PREVIOUS - JULY 1918 (Visits)



01.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 118
Re-opening of Office: My office re-opened in Boulogne at 11 Boulevard Mariette.
Air Raid: Enemy aeroplanes were overhead in the morning, but no damage was done.
Sister A. E. Calver, TFNS: Forwarded to DGMS all particulars of the work in France of Sister A. E. Calver, TFNS. This lady had refused to comply with orders and proceed to 57 General Hospital. I saw Miss Riddell, TFNS her Matron at 53 General Hospital, on the subject; she had herself already talked to Miss Calver who still refused to obey orders, and stated that she preferred to go Home if she was compelled to leave 53 General Hospital.
Monthly Return: Forwarded to DGMS monthly return showing the wastage among members of the Nursing Services during the month of July. Shortage of Trained Nurses – 433. Surplus of VADs and Special Probationers – 50.

02.08.18
Sick Sisters 115
Air Raid: A very severe Air Raid took place, beginning at 10.45 p.m. and lasting till 12.30 p.m. Many bombs were dropped and much damage done. Base Headquarters was burnt to the ground; bombs fell just outside 14 General Hospital outside wards, from which fortunately the patients had been evacuated, and all the windows of the Sisters’ Mess were broken.
Promotion of VADs: Received authority for the promotion to the rank of Assistant Nurse of 92 VADs and 8 Special Probationers who had been recommended for this promotion.
Leave without Pay: Received copy of War Office letter authorising 1 month’s leave without pay to VAD Miss M. Richardson provided a medical certificate was furnished shewing that this leave was recommended on medical grounds. She is to be informed that she will not be returning to France as she has had three years’ Active Service.
Agreement Forms: Received wire from DGMS to the effect that the following Agreement Forms should not be used until further notice:- Army Forms W.3537, W.3538, W.3548, W.3540, W.3542, and W.3660 and agreements for present emergency.
DDMS Boulogne: Offered part of this office to the DDMS until he could make satisfactory arrangements to re-open his office elsewhere. Was able to put 4 rooms at his disposal which he gladly accepted.
Lieut. General Burtchaell came to office.

03.08.18
Sick Sisters 106
Leave without Pay: Asked DGMS how the matter now stood with reference to Miss E. Gunn, and Miss L. E. Page, VAD members. These ladies’ current contracts terminated on 2.8.18 and 4.8.18 respectively, and they do not wish to renew on account of feeling tired and needing a long rest. Had suggested that they might be permitted to apply for leave without pay. Gave home addresses of these ladies to DGMS.
Rest Clubs: Received from DMS, L of C, copy of the authority for the establishment of Rest Clubs for VADs at Trouville, Treport, Rouen, and Boulogne, with the sanctioned establishment of 3 VADs for each Club.
Office Staff: My office staff slept at the new billet, 6 Rue Puits d’Amour, for the first time.

04.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 112
Commemoration Service: A Commemoration Service for the Anniversary of the War was held at the Turlington [Terlincthun] Cemetery at 11.30 a.m.
Major Bryant, RE who was killed at the Hotel Dervaux during the air-raid, was buried at 2.30 at the Turlington Cemetery.
Assistant Nurses: Wired Matron-in-Chief, QAIMNS, War Office, asking how metal ‘AN’s for VAD members promoted to the rank of Assistant Nurses might be obtained, and reported to DGMS action taken. In connection with this recent promotion of VAD members and Special Probationers to the rank of Assistant Nurses, reported to DGMS that the following casualties were occurring:- Miss B. Ernest, VAD and Miss D. M. Greig, Special Probationer, resigning on 21.8.18: these ladies had applied to resign after recommendations had been forwarded. Miss M. C. Young, VAD had died on 30.7.18. Asked if recommendations could be forwarded in order that these vacancies might be filled, and a ruling obtained as to whether such action could be taken on similar occasions in future.

05.08.18
Sick Sisters 106
Anaesthetics: Received instructions from DGMS requesting the despatch of 3 Sisters intended for 57 CCS to 61 CCS for instruction in Anaesthetics.

06.08.18
Sick Sisters 107
Paris Club: Sent memo to DMS, L of C with respect to HRH Princess Victoria’s Rest Club for Nurses, Paris, which had unofficially closed owing to the military situation, and the stoppage of leave to Paris. Lady Gordon Lennox is willing to open without delay. Asked if any objection.
Extract from ‘Times’: Sent memo to DGMS with reference to an extract from ‘The Times’ of 5.8.18 headed ‘Germans beyond the Ancre’ and the paragraph referring to the bodies of 2 British Nurses supposed to have been found lying in ‘No Man’s Land’. Asked if it could be ascertained how this information had been obtained and had been permitted to be published, as there is no foundation for this statement. All casualties among members of the Nursing Service have been notified, and this office has never lost touch or been unable to account for any member.

07.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 110
Movement of Sisters: Received telephonic message from DGMS asking that 48 Sisters might be sent to the 4th Army for emergency duty that day. Made necessary arrangements for these ladies to proceed by road from Abbeville, Etaples, and Boulogne.

08.08.18
Sick Sisters 114
Reinforcements: Reported to DGMS that 2 Sisters and 9 Nurses of the QAIMNSR had reported for duty in France on 2.2.18.
Convalescent Homes: Sent DMS, L of C correspondence in connection with the establishment of Convalescent Homes in the South of France for Nursing Sisters this winter. Enclosed draft letter for DGMS requesting approval for the re-opening of Villa Roquebrune and the Red Cross Convalescent Home, and the opening of Mrs. Angus’ Rest Home. The approval of the GOC, L of C had been obtained. Enclosed also a draft letter asking AQMG if his authority for opening this new Home would cover the issue of coal and rations on repayment to Mrs. Warre’s Home at Roquebrune and also Mrs. Angus’ Home, and also for the treatment of the BRCS Convalescent Home as a Voluntary Hospital as regards free issue of supplies, rations and medical comforts, and the issue of fuel and light on re-payment.
Miss Maxwell, USANC: Superintendent of Nurses at the Presbyterian Hospital in New York City, and an authority on all nursing matters in the United States of America, came to the office to discuss questions in connection with the American Army and American Red Cross nurses working in France.

09.08.18
Sick Sisters 105
Leave: Sent pressing memo to DGMS with reference to the allotment of leave to Nursing Sisters. Great difficulty is being experienced with the present allotment of 20 per day. Asked if the allotment might be raised to 30 per day.
Housing of American Nurses: Forwarded to DGMS for his information and what action he considered necessary all correspondence in connection with the housing of American Nurses in Havre Area. The Matron of the Phalsbourg Section had not made satisfactory arrangements.
Miss Payne Gallwey, VAD: Asked DGMS with reference to Miss Payne Gallwey, VAD who had been serving in France for 3 years with the French and the BRCS and who is now anxious to be transferred to a Military Hospital for duty, whether she might be taken on the strength of this Command on a semi-official letter received from the War office. Miss Gallwey had been advised to make an official application to the War office, and her contract with the BRCS terminated on the 8th inst.
57 General Hospital: Forwarded to DGMS confidential report on Miss H. R. Oates, Matron, TFNS together with correspondence in connection with her recent move from 57 General Hospital. This move had been arranged to take effect on account of a lack of discipline among the Nursing Staff of this Unit. Miss Oates proceeded on 14 days’ leave to the United Kingdom on 18.7.18 and was granted 14 days’ extension on medical certificate by the War office.

10.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 129
Resignation: Reported to DGMS with reference to the application of Sister A. M. Kelson, TFNS, to resign, that this lady had been granted 7 days’ special leave in anticipation of her resignation being accepted from the 21st, in order that she may be resident for a fortnight in her parish previous to her marriage.
Resignations: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application from Miss L. J. Markham, VAD to be permitted to resign her present appointment terminating 31.12.18 owing to her father having been recalled for military service. She is now urgently required at home to supervise his business.
Military Medal: Received from DMS 1st Army, copies of recommendations for award of Military Medals to A/Sister J. E. Trotter, QAIMNSR, A/Sister E. F. Watkins, QAIMNSR, both at 57 Casualty Clearing Station.
48 CCS: Received urgent telegram during night for Nursing Staff of No.48 Casualty Clearing Station and 8 extra sisters to proceed to Lunatic Asylum on Amiens and Dury road. Made arrangements by telephone.
Air Raids: Enemy aeroplanes were overhead at 5.30 p.m., again at 10 p.m. and again at 1 a.m. in the night, but there was no serious raid.

11.08.18
Sick Sisters 114
Miss Payne Gallwey, VAD: Received communication from DGMS with regard to Miss Payne Gallwey, VAD forwarding telegram from the War office authorising this lady to be taken on the strength of this Command, at the same time asking that all correspondence in connection with this matter should be forwarded. Replied that this had been done. Arranged for this lady to join No.11 Stationary Hospital for duty.
Resignation: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application of S/Nurse L. McLaren, QAIMNSR to be permitted to resign on expiration of contract. This lady does not wish to sign on as a Staff Nurse after 3 years’ service – 2 years military – her contract expired July 30th. She was informed that her name had been noted as suitable for promotion when a vacancy occurred, but that no definite date could be fixed, as others are on the list who joined Army Service previous to July, 1916.
Air Raids: Enemy aeroplanes over in the morning at 9 a.m. and later at 10.30 a.m.

12.08.18
Sick Sisters 114
Transfer to East: Forwarded to DGMS for consideration, application for transfer to East of A/Sister J. Japing, QAIMNSR. This lady has applied twice for this transfer, and been refused by the War office.
Return of Reinforcements: Received War office letter notifying number of reinforcements for the Nursing Services sent out during the month of July. A total of 25 – all returns from sick leave.
Movement of Sisters in 4th Army: DGMS telephoned asking how many Sisters there were in the 4th Army on the 7th, and how many had been sent up each day from that date. Replied before 7th there were 158 Sisters, on 7th 49 were sent, on 11th, 1, and on 14th, 10, on 12th 50, also approximately 24 Teams had been sent and 24 Anaesthetists, making a rough total of 326.
R/Nurse J. H. Collins, ANCUSA: Reported to DGMS with reference to Reserve Nurse J. H. Collins, ANCUSA, whom it was notified had proceeded from No.8 Base Hospital, AEF on 11.7.18, that this Sister was now reported to have gone sick on that date and to have been admitted to No.8 British General Hospital. She reported from 8 General Hospital 27.7.18 and not from AEF as originally stated.
A/Sister L. M. Marsh, QAIMNSR: Sent memo to DGMS in reply to letter forwarded by War office from Sheriff of Glamorgan on the subject of his sister-in-law, A/Sister L. M. Marsh, QAIMNSR and the recognition of her services in France. This letter stated that this lady had only had 40 days’ leave since 1914, and that she was entitled to the Mons Star but had never received it. Notified DGMS that this lady’s name had never been brought forward for recognition, her reports had been good, she was promoted to rank of A/Sister on 1.5.17, her name with those of others of the Nursing Services who served with the 1st Expeditionary Force was forwarded to the OC, RAMC Section on 8.10.17, and presumably in accordance with instructions her name would have been forwarded to the Secretary at the War office. Up to the present no member of the Nursing Services has been presented with the Mons Star, but all who are entitled to it may wear the Mons ribbon. Stated that this lady’s record of service was as follows:- Period of work at General and Stationary Hospitals – 2 years and 10 months – Period of work on Ambulance Train – 6 months 14 days – Period of emergency duty at CCS – 3 months 14 days – Joined 47 CCS for 6 months tour of duty 3.4.18. Reported sick on 2.7.18 and was transferred to England 13.7.18. Total leave – 49 days.
Air Raid at Etaples: A/Principal Matron, Etaples, reported that on the night of the 10th they had an air raid lasting about one hour. One large bomb and one small one fell near the Chateau in the ward near 24 General Hospital, and the windows of one hut were smashed. All patients had been transferred to dug-outs. One officer was killed at one of the Base Depots and one died later from wounds. A good deal of damage was done in Etaples town.
Miss B. C. Wrigley, VAD: Received from the Principal Commandant, VADs, copy of letter forwarded from the War office authorising the transfer of Miss B. C. Wrigley from the Joint Commission for duty in a Military Hospital in France. Forwarded this correspondence to the DGMS.

13.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 113
Almeric Paget Corps: Sent to Mrs. Barham Smith, APMMC, cheque for £2 received from the Hon. Essex French for uniform allowance, asked her to forward receipt direct.
Conference of Allied Women: Principal Matron, Miss Ridley, CAMC received a telegram from ‘Mederscan’ to the effect that she and Matron J. Urquhart, CAMC had been nominated as delegates to represent the CAMC on a Committee of women of allied nations in War Service in France, and to attend two days Conference in the week of August 12th at Paris. Secretary of Committee will notify definite date to make necessary arrangements for Miss Ridley and Miss Urquhart. Repeated wire to Matron Urquhart and informed DGMS.
VAD Contracts: Received War office letter in connection with a request put up from this office with regard to VADs who do not wish to renew their contracts after 2 or three years’ service on account of feeling tired or needing a long rest, and who are anxious to rejoin after a few months’ interval, suggesting that they should be advised to apply for leave without pay instead of breaking their contracts. War office replied that in view of the very large number of applications which would be received were such a procedure adopted it is not possible to grant leave without pay except under very exceptional circumstances: it further pointed out that nursing members of VADs after the first 6 months get the same period of leave as Staff Nurses, in accordance with ACI 394.
Promotion: Received War office letter approving the promotion of Staff Nurse Edith Maud Lyle, ARRC, TFNS to the permanent rank of Sister. This promotion to be dated from the 13th July, 1915.
Miss B. Baldwin, VAD: DDMS Rouen reported that Miss B. Baldwin, VAD member who had been admitted to Hospital on 10th instant had been placed on DI list as an acute abdominal case and had been operated on that day. Telephoned later to say that the patient comfortable after operation, cyst removed. Wired Matron-in-Chief, War office accordingly, repeated to DGMS.
Air Raid: Severe air-raid over Boulogne: started shortly after 10 p.m. and the ‘All clear’ not being sounded till after 2 a.m. Many bombs were dropped round Boulogne, 2 were actually on 55 General Hospital and the following casualties occurred among members of the Nursing Staff:- Miss Edith Ingram, VAD, was killed. Staff Nurse R. Brain, TFNS and VADs Miss H. Wood, Miss A. C. Larsen, and Miss Pleydell Nott were wounded. Reported casualties with next of kin to the Matron-in-Chief, QAIMNS, War office, and repeated wire to DGMS.

14.08.18
Sick Sisters 126
S/Nurse D. M. Martin, QAIMNS: Received War office letter asking for confidential report to be furnished as to the fitness in every way for promotion to the rank of Sister of S/Nurse D. M. Martin, QAIMNS.
Almeric Paget Corps: Received urgent request from DDMS Boulogne for reliefs for 3 members of the Almeric Paget Corps who are returning to England on 28.8.18. Asked that reliefs might be supplied for these ladies from that date. Sent memo to DGMS asking if it would be possible to send reliefs in accordance with this request.
Special Leave: Forwarded to DGMS application from VAD Miss E. Mollett for 28 days’ special leave of absence to the United Kingdom as she has not seen her brother since they both embarked for France April, 1915. He is now having leave to be married n the beginning of September. This lady is anxious to renew her contract in November, her reports have always been good, and as she is due leave, 14 days have been granted from 29.8.18.
Assistant Nurses: Forwarded to DGMS copy of semi-official letter received from the War office with regard to the metal letters ‘AN’ to be worn by VAD members who have been promoted to the rank of Assistant Nurse. This letter stated that this badge is not available now owing to the shortage of metal. Messrs. Shoolbred’s are having the letters woven which should be ready shortly. Forwarded to all Bases concerned the authority for the promotion to the rank of Assistant Nurse of 100 VAD members and Special Probationers recently recommended for this promotion. Asked for Nominal Roll shewing the duties to which these ladies have been appointed. Confidential reports to be furnished on the completion of 3 months’ service as Assistant Nurses.
S/Nurse M. Rooney, QAIMNSR: Received wire from DMS, L of C requesting that S/Nurse M. W. Rooney, QAIMNSR should be instructed to report in person as soon as possible to the Matron-in-Chief, QAIMNS, Adastral House.

15.08.18
Sick Sisters 125
SAMNS Probationers: Wrote to Matron-in-Chief, QAIMNS, War office, on the subject of S/Nurse Moffatt and 13 Probationers of the SAMNS who embarked for France on 23.4.18. Asked her to inform us under what contracts these ladies are serving. They state they signed a contract in South Africa for the German East African Campaign and three months after, and have signed none since. This question has been put up officially on 15.5.18, 14.6.18, and 17.7.18, and no answer has been received. Presumably correspondence has been lost in transit.
Army Medical Service Regulations: Received from DMS, L of C copy of War office letter calling the attention of Commanding Officers of Military and Territorial Force Hospitals to the necessity of impressing on all ranks serving under them that members of the Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Military Nursing Service and its Reserve, also of the Territorial Force Nursing Service, are to be regarded as having authority in and about Military Hospitals next after the officers of the RAMC and should at all times receive the respect due to their position in accordance with para.324 of Regulations of the Army Medical Service, requesting also that Commanding officers of these Hospitals may be directed anew to the duties of Matrons, especially with regard to para.339 of these Regulations.
American Nursing Service: Received War office letter approving of the suggestion that vacancies occurring in British Hospitals staffed by American personnel should be filled by the Matron-in-Chief, BEF from American Nurses serving in British Units. This letter also notified that 2 additional Nurses of the USA Service were under orders to proceed to France at an early date, and that further reinforcements were being prepared for duty in France.
Monthly return: Sent return to DGMS shewing number of reinforcements who have arrived in France during the month of July: War office figures show a total of 25, and records in this office show a total of 29: all returned from sick leave.
Air Raid Alarm: The alarm was sounded during the night, but no raid occurred.

16.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 128
CAMC Leave: Sent urgent memo to AAG, L of C requesting that a special allotment of 14 leaves for Nursing Sisters of No.3 Canadian Stationary Hospital, temporarily closed down, might be granted as soon as possible. This authority, if granted, would be of considerable assistance, as these ladies would then be ready to join for duty when this Unit re-opened. The present allotment of 20 per day is complete for August, with the exception of one or two places reserved for emergencies.
S/Nurse M. W. Rooney, QAIMNSR: Reported to DGMS and DMS, L of C that S/Nurse M. W. Rooney, QAIMNSR, proceeded to United Kingdom today, 16.8.18.
Miss E. A. Ingram, VAD: Miss E. A. Ingram, VAD member, killed in the air-raid on the night of the 13th, was buried at Terlincthun Cemetery. Representatives of Nursing Sisters from all Hospitals in the Boulogne Area were present.

17.08.18
Sick Sisters 133
Transfer: Reported to DGMS that Sister A. Shearer, QAIMNS proceeded to the United Kingdom 15.8.18 to report to the Matron-in-Chief, QAIMNS War office.
Renewal of Contracts: Forwarded to DGMS signed renewal of contract forms of members of the Reserve who joined Army Service in February and March, 1915, 1916 and 1917, who last renewed for 6 months and who have now renewed for another 6 months.
Forwarded similar contracts from those members of the Reserve who joined Army Service in February and March, 1915, 1916, 1917, who last renewed for a period of 6 months, and who have now renewed for 12 months. Forwarded similar contracts from those members of the Reserve who joined Army Service in September and August 1914, 1915, 1916, and 1917, and who have renewed for a further period of 12 months. Forwarded similar contracts from those members of the Reserve who joined Army Service in August and September 1914, 1915, 1916, and 1917, and who have renewed for a further period of 6 months. Forwarded to DGMS signed agreement forms on AFW3548 signed by members of the TFNS in accordance with ACI 286 of 1917. These forms were signed previous to receipt of War office wire suspending all forms for the present emergency. Forwarded also signed agreement forms on AFW3538 signed by members of the Reserve in accordance with ACI 286 of 1917, which were signed previous to receipt of above quoted wire.
Priority Wires: Sent memo to DGMS with regard to signing of priority wires. Asked if permission could be granted for the issuing of the necessary instructions to the OC in charge Signals, in order that my work might be carried on as hitherto. Whilst at Abbeville I was in the habit of franking my own priority wires. As a rule these priority messages are only sent during an offensive. Attached memo from OC in charge Signals to the effect that priority messages were to be signed either by the Base Commandant or the DDMS which would cause me considerable inconvenience as this office is quite separate and will be some distance from any other.

18.08.18
Sick Sisters 137
Paris Club: Received from DMS, L of C authority of GOC for the re-opening of HRH Princess Victoria’s Rest Club, Paris.
Convalescent Homes in South: Received from DMS, L of C copy of a letter forwarded to DGMS with reference to the Convalescent Homes for Sisters in the South of France. GOC approves of re-opening the Villa Roquebrune and the Red Cross Home, and of the establishment of Mrs. Angus’ Home at Roquebrune for Dominion Sisters and Military VADs, to be run on the same lines as Mrs. Warre’s Home. Suggested that Hardelot should remain open. Last year the need of this Convalescent Home was much felt for cases of minor sickness, may of the Nursing Staff requiring a few days rest before rejoining for duty.
VAD Uniform Allowance: Circulated ACI 519 of 1917 with regard to the increase in Uniform Allowance for VAD members issued ½ yearly. To be £2.10 instead of £2. 0.
Miss Pleydell-Nott, VAD recently wounded in air-raid, placed on DI list. Wired Matron-in-Chief, QAIMNSR, War office, repeating to DGMS Her brother is with her.
Anaesthetists: Received instructions from the DGMS that 3 Sisters from the Rouen Area and 3 from Abbeville should proceed, 3 to 10 CCS and 3 to 62 CCS, to complete their training in the course of Anaesthetics.
Resignations: Received War office letter accepting the resignation of S/Nurse D. M. Bryant, QAIMNSR This lady had proceeded to the United Kingdom 24.7.18 on account of the dangerous illness of her husband.

19.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 148
Miss E. Loveless, VAD: Received memo from DGMS with reference to Miss Edith Loveless, VAD ruling that application for her transfer to the Home Establishment should be submitted if she again applied for leave, or is she herself desirous of transfer.
ACI 829: Received copy of ACI 829 of 1918 on the subject of the rates of travelling for Masseuses.
Efficiency Stripes: Received War office letter requesting that the Matron under whom VAD members Miss H. Guillemand, and Miss M. F. Grimes, are serving, should be requested to furnish confidential reports as to whether in her opinion these ladies are considered in everyway qualified to be granted the Red Efficiency Stripes to which their service entitles them provided their capabilities and general suitability is considered of the necessary standard.
General Service VADs: Received memo from DMS, L of C approving of the messing arrangements for General Service VADs at the Chateau Boursot, Calais. These ladies are of the same social standing as the Nursing VAD members and share their Mess.
American Nursing Service: Sent memo to DGMS on the subject of American Nurses working with the BEF. Asked that as vacancies were filled in Hospitals staffed by American personnel, the casualties thus caused in British Units might be made good by further reinforcements of American Sisters. Up to the present 21 American Nurses lent to British Units have filled vacancies in Units staffed by American personnel. Asked that these might be replaced.

20.08.18
Sick Sisters 149
Transport duty to Australia: Received memo from DGMS stating that A/Sister L. C. Sutton, QAIMNSR could be given passage to Australia in return for her services, but it was impossible to say when a vacancy would occur. A return passage to the United Kingdom could not be arranged, and she might have to pay her return fare. She is required to state if she is willing to avail herself of this offer.
Hospital Ship ‘Valdivia’: Received memo from DMS, L of C that Hospital Ship ‘Valdivia’ was to be equipped at Marseilles and the Staff to be sent from the United Kingdom.
Transport duty to New Zealand: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application from Miss B. Ernest, VAD for passage back to New Zealand by Hospital Ship. This lady proceeded to the United Kingdom on termination of contract on 19.8.18 and was instructed to report in person to the Matron-in-Chief, QAIMNS War office, in order to make this request.
Movement of Nurses: DGMS telephoned asking for 20 Nurses to be sent to 43 CCS, 6 of whom were to be members of the CAMC. DMS 4th Army wired for the Nursing Staff of No.1 Canadian CCS to Boves on 21st inst.

21.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 152
Miss E. Loveless, VAD: Received War office letter notifying that the engagement of Miss Edith Loveless, VAD was terminated from August 14th while on ordinary leave in the United Kingdom.
Miss N. Bowden Smith, VAD: Forwarded to DGMS application from Miss M. Bowden Smith, VAD to remain in France for duty. In view of pervious correspondence in which this lady had complained of the treatment of VAD members applying for special leave and the delay in granting it when asked for owing to illness of parents, and her consequent anxiety on account of the age of her parents, asked if she should not be recommended for transfer to the Home Establishment.
AFW 3545: Reported to DGMS that Miss L. L. Gibson, VAD had mislaid certificate for increase of pay issued to her in the United Kingdom. Asked that a duplicate might be supplied to her from the War office.
Air Raid Alarm: The alarm was sounded at 10 p.m. but no raid occurred.

22.08.18
Sick Sisters 155
VAD Reinforcements: Received authority for the embarkation of 24 VAD members in relief of those who have returned to the United Kingdom in resignation. Sister M. B. Nicholson, returning off leave, to be in charge of the party. The arrival of these ladies was reported today.
Assistant Nurses: With reference to the request from this office with regard to further recommendations for promotion to the rank of Assistant Nurse of VADs and Special Probationers, DGMS forwarded memo from War office to the effect that further recommendations could be forwarded, and as there is no establishment laid down of Assistant VAD Nurses it is not understood why vacancies were referred to.

23.08.18
Sick Sisters 155
VAD Reinforcements: Reported to DGMS that 10 of the VAD members who arrived for duty with the BEF on 16.8.18 did not know on what dates they joined Army Service nor what contracts they had signed. Gave names and asked if required information might be obtained from the War office.
Transfer: Forwarded and recommended to DGMS application to be transferred to Home Establishment for duty of A/Sister E. Robinson, QAIMNSR as her fiancé does not wish her to remain in France.
Movement of AANS N/Sisters: Received War office letter enclosing correspondence in connection with arrangements being made by the Australian authorities for 100 AANS Sisters to be sent from Australia to India to relieve 100 to be sent from India for service in France.
Reinforcements: Received War office letter authorising the embarkation of 20 members of the TFNS, Sisters and S/Nurses for duty in France on 21.8.18.
R/Nurse M. C. Gowan, ANCUSA: Received War office letter asking that a report should be rendered with regard to a statement made by R/Nurse M. C. Gowan, USANC who has made a written objection to the American authorities with reference to the duties assigned to her at No.26 General Hospital. She complained of being posted to a ward where there was no work to do, and desired to know what her status was. It was asked if there was any objection to transferring the American Sisters working with the BEF to the AEF.

24.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 157
Reinforcements: Received War office authority for the embarkation of 6 Reserve Sisters for duty in France.
S/Nurse L. C. Sutton, QAIMNSR: Reported to DGMS that S/Nurse L. C. Sutton, QAIMNSR stated that as she was not able to pay her return fare from Australia, she regretted that she could not avail herself of the offer made by the War office.
General Service VADs: Received from DMS, L of C copy of request made to the DGMS for authority to employ 4 General Service VADs at the Sisters’ Hospital, Etretat, which is a 20 bedded section of No.1 General Hospital. Until now Nursing VAD members have been employed in the duties of cooking, house and table work: these ladies are now required for duty in Hospital wards. Owing to this being a women’s Hospital it is desirable that only women should be employed, although not releasing men it is requested that the employment of General Service members at this Unit be authorised. Suitable accommodation exists. Personnel required is 1 head cook, 1 Assistant cook, 2 house maids.
VAD Contracts: Forwarded to DGMS confidential report and signed agreement forms on VAD members and one Special Probationer who joined Army Service in July, 1915, January and July 1916 and 1917, and who are due to renew their contracts. Reported that Miss E. V. Williams had been transferred to another Area and a further report would be forwarded in two months’ time. Notified that these contract forms had not been altered as regards increase in Uniform Allowance, and that there are still approximately 100 signed forms in this office on which no alterations of any kind have been made. Requested that in view of the fact that ACI 519 was circulated only on 18.8.18 these agreements might be passed without alteration.
Air-Raid: A bad air raid took place over Boulogne, starting about 11 p.m. and continuing till about 1.30 a.m. A great deal of damage was done.

25.08.18
Sick Sisters 166
No.8 Canadian Stationary Hospital: Received memo from DGMS with reference to the increase of staff for No.8 Canadian Stationary Hospital requesting that the 10 Sisters who arrived for duty with this Unit should be posted there. Explained that the demands made by No.8 Canadian Stationary Hospital had already been met in part by Sisters already in the country, and that the new arrival had been used to fill the vacancies thus made. Under the circumstances asked if any re-posting should take place.
Fractured Femur Wards: Received from DMS, L of C copy of a letter sent to the DGMS with regard to Surgeons, Sisters and Orderlies employed in special wards set apart for the treatment of fractured femurs: asked whether in view of the recent decision that these cases are now to be evacuated to the United Kingdom with as little delay as possible that the existing instructions might be modified.

26.08.18
Sick Sisters 163
Retention in England: Received War office letter notifying that Sister L. Allee, TFNS who proceeded on urgent leave on August 6th (on account of sisters’ illness) and Sister M. Turner, TFNS who proceeded on urgent leave on August 3rd (on account of mother’s illness) were now to be struck off the strength of the BEF. Received War office letter notifying that Sister K. Maxey, TFNS who had been evacuated sick to England on 4.4.18 the result of wounds caused by a bombing raid would not now return to France for duty.
Sister C. Lonsdale, QAIMNSR(Aust): Received War office letter regretting that an Indulgence passage to Australia could not be arranged for A/Sister C. Lonsdale, QAIMNSR (Aust). Ladies are now only allowed to sail on certain ships on which Indulgence passages cannot be granted.
Reinforcements: Received War office letter notifying that 7 Sisters, members of the QAIMNSR had been instructed to embark on the 22nd, and not 6 as previously stated. Received War office letter authorising the embarkation of 17 Sisters and 26 Staff Nurses for duty in France on the 24th inst.

27.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 161
Reinforcements: Received War office letter authorising the embarkation on the 23rd inst. of 25 members of the TFNS.
Monthly leave return: Received memo from DGMS asking that a return with regard to the leave of the Nursing Services should be submitted on the 1st of every month. This return should shew:-
(1) The number of Trained Nurses eligible for leave on the 28th (i.e. those who have not had leave for 6 months).
(2) The number of VADs and Special Probationers who are eligible for leave on the 28th.
(3) The number out of (1) who have had no leave for over 7 months.
(4) The number out of (2) who have had no leave for over 7 months.
(5) The percentage of leave vacancies desired via Boulogne, Calais and Havre.
1 South African General Hospital: Received War office letter enquiring whether a vacancy exists at the present time for Sisters at No.1 South African General Hospital.
VAD Assistant Nurses: Forwarded to DGMS request with regard to promotion of VADs and Special Probationers to the rank of Assistant Nurses. 100 names have been submitted, and there are still a considerable number who are eligible. Asked if there was a fixed establishment and if names might be submitted periodically of those who are suitable.

28.08.18
Sick Sisters 163
Miss Bowden Smith, VAD: Received memo from DGMS with reference to the request of Miss Bowden Smith, VAD member, to be allowed to remain in France for duty, to the effect that he considered she should be allowed to remain.
Hospital Ship ‘Valdivia’: Received instructions from the DMS, L of C that the Nursing Staff of the Hospital Ship ‘Valdivia’ should join for duty on September 1st.
Almeric Paget Corps: Received War office letter authorising the embarkation at an early date of 3 members of the APMMC in relief of Miss Sowerby, Miss Bushby and Miss Pollock, APMMC.
VAD Contracts: Received War office letter enclosing AFW 3541 in respect of Miss L. King and Miss B. M. T. Masterton, VAD members. It was not understood why these contract were signed, as both of these ladies had signed agreements to serve for the present emergency, i.e. AFW 3542, on the 17th December.
S/Nurse B. Wollman, QAIMNSR: Received wire from S/Nurse B. Wollman, QAIMNSR to report to Taranto on September 8th for passage to Egypt.
Promotion: Forwarded to DGMS recommendation for promotion to the rank of Sister of S/Nurse L. Calvert, TFNS. This lady arrived in France early in 1915, but owing to her transfer for duty with the Italian Expeditionary Force, her name has not been considered for promotion.
Reinforcements: Forwarded to DGMS postings of 25 members of the TFNS who arrived for duty in France 23.8.18.
Rations: In reply to circular received from DMS, L of C in connection with the suggested change of rations for the Nursing Staff, said that as the present arrangement had answered so admirably up to the present, before making any remarks on the proposed new scheme whereby a fixed ration will be drawn free, and a corresponding deduction made form the Board Allowance, asked to be informed what the proposed ration would consist of, and what would be its cost. This information is necessary to enable us to decide whether the amount of the balance of Board Allowance, which it is understood from a letter attached from the Director of Supplies, would continue to be paid to the Matron, would be sufficient to enable her to supplement the ration by necessary purchase.
Anaesthetists: Received memo from DMS, L of C asking that 2 or 3 Sisters should be posted to No.4, 18 and 22 General Hospitals for the purpose of being trained with a view to their employment as Anaesthetists. Replied that the 3rd month of the 2nd course of training would be finished this week. Before another course commenced should not the DGMS be consulted as in previous courses all instructions on the subject were sent from GHQ. Amongst those who are completing the present course, 2 members of No.22 General Hospital will be returning to that Unit, and 2 British Nurses can be supplied as Anaesthetists to No.4 General Hospital if considered desirable. No.18 General Hospital is staffed by Americans who have their own qualified Anaesthetists.

29.08.18
Sick Sisters 180
Leave in France: Received memo from AAG regretting that Permit Books for the purpose of granting leave in France for members of the Nursing Service cannot be supplied in view of definite instructions issued by GHQ on this subject. Arrangements have been made to forward leave permits for leave in France for Nurses by DRLS and in very urgent cases should time not permit leave permits will be forwarded to the A/Provost Marshal in Paris, and a wire approving the leave and directing that permits be called for will be sent to this office.
Miss E. W. Trever, VAD: Received War office letter regretting that the age of Miss E. W. Trever, VAD rendered her ineligible as a candidate for the QAIMNS.
Medaille des Epidemies: Received from DMS 4th Army copy of correspondence which he had forwarded to GHQ with reference to a French Decoration on behalf of A/Sister A. Duncan, QAIMNSR, the Medaille des Epidemies en vermeil – and the Medaille des Epidemies en argent for Sister V. Gascoigne, CHR.
Miss Wrigley, VAD: Asked DGMS if Miss Wrigley, VAD might be taken on the strength of the BEF pending authority being received for a transfer from the BRCS.
Leave without pay: Forwarded to DGMS for favourable consideration application from A/Sister E. G. Poole, QAIMNSR asking for 3 months’ leave without pay on plea of feeling rundown. This lady has served since August 16th, 1914, and her reports have always been excellent.

30.08.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 160
Almeric Paget Corps: Received memo from DGMS asking if a relief was required for Miss G. L. Austin, APMMC who was applying for a transfer to Italy. Replied yes.
American Reinforcements: Sent memo to DGMS with regard to a request from OC No.12 General Hospital for 20 more American Nurses for the 28th instant to fill up vacancies in American Units. Stated these had been supplied by withdrawing 20 who were working in British Units, thus making the total withdrawn 41. Asked if they might be replaced.

31.8.18
Boulogne
Sick Sisters 162
Fractured Femur Wards: Received memo from DGMS stating that the original instructions with regard to Sisters and Orderlies and Surgeons employed in special Hospitals set apart for the treatment of Fractured Femur cases should continue to be carried out.
CAMC Reinforcements: Received memo from DGMS stating that the 10 N/Sisters sent as reinforcements for No.8 Canadian Stationary Hospital, who had been posted to Nos2 and 3 Canadian General Hospitals on arrival, need not under the circumstances be reposted.
S/Nurse L. C. Sutton, QAIMNSR: Received memo from DGMS asking if S/Nurse L. C. Sutton, QAIMNSR quite understands the terms of the offer of a passage to Australia, as she states that she cannot avail herself of this offer as she is unable to pay her return passage to Australia. DMS, AIF states that arrangements can be made for this lady to proceed on Transport duty to Australia when a vacancy occurs, but that she may have to pay her return fare to the United Kingdom on expiration of leave.
Leave return: Forwarded to DMS, L of C return to be rendered to the DGMS on the 1st of every month with regard to the leave of N/Sisters in the BEF:
(a) Number of Trained Nurses eligible for leave on the 28th ult.: 845
(b) Number of VAD members and Special Probationers eligible for leave on the 28th ult.: 313
(c) Number out of (a) who have not had leave for over 7 months: 345
(d) Number out of (b) who have not had leave for over 7 months: 141
Percentage of leave vacancies desired via Boulogne, 56%: via Calais 2%: via Havre 42%.
Board Allowances: Sent memo to Command Paymaster with reference to Board Allowance accounts of Nurses of Medical Units of the BEF putting before him the procedure in respect of Balance Credit of Units temporarily broken up with a view to ascertaining if it meets with his approval.
Establishment of N/Sisters: Received memo from DMS, L of C asking for statement shewing number of N/Sisters, QAIMNSR etc., that are authorised for duty with the following Units:-
General Hospital of 2000 beds; General Hospital of 2000 beds of which 400 are for officers; General Hospital with a normal establishment of 1400 beds and a crisis expansion of 600 beds; Stationary Hospital of 1000 beds. Forwarded statement as required, with a memo to the … .
[Month of August ends here, as missing page in original]