drought-stricken.

Proceeding north, the Rafa Plains give way to another stretch of Desert which continues until, from the apex of the final dividing sand-ridge, Khanyunus is suddenly unfolded to the eye, as a long, narrow valley filled with miniature orchards and cultivation plots, divided off by high cactus hedges or squat, sun-baked earthen walls. Beyond Khanyunus the undulating Plains rill upwards past Belah - the chief Base of the Palestine, British Force - towards the broad dominating ridges around Gaza.

The next five days the 11th and 12th ALH Regiments - the 4th ALH having been retained for duty south of El Arish - carried out various patrols. Returning to Belah Base, on the night of 16.4.17 after a day on patrol, rations for men and horses were quickly distributed, and we then rode out into the night,