and penetrated the right of the D.L.I., but was again driven out.

With a final attack at 12.45 p.m.the enemy succeeded in forcing both battalions across the canal by sheer weight of numbers.
Two companies of the 8th Bedfords now reinforced the 14th D.L.I., and this force again counter-attacked and recovered the bridge-head at dusk; the 88th Infantry Brigade, assisted by 2nd Y.and L., having also counter-attacked successfully south of the canal.

Losses were, however, heavy, and the line was gradually withdrawn under Corps orders during the next two days to the Hindenburg support system, which became our front line.

The 14th D.L.I.fought magnificently, losing 15 officers and 262 other ranks, more than half being killed.
Capt.

Lascelles, who led two of the counter-attacks and was twice wounded, here gained his V.C.The 16th M.G.C., both north and south of the canal, had very heavy losses, but put up a splendid resistance.
The only other incidents of note were the repulse by the 18th Infantry Brigade of a half-hearted enemy attack on Cantaing on the 1st December, and D.H.Q.being three times shelled out of its Headquarters between 30th November and 9th December.
During the whole period--20th November to 6th December--the Divisional Artillery were constantly changing position in order to support the infantry, either in advance or retirement, as closely as possible.