As long ago as the middle of September it was so cold along the Aisne that I have seen the French, sooner than move away from the open fires they had made, risk the falling shells.

Since then it has grown much colder, and Kitchener issued an invitation to the English people to send in what blankets they could spare for the army in the field and in reserve.

The idea was to dye the blankets khaki and then turn them over to the supply department.

In one week, so eagerly did the people respond to this appeal, Kitchener had to publish a card stating that no more blankets were needed.

He had received over half a million.
The reply to Kitchener's appeal for recruits was as prompt and generous.