New Links Added

I have added a link to the journal of a Prussian militarist who is known only by a typically sinister codename: DampfPanzerwagon. Of course, as we all remember from our Intro to German courses at Eton, this means Steam Armor Wagon. It's probably some sort of Hun attempt to re-create one of Her Majesty's steam-powered landships.

I recommend you all keep a close eye on his journal, as he may let slip a clue as to the dastardly plans of the Kaiser if we are watchful. On the other hand, perhaps not.

Also, check out the Frothers Unite pages. Great stuff there, and quite civilized (i.e., British).

I've been in touch with another local aficionado of VSF gaming lately in the local area. We are considering a game in 25mm scale. While it is not the One True Scale, I do have some miniatures in that size. And, a game is a game, what? Right-o! Of course it is! We met via The Miniatures Page (theminiaturespage.com) and the message system there. Quite ingenious, and an excellent means of keeping abreast of developments in the hobby. I highly recommend you visit regularly.

I apologize for the extended delay between journal entries lately. Been a busy time around the domicile, you know? I shall endeavour to improve in the new month. Speaking of which, it is almost time for a new monthly poll... be sure to check back tomorrow and vote!

This month's poll

...seems to have hit a vein. By a good piece it is already the most voted on poll I have run. Granted, it is one of the more 'serious' polls as well, so that may account for your participation in it. Also, it is the first I have run for an entire month.

What think you all? More substantive polls and fewer ridiculous ones? Or should I run the substantive ones for the entire month and then throw in the more lighthearted ones for a shorter run?

I am already working on the question for next month's poll, but that shall remain a well-guarded secret until after midnight on 31 March...

HMLS Albert - Finished at last!

For those of you that have been following this telephonic differencing engine journal for a bit, you'll know what troubles we've had here with those blasted engineers.

First one of them gets drunk and breaks the port rifle.

Then one engineer gets the bright idea that instead of replacing the rifle, his new-fangled flamegun invention (the Richardson Heavy Flamegun, patent pending) would be better suited to the landship. "It's already been fitted to ASA #27," he pointed out. "And look what sterling service it provided at Ghola!"

So, no sooner has that field expedient been approved, mounted and tested, than the starboard rifle mysteriously disappears. Richardson blames it on thieving Johnnies, but I have my own suspicions. Obviously, we need a second Richardson for the starboard side as well. Unfortunately, he's only made the two so far, and we have a month's delay in getting another cobbled together.

Finally, it is all together. And here's the proof:

Begging is so demeaning.

So instead, chaps, I think I shall simply demand more comments from you.

In regards to the preliminary information and photstats of the Ghola action, Don M. said:

"Can't wait to read the full report, looks like an interesting battle. Great work on the paint job and nice Martian looking terrain!"

To which I say: "You're too kind, Don. But I'm glad you liked it."

Everyone loves feedback, especially of the positive sort. I am also willing to take constructive negative criticism.

I will simply have to see into the cause of the unseemly delay on the After Action Report. The Chief has been out of town for the last few days. I am sure that will be his rather paltry excuse. That, or some nonsense about the wife demanding some of his time and attention. Harumph!

Still waiting for the Reports...

   But here are a few pictures just to whet your appetites.

   The first shows the village of Ghola, with two troops of Galforrian Emerald Legionnaires guarding the shrine. In addition, a cannon has been sited near the gate of the southern wall. All animals were removed from the stone corral on the northern edge of the village, and three Martian riflemen await the British attack there.

   The second photostat depicts the advance of the Legion Extraterrestriale, along with l'Dame du Chaud, the Steam Lady. Notice all the smoke pouring from the boiler...

    And this last shot for tonight, ASA #27 of Her Majesty's Royal Artillery advances with loyal sepoys of the 1st Brittania Foot. In the background you can see both the Lieutenant and the late Sergeant Nuckles, as well as the bugler. Also, notice the thick Martian thornbushes. Texicans who have come to Mars claim it makes for excellent barbecue smoking, a cross between their native mesquite and hickory. Me, I just hope that no Martians are hiding in their depths, waiting to spring an ambush!

   That's all for tonight. Keep posted... I have been assured that the Chief Petty Officer in charge of relaying the After Action Report shall be doing so soon (hear that, Chief Stewart?)...