the Germans were entrenched on the near side of the wood where there was a Maxim & there were trenches on the east & west of the wood, on the slope leading up to the main road to LA BASSEE. A Company, under Captain Hurt led the attack with B Company under Captain Browne in echelon on his left. C & D Companies in reserve, Maxims with the leading company. The advance continued under a heavy rifle & shell fire up to a point about 500 yards from the north edge of the wood, when I ordered a halt as I found the 5th Fusiliers were unable to advance on my left & my left was dangerously exposed. I reported my action to General Shaw & he approved of what I had done.