THE YPRES TIMES
79
Here, at 9.15 p.m., we were met by our friend, Mr. Parminter, who took as
many as possible by car to our hotel The Splendid and Britannique," and we were
almost affectionately greeted by Madame.
In a very short time we were doing justice to an excellent dinner.
Sunday morning we went our several ways, and after lunch a motor tour
was arranged of the Salient," stopping at any places of interest. As the tour
went along a large part of Jerry's Line," one could always look down on
presas he didand the result of this direct observation is to be found in the
many cemeteries, The Menin Gate, and other memorials in the Salient.
Monday morning was fine but cooler, and after breakfast we carried out the
arrangements previously made, of a tour over the old battle area to Arras, stop
ping on Vimy Ridge and paying a visit to the tunnels on the way. After a very
short stay in Arras, we turned towards Ypres again, but by a different route.
A halt was made at the impressive memorial to the French at Notre Dame de la
Lorette. Eventually we reached our billet again in nice time for dinner.
SOME OF THE PARTY AT THE TYNE COT MEMORIAL.
Monday evening closed as Sunday evening before it, with a visit to Menin
Gate at 9.0 p.m to pay our respects to our departed comrades.
The Last Post was sounded by two Belgian Firemen and it is pleasing
to note the interest the citizens take in the proceedings.
On Monday evening four Germans waited especially for the ceremony, and paid
their tribute to the fallen.
The party were well pleased with the trips, and the courtesy of Mr. Parminter
who made the tours so interesting with a running commentary.
We left Ypres on Tuesday morning, happy to have paid our homage to the
Empire's best. Victoria was safely reached at 9.26 p.m., and we were greeted
by the faithful Capt. G. E. de Trafford, who had made all the arrangements
which enabled the trip to run so smoothly, and which was greatly appreciated
by us all. So in conclusion we say, Thank you, the week-end trip was a great
success."
One of the Party.
