principal Matron G. Wilson and Sisters Morrice and De Mestre, 3 Australian General Hospital, proceeded to Compiegne on June 25th for instruction in the Carrel-Dakin method of treatment of wounds.
Miss Coates, VAD: Forwarded to DGMS agreement form and report on Miss Coates, VAD, who arrived in France April 1917, and was recommended to have her probationary period extended.
Efficiency Stripe: Telephoned to Major Buckley re the difference in DGMSs minute re certificate for Efficiency Stripe and War Office letter. He advised the matter being held over until the DGMSs visit on Wednesday, the 27th.
Trained Nurses Annuity Fund: Cheque sent to Dr. Ogier Ward for £150 for Trained Nurses Annuity Fund from Nursing Staff in Military Hospitals in France.
54 General Hospital: CO, 54 General Hospital, asked for 47 of his Nursing Staff to join the unit.
Mrs. Christie, Matron: Received letter from DDMS Havre, asking that Mrs. Christie, Matron, Presbyterian U.S.A. Unit, No.1 General Hospital, might be allowed to proceed to 2 General Hospital for instruction in British Hospital methods for two or three days.
Miss G. Wilton Smith: Orders sent for Miss G. Wilton Smith, RRC, QAIMNS, on completion of duty at No.1 General Hospital, to proceed to Abbeville for duty in the Matron-in-Chief’s office.

27.06.17
Sick Sisters 140
Messing Allowance: Memo received from AQMG stating that a request had been forwarded to the War Office for the approval of the Army Council that payment of messing allowance in the case of small units such as Casualty Clearing Stations, Trains, and other stations where there were no Matrons, might be paid direct to individual nurses, not as laid down in ACI 264 of 1917.
American Hospitals: Forwarded memo to DGMS giving the reinforcements of Trained Nurses required to complete the staff of the American Hospital at 18 General Hospital – 25 required.
QAIMNS Reports: Confidential reports forwarded to DGMS on Staff Nurses Bond, Nicholson and Featherstonehaugh, QAIMNS, in reply to request from the War Office.
Special leave: Special leave granted by telephone to Miss Parke, Special Probationer, 83 Dublin General Hospital, on account of the illness of her father.
Resignation: Forwarded to DGMS application to resign from Miss Napier, VAD, on account of the serious illness of her mother.
Promotions: Forwarded to all Bases and Armies concerned copy of Routine Orders, DMS, L of C, authorising appointments of Staff Nurses to rank of A/Sister, 43 Reserves.
AANS for transport duty: Received telegram from DGMS asking that Sister McNeill, AANS and Staff Nurse Hornsey, AANS from 2 Australian General Hospital, should return to England immediately for transport duty to Australia.
Efficiency Stripe: DGMS called 4.30 p.m. and agreed that the certificate for Efficiency Stripe should read “after 13 months’ service” instead of 18 months, as in previous memo. He wished the certificate to be sent out at once.
Rest Club, Abbeville: Received letter from Lady Algernon Gordon Lennox, giving permission for all Sisters from Ambulance Trains and Barges to be Honorary Members of the new Club at Abbeville.
Convalescent Home, Paris Plage: Wrote to Miss Hartigan, A/Principal Matron, Etaples, asking her to make use if possible of the empty beds at the Convalescent Home, Paris Plage.
Miss Henry, Special Probationer: Orders sent for Miss Henry, Special Probationer, to proceed to 83 General Hospital for duty in Colonel Lister’s wards.
47 CCS: DMS 5th Army, telephoned that the Sisters for 47 CCS should proceed on the 29th for Dozinghem – to detrain Abeele.

28.07.17
Sick Sisters 134.
Visited 2 Stationary Hospital Annex and met Colonel Meadows re site for a new mortuary. Decided on suitable building in the yard.
Miss Scoble, CAMC called on her way to 1 Canadian Casualty Clearing Station.
Miss Macdonald, Matron-in-Chief, CAMC: Received memo from DGMS stating that an application had been received from Miss Macdonald, Matron-in-Chief, Canadians, and Matron E. C. Rayside, to visit Canadian Hospitals in France on 3.7.17. The application had been recommended and in the event of these ladies visiting the Lines of Communication all facilities were to be afforded them.
Extension of leave: Received copy of War Office letter granting extension of leave to Miss C. Cawdell, VAD owing to dental trouble.
Resignation: Forwarded to DGMS departure report of Staff Nurse S. M. Powell, QAIMNSR on termination of contract on 24.6.17.
CAMC Reinforcement: Reported to DGMS the arrival of Nursing Sister M. A. Bell, CAMC for duty with 7 Canadian General Hospital on 25.6.17.
VAD Agreements: Reported to DGMS that Miss Markus and Miss Dennis, VAD members, who arrived in France March, 1917, from Sutton Veny Hospital, state that while there they signed contracts to serve for the duration of war, but they have not received certificates AFW 3545 to attach to pay sheet. Could these certificates be obtained from the War Office.
Miss Blakeley, A/Principal Matron, Havre, who has just returned from leave, proposes putting A/Sister Molloy, QAIMNS in temporary charge of Officers’ Hospital during absence of Sister Gedye, Sister in charge, on leave.
10 General Hospital: Miss Scudamore Smith, A/Matron, QAIMNS reported her arrival at 10 General Hospital on 24th inst. and the departure of Miss Drage, A/Matron, QAIMNSR to Marseilles Stationary Hospital on 25th inst.
Hospital Ship “Salta”: Miss Hartigan, A/Principal Matron, Etaples, reported that the body of a Nursing Sister ANSR had been washed up at Merlimont Plage. The number on badge was 844 – name E. M. Dawson. The funeral had been arranged for the 29th – 9.30 a.m. Miss Hartigan reported that she was sending flowers for the Matron-in-Chief and Nursing Staff, and would write an account of the funeral to forward to the War Office.

29.06.17
Abbeville
Sick Sisters 136
Record of previous service: Received copy of War Office letter enclosing record of previous service of Sister H. Whiteford, ANSR.
Extension of leave: Received copy of War Office telegram notifying that extension of leave had been granted to Miss M. S. Lumsden, Staff Nurse, QAIMNSR.
CAMC Transfers: Memo received from DGMS asking that instructions be issued for Sisters G. Connon and M. K. McDermot, 2 Canadian CCS, to proceed to England on arrival of their reliefs – Sister M. H. Forbes and L. Holmes, CAMC.
Resignation: Received copy of War Office letter stating that the engagement of Miss Napier, VAD had been terminated from June 25th on account of her mother’s illness, also the engagement of Miss A. S. Covell, VAD who had been on sick leave in England since March, 1917.
2 Canadian Stationary Hospital: Received copy of War Office letter authorising embarkation of Matron Urquhart, CAMC for 2 Canadian Stationary Hospital.
CAMC Transfers: Memo received from DGMS stating that Sister G. F. Bliss, 7 Canadian General and Sister H. Meiklejohn, 3 Canadian General Hospital, should be struck off the BEF from 9.6.17 and 18.6.17 respectively, on the findings of a Medical Board – authority AG Canadians. These ladies have been on leave in the United Kingdom. Reported to DGMS that Sisters D. M. and N. K. Copeman, CAMC had arrived in France 26.6.17 for duty at 1 Canadian General Hospital. Sister Floyd was sick in hospital and Sister Hastings was a witness at a Court Martial. They would proceed to England as soon as possible. DGMS sent telegram saying that Medsercan desired to retain Sister W. M. Byrne, 2 Canadian Stationary Hospital, for duty in England. Nursing Sister E. Smith recommended as relief. Asked if there were any objection, and also stated that the Base had no record of leave having been granted to Sister Byrne. Replied that there was no objection – Sister Byrne had done temporary duty with sick Sisters on Ambulance Transport “Jan Breydel” and had been granted 14 days’ leave on completion of duty.
Miss Becher, RRC: Heard news of the illness of Miss Becher, RRC Matron-in-Chief, QAIMNS and that she had been admitted to the Royal Free Hospital and had undergone an operation. Wire sent asking for report as to condition. Reply received – condition satisfactory.
Duties of Home Sister: DGMS rang up to ask about Trained Nurses being employed as Housekeepers in Military Hospitals in France.

30.06.17
Sick Sisters 120
Resignation: DGMS sent copy of War Office wire stating that Sister A. Slythe, TFNS was to be instructed to proceed to London and report to the Matron-in-Chief, TFNS and should be struck off strength from July 2nd.
Duties of Home Sister: DGMS sent confirmation of telephone message of yesterday re a question for the House by Mr. Ackland Allen to the Under Secretary of State for War, asking if he is aware that in Military Hospitals in France the duties of housekeeper are performed by trained nurses assisted by VAD members, and whether, in view of the shortage of Trained Nurses, he will endeavour to arrange for these duties to be performed by ladies without nursing experience. A report was sent to DGMS saying that no trained nurse was employed solely as housekeeper in any Military Hospital in France. Every endeavour is made to appoint a trained nurse as Home Sister in all large units. Her duties are to look after the health and comfort of the nursing staff chiefly – she also directs the management of the Mess and is present at all meals. Owing to the large number of nurses employed and the importance of attending to their welfare off duty, the services of VAD members are employed to assist her, as it is not considered necessary to employ more than one trained nurse. This experience is also valuable to the VADs, who are only thus employed for one month at a time. During great pressure, VADs are not available for these duties.
Extension of leave: Received copy of War Office telegram granting extension of leave to Sister Kelly, 22 General Hospital, until July 10th.
CAMC Transfers: Received copy of War Office letter authorising the embarkation of Sister Robley, CAMC for 1 Canadian CCS in relief of Sister McLeod, who had returned to England. Also War Office letter authorising the embarkation of Sisters S. Payne, R. McCulloch and M. Maguire, CAMC for 7 Canadian Stationary Hospital.
Miss B. Tinkler: Received copy of War Office letter with instructions that Sister B. Tinkler, QAIMNSR should be granted leave to enable her to undergo an operation.
Transfer: Received copy of War Office letter notifying that Sister R. A. Kidd, QAIMNSR of 55 CCS, had been transferred to the Beaufort War Hospital, Bristol.
Rest Club at St. Omer: DGMS forwarded letter from Lady Algernon Gordon-Lennox asking for authority to establish a Rest Club for Nurses at St. Omer under the patronage of Princess Victoria. Returned, stating that this service was considered necessary, and asking that the approval of the GOC, L of C might be obtained.
VAD Appointment: Received copy of War Office letter approving the appointments of VAD members who arrived in France 20.4.17.
VAD Drivers: DGMS forwarded copy of letter from Commissioner, BRCS, asking for sanction for the employment of 3 VAD members to drive 3 motor ambulances being sent to Trouville to deal with the local sick pending the formation of a motor ambulance convoy at Trouville.
Miss D. Lee, VAD: Forwarded to DGMS agreement form and confidential report on Miss D. Lee, VAD, who arrived in France May, 1917. Also forwarded renewal of contract of Miss G. M. B. Green, VAD.
Resignations: Forwarded to DGMS application to resign from A/Sister L. T. Raw, CHR on account of marriage, also of Staff Nurse L. Cox, QAIMNSR on account of marriage, also of Staff Nurse D. Budds, QAIMNSR on account of marriage, and of A/Sister K. L. Hickman, QAIMNSR to qualify as a masseuse.
AANS Hospitals: Orders sent re moves of Australian Nursing Service to take over 5 Stationary Hospital and for the disposal of the present staff.


Establishments opened
3 Ambulance Flotilla, on 18.6.17: Staff supplied – 12
64 CCS, on 25.6.17: Staff supplied – 8

Establishments closed
(Taken over by American Units)
No.11 General Hospital*, on 30.5.17: Staff released – 71 trained, 27 untrained
No.1 General Hospital*, on 31.5.17: Staff released – included above
No.12 General Hospital, on 10.6.17: Staff released – 119 trained, 31 untrained
No.16 General Hospital, on 10.6.17: Staff released included above
No.18 General Hospital, on 11.6.17: Staff released included above
*The return from these units was received too late to be included in May diary.

Arrivals
Trained – 3
Untrained – 96

From United States during May*
Trained – 187
Untrained - 12
From United States during June
Trained – 191
Untrained – 9
*Received too late to be included in May diary.

Transfers to Home Establishment
Trained – 3

Transfers to Mediterranean L of C
Trained – 13

Sent home sick
Trained – 21
Untrained – 15

Returned from sick leave
Trained – 8
Untrained – 12

Total sick at present in England
Trained – 88
Untrained – 71

Resignations sent forward
Trained – 18

Approximate no. of leaves granted – 794

VADs returned to England
Termination of contract – 16
Resigned – 4

Total Nursing Staff now in BEF
Trained – 2457
Untrained – 1641

Shortage according to War Establishment
Trained – 236

***

Next - 1 - 15th July 1917


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