Darkness and approaching night then hid the landscape.

That evening we were told we need have no fears, for we were practically out of the dangerous zone.

We dined comfortably in our compartment, and I heard many more reminiscences of the advance from two travelling companions who had taken part in it.

Suddenly in the next compartment a party of Canadian officers commenced singing part-songs with real musical talent.

We relapsed into silence as we heard the "Swanee River" sung more effectively than I have ever heard it before or since, and it reminded me that we, too, were going home.