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General Freyberg to the Prime Minister (Washington)

We have just received orders from Eighth Army to move forward 200 miles in the direction of Florence into Army Reserve preparatory to being given an operational role. It is understood this will involve either holding a firm base or making a limited advance. I will cable details later.

This may complicate the withdrawal of the 4th Reinforcements, but the machinery has been set in motion and the quota will be withdrawn as soon as possible.²

The Club in Rome is being a great success. Nearly half the Division have been there.

The men are well, and we have carried out some valuable training while we have been in this area.