When we first arrived at Tahta, as soon as fire was opened on us, the
led-horses were saddled as quickly as possible and sent back under
Sub-section Corporals to cover. They had moved off only 20 yards, when
Lance-Corpl. Carr was killed. He was buried by Corpl. Rose and Pte. Wick
that day, close to where the Brigade-Major was buried, a cross being,
temporarily, put up to mark his grave.
The disposal of the led-horses presented a serious difficulty from the
outset; their numbers were being fast reduced by casualties, and something
had to be done to save them. It was impossible, obviously, to withdraw them
the same way as they had been brought, the Turk having got astride of the
road about half a mile below. Ultimately it was decided "to make a dash for
it," and to take the horses right over the hill on the eastern side of the
wadi, although while this was being done, they would be exposed even more
than ever to the enemy's fire. This dangerous undertaking was, however,
eventually successfully accomplished. The wadi was now, more or less, clear
of men and animals, although the place was littered with killed and
wounded. Here and there were to be seen animals with limbs broken,
struggling to follow in the wake of their companions.
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