In private correspondence, dated 19 November 1918, to Mr A. Yockney of the Ministry of Information, from No.39 Stationary Hospital, the artist wrote 'I'm most keen to do a picture of Tommies round a little fire by Moonlight with one of them pacing up and down on the bank of the Rhine. The Watch of the Rhine you see'

These soldiers would appear to be Royal Artillery Drivers as they are wearing heavier leather gaiters than Infantry soldiers