"G allipoli Diary, Volume 2" by Ian Hamilton is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This volume continues the firsthand narrative of General Sir Ian Hamilton, who commanded British forces during the Gallipoli Campaign in World War I. The diary reflects Hamilton's strategies, observations, and experiences as he navigates the challenges of the campaign, including troop movements and logistical difficulties. At the start of the volume, the narrative details Hamilton's thoughts on the upcoming attack plans and the importance of surprise in military strategy. He recounts messages from Lord Kitchener, discussing troop movements and the necessity of substantial reinforcements to succeed in their objectives. The tension is palpable as Hamilton describes the trials of command amidst logistical failures and mounting pressure, while also highlighting his ongoing concern for the well-being of his troops. The opening segment effectively sets the stage for the subsequent military actions and the personal struggles of leadership during one of the Great War's most infamous operations.1 1th Worked in my office from early morning till 12.45. The whole scheme for to-morrow's attack is cut and dried, according to our cloth: time tables fixed and every round counted. Freddy Stopford and his Staff turned up from Mudros. Stopford in very good form. The first thing he did was to deliver himself of a personal message from Lord K. He (Stopford) wrote it down, in the ante-room, the moment he left the presence and I may take it as being as good as verbatim. Here it is: - "Lord Kitchener told me to tell you he had no wish to interfere with the man on the spot, but from closely watching our actions here, as well as those of General French in Flanders, he is certain that the only way to make a real success of an attack is by surprise. Also, that when the surprise ceases to be operative, in so far that the advance is checked and the enemy begin to collect from all sides to oppose the attackers, then, perseverance becomes merely a
