Chapter IV: Section I: C. T. should start behind one of the fire-trench traverses

and not from a fire-bay. Every yard should be contestable for approximately the first 15 to 20 yards. This can be effected, and at the same time the effect of hostile artillery and rifle fire and bombs localized, by a series of traverses 9 feet square, the trench being approximately 7 feet deep and 2 feet wide at the bottom. Cut into the rear of a few of these traverses is a narrow recess through which one of the defending bombing party may take up a position in the center of the traverse and fire, kneeling or standing, through a loophole at the advancing enemy. The recess gives him ample protection, including head cover, and is so cut that the entrance is out of alignment with the trench behind him and he will be unaffected by a bomb exploding there. At the same time he may work with, and direct, the bombers behind him who are bombing over the traverse, and if it becomes necessary, they can also take cover in the entrance to the recess. The loophole should not be placed so high that it becomes possible for the enemy to come forward under it.

The most dutiable arms for the members of the defending bombing party detailed for this traverse work are what are known as “close-contact weapons,” generally including revolvers, bombs, trench knives, and very often a bayonet carried by pushing it down in the puttee.

SKETCH OF TRENCH SYSTEM]