Gwynne continued his work with the BEF until, on 30 December, he returned to England for a period of leave. He was to spend the New Year with his family.

1 December

The Corps Commander of the Canadian Contingent1 received us at lunch at Bailleul where we met amongst others Canon Almond* who is now appointed the Corpse chaplain. At 3.30 we had a splendid gathering of the chaplains, 56 in number, 1st in the chapel of No. 2 Clearing Hospital where Griffiths is attached and 2nd tea in the hospital place at our disposal by the Colonel.

2 December

After an early lunch with the C.G. motored into Rummelhelst and confirmed 98 candidates in the YMCA hut. Amongst the candidates was a Sergeant who has served in Khartoum in the early days, with the Fusiliers. I saw quite a number of the chaplains at the Confirmation and had tea afterwards with the General of the 3rd Division, General Haldane.

3 December

The C.G. left for Amiens about 8.30 am. I spent a great part of the day in the office – entertained Hales*, Col. Wraith. I confirmed afterwards, and Crosse*. Guinness* came to report before going to E. Africa. I had a long talk and walk with him in the afternoon and worked for a couple of hours in the office before dinner. Dined alone with Drury*. Chief item of news tonight was Italy signing the compact not to make a separate peace.

4 December

Did a long morning in the office until 1. Wrote to Nellie and read before I went to Montreuil by motor. A heavy rain storm met us on the way, but I managed to get out and walk a couple of miles. I reached Montreuil about 7.30 and put up for the night with Col. Bamfield of the Indian Hospital.

5 December

We had a service for one of the Parks at 9 and a celebration afterwards. I preached on the Fatherhood of God at nearly all the services. Kempe* motored with me to two more services before lunch after wh. we motored to Somme where I had a walk before motoring to a park close to G.H.Q. where I had another service. Simms* and two chaplains dined and Harry Lewis came in and had a talk afterwards. To bed late.