Paper full of excitement this morning. First of all, an account of the naval engagement which was a very smart piece of work. Then there was a long despatch from Sir John French, however, I did not read as it was too technical, giving an account of the battle of the Marne, dated from Sep 17th to Oct 8th.

The casualties of 500 officers & 12,000 men seem an appalling list, but he says it he might have been worse. He also mentions a long list of those who are to have special honour.

Spent the morning wandering around the place with Jack & Florence & listening to the stories.

After lunch, Mary & I went into Tavistock for the exam for first aid. We had been passed. It did not seem at all difficult.

Got back in time for tea. Sir Alfred Croft and Mrs Radcliffe came to tea. Mr Radcliffe had been shooting with Father.

Mrs Ratcliffe had been to Hurlditch & she had seen Mrs Morshead, who told her that Jack had landed with the Canadians, but they did not yet know where he was. He has not heard the news of his Father’s death.

She had a postcard from him, & she thinks he might be at Salisbury that is not certain.