sentences:  Although he had been passed over for a number of senior appointments previously, Gordon subsequently held the position of Chief of the General Staff without promotion to major general during 1912–1914 in order not to extend his time until retirement.Gordon relinquished this position in July 1914 and was on his way to England on holiday when the First World War broke out.He subsequently offered his services to the Australian Army but was unsuccessful, probably due to his age.