Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales
L. W. Sutherland diary, 24 September 1914 - 23 September 1915
MLMSS 1046/Item 1
[Diary entries use the dates as printed on each page]
[Page 1]
[Photograph]
[Page 2]
[Letter or postcard addressed to Corp Sutherland 1st Signal Corp A I Force – 1914 To our dear Son, Leslie William, on his leaving home for the German War & wishing him a safe & speedy return to his loving parents E. Sutherland and E Sutherland Melbourne Street Murrumbeena Victoria Sept. 1914]
[Page 3]
[Frontispiece for Letts’s Australasian Pocket Diary for 1915]
[Page 4]
[Frontispages with photograph of a woman, stamps and signatures]
[Pages 5-6 not transcribed]
[Page 7]
[Postage stamps and poem which reads: WEAR the famed Red, White and Blue, Till sweet Freedom reigns anew, And when Peace rules ev’ry main – Glad your Welcome Home again]
[Page 8]
[Photograph and inscription Allie Ford Murrumbeena Aug 19th 1914]
[Page 9]
[Egyptian cigarette card]
[Page 10]
[Photograph]
[Page 11]
[Photograph of a sailor]
[Page 12]
[Photograph of soldier on motorcycle and Egyptian postage stamps]
[Page 13]
[Photograph of soldiers on motorcycles
Hand-drawn map]
[Page 14]
[Shipping stamps]
[Page 15]
1 January 1915
Friday
Reveille at 6.
Stables as usual, a fine way to commence the new Year. We are then informed of a review by Georgie Reid. We marched out at 9.30 & went down to Tura (5 miles) before we turned so as to let the 1st Reg L.H to get in front. The Sig [indecipherable] as usual was last. Georgie took the Salute at Maadi station afterwards. The men were loaded at 4 Q dismounted to be addressed by his lordship. He was very short and sweet and impressed upon us the greatness of the job that is in front of us. After lunch [indecipherable] went for a trip to Hebron we got there after a hard ride on the Big [indecipherable] & then we located all the streets and found many of the beautiful buildings I have seen on postcards, after this we went over the mountains on the bikes coming down I struck a stone and the timing slipped we retimed 4 times got home at 5.30.
2 January 1915
Saturday
Reveille at 6
Stables this morning was a trifle irksome for the nags soon kick like ‘ell as Capt of the Picquet I had charge of feed it has been cut once again and now only consists of [indecipherable] barley or bran not enough to feed a goat on. [indecipherable] had the ride and Bill he was there also we had a fair dinkum go Charlie Cox was an easy first when I returned last I was greeted by Corp [indecipherable] accompany me over to the HQ of 3 Reg re the assault case but it was remanded till the morning. Jack knives were issued today & the Sig troop got their bearings, this afternoon was filled in by cooking. Bert as usual is Chef dumplins, fried again, onions etc they go well, Harold and I go for a stroll up the street after which all indulge in letter writing, horses are kicking like fun again (no feed) Bed at 9.15 pm.
[Page 16]
3 January 1915
Sunday
Reveille at 6.
Stables as usual & warned for Church after the usual line inspection. Only 3 go however, Hal, Bert and Bill go on leave & I have to fill in afternoon as best as I could, had an hours sleep and then wrote letters to Perl, mother & Florie. I also received a note from both Glady & Dot making the first since I left Australia. The [indecipherable] nearly meets his doom for he was out riding with Bill goes to take a jump & finds in time that on the other side is a hole thirty feet deep. I seen a lovely bay window in a mansion here it was a column stiled & [indecipherable] roof the sashes were divided down the century had the usual small panes & the fanlights were reversed this had the effect of setting it off great. The boys drive home at 10.30. Bert has proved himself an interpreter. Bed 11 pm.
4 January 1915
Monday 11 wks from home
Reveille at 6
On first parade I was warned to appear as a witness at the 3rd L H in connection with Teddy’s assault case the case came up at nine at the chap got 14 days, we the went to HQ, to [indecipherable] up the Signal Register then after dinner we travelled down to Tura for the usual work Corp Latimer went into Cairo and met the Company’s turn out & got at last some of our spares & shoes. Stables at 5 and Parade at 6 Station work was the order Hal and [indecipherable] went up the town for a stroll instead I wrote to Florie and fixed up an acquaintance for Harold. Our troop from today contains a C O, a Bde Major & Adjutant more Downing’s fads you would think he was I C of 3 to 400 troops his [indecipherable] are about twice as big as his [indecipherable]. Have applied for leave & got it for once. Adjutant.
[Page 17]
5 January 1915
Tuesday
Stables as usual
This morning I thought that I would pull down my [indecipherable] so with Toby I proceeded to do so then after getting the engine out of [indecipherable] we were thunderstruck to find that the timing pinions on both wheels were gone. They had evidently been badly forged or the steel hardening was too thick we then thought that it would be well to take down the others & made a start to [indecipherable] the same thing had happened there & also in Cairo the whole six were settled so now our bikes are properly settled it turns out to be exactly as Toby said. The breakages were taken over to HQ for inspection & Major [indecipherable] is now concerned that we are right. The Boss ordered us to put machines together and ride them with the words that they will run a far greater risk when they get to the front. Toby has another late run to [indecipherable]. Bed at 9.30.
6 January 1915
Wednesday 20 weeks of soldiering
Stables at 6.00
At first parade the [indecipherable] were ordered to put packs on with loads and the horses went real well but the horses with the poles are a little fidgety when unloading. Toby and I made a trough for [indecipherable] feed in but as usual the Boss wants it the opposite way. In the afternoon Toby pulls his machine down and we alter the timing timing so that it has put on 5 miles per hour. Now nothing of much importance happened but Corp Larkin and Bobby with myself were promoted to the Reg Signallers we are to start in the morning so now am glad that there is a definite job in front of me at least. No mail has arrived yet but a stray or two arrives every day. All leave is stopped from tonight on account of men from all camps taking French leave. Bed at 9.00
[Page 18]
7 January 1915
Thursday
Stables at 6 this morning as I was Capt of Picquet I had charge of feed detail and extra work was put on us on account of an inspection by General Birdgood Chief Commander of the overseas forces but he didn’t arrive till 10 o’clock this is the Johnny that has bunged home 160 officers 1600 men from Cairo because they were inefficient, at 11.30 the [indecipherable] started my chaps are good oh, but they know nothing the work of course was simple, sending, reading dummy station work [indecipherable]fixed up the motor today’s but they run anyhow for they [indecipherable] fearfully. This evening the orders came out for tomorrow & the rehearsal for the scheme of Mackworth’s on Friday. A few girls came about the camp. The chaps are as usual a [indecipherable] over anxious. Lett has fixed up Pentalis case. Bed at 10.15pm
8 January 1915
Friday
Stables at 6
The Instructional Staff took over their duties proper today and now we each have 3 n.c.o’s & 18 men to instruct the class is starting from the very lowest thing and works up to the most technic points in the course, we have got our work cut out & can expect no help from the N.C.O’s for they know nothing. Mackworth is running a scheme tomorrow to see how much they do know. The first mail arrived today and no pen can describe the feeling of the men discipline was forgotten for a few minutes but this is the mail dated December 6th I received 4 two from home one from Nell & one from Florie there is a lot of notes gone astray & I think that they must be in England & expect them to arrive any day. I had the afternoon off and spent the night at camp work. Bed at 9.00.
[Page 19]
9 January 1915
Saturday
Stables at 6.
In the morning I as usual acted as cook & made porridge. I’m getting real proficient at the act. Another batch of letters arrive but none for me. I must be satisfied at mine. Mackworth arrived & called his scheme through. I stayed in camp & tried to fix up my motor during the day the appeal was returned & now the motor is going to sent into Cairo to be repaired. The afternoon was a holiday for all hands most of the men went on leave, but I wrote letters Fletcher went to Hebron & left us in the lurch for stables. Bert Masters went to his lodge last night & had a royal time the people could not do enough for him. After tea I went for a stroll along the Nile with Bobby [indecipherable] then returned about 9.15 & turned in.
10 January 1915
Sunday 2 letters to Nell
Stables as usual
General clean up for inspection & then 25 of us went to church at the [indecipherable] we heard that Capt Fowler was to be married but it was postponed till Tuesday night. After lunch the CO took 5 of us out for a ride we first went to the [indecipherable] city, the masonry was noticeable for Grey especially the marble work. The streets are clean & in some parts rather narrow after the dead city we went round the Bilidel just in front of one of the gateways we met Capt Hurley [indecipherable] the temples off either side were great they go to an extreme height and the ceilings was beautiful inlaid to a great depth, the cornishes were [indecipherable]feet drops [indecipherable]rose temple with inlaid dome roof of stone each stone a different shape. Bed AT 9.00
[Page 20]
11 January 1915
Monday 12 wks from home
Stables at 6
The dome mentioned in previous page is of the most ancient order each stone is differently cut both ways & they number 53 till they run out at a point. The class is progressing good although some of the fellows want shaking up. The mail closed for home today. Bill Larkins mother & father arrived in Port Said in the [indecipherable] he got leave & left us at 10 by train & we expect him back tomorrow. The troop as usual went for the weekly bath. The motors were to go in today but were put off till tomorrow. Tank practice at 6 both for us & the Regimental Sigs. The C.O was told that within the month we will be on our way & the first trek is to be to Port Said thence by camel to Palestine. The usual concert took place tonight & an interesting lecture on the desert took place.
12 January 1915 Tuesday
Stables at 6
We fixed up the motors for removal to Cairo for repairs [indecipherable] has stated will run into €25 the timing pinions cant be cut as they are putting a steel plate on & case hardening cant be done there. The guard is still [indecipherable] at 12.30 last night one of the [indecipherable] was asleep & one of his mates woke him up whilst in the [indecipherable] Station house so as he would be in time to meet him then due he got up alright but he walked fair into the engine he had both legs cut off. They brought him down to the hospital where they finally removed his legs. He lasted till 4.15 pm & then he died he was perfectly conscious. Capt Fowler of the Meds was married tonight & the lads gave him a [indecipherable]. No sign of Larkin yet & no mail but expect some day after tomorrow
[Page 21]
13 January 1915
Wednesday 21 weeks of soldiering
Stables at 6
In the morning we heard that a huge mail was expected & are now anxiously waiting same. In the morning work was as good as ever & now only 3 men remain in B squad. The CO goes to town to have his teeth fixed up. At two o’clock the mail arrived but was not delivered till [indecipherable] 30 pm. I got all letters from Home & Nell by [indecipherable]. Nell says she wishes she was in Egypt (so do I) & hopes to be here soon. In the afternoon all hands clean camp and [indecipherable]. Toby retires his bike for speed. The report re bikes came in & [indecipherable] is pretty severe. I got invitation from an HQ Generals staff motor expert to attend a dinner & we have accepted some for Saturday the [indecipherable]. The Pictures started tonight for [indecipherable]. Bed 9.
14 January 1915
Thursday
Stables at 6
Soon after breakfast the Boss OIC OF 6TH Signal Troop ([indecipherable] men) struts up & down camp until stopped by General Birdwood who happened to be in camp & asked what Regt he belonged to the [indecipherable] CO of the Sig Troop & where is their lines. "Just past the AMC lines – not that handful of horses & two wagons "Yes sir". "I thought that was the Camp Kitchen for LH Brigade exit Teddy". To the dentists for repairs to teeth. An enormous mail came to hand today from England some of the back mails about 7 for me. In the evening Joc G & I gave the Reg’al CO lamp practice &[indecipherable] too which they took well considering. Two more days with [indecipherable] making nine up to now. Latham has assumed the offensive again [indecipherable] progressing favourably. Bed at 11 pm.
[Page 22]
15 January 1915
Friday
Stables per usual
The Third Regt were tried on Tactics today 2 acquitted themselves real well only procedure is still slack. The 1st are still on station work but are progressing slowly. [indecipherable] ie all breakages & losses due to carelessness are to be paid for by persons sustaining such losses. The truth is that the Boss is getting rather short of cash & consequently must find some channel to restore such funds. It will take a better man than him to define the word [indecipherable]. Toby received a note from home & is answering. Rumour has it that we move at any moment now so expect to be in France shortly thank goodness. Lamp work for Reg Sigs. Bed 9.30
16 January 1915
Saturday
Stables per usual
Men ordered to pack kit bags in readiness for move which does not come [indecipherable] bad boys picqueting bags to be on horses in fact everything ok but the [indecipherable] 5 staff dodge same. I have the afternoon off. Another mail to hand. I get one from home. Spend afternoon and evening letters, one home and another to Dot & [indecipherable]. I sent a cable home this morning for money I hope that [indecipherable] springs off his tail in replying. All married men to remain at base [indecipherable] not yet confirmed. Got in touch with [indecipherable] on Pyramids by Aclis I gave him a [indecipherable] I also asked him re Dinner next Saturday night answer satisfactory. No sign or word of machines yet hope they keep them for good. Bed at 11.30
[Page 23]
17 January 1915
Sunday
Stables as per usual
The back mail I spoke of yesterday came to hand & included 20 letters for me 6 from Nell 8 from home & the rest from friends including Mac & F Coles. The sale went off OK considering the times in the [indecipherable] 16 men Sgt Masters and myself went for a 10 mile ride on Harold’s horse. When I came back Bert [indecipherable] brother was back from Ch mas &stayed to tea. After tea I filled in my time writing letters to home & Nell. I did well for Xmas cards & got 6. Mitch 7 Larkin went over to [indecipherable] and after being robbed by several guides & niggers saw the interior of the Great Pyramid. Frank climbed the Pyr and after Bert had taken a few photos. The [indecipherable] are not proving too good. At the A tent this a//noon was a Christening of 2 ships. Bed 9.30
18 January 1915
Monday 13 wks from home
Stables as usual
My turn to sleep in then return to my squad they are getting on finely but one man Cunningham is down with measles & now am one man short but expect to replace him within a day or two as it is I have two new men who are even now showing promise, maps are claiming all my attention at present both making and reading my private one is nearly complete. In the afternoon carry the squad on a step further after tea the fellows were put on lamp work but the work is shockingly done and tomorrow night they go back to group reading after work play cards with the Regt N.C.Os and one is very funny with his opponent he continually hands over his cards consequently he euchred him 6 times. Bed 9.30 pm
[Page 24]
19 January 1915
Tuesday
Stables per usual
Cooking a bit of a trouble as wood is very green after break back to Reg Sigs. The coms in British Army are still open & Toby is making all inquiries & we learn that they are good oh. The boss has had his teeth fixed up at last the mail for Aust left today. The case against [indecipherable] turned out the right way for he only got 2 days. [indecipherable] must evidently have the folly of his ways and then to try & make amends for his arrears after tea I’ve been compiling a code & I also wrote to him giving him a graphic account of the different towns we have visited. The Sigs all have had riding practice with jumps this afternoon no accidents. Lamp works at night I wrote to Eric. Bed 9-15.
20 January 1915
Wednesday 23 wks of soldiering
Stables as usual.
After break I had my squad as usual the men have again been allotted bringing the HQ Sigs up to strength. No word of the motor’s yet but expect to hear tonight at the latest. I wrote home & to Nell and I think I really forgot myself for I really waxed sentimental & I also gave Eric a fait dinkum report of both Alexandria and Cairo. Planted road [indecipherable] & plotting for the N Bnd of left one first because was yards out but the next was right on it, the protractor was [indecipherable] had it explained properly until now. No answer to my cable yet, for it is now 21 days since I sent same. Toby [indecipherable] a rigger down to 25 mls per hour smashed his bike up to smithereens. Toby unhurt but bike slightly bent. [indecipherable] medical inspection to be on Monday next. Bed at 9.30
[Page 25]
21 January 1915
Thursday
Stables at 6.
We heard that the mail had arrived & at early morning parade it was delivered. I only got one from Mrs [indecipherable] in the shape of a Xmas card. News came to hand concerning the vacancies for commissions. Toby found out [definitely?] the news & now we are ok &our applications have gone in & now the Boss is up in arms concerning it two NCO’s myself and Bert Larkin are having a go with 4 other men , we don’t expect tp hear for a month how we get on but I personally think we are ok the money is poor so so it of course doesn’t meet with Teddy’s approval, £80 per year isn’t much to keep a [indecipherable] on but it doesn’t trouble me, I’m out for promotion so I hope for my own sake that I have the luck to get one. In the evening my squad has lamps Bed at 10pm
22 January 1915
Friday
Stables as usual.
Nothing of much importance took place today but all preparations are being made for the "big" scheme tomorrow Col [indecipherable] came over today and asked us where we were going to &he was told on a scheme & laughed for as he said how is it possible to have a scheme [indecipherable] so again Teddy is up in arms again. Larkin is on leave & Toby has heard of his accident the motor repairs have been passed for payment but the CO has complained to the Pay Master about the senseless advisibility of it so he is personally [indecipherable] on the subject also the NZ are [indecipherable] for the "Enfields" bikes so another chance lost to the Signal Troop we expect to move off at nine in the morning I’m riding a push bike thanks to the Boss. Bed at 9.30
[Page 26]
23 January 1915
Saturday
Received news of our movement on to Heboran at 8 but the time was put off for an hour for wireless was giving trouble we got there at two oclock after killing a large brown snake, we worked all the way with our three rigs & I pushed a bike worse luck when we got there first of all we had tucker to get then after that full on till 6 then phones till late into the night the boss gets up to his tricks what with cutting lines & taking men captured he quite enjoys himself, but as he was trying this he couldn’t help but get [indecipherable] very interesting ideas of himself especially from [indecipherable] after this we had tea then turned in with Bobby Sayers all the horses this time were tethered to a breast line about these the dear little kid, he has yet to gather a few more lessons then he may be fit to command a unit. Bed at 9.30
24 January 1915
Sunday
Stables as usual at [ ]
We turned out at 7 to water then had break and fatigues till 10 after that we went into Heboran for a couple of hours some of the streets were [indecipherable] by gumtrees and wattles some of which I sent home when we got back the camp was overrun by French kids and [indecipherable] had a woman as usual this is the latest addition to his list and we expect him to be a frequent visitor to Heboran now we set out at two o’clock for home the first thing of importance was a visit to a [indecipherable] flour mill these mills are entirely run by women only the [indecipherable] is in charge of men. They put the corn into the mills then whip down to fill the bags & this is all done with young kiddy’s in arms after the ride against a head wind we eventually got back at 8. Bed at 9.
[Page 27]
25 January 1915
Monday 14 weeks from home
Stables as usual at 6.30
After the [indecipherable] interval the [indecipherable] staff resumed our usual squads but I had a little rest in the morning the applications went into Head Quarters but the Boss is side stepping for he returned with them to night & said they had to be forwarded to the Brigadier with a letter explaining same. [indecipherable] was sent into town to get the cylinder of the WT require & he has just returned with it. Masters has been obstroplous lately for he has been on his crawling caper again. Wrote home to Nell yesterday & to Mother tonight for mail leaves tomorrow.
Army Service moved off today with their first load today for hehbron & are coming back tonight we move on Wednesday moving as far as we know now to continue our training as a division. News comes to hand of another German loss of a battleship (confirmed) Bed at 10
26 January 1915
Tuesday
Stables at 6.
My night on picquet so therefore my [indecipherable] on stables. After lunch the squads were put on the advanced station work. The squad had distance station work [indecipherable] & during [indecipherable] the mail came to hand, two for me one from home & the other from Nell written from Sorrento.
The 2nd force left on the 22nd after making their presence felt no answer to my cable yet. News came to hand that fighting had commenced on the ditch & the enemy had lost [indecipherable] the New Zealand infantry left for Ismailia at 8 & the Australians are to be left out of it on account of their behavior in Cairo but myself I don’t think its possible. The base hospital half moved yesterday & the other is to go immediately Day fair Bed at 10
[Page 28]
27 January 1915
Wednesday 24 wks of soldiering
Stables at 6
First parade was telephones for the Troop along the canal, the Boss was out on his bike capturing men up trees etc! Motor bikes were passed for repair at last. At ten this morning I got an answer to my cable from home it seems that the money has been sent & now only has to be collected. The gram was two days late having laid in the LA office for that time. The team is to move on Saturday to Luton loading to be done on Friday. Wind has been high all day and indications of rain is now noticeable but will as usual pass off.
The CO failed to recommend Toby’s application until [indecipherable] got on to his lug & now has changed his mind we have put in another from home through the High Commissioner of Australia. Leave stopped for two days on account of a Mohammad [indecipherable] Bed at 9
28 January 1915
Thursday
Stables at 6
At first parade the men were out on telephone work, the L.H. were on advanced station work. I got a letter from the bank saying that the money had been sent & only wanted collecting, so I am to go on leave tomorrow & procure it & also a notice for a parcel at Mena
We sent our second application away today & if we have any luck in three weeks time should hear from London. All preparations are made for move on Saturday & most of the stores have already left. We heard that the New Zealanders had had a touch with the enemy & had returned, but don’t know how true it is [indecipherable] day has come round at last and once again I’m flush if if only for a few hours. Bed 10pm
[Page 29]
29 January 1915
Friday
Stables at 6
After break telephones was the order & we ran out a mile of cable over all sorts of obstacles, on Aid to road & railway & I heard [indecipherable] the work was highly satisfactory. In the afternoon I went on leave the first place was Mena where I met [indecipherable] who [indecipherable] to be getting on well & also has been promoted No parcel was there for me so I left instructions for him to forward it on to me. I then visited the bank & after much palava got the money. I then bought a few postcards etc & got back at 5 pm only to rush about & clean up to go into town with the [indecipherable] We met several old [indecipherable] friends had a stroll round till 10 & then came home to hear that reveille was at 5.
30 January 1915
Saturday Broke Camp
Reveille at 5
They made a [indecipherable] of it this morning for a 6 oclock we had the camp emptied & at 9.30 we moved off to Heliopolis, where we arrive at 10 am. It’s a beautiful place & the buildings are lovely. The RC Cathedral ranks amongst the leading buildings of the world. Money seems to have been no object in those days for some of the fittings must have cost fabulous sums, the largest hotel is being used as a hospital & in the other the heads are hanging out. Harold hasn’t turned up yet but we expect him tomorrow without fail. By the grandstand is a [indecipherable] complete in every detail & Tob & I are thinking of giving it a go just for fun. Bed at 8.
[Page 30]
31 January 1915
Sunday
Reveille at 6
No lunch today as we were on fatigues straightening camp & lay out new lines shift tents up towards the mess room after lunch we all set to get new correspondence by the 12 oclock I had eight polished off so more than content to sit back in the afternoon Tob & I went over to the hangar & inspected [indecipherable] biplane which only a few months ago flew from Cairo to Khatoum a distance of 20 mls. This machine has flown lots of miles & not one accident. The [indecipherable] is just swathed in names of well wishes of his admirers. At the rear is another [indecipherable] to judge by the [indecipherable] Bed at 10
1 February 1915
Monday 15 wks from home
Reveille at 6
Stables per usual which now is much easier because the troughs are attached to our lines & for our use only. The squad Sig commenced work after a few days holiday & they were a bit lax in this job, tonight Brits have to lay down after a good deal of trouble. After lunch huge motor transports began to arrive then later ½ battn of infantry put in an appearance later on in the night the other half also arrived these men form part of the second force & are from [indecipherable] if possible [indecipherable] a real good time which follows a right royal feed after parading the streets for a while & visiting renowned places we fill in the evening at the [indecipherable] Bed 11.00
[Page 31]
2 February 1915
Tuesday
Stables at 6
[indecipherable] came over this morning and asked the boss would he have any objections to the Reg running a small scheme now at all, only plenty of sig must take place we left 9 oclock for a position to the S of camp but were kicked out because the [indecipherable] were having field practice & we were in the [indecipherable] zone the LH [indecipherable] of A & NZ were working in conjunction & they presented a fine sight when advancing in squadron the work went tip top only not enough of it so we expect to put in more again shortly. Word came through that the mails were blocked at Said as the gunboats were steaming up & down the canal for the Turks have brought the big pieces up & have dropped a shell or two on the ditch. Bed at 9.15 pm
3 February 1915
Wednesday 25 weeks of soldiering
Stables per usual
After break the Reg carried out their usual training. The reinforcements arrived under Harold [indecipherable] The time Hal had in Alexandria wasn’t up to much nothing to eat. All events are stopped in the canal & no mail is expected for a week or more. Turks are massing in force along the canal & a pitched battle is expected there any day. The Infantry are a poor lot the officers are a rotten crowd all boys. The New Zealanders commenced field firing today & quite startled the camp. By their outburst, the news was received from HQ re our applications, but he wont recommend Toby’s Bert’s & mine have been sent further. The other two troops are all mounted on Precisions & are going the same way as ours. Bed at 10.
[Page 32]
4 February 1915
Thursday
Stables as usual
My Reg moved out at nine for a Brigade Scheme, all the officers were present, but they know nothing about a form or register. The N Z arty was out in action & the L.H were with us they are a fine body of men both they and ours. Gen Birdwood opened the YMCA today & he spoke of our troops in action & informed us that it wouldn’t be long before we were there. The Turks attempted to cross the ditch by a pontoon bridge they were allowed to half construct it when the arty opened fire, the turks were blown to smithereens & 200 captured if the LH had been there they would have captured many more, our losses were two men injured. Teddy went over [indecipherable] Troop and they are any-how no instructors. Bed 9pm
5 February 1915
Friday
Stables at 6
Boot & saddle at 8 AM all brigades of LH were to work together & we were in our place attached to HQ with the staff. First of all the scouts on either flank were sent out with two squadrons on the forward move then the advance guard came next with the staff then first line transport & then main body covered by the scan squad the objective was a mountain five mile distant held by the enemy the advance was in extended order & the hill was assailed in mass at one oclock we then retired on to the Nile for water & dinner erected the WT & were congratulated by an AMG man on the efficiency of the Troop we got back at 7 for the day fed up, printed a few photos & then turned in at 9.pm.
[Page 33]
6 February 1915
Saturday
Stables at 6.30
Bert and I got our horses & decided to go for a ride we started first at the Nile & then road through mile upon mile of palms these palms are beautiful & the natives treat them with respect the country or farming is magnificent, the best of anything I’ve seen as yet we arrived back at lunchtime. I then had to go in for the motor to the Motor bay one was partly finished so I took it on the way out I hit the [indecipherable] & had the misfortune to get off before I expected to, when I came back eventually I printed more photos to send home in the night I made several light flag poles for the kids after looking me over a viper I killed yesterday Bed at 10 after a decent feed
7 February 1915 (page annotated 27)
Sunday
Stables always stables
I slept in this morning it being my turn I had to overhaul & fix up machine for tomorrow Reports have been coming to hand concerning the fighting on the canal & many wounded on both sides are arriving daily here. The Turkish prisoners are escorted here under strong escort by Australians. I went through the Cairo museum & had the pleasure of seeing old Rameses & the [indecipherable] only for him looking a little darker he hasn’t changed much since I saw him last. News came in later that the B company are off to the canal tomorrow & also the fifth infantry good luck to em I wish it was our turn which will probably be the next to [indecipherable] Bed at 9.
[Page 34]
8 February 1915
Monday 16 wks from home
Revielle at 5.
Moved off at 7.30 to Bal-de-Haroub here we met the [indecipherable] there HQ wasn’t up & we met under [indecipherable] was left there then we trekked 5 miles to [indecipherable] from there another 3 miles to Combera here we formed BHQ & remained there for 4 hours all work was done [indecipherable] roads were [indecipherable] at 4 oclock HQ retired on to [indecipherable] stayed there for 2 hours then a general retirement was ordered on to Bal-de-Haroub – from there to the Cairo [indecipherable] where we [indecipherable] I met Riley & Dicky all are looking well. No tucker again for us horses are well looked after for a change. Tea at 10.30 & turn in on a bag of [indecipherable] at 10.00 pm
9 February 1915
Tuesday
Revielle at 5
Got orders to move out along Main Road to bridge where the train lines cross over from there we march out on practically impassable road [indecipherable] behaving badly. Signalling is effected every way possible but dispatch & wireless [indecipherable] bulk of work. Bill Steel is wounded by the pole falling on his head the [indecipherable] was erected in swampy ground & [indecipherable] didn’t do any good by his usual [indecipherable] after first aid he gets along all right at 11.30 operations ceased & the troop retired on to the [indecipherable] for lunch & we [indecipherable] off home after having a feed we had a lay out feed up when the troop arrival & then tea after which we fixed up our beds whilst there a mail was handed in & I only got one from [indecipherable] Bed at 9.
[Page 35]
10 February 1915
Wednesday 25 weeks of soldiering
Revielle at 5.
March off at 7.30. Motors were to proceed to hospital & remained there till all troops concentrated & at 11 pm the whole division moved off each brigade acting independly our brigade moved to [indecipherable] & our job commenced properly from today we were worked more than ever we had done for motor [indecipherable] were in order from noon till night at 9 pm we were out of action as we couldn’t hold the road [indecipherable] has to retire here later [indecipherable] to take over all the work from then on. At four I returned to camp [indecipherable] & had the nighttime to be again disappointed the main body returned back via the dugout at 6 after tea entered up diary [indecipherable] & returned to [indecipherable] to pull down [indecipherable] tomorrow. Weather fine
11 February 1915 Thursday
Revielle at 6
I spent the morning fixing up my machine as the two days [indecipherable] on those rough road had done it no good. In the afternoon [indecipherable] & I went in for the repaired bike & as I had an hour to wait I went out to [indecipherable] & had a yarn to to the Corp of the 2nd Group the [indecipherable] as usual are doing no good with them at 2.30 I arrived at Cairo garage & got my bike filled up the tank & after riding a mile or two had to return as I was burning machine oil & consequently left a crowd of smoke in my trial. On the way out we struck the sultan & gave him a [indecipherable] of motor nuisance had the night off Bed at 10
[Page 36]
12 February 1915
Friday
Reveille at 6
Boot & saddle up [indecipherable] for days operations, battle firing we moved to a position about 2 miles on the Suez rod & there set up Divn HQ.Gen’s Godly & Birdwood were in charge assisted by two French officers and hundreds of others the artillery opened fire at 9 7 shelled a ridge 3 mls off where the entrenched enemy was when their arty had been silenced the LH advanced in extended order from the front & the inf at the same time pressed in from our R flank heavy firing was carried on throughout when we were within 200 yards of the trench we fixed bayonets and charged & carried the trench we got back at 3. Fine weather Bed 9.30
13 February 1915
Saturday
Reveille 6.30
This was a day off & I had time to peruse letters received from home & Nell it seems that every mail is showing me some new glorious thing on her not until now have I appreciated her goodness to me & if God so wills that I depart this life in Germany may I die with her name on my lips.
After tea Hal Bert and I went into Heliopolis for the evening and didn’t we have a time we started at [indecipherable] on the shute & it was great not all like the old Princess Court in Melb then had a trip on the Scenic Railway this is not quite as long as St Kilda but they travel faster. Supper followed at a French Café then strolled home wrote letters to Roy Ian & Mother [indecipherable] Chronicle was to hand and then home Bed at 11
[Page 37]
14 February 1915 (page annotated 28)
Sunday
Reveille at 6.30
After first parade I & Harold have a clean up for church , we fell in with the 1st Regt & went to the Presb in the YMCA when we arrived back the Brigadier called in the applicants for an interview regarding the commissions. He seemed pleased with most of the fellows after lunch the chums Hal Bert and I set out for Mena we arrived in Cairo at 1.45 hired a garry for Mena went about 2 ml when from under the turnout we had to haul out one of the horses freed up the harness & set on our way rejoicing got there at 2.30 I went to the Company’s line met [indecipherable] and Dicky had a yarn in the Sgts mess with old cards quoted Downing to them. Set out for Cairo at 4.30 & went straight to the [indecipherable] took a box & saw a splendid programme tea at the Obelisk Bed at 11.30
15 February 1915 17 wks from home
Monday
Reveille at 6.30
After first parade the order was signalling I fixed up my bike & had the morning off A mounted & armed guard for one camp was required to march & escort the Turkish prisoners from Cairo to the Tura prison the first Regt provided the majority of the men. [indecipherable] went for our remounts & spent the whole day in getting same & then my horse was finally allotted to go. Five of our horses are down with Colis which is pretty prevalent at present amongst our horses owing to the maize being sour. Ed & I pulled his machine down & out his bearings are worn & want repacking also the gudgeon is slack, so these will have to be [indecipherable] again in the reinforcements absent without leave. 7 days. Crawford up against Meredith and is going to the Brigadier. Bed at 10
[Page 38]
16 February 1915
Tuesday
Reveille at 6.30
Stables per usual then wireless go out with packs & sigs are on distant station work. Corp Larkin is sent into Cairo with wagon for repairs. CO in to see his Francais, getting a bit thick Latham is getting way over the fence & is likely to find himself up to his neck in it, & at seven tonight he ran against Mitch or rather tried to be, but had to crawl down eventually [indecipherable] brings the news that our chance for England is nil but afterwards we find out that such is not the case. Received letter from Chocolate England A Thomas am answering it shortly hear that no Australian mail this week, no boat’s running, went into town after tea & made the acquaintance of several ladies nothing doing though came back at 8.30 wrote this up. Received [indecipherable] for motor & turned in at 9.PM
17 February 1915 27 wks of soldiering
Wednesday
Reveille at 6
After Stables the CO left at 8.00 for the Suez Road district armed with a [indecipherable] the troop were to disband into patrols until fired upon [indecipherable] cover would be immediately be sought & concealed [indecipherable] everything worked well only the enemy at times was too elusive. Men arrived back in camp at 1 pm but Bert h & myself set out after the boss & after scouring the country for miles we missed him & when we returned he had the neck to [indecipherable] us on this subject bluff as usual prevails in the afternoon [indecipherable] fix up motor finally in the [indecipherable] Hal [indecipherable] & myself go up into the town where we had a quiet time & after a feed & a look around we made our way home. No mail arrived today & hear that none is expected till next week.
[Page 39]
18 February 1915
Thursday
Revielle 5.30
Boot & saddle 8.45 Brigade to move via Heliopolis to [indecipherable] thence on to the [indecipherable] then on to the [indecipherable] Railway station where BHQ was set up [indecipherable] 2 & 3 Reg were thrown out [indecipherable] our R & [indecipherable] Telephones & dispatch riders carried the main lines of com [indecipherable] had communications to Divn. H.Q. work was of the highest order & R Major highly pleased. Visual Sigs have died a natural death [indecipherable] to camp for main body at 3.30 we moved of at 5. 60 niggers take a fancy to our Tele [indecipherable] consequently we are minus a couple. Arrive back at 6.30 tea at 7 & then retire for the night. 9.30
[see image for drawing]
19 February 1915
Friday [obscured]
[indecipherable]
Revielle 6
Divisional scheme & Turks moved along Suez Road,10,000 Turks took part the column must have been 5 miles long the enemy were marking a ridge about 5 miles from first town & they were highly entrenched assisted by artillery. We launched our attack at 12 pm when the inf supported the [indecipherable] meanwhile the LH [indecipherable] & Howitzer batteries kept up a heavy fire on the enemy all the while our troops meanwhile had made an advance on the L but the reserves had to be called up to reinforce our R where the enemy proved to strong for us to hold there but the reserves turned the scales the ridge was taken & occupied [indecipherable] after a charge [indecipherable] the COs all inspected the position & then a general retirement to camp we arrived back at 5pm No mail, entered at register Bed at 9
[Page 40]
[see image for drawing]
[Page 41]
20 February 1915
Saturday
Revielle at 6.
In the morning I had to [indecipherable] Cairo to trans cut [indecipherable] for the boss. I went to the [indecipherable] office & saw the pontoons captured from the Turks & the effect shell fire had on them they were riddled from stem to stern. After that I went by train to the Motor br [indecipherable] concerning the wireless which according to the [indecipherable] are costing [indecipherable] due to arrive within the next day or two.
No mails have arrived this week & we hear that [indecipherable] has [indecipherable] out at Mena. The three heads went on leave again today & had a bonza time finishing up at the Kursaal & the Obelisk for tea. No chance of us leaving for a considerable time. Bed 11
21 February 1915 (page annotated 29)
Sunday
Revielle at 6
Hal & I went to church this morning whilst the men cleaned their paddles for tomorrow when the staff are out for instruction. After lunch Harold & I went on a visit to a Frenchman’s home & had lunch there after that we had a bath not at the [indecipherable] returned back to camp in time for tea [indecipherable] L has two friends here & after tea the whole lot except [indecipherable] & myself go to [indecipherable] Park. Heard today that there’s no chance of us leaving for months yet as things are altogether against it. Small pox has broken out at Mena 8 deaths & 16 down with it. Mena is to be quarantined & all troops to be revaccinated in 1915. Filled in afternoon printing photos taken by Toby & writing letters to Nell & home. Bed at 9.14 pm
[Page 42]
22 February 1915
Monday 18 wks from home
Revielle at 6.
After break. the troop made preparations for the days scheme as a huge sig scheme communication was to be tried. We fell in at the ridge & Gen Godly inspected both Troops [indecipherable] & our telephone [indecipherable] was missing & Godly roused up the [indecipherable] & sent him back to camp [indecipherable] meanwhile [indecipherable] moved off along the Suez Road. The [indecipherable] had quite a job to find us after the [indecipherable] telephones were used & they worked tip top, we [indecipherable] in at 3.30 when we arrived back in camp Tol & Jack I had to report at Div HQ re applications & they were accepted goodnight us. In the evening I went to a lecture by a Gen from the front & he was good & Im looking forward to when we get there Bed at 10
23 February 1915
Tuesday
Revielle at 6am
After stables the first parade was spent in tuning machines then in the [indecipherable] I with Bert went over to interview the Brigadier as to why our apps were refused & were informed that lack of College education, so am satisfied for a while anyway. Later a mail has arrived but no letter from Nell so hope it will come to light tomorrow. Turnbull gave us a good display of rough riding when he mounted his new nag it threw him once but he mastered it eventually. I went into Cairo this afternoon to the Cairo [indecipherable] then on to all the electricians in the joint for cells port telephones but couldn’t figure it out, received a mail from Stan Short – also one from Tom written at B Meadows. Bed at 10 pm
[Page 43]
24 February 1915
Wednesday 28 wks of soldiering
Reveille at 5.45
We moved off at 8.15 for a Brigade day out on the old railway, the column was in extended order with 2nd leading then came 1st 3rd lastly the 4th btalion when we took up our position the L.H entrenched themselves & the supports likewise, we came back at 4.30 & heard that another mail was in so of course I awaited it anxiously when it was delivered I got two from Nell one being the long looked for photo it’s a beaut & you may be sure I will prize it then the other was also a revelation for my sweetheart had broken out properly with sentimentality & many things are cleared up, Heard today that the three brigades of Inf & I to go N R are to proceed next Friday to France & [indecipherable] are to follow very shortly Bed at 10.
25 February 1915
Thursday
Reveille at 6
This proved to be a day off to prepare for the morrow another mail arrived & I got another from Nell & mother things are anyhow at home with the [indecipherable] who had been writing home concerning our doings here. Our new wireless arrived the sets are different in many respects, the [indecipherable] are smaller, has a [indecipherable] spark gap & the detectors are in series the C O was like a big kid & the cases couldn’t be opened quick enough I had the bad luck to break a lug of the cradle for the saddle & of course the boss said that I would have to pay for it but he’s struck the wrong one to pay none of the wireless were allowed to see the sets as they might tell the Germans Bed at 9.
[Page 44]
26 February 1915
Friday
Reveille at 5.
The whole brigade moved off at seven for a divisional day & the different [indecipherable] regs provided the umpires who are a decent lot our first stop was at El [indecipherable] then we advanced until the contact Sq were in touch with the enemy I had a trip out to El Bira right through the firing line we had to retire as the enemy were proving too strong on our left the infantry were brought into action too late & Gen Godly told Cheval what he thought of it. Gen Maxwell was present & is quite a notable person in his own way. We lost the day & returned to camp at 6PM cleaned up the horses & turned in early Bed at 8.30
27 February 1915
Saturday
Reveille at 6.
After first parade the order was clean saddlery & generally clean up the bikes & generally overhaul same, the afternoon we had off. I amused myself with writing letters home, Harold & Bert & I went out to tea & Bert H & myself had a bath after which we participated in supper. Remounts were tried & one proved a little frisky but was eventually overcome. Motor bikes finished & a board is to sit on them next week with the boss as president. Lt Bell has been looking all round Cairo for machines & there is 1 Singer 1 Rudge 1 Douglas & 2 Triumphs so out of the lot we ought to get satisfied at last. The M P had a parade & were inspected along with their kits everything points to an early departure. Bed at 9 PM
[Page 45]
28 February 1915
Sunday
Reveille at 6.00
After stables the men cleaned up for church Harold & I went again, after church the usual inspection, in the afternoon the boss stopped us from going to the motor cyclist’s parades after tea the trio went to Luna Park as usual & had the usual good time on the many attractions when I got home I again wrote home & to Nell this makes seven for this week just before though we had supper. News has come to hand again that we are off to Turkey & are off next Wednesday week. The third Bde are off at 2PM on Monday accompanied by the telephone section Met Dicky Houghton in Heliopolis after the remount at [indecipherable] spent the night at the song service when we came home Bed at 10
1 March 1915
Monday 19 wks from home (page annotated 31)
Reveille at 6.00
Stables at 6.30 & then the men were sent out on telephone duty, but the phones are not proving too good for they get out of adjustment too easy. All the regimentals were tried out for a signalling test & the first did real well & the others fair. In the afternoon the motor cyclists went into Cairo for the repaired bikes. Norm & I went in for my machine & I had the rottenest ride I ever had for the lads had [indecipherable] the bike by a fouled pin, broken chain & several other things, on Monday even the lads went for a table talk, up to Heliopolis for the usual stroll had supper and then returned to camp fixed up preliminaries for tomorrow & the 1st Regs have to be third over again the New Enfields are no good at all & the N Zealanders are going off same Bed at 10.
[Page 46]
2 March 1915
Tuesday
Reveille at 6
Stables per usual, & in the morning the CO went into Cairo to try & fix up shortages harness etc Norm and I went into [indecipherable] for machine we fixed it up. When we came home the [indecipherable] is here as usual in a rage over the book for ordering the removal of all [indecipherable] Bert L & myself went out to tea to his Aunts place at [indecipherable] we had a most sensational ride for the cabby was half sprung & he tried all he knew to bluff us but no go. We got there at 6 pm & had tea later which consisted of 6 courses. The daughter proved tiptop & so did her [indecipherable] we left at 4.30 & had to [indecipherable] for miles but we eventually arrived home safe & sound.
3 March 1915
Wednesday 29 wks of soldiering
Reveille at 5.30
Boot & saddle 7.30 & moved off for a divisional day. The two brigades were to attack & recupy a position at [indecipherable] we got into position at 10.15 & engaged the enemy on our left then the NY brigade found them on their right we now held a line some five mls in length the arty opened fire from a range of 6000 yds & quickly brought the enemy to his knees then the inf advanced two mls under protecting fire both arty & dismounted men the inf arrived at trenches held by LH & NZ & then the assault general began with the result of the hill falling at 4.45. We then retired to camp arriving at 5.30. Had tea received orders for the morning. I have to run into Cairo with the C.O. [indecipherable] Bed at 10.
[Page 47]
4 March 1915
Thursday
Nell’s 21st birthday.
Reville at 6.
Today Nell comes into womanhood. May God guard & protect her along all the paths of her future life, & bless her in whatever she undertakes to do.
I had to take the C.O. into Cairo on the back of my seraf & then we went to the Govt workshops. Grant & Chivers, the Tele company had a blow out & got back to camp at 3.5 (no dinner) the VL have sent their troop over for instruction in wireless & [indecipherable] has them. Harold & myself went to the movies & spent a good night, one picture explained plainly the positions of the contesting guns up to the end of September. We have received new phones of an improved type & also a controlboard for them [indecipherable] as usual is monkeying with them. [indecipherable] is introduced to [indecipherable] Bed at 9 pm
5 March 1915
Friday
Reville at 6
OCI for the day it mine I again went into Cairo with the C.O. & then on a dare had two blow outs & the timing claws broke 4 times fixed them up & got back to camp at 4 pm. While at [indecipherable] Jack Bruce, Paddy Hamer, Bobby Stewart & Freddy Baker [indecipherable] sat on our bikes today & [indecipherable] & myself had to give evidence , everything seems to be OK & we are to get a Ridge [indecipherable]
Tonight our scheme takes place & all troops are to be out by nine oclock. We expect to get back tomorrow morn about nine. A stampede occurred in the second Reg’s lines but was put down without much trouble. [indecipherable] has bought all the film in Cairo for his camera. We went over the Citadel today from the Egyptian army’s end. No mail to hand this week. Helmets expected shortly. Bed at 9.
[Page 48]
6 March 1915
Saturday
Revielle at 6.
After stables I again went into Cairo & did the round of trips, first to the Citadel, then to the O’dance where we got out rifle buckets at last. Weather very gusty & plenty of dust. We got back at two pm, filled in the afternoon by sleeping, feed up at 5 pm mounted [indecipherable] for Corps Larkin & Letch who were on leave to a friend of Berts, new phones had capsules replaced & reported OK. Wrote home & to Nell, my JAP celebrated its birthday today & right glad am I to know the she is still OK, heard today that we are off to Turkey for certain as 160 interpreters are required & we expect to receive our helmets any day now. News is very scarse just at present, & we are looking forwart to the next mail.
7 March 1915
Sunday
Revielle at 6.
Stables per usual then after first parade kit inspection when all kit other than that issued to you had to be confiscated or given away. After dinner Hal & I went off to the terminus to meet our friends but they forgot to turn up so we put in the afternoon by looking up different friends on the balconies, came back to camp at 5 in time to see an operation on a house in the A.P.C. lines. After tea S.S.M. Coyne sent a letter to McCutcheon saying that Jock White, Jimmy Tongue, & Pte White were killed in action about the 9th. S.S.M. Farrow with a lady called on us last night & we spent a real enjoyable time for the lady was a real sport & she saw through the red tape business of the [indecipherable] Troop. Bed at nine pm.
[Page 49]
8 March 1915
Monday 20 wks from home
Revielle at 6
After first parade I had another trip to Cairo with the C.O. & got back at 1 pm for lunch. Our boots hob nailed came to hand today & they are awful. I promptly pulled mine out. Sgt Metcher went to Mena to try & get his brother into the Troop, he came back at 6 & had fairly good luck. The corp went for their weekly wash. Another beastly day & nothing but dust. We heard that the mail is expected tomorrow or Thur I hope to goodness that its true. Tomorrow is another large day & we are to be the white force, & to move out at 7.30 am. The W.L. came over again today for WT instruction but they don’t seem too [indecipherable] for it & don’t intend to take it with them. The reinforcements are due to arrive on camp any day. Bed at 9.30
9 March 1915
Tuesday
Revielle at 5.30
We marched out at 7.30 in column by way of the Suez Canal on to the 3rd Tower, on the way out we passed the Inf cookers returning to camp after bivouacing. We were the White force & the N.L. were the Blue. Well we made an attack or an advance from No. 5 Tower to El Marg but the enemy were holding a position SE of the [indecipherable] station. Two regs were sent out to engage & dislodge them but they proved too strong & we had to retire. The reserves were sent up & they held the enemy meanwhile a reg of enemy by a brilliant right flank movement came right in on our left shot all the horses to pieces as well as threatening our rear our arty being useless. When the umpires saw this they ordered the "Stand Fast", we having lost the day [indecipherable] should have forced through got back at 2.30. Bed at 9
[Page 50]
10 March 1915
Wednesday 30 wks of soldiering
Revielle at 6.
After the usual stables I had to go into Cairo with the C.O. to the Gov workshops then to Ordance from there to the Cairo garage & then home. When we got back we received the welcome news that the board on the motor cycles had condemned them & we were to proceed straight away & get the new ones tomorrow as we are off in tomorrow to bring them out. Mine is a Rudger, Norm has a Singer & the spare is a Douglas, we have to make out a list of spares for each separate machine. Mail arrived at 2 pm today. I got letters from home but none from Nell one also from Jim Mac. No parade was held this afternoon on account of the heat, but work is to proceed at night as usual. Phones are to go out & wireless to erect later, times erecting 30 mins dismantling 25 mins. Masters got the news that he has come in £300. Bed at 9.
11 March 1915
Thursday
Revielle at 6.
After stables the C.O. & myself proceeded into Cairo & had a most unenjoyable ride for it was the most unpleasant day we have had yet. We had to go to the Gov workshops whilst there I struck up an acquaintanship with a young chap who in turn invited me to tea which of course I promptly accepted. We went up into Cairo thence on to the Citidel where we picked up stores. I had a look at the Triumph & superintended the alterations to same. We got back at 2 pm. Pay arrived & we duly got it at 6. Another mail & I got [indecipherable] 2 from Nell & beauty’s too. One states that she gave T Freeman a message for me so I intend to look him up. I left camp at 5.30 for Cairo to go to this Johnny’s place for tea had a real tiptop time with plenty of music. Arrived back at 10.00 Bed at 11.
[Page 51]
12 March 1915
Friday
Revielle at 6.
Another trip to Cairo but am disappointed for the OC of D is on sick leave so have to wait for a day or so. Another hot day but cool change follows later. The Third contingent arrived at Alexandria & J Canduff is L.S.M.with Len Scorer as hq Corporal the [indecipherable] waggons have sprung bottoms & are real good for now all spring will out of the waggon. The 10 Reg came along with them but the 8th & 9th are to follow 8 days later. I had to take stand by for Toby & had a run at 10 to Mena. A beautiful night for a spin & I got back at midnight. I took Toby’s machine & jolly near stuffed his gears, he & J Hobbs received an urgent letter asking them if they would accept a comm. in the [indecipherable] Army. They replied in the affirmative. Divisional Scheme today & we for a change had a win against the Tommy’s. Bed at 10.
13 March 1915
Saturday
Revielle 6 pm
Still another trip to Cairo for the C.O. Joc Gillies has at last got his promotion & is now a Sergt at present he is down with pains in the body, & has to be sent into a hospital to recupperate. At lunch time Tom Freeman putts in an appearance & delivers Nells message to me. She tells him that all’s OK & things are fairly bright only for some reason or other she has got into her head that I am homesick. The Quartette went on leave as usual at 2.30 & spent the usual good time we started with a bath & then a feed, went to the movies & then to the [indecipherable] After the musical had tea & then went for a stroll round Cairo, took motor & arrived back in camp at 10.00. The repaired waggons have come to hand & look anything but nice, also all the saddlery which is of inferior leather. Bed at 11 pm.
[Page 52]
14 March 1915
Sunday
Revielle 6.
Stables per usual & then I’m sent to Mena with an order to visit the 3rd Troop under Left [indecipherable] find him at 11 & meet an old acquaintance Rob Inglis who is with the third as [indecipherable] operator. While here the engine seizes, take it down & find both pistons smashed to bits, put cover on bike for them set out for home at 2.30 arrive safe & sound. Mail in & delivered later none for me the long talked of motor race comes off & the Rudge walks home, although the Big H is fair. Revielle is at 3 in the morning but I’m not going out as I’m booked to run into Cairo again. I saw Geo Elliot at Mena today. More [indecipherable] have arrived during the last few days namely the "Herts" & the London "Countys". Meet Lt H at Mena hear that the old [indecipherable] is at Alexandria. Bed 10 pm
15 March 1915
Monday 21 wks from home
Revielle at 3
News comes to hand of Lt [indecipherable] death he is killed in action in France we had to pass the [indecipherable] at 4.5 this morning & to take up a position at the [indecipherable] I went into Cairo after those bikes I saw Mr Evans & he sent me back to the Brigade Major for his sig I came back & found him out. The troops arrived back from manoevours at 2 pm, the afternoon was off by the way we again won the day against the Tommy’s. In the night we strolled over to the Picture’s which havn’t been up to dick, during the performance a stone was thrown against the screen which resulted in a hole. After seeing four pictures they again threw on the screen the first one result, the joint was threatened. Wrote to Nell turned in at 10 pm
[Page 53]
16 March 1915
Tuesday Received our new machines
Revielle at 6.
Off again into Cairo & this time we are successful re bikes, we set light [indecipherable] to alter & adjust them, the boss rode out his Douglas & got on real well, the Trusty Triumph is good [indecipherable] & fast too. Heard today that we are here for another three weeks at least. No mail for me has yet come to hand from Sundays distribution yet. News came to hand that the Good Hope has sunk the Dresden which a few months back went as near to doing the same to her. A thunderstorm broke over the camp this morning & we were quite refreshed to feel wet again, the roads were exceptionally heavy. Hal Letch receives an answer from Miss P at last. [indecipherable] goes on leave with his brother who at last Bed at 10.5 pm
17 March 1915
Wednesday 31 wks of soldiering
Revielle at 6.30
Had another run into Cairo with the boss went to the Gov workshops first & then to Cairo Motor then home the boss had a spill at the conclusion of the ride by running through the Sgts Mess. Toby & I then went again to Cairo Toby on the Douglas which has turned out to be very fast & mine when tuned improved greatly. The Troop moved out at 6 pm for a scheme to last until 11 pm. I dodged it & wrote letters. My mail arrived today one from Nell & the other from Mother. The boys returned at 11.10 all out had tea ready for them. "Furphy’s" Australian forces to provide & train remounts for submarine section Germany [indecipherable] for pieces. We are or were to leave shortly in about a months time. Our caps forage come to hand Bed at 9.10.
[Page 54]
18 March 1915
Thursday
Revielle at 6.
Stables as per usual & we managed to capture a [indecipherable] bay horse in the desert. Another letter comes to hand from the Pater, another couple of trips into Cairo first to the Gov Workshops thence a general round first to the bank, then to Bhamer to Morings back to the Workshops & from there home. After lunch I rode the last Big H to its resting place the Cairo Motor garage never again do I wish to mount one of those bikes, the Triumph is OK & a beautiful machine to ride. Left Cairo MG at 3 called at the Company came out on the Singer had tea at 6 made waterproof bag to fit on the back of the machine, wrote letters. Harold & Bert L on leave. Bed at 10 pm
19 March 1915
Friday
Revielle at 5 am
Stables at 5.30. Boot & Saddle at 6.30 for days scheme troops moved out to Abrassia Butts for inspection prepartory to Monday’s moblisation we were to engage & attack enemy who were strongly entrenched along the Suez Road located them at 9.5 & general assault followed soon after enemy brought heavy cavalry reinforcements on our left, we retired ½ mile to a new position where we not only held them but beat them. The boss had a lovely spill [indecipherable] & right with the staff. In the evening the quartette went to the movy’s for a change. Furphies! we are to move next week about Wed or Friday. All troops to be aboard transports. Troops issued with caps forage Bed 9.30
[Page 55]
20 March 1915
Saturday
Revielle 6.
Stables per usual, sent into Cairo for kick starter, gov workshops, for climbing irons etc arrive back at camp at 1.5 left again for ride at 2.00 went to Hebraan via Maadi all the way from Cairo to there (14 mls) was nothing but locusts in huge swarms. The natives tramp up & down the crops with tins to frighten the locusts the roads were just seething with them & you could kill hundreds just with your pump. We are to trek to Helouan next week & to stay a night there & one each way at Maadi. Two British battleships sunk at the Dardenelles, & 1 French. Only 1 more fort to silence then up we go. The boss & [indecipherable] go to Maadi & he has another fall [indecipherable] is now at Alexandria & doing well Bed at 10 Write to Nell
21 March 1915
Sunday
Revielle at 6
Stables per usual. 17 men attended Church Parade. Toby & I pull our machines down for overhaul. Tents are struck for airing. Locusts still about in swarms. Have a great bit of fun when putting up the tents succeed in getting [indecipherable] inside poor beggar he nearly suffocates. Letch meets friends & slips down the town for tea. The Corp from the 3rd Troop paid us a visit is battling hard to get their machines condemned. Write letters to Pater, [indecipherable] & Nell, also sent her a book. No mail to hand yet expect it about Tuesday. Orders come to hand re the mobilisation for the morrow every man has to be accounted for & all ranks to attend. Furphy’s motor cyclists are to ride horses if we go to Turkey. Italy on the brink of declaring war, decision anxiously awaited Bed at 9.10.
[Page 56]
22 March 1915
Monday 22 wks from home
Revielle at 5.30
Troops boot & saddle at 7.30 the new W packs are put on for the first time the engine load very bulky & "Baby" had a sore back. The Review was gorgeous the L H marched past in column of squadrons & their drill was perfect. Next came the [indecipherable] not nearly as good then the Engineers with our Troop with them our fellows were splendid especially the wireless. Just before we moved off Baby, Baldy, Bluey & Co gave the L H an exhibition of how packs ought not to be put on & [indecipherable] gets another spill. I went into Cairo this afternoon for our photo’s then went for a ride down the Alexandria road. Inspection of saddling equipment. Remounts arrive (2) for our rejects. Revielle at 5 in the morning. Bert M is a little off color again. Try my bike against the Rudge but am not in it Bed at 10 pm.
23 March 1915
Tuesday
Revielle at 5.30
Great bustle all the morning for today we are off for a 4 days trek to Helouan via Maadi. I was sent into Cairo first for leg irons procured them & returned to Heliopolis had lunch & at 3 the three motor cyclists set out for Maadi arrived there at 4.5 to await the arrival of our troops we won the day for wonder the troops bivouaced just below the troughs & we (HQ) were at the end of the street. We kept up L.C. all night by wireless & Tele. The CO joins the staff mess & consequently is overjoyed at the prospect of being a toff again. The wireless horses clear out while the men are hiking up. Toby goes in for the mail, one arrives for me from the Mater none from Nell. Harold & I sleep together & spend an enjoyable night Bed at 10.5 pm.
[Page 57]
24 March 1915
Wednesday 32 wks of soldiering
Revielle at 5.30
Awake to find all troops in readiness for move to Helouan all troops to go in column of route via the road the motor cys have plenty to do for to do to keep the Staff in touch with all Cos is no light job the roads are still as good as ever although fairly narrow to carry troops we got to Helouan at 3 PM & when we got there the CO sends me back to Camp for the remainder of the WT silencer arrived at 4.35 left again at 5 & arrived at Helouan at 5.35 for 23 mls. Telephones run out at night & I had to take the commutator when I was relieved Hal & I strolled down the town. Met Masters had a shave, returned to camp fixed up bunk. Bert Larkin was caught off the lines & is on duty for the rest of the trip Bed 11.50
25 March 1915
Thursday
Revielle 5.15 PM
Off again at nine for Maadi again via road trip very trying both for horses and men we got into Maadi at 3 PM had dinner & then got a mess through to say that the rest of the mail is ready for us a motor cyclist is ordered to go in for it so Billy Muggins is sent in for it. I got four one from Nell, Mother Pater & Ern so spent a pleasant hour reading same several things in them amuse as well as interest me. I got back from Heliopolis at 6.0 had a bit of tea, took engine driver for a spell then had a go at the phones which needed repairing fixed them Hal returns from the "fantoon", fixed up our bunks for the night Monty goes in a boxing comp & is beaten on points Bed 9.30
[Page 58]
26 March 1915
Friday
Revielle at 5.30
Stables per usual & then load up for return trip to Heliopolis, transport is to return via road under Capt Berry, troops are to go across the desert & engage enemy who are holding the country round the citidel the motors move off on their own, I went to the [indecipherable] shops for notice boards & then to the Cairo & later on got my dial taken arrive at Heliopolis at 10.35, the troops get in at 2.55 have dinner, sleep the afternoon pay arrives during the afternoon & a scene occurs during the paying the CO tries to charge us for articles lost in service but we won’t have it & we tell him no & in the end we gain our point. Hal & Bert go on leave I write letters Bed at 9.PM
27 March 1915
Saturday
Revielle at 6.
Stables per usual after which I went into Cairo to make the usual round of visits, bought cards etc to send home. Got back at 2 PM for dinner in the afternoon start on my correspondence Harold & Bert are on leave. Bert and myself go for our usual bath, have a feed. At 2 PM a couple of chaps from the M.G I got on the bust & commenced to give Hassein a rough time, he bolted into [indecipherable] tent who told the crowd to disperse but they instead cracked him & bolted Teddy turned the troop out to capture them but we were a little on the slow side for they regained their lines by this time the guard was on the spot the Ringleader had broken his hand so he had to be escorted up to the doctor. Letters writing till 10 then bunk
[Page 59]
28 March 1915
Sunday
Revielle at 6.30
I started straight on my bus for today I’m standby. Church follows all the chaps turned out again. I had two trips to [indecipherable], then go on with letters Bert’s friends arrive & they stay to tea, which is something out of the ordinary for table-cloths appear on the table [indecipherable] arrived during the afters & he & Bill kicked up a din because they weren’t invited into tea Bert and Hal went down the street with the [indecipherable] I got all my correspondence up to date for once. The trial came off re the dust up yesterday, they were remanded to appear in a District Court Martial which means that they will get 6 months. A mobilisation is to take place tomorrow when Gen Hamilton is to have a peep at us & then dines with [indecipherable] Hassein at Helouan
29 March 1915
Monday 23 wks from home
Revielle at 6.
Stables per usual I have another trip into Cairo visit friends at Cairo M Coy. At 12.55 the troops boot and saddle for the inspection at 2.30 I sneaked off over to have a look & they presented a fine sight as they march past in squadrons [indecipherable] they took a full hour to march past, the [indecipherable] were out also & looked well. I just got back in time to beat the troops in. Aust mail left today. In the night I had a dispatch to take to [indecipherable] as all the N.C.Os were at a lecture I got an answer to sent to Suez & it was this [indecipherable] details to return with full kit at once destination changed: so that means that we are here for a little longer the lecture was on [indecipherable] in the front Bed at 9.30.
[Page 60]
30 March 1915
Tuesday
Revielle at 6.
Stables per usual & I had to lower my gear, in doing so I found that the pulley was out of tract so we had to pull the bus down this afternoon & found that one of the flywheels had slipped every nut on the bike had to come off & the threads had to be refilled as they couldn’t have been tightened in the first place. I had to go into Cairo on the Douglas, saw Cairo M C, met the Sultan. The troop went for a little telephone practice in El [indecipherable] Hobbs has an accident with the leg irons slipping & down he comes Heard that we are to be quartered in barracks shortly No mails this week so will have to wait another Troop horses have to go to the Barrage to swim on the eighth so we are looking forward to this 3 days bivvy with 1 full day there. Bed at 10 PM
31 March 1915 33 wks of soldiering
Wednesday
Revielle at 6.
Stables as usual the mess room had to be prepared & passed by HQ at lunch I had to go to [indecipherable] & look up the 2nd & 3rd reinforcements but no luck so strolled into Cairo with Jack B. left there at 2.30 for home & met Toby at U.S.C. who informs me that the WT had received their marching orders. Got back to camp to find it was true, they are to go with pack horses only & the men to walk. I was then sent into Gov workshops to pick up engine clamp which was not finished of course back again at nine the 2nd [indecipherable] are also to go with [indecipherable] expect to embark tomorrow night on a gunboat. Sgt Metcher is to be in charge of whole four detachments [indecipherable] rations were served out at ten Chas [indecipherable] is made a Norton cyclist in place of Toby Bed at 10.
[Page 61]
1 April 1915
Thursday
Revielle at 4
Stables at 4.30 & all the wireless pack horses are loaded ready & sigs are to accompany them as far as the station to return with their hacks everything is ready at 6, they move off at 6.30 to a ringing cheer from the boys the CO follows on the Douglas & then goes to Mena to lunch with the Maj [indecipherable] from the front, they have our Sig Company there waiting to go along with the Div whilst he was there a telephone mess came to the effect that the CO is to catch the 4.15 pm train to Alexandria & take command of wireless sections I was sent off to Mena at top speed but he passed me on the way I came back after I visited the company when I passed the [indecipherable] I saw the CO going in a car at 40 mls to catch the bus. Bert & I went to a concert at YMCA. O.K. Bed at 10 pm
2 April 1915
Friday
Revielle at 6.
Stables as usual only about 2 horses per man, & we have orders to move our camp over alongside the HQs start at 8.30 & after working hard all day we get the last load over at 7 just in time to hear that the remainder of the WT section & [indecipherable] men are to report at once (tomorrow) to Alexandria they catch the 4.20 pm train. News has come to hand that a roit has sprung up in Cairo. A [indecipherable] stabbed a Moari & the rest set fire to the place & now four places are ablaze. Special piquets have been called out & the Red caps are proving aggressive & great things are expected tonight from the boys. Sgt Masters leaves in charge of the crowd after fighting the PSM for his position. The Sec Troop are taking all their horses & we are trying to do the same. Hear that 3 men killed & 3 wounded in the dust up. Bed at 10 pm
[Page 62]
3 April 1915
Saturday
Revielle at 6.
I accompanied Sgt Masters & the troop details into Cairo last night they caught the 3.20 am train & had to entrain at 12.30. The full news of the Battle of the Wog have come to hand the casualty list is as follows killed :- 2 Red caps 1 NZ 1 Australian (Mena) & 1 Manchester. I had to run round the battlefield & to judge by the debris things must have been humming some, there’s hardly a whole window in that quarter. All leave is cancelled & hear that all troops are to get CB. Infantry leaving in droves for [indecipherable] & I met Teddy H who is to embark on the Minnahousta on Monday for Syria. 60,000 Manchester arrive to give a hand against the Turks. Motor cy’s to remain at Base. Bed at 8.30.
4 April 1915
Easter Day
Revielle at 6.30
Stables, stables always bally well stables each man has two or more gee’s so of course have to keep their back bent. I wrote home & to Nell also forwarded photos. The boys (wireless) have gone to a place called Lemnos its an island about 40 miles south of the Dardenelles the island is 20 miles square two stations are here & the other two are on the main land, the work they are doing is signaling the result of the firing back to the warships. We hear that the 8th Brigade is there also. The C sigs & Bert M have been attached to Army Corps HQ permanently so we cant hope to see them again here. The LH Bde is to move to Alexandria when the Inf have got clear we may not be wanted for weeks worse luck. We had the afternoon off thanks to M Bell Bed at 9.30.
[Page 63]
5 April 1915
Monday 24 wks from home
Revielle at 6.
I’ve never experienced such a day for one of the Philmus winds sprung up at 4 oclock blowing right off the desert. They’re called 50 dayers for they say that they blow for that period at a stretch. Dust! why we know what dust really is the horses are nearly stifled with it. To make matters worse I had to go to the Barrage (31 mls) to take an order to the 2LH who were swiming their horses there its a most beautiful place possibly the finest of its kind in Egypt a most beautiful bridge spans the river & opens out into a lovely park about ¼ of a mile long. I then had to go to Mena to visit the 3rd Troop on bus for PSM Latham. Got home at 2.5 in time for more dust. We live, breathe, sleep & eat it now. Mail arrives at 3 I get 6 one from Nell & the rest from home Bed at 8.30
6 April 1915
Tuesday
Revielle at 6.30
Stables as per usual after break I got on to the bikes & gave it a thorough over haul. The Sergeants position in the 1st Reg has been filled by Billy Nelson. Got news yesterday that Arthur Fox killed himself whilst riding his J.A.P. Received a letter from [indecipherable] who gave us the exact destination of our chaps. Another mail arrives & I get two more from Nell real beauts. Whilst shaving the morning I cut about two inches of my nose off with the razor. Bert Larkin asked me where I placed his towel & in returning my head I ran foul of the razor. Heard that we are off within 14 days to Alexandria & to go into Barracks. Toby has been appointed to home defence & is going crook some & J Shaw likewise. Spend the evening reading & writing letters Bed at 9.10 pm
[Page 64]
7 April 1915
Wednesday 34 wks of soldiering
Revielle at 6.
Stables stables as usual. When we went over to attend to machines we found to our chargin that two of the machines were missing mine & Norm’s after looking around I found mine secreted under the Grandstand it had been ridden about 20 miles & was returned OK not a sign could we find of Norm’s & all steps were taken for the recovery of it. Maj Williams cut up rough over it & has shook us up accordingly. Lines in future will have to be kept a lot cleaner. Bill gets roared up a treat & is at all times trying to shift the blame to our shoulders. I had to visit the Base depot & met Joe G who is looking anything but well he informs me that he now is a Staff Serg. I then had to go to Kasr-el-Nil for [indecipherable] Home at 6 Bed at 9.15 pm.
8 April 1915
Thursday
Revielle at 6.
Stables per usual. [indecipherable] sent out early to scour the country for his machine first to Mena, [indecipherable] & Maadi. The Second Troop have their new jiggers, one a twin mag L. & two Rudges. An Inf Lieut reports at 11.30 am that he noticed a motor at the baths without an owner. Toby goes over & finds that it is ours so all’s OK again. In the evening I ride over to "Charel" to visit that home I’m concerned in & find the little kiddy is OK then go into Cairo, meet all the artillery going away & see Geo Lister. Received three letters from the boys they are having fine times & are attached to the Gen staff & sailed yesterday on the "Arcadian" for Sicily, the wireless are on the Minnawaska with the Company under Mackworth. Bert M is made pretty right with Maj Williams Bed 11.30
[Page 65]
9 April 1915
Friday
Revielle at 6.30
Boot & saddle at 7 for the Barrage every man is riding & leading a horse the HQ men accompanied us, nothing of much importance happened on the trip out, the horses at times proved a trifle frisky, it to us just on 5 hours to reach there as we only proceeded at a walking pace. When we arrived there horses were feed & tethered & the troops knocked off. I went for a stroll over the waterway which is a 60 gate 50’ X 12’ gates sluice & the diff in levels is well on to 12 feet the idea is to prevent the flooding of the Nile affecting the cultivation lower down & towards the North. A light tramway runs over the waterway which must well be 600 yds in length the old drawbridges are still there but are not in use. We turned in at 9.30 for the night
10 April 1915
Saturday
Revielle at 6.30
Feed & watered our mounts then had break which was kindly supplied by our CO. After break all preparations were made for the swimming of our [indecipherable] we started off well & got our half over without an accident but in the first batch from the other side we had an accident one of the horses was entangled in the tow rope & got both hind feet over it & then its head, & with us pulling it it put its head under & consequently was drowned by the time we got it out. Jack L & I tried for a long while to pull it round but no good. A nigger then towed it down the river out of the way. We had the afternoon off & I spent it in the gardens under a palm previous to this I visited the Barrage Museum & there inspected models of all the bridges in the neighbourhood. Bed at 8.45 pm
[Page 66]
11 April 1915
Sunday
Revielle at 5 am
Boot & saddle early as we want to get in by lunch time, horses are quite refreshed after their swim & after a few stops we arrive in at 1.15 pm. Franklin comes over as they sail tonight they struck tents at four & the first batch left at 7 to the send off by the LH who are itching to leave with them. Some of the men are exchanging places with the inf but they were caught. I write six letters for this mail & hope to catch it this week the NL HQ staff proceeded by car by road to Alexandria. On Friday night 218 vessels left Alexandria for somewhere. Rumour has it that a mail is due tomorrow, hope its true. Bert L goes on leave to the [indecipherable] but I’m [indecipherable] Corporal so have to stay in for a change. Several men down with dysentery on account of the change of water. Bed 9.55 pm.
12 April 1915
Monday 25 wks from home
Revielle at 6.
After break I go into Cairo to collect the legirons, some stores from Ordance, visited the Cairo Motor garage with regard to the stores saw some friends, collected goods & returned to camp at 12.30 for lunch. After dinner I took the exercising parade we went over to the Virgins Well, so called because the Virgin rested & bathed her child there. The tree is still there & I got some leaves off it to send home. When the Virgin drank out of the well & before she drank the well was brackish but it immediately turned to pure water & after drinking some I reckon I’ve never tasted better. On the way back three horses cleared out & Mick got a [indecipherable] Maj Williams cuts up rough for communications failed the Reg sigs messed up the sig. Bed at 10.30.
[Page 67]
13 April 1915
Tuesday
Revielle at 5.30
Light horse are now at the bayonets for all they know & reinforcements are up to their eyes in work in the morning I had to go into Cairo first to the Garage & then to the Base Records arriving back at 12.30 for lunch. Chas Cox & myself pull our machines to bits & Charlie’s is in an awful state. I got the long looked for photo yesterday from Nell & it’s a beaut. Nothing could have pleased me better. The MP make a raid on Heliopolis & capture about 60 Inf who missed their regiments when they embarked. Our reinforcements arrive & are of no class as usual. Today has been very warm & oppressive & next week we are to get helmets. Mick has fractured his shoulder. Men down with dysentery. Bed 10.5
14 April 1915
Wednesday 35 wks of soldiering
Revielle at 5.30
Signalling for ½ hour previous to stables then I was sent over to [indecipherable] for attestation papers of new men they were in at the Base so whilst there I meet Joe G out again at lunch & then am again sent in with C. Cox we held the long awaited race & I won both heats. Charlie broke 4 tapid rods laid off for repairs for the time being we left the gigger at Cairo & he came home on my scrap. The first fruits of the Regimental funds came to light haversacks [indecipherable] etc. J. Wills has added to our menagerie by purchasing a white rat. The 3rd Brigade & 4th Reg are to shift camp over to here from Mena so goodbye us leaving this hole for some time yet. [indecipherable] has his scrap down at last. Bed 10.30.
[Page 68]
15 April 1915
Thursday
Revielle at 5.30
Signalling first parade then stables in the morning I left at nine for a spin, fixed up the Garage at last & called on Joe G with attestation forms, arrived back at 12.30. At 2 Mr Bell fixed up reqt for tapid rods so I left & took them in for Col Telheim authority for purchase fixed up Cairo & he informed me that the Douglas would be ready at 6.
Charlie & I left camp at 6.30 for it arrived OK we then went for a spin to Helouan vie Maadi it was beautiful coasting along the Nile mile after mile slipped past as if on wings, the twilight lent enchantment. On the trip, thoughts turned to home & I wonder if they thought that I was enjoying myself as much as I was. We left Helouan at 7.50 lit up & got back to camp at 8.30. Bed 9.
16 April 1915
Friday
Revielle at 5.30
More sig practice then 15 men were told off to go on a scheme inter Brigade we were to be the white force operating against the ‘Browns’ who as we afterwards found out were the New Zealanders. They were in positions from [indecipherable] to a line reaching [indecipherable] our advance guard came in touch with enemy at 11.10 we then connected up with telephone. Meanwhile 1 reg & 1 sq were successfully engaging the enemy along the [indecipherable] canal. At 12.50 operations ceased for we had caused the enemy to retire in disorder. Troops arrive back at camp at 3.15. More regimental stuff comes to hand thanks to [indecipherable] Overhauled machines for trek next week. Troops are to move to Helouan & from there they are to go independly & visit Sahara & view the ruins where they are on research work. Bed at 9.5 pm.
[Page 69]
17 April 1915
Saturday
Revielle at 5.30 pm.
Signalling as usual then stables as usual, then I went for usual stroll into Cairo first to Gov workshops for spanner ordered about 2 months ago. I got same after a lot of trouble then went to the garage for several things fixed up their account, ordered oil for lubrication, saw Jean as usual, but never stayed. Arrived back in camp at 12.50 then had the afternoon off for once. I put the afternoon in at the motor oil preventing & stopped the worst joint at last, the gear were inclined to slip & on observing same I found that one of the dog clutches was engaging a trifle stifly on account of the faulty oil, soured it out with petrol. Bed at 9.5
18 April 1915
Sunday
Revielle at 5.30 am
No signalling but men go straight on to stables then after breakfast we had a general clean up lines horses etc Church Parade follows but only one man steps out to go, so again the troop falls into disgrace. Dinner follows & with sweets to follow kindly cooked by HQ chef then in afternoon settle down to letter writing. A squadron of the 4th Reg pay us a visit from Mena. The Reg [indecipherable] of the 1st Reg died today of pnemonia & several more are down with it. An inquiry is to be held into the health of the men. We hear that an inspection is to be held by the Brigadier on Tuesday as a Bde on the Move. He also strolled through the lines this afternoon & had a look at the cleanliness of the lines. Bed at 9.15
[Page 70]
19 April 1915
Monday 26 wks from home
Revielle at 5.30
Signalling as usual under Bill then stables after break I fitted a new handle on the axe & then got onto Freans & Cox bikes for tomorrow. After lunch the horses were exercised under Bert, I printed photos which didnt turn out too good on account of under exposure, news came hand that a mail was due today so hope its true. The LH went out for the day in the vicinity of Suez Road & about 12 pm the machine guns came into action with the result that horses were seen galloping to camp from all directions. This inspection is to be good as the Col is out to do things properly, motor cyc’s to be on parade also. Billy Wilson is gazette as Sgt to HQ sigs 1st Reg at last Bed at 9.30.
20 April 1915
Tuesday
Revielle at 5.30
Stables as per usual then signalling practice I had the usual run into Cairo got home about 12.30 for lunch cleaned up the seraf for tomorrow also every other article. In the afternoon we had an inspection by the Brigadier & the motors had a three mile run to get to the parade ground over the desert. The inspection turned out OK, the Col was very [indecipherable] as to the turnout, we got back at 5.10 pm for tea. After tea the mail arrived & I got one from Nell Ern & Mother, news is very scarce in all of them, astounded to hear that Dorothy was married. After tea I played Larkin chess & won all three games. About nine [indecipherable] from HQ came over with two despatches for Cairo & as no motor cyc’s were in I had to go in one to [indecipherable] HQ & the other Base Depot. Bed at 11.30
[Page 71]
21 April 1915
Wednesday 36 wks of soldiering
Revielle at 5
Stables 5.30 Boot & Saddle at 7.15 for trek troops proceed by road via Cairo to Maadi where we are now encamped trip out very dusty & rough the LH are all over the shop & were not too considerate for us. Toby went back at seven for orders mail etc, 5 [indecipherable] were run at 6 pm & I had first go at the cammutator to relieve Bobby who is on leave. Maadi still the same only a little dirtier than when we left it, the Stadium is fairly well patronised & several bouts of importance were staged. The Camp Commandant informed us that we are here for keeps so to try & make ourselves comfortable if possible. I’m QMS for the trip & I dont think that the duties will prove too arduous. Bed 9.10
22 April 1915
Thursday
Revielle at 5.30
Stables 6 Boot & Saddle 7.45 The Bde proceeds to Helouan by road with 2nd Reg leading then 3rd Reg followed by the first, road very dusty & troops & [indecipherable] all over the ship. Whilst I was cruising along from rear to advance my front tyre came off & I got a beaut fall broke footrests & pedals, had to replace tube for its ripped to blazes cut myself too a trifle, on the arm knee & hands, we got here at 2.30. After a wash I went round & drew the supplies the HQ is billited (& us to) in a courtyard opposite the Tewfik Palace Hotel, real good, no phones r to be used. Went down to the town for writing material get back in time for tea. Toby Jack hear something of their com’s at last & we expect to be thru in a day or two Bed at 9.
[Page 72]
23 April 1915
Friday
Revielle at 5.30
The first regt started fording at 7.30 this morning the means of crossing the Nile were very crude, two platforms were fixed on either bank then two large trading skifs were brought alongside capable of holding 26 horses & men each. One horse hopped overboard but was secured without any trouble. When the troops got over the other side they went to the far side of the island where the canal had to be ferried again. Then straight on to Pakara a distance of about 5 miles, we had to supply communication from both banks, then at 4 all the phones had to be run out to all units. Drew stores then three motors went down to the river to bring back the Sigs whose horses were brought back earlier in the day, we had a proper go for three miles & mine was easiest the fastest. Bed at 9.45
24 April 1915
Saturday
Revielle at 5.30
Stables first then boot & saddle for the men who are on duty on the river. I took Fraser the interpreter down at 7. Then Chas Cox & I went to HQ, day is going to be very hot & flies awful. I had several runs either way, my two tyres came off again & so did I, something will have to be done or there’ll be a funeral The troop arrived home at 7 looking very dusty but happy after spending a most enjoyable day. An open air concert is to be held in the Tewfik Palace which turns out splendid a Signoria Splastadia renders [indecipherable] beautifully, the talent is good & better than most that perform in 1st class concerts in Melb. Side giving trouble for I’m stiffening up fast. Motor coy’s are to go to Sakhara tomorrow Toby home ok Bed 10.20
[Page 73]
25 April 1915
Sunday (annotation 40 & 41)
Reveille at 6.30
Stables then boot & saddle for those of us making the trip to Sakhara we left at 8AM & forded the Nile at 10 the canal also at 10.50, then round several palm groves until we came on old Memphis a little further on we saw a perfect Sphinx just recently unearthed about another hundred yards or so on we came on the statue of Rameses this is just on 50 foot long & 8 across the chest a beautiful piece of work (alabaster) I chipped a piece off his plug & am sending it home to Nell we then visited the tombs of [indecipherable], Sacred Bull 7 the Step & other Pyramids got caught in a dust storm & got back after recrossing the Nile twice at 5.30 for tea Bed 9.0 Buried City OK
26 April 1915
Monday 27 wks from home
Reveille at 5.30
Troops were to exercise horses in the morning & then clean up lines the Bde HQ played cricket all the morning in the afternoon the orders concerning the night march, troops were to march past HQ at 7.45 motors were to keep in front of the column one man to report every ten minutes this we did with comparative success only the run along the column was awful both for us & the horses Signalling by the aid of our head lights & caps proved good, time was good all through the troops moving much faster than in day, horses & men very quiet Maadi was reached at 11.45, our camp took exactly 17 minutes to fix up then the troops were in bed & asleep in 20 minutes We raced for miles in a full moon Bed at 11.50
[Page 74]
27 April 1915
Tuesday
Reveille at 5.30
Stables as usual then all lines were cleaned well before moving off, at 7.30 the 2nd Bde brought over some bucks for our fellows to ride, they up to now had only had saddle on but a man of the 1st Regt rode one to a standstill then the other was ridden also, the column was punctual in the move off & march discipline was splendid right throughout the trip but especially today Cairo was reached at 12.5 where we had dinner at 2.10 we arrived at Heliopolis to find everything OK, in the afternoon we had an off day, horses had to be groomed as usual, I went for my usual bath feed & hair cut got back at 8.45 had supper with Larkin & then declared war on the flies by burning paper then turned in at 9.15
28 April 1915
Wednesday 37 wks of soldiering
Reveille at 5.30
First parade signalling then stables at 9.15 all CO’s and NCO’s are to be present at a lecture by the Brig over the [indecipherable] & a general outline of the work was gone into & a few faults found out of course then I had my usual round of visits to Cairo, first to A.O.D then to Cooks and then to the Cairo Motor G for keys arrive back at 12.5 & set off again at 2 for Abrassia to look up our fourth reinforcement no luck all troops moved to [indecipherable] so off I slope over there but man hasn’t arrived yet meet Chas [indecipherable] who is F for D again & only awaiting a call from the Company. Chas has a fall off the Doug both control wires break & he comes off at 55. Sent off at 8.55 with [indecipherable] & get back 9.40 then turn in at 10.10 PM
[Page 75]
29 April 1915
Thursday
Reveille at 5.30
First parade signaling then stables in the morning I went into [indecipherable] to get 3 bolts put into my gigger & I also pulled it down carbon was pretty heavy. Got back at 4.30 our bat and balls have arrived so all hands are busy in making a pitch News comes to hand of the doings of the boys in Gallipoli it seems that the 3 Brig have suffered heavily losing nearly all the staff and the 9 Br are cut to pieces also the 7th A.G.S when the troops entered the water they found that the beach was one mass of barbed wire & spikes but they got through & cleared the Turks out for miles, the wounded are expected tonight nearly all Beds have been engaged Bed 10PM
30 April 1915
Friday
Reveille at 5.30 Signalling before stables [indecipherable] runs another native down & Chas goes in to fix up his motor also, more news is to hand re the doings of the boys, it seems that once they landed they were like a lot of school–boys on a holiday & the officers once they started them couldn’t stop them, the Turkish Cavalry when they saw the chaps advancing, retired in haste, the 5th 6th 7th & 8th suffered slightly but the other Bt’n got it in the neck they are now nine miles inland the German officers and N.C.O’s got no quarter but they are ‘ot stuff on the M.G’s our M.G’s got the webbing wet in the boat & after a few rounds jammed, 550 wounded arrived Bed 9.5
[Page 76]
1 May 1915
Saturday
May Day & Reveille at 5.30 as usual Stables to follow after break, grooming & the motors had their usual clean up, then I started printing photos for the mail I succeeded in finishing about 40 so that ought to satisfy them for a while, after that I spent a few hours at the wickets on the H.Q ‘s lines our own wicket is playing exceedingly well & the men are fair & all on a par with one another Chess filled in the evening with Bert Wounded are still arriving from the Dard’s & the Palace Hospital is full now but it seems that all the minor cases are being forwarded here also for treatment , we don’t expect to leave for weeks yet if then Bed at 9.55 PM
2 May 1915
Sunday (annotation 42)
Reveille at 5.30
Made up my mind to go to church this morning so Bobby and I went, the service was good & the news from the Dardanelles was thrilling but our chaps seem to have been rather venturesome. in the afternoon I got all my correspondence up to date. We hear that mail is due tomorrow so am looking forward to it anxiously for news from home & Nell. Toby got rid of his machine today & is now the richer by a checqe of £ 50. British regulars are arriving here (wounded) from the front, the French have captured Chanak on the opposite side of the Narrows. H.Qs played the Bde train cricket today but were badly beaten H.Q scored 88 & the Train 112 Bed 9.5
[Page 77]
3 May 1915
Monday 28 wks from home
Reveille at 5.30
Stables as usual then the usual clean up after break we drew chaff and oats for the first time. Orders came out that our strength is to be made up by drawing reinforcements from the Regts so 18 men are to report here at 9.30 tomorrow morning. A mail arrives at 5.30 but the beggars wont sort it. Rumors afloat that we are off soon & we hope same are true. Two Regs of yeomentry arrive & are quartered in Kasr-el Nil barracks 18 more regs are at Alex. Our fourth reinforcement arrives per Chas Relynack. Filled in the day by playing cricket & watching "willies" which are pretty prevalent lately owing to the absence of wind. Mail was sorted after all at 9.00 Bed 10 pm
4 May 1915
Tuesday Marching orders
Revielle at 5.30
N.C.Os all on the doctor I got 8 letters last night 3 from home & 1 from Nell but there should be an extra mail but its not come to hand yet. Our reinforcements arrive & tents are erected straight away. After lunch we got our marching orders at last. We are to go next week (dismounted) motors & push [indecipherable] are to accompany the troop, later the news came through that 6 men are to be taken on the strength & troop to retain horses so that’s not so bad. I have a trip in to Cairo for the CO & cancel several orders for him which points to an early departure. Get back at 9 pm All horses over our new strength are to be returned to Abrassia tomorrow hear that our troops have got a bump don’t know how true Bed 10.5.
[Page 78]
5 May 1915
Wednesday 38 wks of soldiering
Revielle at 5.30
Plenty of men to do stables now & the lines are cleaned properly for once. After break the new men were put through a signalling test to find the 6 best men who are to be attached to the troop. The LH started on their Inf training & are taking to it grand. In the afternoon I sailed into Cairo to replace my float & it is settled No luck until tomorrow when spares are arriving. All horses are returned at 2 pm Requisitions for 56 rounds per man & pants (dismounted) & puttees also, were to be in at nine tonight. No pay has arrived yet as [indecipherable] hasn’t put in an appearance from Cairo yet. 2nd & 3rd Brigades have not yet got their marching orders Troops commence to move on Sat ammun per man 500 rnds MG 45,500 Bed at 9.5
6 May 1915
Thursday
Revielle at 5.30
During morning parade men were given an idea of how entraining & embarkation is to be carried out. I through the day had 4 trips to Cairo for various things mostly motor spares. Freans machine is giving trouble internally & he has had it down completely & found that the connecting rod nut & pin has slightly moved Cox’s Doug stills goes as well as ever only the front [indecipherable] is uncertain the Triumph has carburetter trouble still & slight tube (induction) fault. Attached to Gen Spene’s staff for the afternoon & came in contact with Gens Maxwell & Dorritt. We are to go on the "Devona" along with HQ staff, horses still to be retained Bed at 10.5.
[Page 79]
7 May 1915
Friday
Revielle at 5.30
First parade & a little signalling of course as if there’s nothing else to do, then I had to go into Cairo to collect goods ordered yesterday got back at 12.5 in time for dinner, then had to go in again to fix up sharpening bayonets. Mail back came to hand two from Sydney but none from home Larkin gets a budget. I got all my correspondence up to date & ready for posting tomorrow. We are booked to leave at 10.15 Sunday morning & are to embark straight away. The 2nd Brig was out on trek & they were ordered to return to camp immediately but machine gun section are to precede the Brigade by four days. Iron rations issued also knapsacks Bed 10 pm
8 May 1915
Saturday Entrained today
Revielle at 5.30
Stables as usual & then packing commences first the waggon which has to report at [indecipherable] at 9.45 tonight our train moves out at 2.50 Sunday morn. The Germans have [indecipherable] the Lusitania & now something ought to be doing. Italy is still on the brink of war & the Japs are at the Chows. I had another two trips to Cairo re Reg Fund, said goodbye to Frank & Flower & Joe Gillies. More mail arrives but none for me as usual Larkin gets the lot. Great [indecipherable] is in the LH lines tonight for they are eager to be there & nothing will please them better than to get there lively, the chaps to stay behind are feeling it No bed tonight.
[Page 80]
9 May 1915
Sunday Sailed today
Travelled all night left Helmiah at 12.50 passed through Cairo at 1 pm slept until 6 reached Alexandria at 9.53 & ran alongside our tub the Devonha (8000) tonner quite a different ship to the Karroo she has been carring troops to the Darde’s & brings back wounded, a hospital ship arrived at 4.30 from Darde’s We had a swim & troops were issued with puttees & leggings. I met Lt Rogers VC when we were leaving Helmiah. We sailed at 7 pm & made good progress After dropping the pilot, the nurses gave us a bonza send-off from the hospital as we passed. Lights out are at nine oclock on this tub, in Alexandria 16 regs of yeomentry are now stationed the MG sections of 2nd & 3rd Brig are with us in fact every gun they could get Bed at 9.30
[Page 81]
[see image for map of "The great assault of the narrows"]
[Page 82]
10 May 1915
Monday 29 wks from home
Revielle at 6.15
Stables per [indecipherable] the breakfast [indecipherable] Sea beautiful & calm sight land at 11.30 turns out to be one of the Southern islands of the Gracian archipelgo. Men have been instructed to remove numerals off shoulders & stripes off arms. Guns are mounted & manned all around the ship for preventive against submarine attack Two boats pass on the port side one at 2.30 (sailing) & the other 4.7 pm About 5 we entered the archipelgo proper now there is an isle every few miles. Rumor has it that we land about 3 tomorrow afternoon, passed another boat at 6.35 bound for Alex.another close crop. Music follows & they play the "Barcolle" which recals the most pleasant memories with Nell. All lights to be doused tonight Bed at 9.
[Page 83]
11 May 1915
Tuesday Made Dardenelles 4.30
Revielle 6.15
Spent a lovely night with a light sea about 10 we passed two dummy Dreadnoughts & a submarine 3.15 passed [indecipherable] about four we came in sight of the Dardenelles & ½ hour later we arrived & ship after ship was bombarding the Turkish positions in all 18 Battleships were engaged. Aeroplane reconaissance was in progress & one was being constantly shelled from the hills 6.15 we hauled up the anchor & made for the Gulf of Saros where we are to land tonight. Wrote home & to Nell for the last time before going into action. Artillery on both side going some, one fort seen utterly demolished, aeroplanes direct battleship fire, hundreds of Troopers laying around the coast, expect to land tonight Final Med inspection horses to go back.
12 May 1915
Wednesday 39 wks of soldiering
Land under heavy shrapnel fire
Revielle at 6.15
All through the night a heavy engagement was going on supported by a heavy cannonade from warships (18) search lights constantly swept the shore for a probable counter attack. Rain was setting in heavy on account of the heavy gunnery. Destroyers arrive to take off our fellows horses are to go back No motors or cycles to land we are to take all our equipment & to carry it & landing where the 12th landed pass the day Karroo on the port bow Turks are in force from the isthmus to where we are forming a wall the Tommys are driving them back on to us & we are bearing the brunt of the attack Amn is following in lighters & every man is to carry 200 rounds.
[Page 84]
13 May 1915
Thursday
Spent a fairly good night although the artillery kept us awake for a while, rifle fire was consistent all through. At 4 AM Stand to arms in case of an attack at dawn, Went for a shot during the morning fired 50 rds then came down & took over the phones artillery (all guns) going a treat now both from our field guns & the naval are giving them fits, shrapnel bursting all round us, Turkish explosive bullets exploding everywhere, three or four wounded were down this afternoon also one prisoner poor beggar he seemed glad to be out of it. Turks using an awful amount of trench mortars, LH doing well & move, had another go at the turks with 40 rds hit a periscope & think a sniper also. Lizzie booming away Wills & Burrell still with mountain Bty where are constantly under fire. Turks attack at 6 but are repulsed. Bed at 10
14 May 1915
Friday
Stand to arms at 4.
Things very quiet at night only a little rifle fire early in the morning their guns are shelling heavily the trenches on our right front, one gun we placed there last week was blown to bits. Our interpreters were caught sketching this morning & they were sent back to Alexandria, T snipers very bad this morning & they got 13 of the 3rd Brig who are not yet in action. Sappers at work on Razor back to blow it up with L mines work proceeding very satisfactory up to late last night. Artillery duds throughout the day. Gen Godley wounded in the head whilst visiting our trenches. I expect an attack on the Razor tonight, Turks using plenty of bombs & blowing our periscopes to blazes met Jim Brice of the 3rd Brig last night, had another go at sniping with 40 rds; Bate bagged a sniper. Bed at 10.
[Page 85]
15 May 1915
Saturday
Stand to arms at 4
Our sortie & field reconnaissance failed last night & the 2nd LH had 11 missing 12 killed 20 wounded. Turks digging in like fun & snipers deadly they got Gen Bridges through the thigh our arty gives them blazes & cuts their trenches to pieces. Mountain battery particularly good Turks getting very cheeky, no sign of the submarines & all the transports clear out [indecipherable] very busy again this morning on the beach and men whilst bathing have also a bath from shrapnel. A L Horse chap volunteered to go & fetch a wounded man from out of the enemy’s lines he got there & did his job also more men sniped during morning and evening, had a go at them with a machine guns but could not see result of shooting artillery gives them fits with shell & shrapnel, snipers very quiet for a time. Gen Bridges critical Bed 10
16 May
Sunday
On duty all night
Rally’s and sorties are the order all through, the 10th regain a m gun that was lost on Sunday last in the charge on razor back, at 5.30 AM the arty commenced the bombardment of razor back & the Turks got a wriggle on. LH man promoted to 2nd Lieut for gallantry of yesterday, casualties very light & snipers get a few more. Two more spies caught last night, dressed as New Z [indecipherable] they were timing the shells too short & playing the guns on our men. Rations increased & rum & tobacco to hand. Rumored that Italy have joined the allies. [indecipherable] help to exterminate 1 Bn of the enemy, they caught them on the march down one hill & up another just opposite Hells post Lizzie has been busy with her tonner’s & is bombarding up the Dard’s Bed 10
[Page 86]
17 May
Monday 30 wks from home
Up at four expected something last night for rifle fire was terrific & any amount of bomb throwing to accompany it A gun of 8 calibre commenced shelling our valley today the shell is a 60 pounder of old pattern Fire is terrific on the beach today with shrapnel & men are being blown out of their dugout. Reinforcements are being pushed forward today, 6th howitzers landed last night with heaps of ammo we expect to see them in action shortly. The Turks have been routed out of the Razor back trenches for our fire was too severe for them, Sent a mail home to Nell & Mother, Johnny is censor. Aeroplane passed over today on the lookout for this gun & on the return they dropped a few smoke bombs, and as far as we can see they were dropped in the right direction have to go on at 2 Bed at 10 PM.
18 May 1915
Tuesday Jess Willards Red letter day
Posts at 2 AM
The Turks made a feeble attack at 4 PM, but were easily repulsed by our arms, about 6 the 320 pound howitzers started shelling our position they fired in all 50 rds during the day & only got three men, but the effect of the shell is awful it throws dirt up to a height of 60’ & has cut down Hells point considerably, the projectile are easily discernable & cut quite a pretty figure in the air, Burrrell is wounded, Aeroplane reconnaissence reports 17000 Turks reinforcements have landed 6 mls from us with cavalry we expect a battle tonight, Turks cap our line last night & threaten to drive us into the sea, let em try! Our howitzers open fire & all arty concerts their fire on the enemy. Staff expect pitched battle tonight so men are at arms all night. Telephones cut to pieces.
[Page 87]
19 May 1915
Wednesday Battle of Gaba Tepe
40 wks of soldiering
The Turks advanced at 3 PM & were met by an awful fire from our troops every arm possible did deadly work & cut them to pieces & at Courtneys they lay two deep. We held & beat them badly without reinforcements the New Zealanders charged and utterly routed them, gunboats lend a hand on both sides our howitzers do deadly work in 1 case 500 Turks were assembled below Quinns & two shots from our guns put the whole crowd out of action, 1 m gun got a whole battalion who were reinforcing. Every move was foreseen & beaten, aeroplane’s ours and enemy’s are seen everywhere & saw ours giving theirs a go, Turkish prisoners & wounded arrive, one m gun put out of action, water jacket blown off. Arty fire at 5 AM was stupendous indescribable the scream of the shells carry A naval battle has been in progress all day over to our right, battle still raging tonight.
20 May 1915
Thursday Armistice 6 PM to 7.30 PM
Stand to arms at 3
We expected the Joe Mcquirks again last night for aeroplanes reported last night that they observed 3000 Turks in a wood over to our right front & then a further 3000 coming to strengthen their centre, 14 prisoners taken last night & 1 German officer, snipers get cheeky this morning and one pokes his head over Steels point & goes out, aeroplanes give us further amusement, at 6 an impromptu armistice was declared for the Turks to bury their dead we have none. They came right out of their trenches with a white flag, German officers were there of course having a ‘screw of our positions in front of Popes, 2000 Turks threw down their arms but we couldn’t provide an escort for it would weaken our trenches, prisoners were taken though & were sent into camp under an escort, at 7.30 they commenced to fire & so did we, & our artillery opened, theirs were afraid to give away their positions, and by 11 they had had enough for we gave em fits
[Page 88]
21 May 1915
Friday Jap Mortars have a go
Battle raged all night They attacked Quinns at 11 PM but they only advanced a few yards for they were mown down by machine gun & cross rifle fire, they then turned & ran over their trenches & took cover behind a hill until our guns got the range & then [indecipherable] Turks aeroplanes have been keeping an eye on them all this morning & by the way one ducked back, she must have spotted something of importance, 4 Japanese mortar guns were brought up into position last night they bomb they [indecipherable] has a bursting face greater than a six inch shell, more prisoners arrive & I got some parts of their equipment, 2nd Brig LH landed yesterday & expect them to relieve us shortly. Jack Johnson is again busy at 6 pm he gives the new troops fits for they cant make it out at all. Interpreter interviews Turks but there’s nothing doing. They heaved a bomb at him & he gets for his life. Gen Bridges reported officially as dead & was buried at Alexandria, turned in at 8.15.
22 May 1915
Saturday
Went on duty at midnight & was just in time to see the effect of the Jap mortar the bomb is easily seen but the effect is awful & the Turks screamed with fear when she was fired at them, the shell utterly wrecks the trenches. I went to the beach this morning & got a bath of shrapnel from Kalid Bahr, the Vengeance Triumph & Encounter were shelling square 22y from the Bay, heavy rain set in this morning & the dug is a sea of mud, the weather cleared at 6. The mortar set to work early this morning & again tonight. The 3rd Brigade has landed & Jack Johnson has got them slightly disconcerted, ammunition is arriving by the boat-load & the Turkish Johnny visited us again today. Turks quiet all day with the rifle but they pump in the shrapnel all the same. News of Downing he has asked to be allowed to take up his command but the Brig says his better where he is. Metcher wounded. Elder killed. Bed at 7.30
[Page 89]
23 May 1915
Sunday Aeroplane downed
[indecipherable] at 4 with our [indecipherable] nothing doing artillery open at dawn & give the Turks sets our firing deadly, the mortars create great havoc amongst the Turks who when the gun is fired they leave the trench & our m guns then have a little exercise. While I was at A.P.C their 18 pounders opened on us & gave us quite an enjoyable time watching them blow our bully to bits snipers deadly again picking men off all round us. HMS [indecipherable] ran aground this morning & the Turks give her 5 Jess Willards but they do no harm & when they got her off they gave Jess What hi! The air has been full of planes alday ours & theirs, Biplanes, [indecipherable] & seaplanes. A mail has arrived today but none for us, the Vic lot has gone astray. Things quieten a lot along one front only a little rifle fire going on. Downing again requests to be allowed to regain his troop but no such luck. We got an aeroplane today with our arty & naturally are a little pleased. Bed at 9.15
24 May 1915
Monday 31 wks from home
9 hours armistice
An armistice was declared at 7.30 this morning till 4 pm to enable the Turks to bury their dead. I paid a visit to their trenches & went round in [indecipherable] the trenches & the dead lay on every hand, in every position attitude possible, some were 5 wks old & others only a few days. The scene was awful & I much want to look on death in the same form as I saw it this morning. We came on only 3 of our chaps & 2 of them were NLS. After lunch we went down for a swim & it was great, carried mail up but still none for us. Downing still here. Met a lot of the Sig Company chaps & they have lost 2 k & 8 wounded so they havnt done to bad. An attack started as soon as the white flag was lowered. I think we will take the aggressive from now. [indecipherable] Press reports that we are advancing in France for the last dust up
[Page 90]
25 May 1915
Tuesday Triumph sunk
Nothing happened during the night but the little gun kept them busy. The Turks have partially sapped Quinns & we have counter sapped & expect it to go up about 5 pm. At 11.45 the Triumph was torpedoed & sunk by a Austrain submarine off Shrapnel Gully. She took 35 minutes to sink & then she went down head first. We watched her from up on Quinns & saw the water close over her, 400 men perished on her, the same sub had a go at the Vengeance but luckily missed. At 2.30 5 destroyers had [indecipherable] the sub up & were firing at the periscope but we don’t know with what result. At 5 all arms stood to [indecipherable] when the Saf was fired everything went OK. I then had to go through Death’s Alley to meet our chaps from Cape Helles but no trawler is to be allowed in tonight so we after having a swim returned. Our howitzers shells seen passing over us all day
26 May 1915
Wednesday 41 wks of soldiering
All the wireless chaps arrived back today & Hal Letch with them expect remainder of the lads with us in a day or two. Turks very quiet today only a rifle fire exchange along the whole front. Went for a dip this afternoon & had another bath of shrapnel. The snipers up the razor got 2 [indecipherable] opposite HQ this morning, our artillery fire very [indecipherable] especially the 6" howitzers I think it is done more to deceive the enemy. Aeroplanes are all round us at 4 pm & start to drop bombs on the enemy these bombs weigh 112 lbs & explode with some force Meet Div Sig chaps & exchange experiances. Went up on the job of locating a hidden battery of the enemy at 6, but they only fired one shot just enough for us to spot we got the Mountain Batty to put a doz rounds into them & as they havn’t spoken since we must have accounted for it. Weather has taken up a good deal & things are much easier. Turkish prisoners building dugouts & making roads at the Base while we were bathing. Bed at 6.30 expect an attack at 4.
[Page 91]
27 May 1915
Thursday Majestic sunk
A few sorties during the night but nothing much to speak of when we finally close 10 pm (active service) news came to hand that the submarine that got the Triumph accounted for the Majestic she sank in 45 minutes but every life was saved the nice admiral only transferred his flag from the Swiftsure yesterday to enable her to proceed to Malta to get her torpedo nets fixed up, the Japs gave the Turks hell in Snipers retreat this morning they were firing from Quinns & got 12 beauties in (2 guns) they exploded a magazine there & ammunition was going off for hours, 10 AM everyone stood to arms & another mine went up much to the Turks annoyance this time opposite Popes, an Brit aeroplane (Fourman) came over at 6 & gave us an exhibition of bomb throwing before she ducked home, Downing still not satisfied with his dug out, snipers not so busy today ours keep them fairly quiet some boat in the Narrows started to shell enemy positions at 6.50 to some time
28 May 1915
Friday
Blew up another mine at 4 this morning but nothing much happened snipers extra deadly all day they got 30 before breakfast & at present there’s not much hope of [indecipherable] with them aeroplanes (2) gave us a further exhibition of bomb throwing & fancy flying after lunch we went for our usual swim & thoroughly enjoyed it with our old friend the 4 gun fort opened up & we had to inski. I met Chisholm on the way back & had a yarn to him, he’s attached to the base hospital. Rumors: - that the Majestic though holed is still afloat Teddy Henderson is ok although on leaving the Triumph he had a severe shock & is to be ordered away for a change. At 6 a severe artillery duel opened & judging by the energy displayed goes to say that we may expect an attack tonight a mail arrived at last & I received 2 from Nell & a paper & 4 from home. Our new submarine destroyer has since it has been in commission accounted for 8 subs & has Germany thinking, battle opened at 8 PM.
[Page 92]
29 May 1915
Saturday Goeben sunk
All night the battle raged, the enemy blew up Quinns & charged we had to retire & the 15th then counter attacked we had one [indecipherable] & got 60 of them we couldn’t hold trench for it was full of dead Turks, Jap mortar guns play awful havoc with trenches, artillery very heavy all night and now deafening at 9,16 prisoners came down & they seemed right glad to be taken, we took over the phones again at 12 PM & the first thing that greeted us was that the Turks were preparing for another attack but it didn’t come off. The A2 our Australian sub has accounted for the Goeben at last so that is the 5th scalp to her belt. Aeroplanes are everywhere at present one a seaplane is busy scattering literature to the Turks, the others are being shelled from all quarters but all are falling short. Turks casualties (meagre) 3000 estimated by our officials our about 28000. General advance shortly. Mauratania and Aquatania expected any day with reinforcements.
30 May 1915
Sunday
Another go last night & again we proved successful but Quinns is getting weaker day by day for they are sapping it from all directions, we had to counter & attack at 11AM & demolish their works to ensure the safety of Quinns, so after the arty had given them 2 hrs of hurry up we advanced & took a trench & held it for 3 hrs until the bombs got a bit hot then they retired into a bomb proof shelter where they still are, the missing British sub has turned up at last & she succeeded wherever she went, she torpedoed 2 transports at the wharf at Constantinople, one store ship and a battleship on the way back she passed another ship but had no torpedo left to do the job. Jack Duggan was shot in the leg today. We started to tunnel through to our cobbers in the Turks tunnel & made satisfactory progress, this is to be gradually manned with our troops, enemy gets another div of reinforcements so we expect an attack tonight
[Page 93]
31 May 1915
Monday (annotated 47) 32 wks from home.
Nothing happened last night they evidently want a little time to reorganize their forces. News came to hand that Bert Masters & the boys were to return to us today & I & a party were sent down to the Cove to meet them, I got just half way when I ran into them, we then had a swim, Tepe opened up & got Norm a beauty in the back, I carried him to the dressing station & got him fixed up he’s goes aboard the hospital boat tonight, News to hand that Italy is at grips with Austria already & we have got two of their submarines & should have had the third only the tracker misunderstood the order to fire, one was rammed & the other was hemmed in, they then found it in one bay & are cruising round after it now we were to attack with the bayonet opposite Quinns but it was counter ordered & then things have to be thought of; NZealanders have taken over all of the L Horse posts today & it is rumoured that the Sig Section is coming to help us also. Go on duty at 10.30 PM again
1 June 1915
Tuesday
A little fun last night but nothing much only a little shrapnel as usual, another spy caught he was gunner on No 3 howitzer & was responsible for premature bursts he is charged with disobedience of orders, given range 700 3 & he was firing at 550 .2 so he is up against it [indecipherable] arrived back today from the [indecipherable]; 4th Inf Bde has been relieved by NZ’s & can see trouble ahead for the Sigs. Another army corps has disembarked at Helsham so more jobs for the troop. Snipers gain busy & shot one man through the thigh & severed the artery. Downing who happened to be present put the digigital pressure on the leg & saved the chaps life. Aeroplanes round again but nothing doing at all. went for a swim & am still enjoying it even without shrapnel. Field bakery has been fixed up at Tenedos & bread is due in a day or two, Ammunition arrives by the boat load all calibres & both shrapnel & lyddite, sent for tarp but no luck
[Page 94]
2 June 1915
Wednesday 42 wks of soldiering
The Turks erected a structure of wire & timber yesterday some 50’ long & 25 feet wide & the Gen ordered us to demolish it so two parties of 6 men each [indecipherable] were sent out with explosives to do the job, they used gelignite and succeeded in placing them in position by nine they were to be fired by fire & electricity as a precaution up she went at nine to some time, the Turks have been very quiet today & Army HQ reports that they are exceptionally short of ammunition so we are ordered to draw their fire for all we are worth read official report of the doings of the submarines that went up the Sea of Marmora , met Baty & Tom Wintle yesterday both are in the 2nd Bde. Destroyers are as usual on the go firing at anything & anywhere they are now doing all the firing as the cruisers have gone off on other missions, no word of Norm yet. Spotted pigeons again leaving Turkish lines at 7.20 & reported it to the C.O who reported it to HQs.
3 June 1915
Thursday Kings Birthday (annotated 48)
Nothing doing at all last night but first thing this morning the artillery opened up with a duel & they made things willing I tell you. Bombs are good oh all day & night & down at the beach Gaba Tepe opened up on the trackers & after planting 15 shots all around them they eventually hit his stern but he quickly got out of range. I met Paddy Hansen & Merv Knights Merv expects to be transferred to Popes early in the next week. Schmidt was shot yesterday as Paddy informed me today, on account of the Kings birthday an extra issue of rum has been alloted to all ranks & is highly acceptable; Our 6th howitzers have been firing splendidly lately & the shell is bursting well. Snipers are busy again both in the morning & evening & arty are trying a new ruse. Conference of heads has been on all day & something big is coming off, hope its tonic for times are dull at present Bed at 8.00.
[Page 95]
4 June 1915
Friday Bombardment of Achi
Nothing of much import last night but first thing this morning the bombardment of Achi Baba took place 900 guns were in the fun & they cut the place to pieces at 2.30 the news came through that the port had fallen with considerable loss to the enemy, we took 3000 prisoners, drove them on to the Narrows where a force of ours was awaiting them they then retired in the direction of Gaba Tepe where the destroyers gave them a further hurry up & now they are in Dead Man’s gulley. I met Jimmy Taylor & Giley when on the road to the beach Giley has been here a couple of days now & he is again QV went on duty at 7.30 & punctually at 7 pm the first Bde opened the ball & a few minutes later the arty let it go, the Turks employed star shells & they had a good effect for our fire bombs are being freely used by both of us, our chaps got in the Turks trench at 11.30 & started to strengthen it right away
5 June 1915
Saturday
Turks give us plenty of work & we got 50 prisoners but had to give up the trench as bombs proved too hot for us our arty got 3 guns of theirs & the canterbury’s secured 2 m guns, star shells help to beat us towards the last. Col Brown was shot, when morning broke Hal & I paid a visit to the O Station & had a go at sniping, the trenches were in a hell of a mess & the Turks presented beaut targets for they had practically no cover & we made splendid practice. After lunch we again had a go but they were much more wary & the cover T were in good order again. Hal & I decide to make a fresh home adjacent to the main saf, after tea paid a visit to Giley & gave him all the news & what had happened last night. Gen Godly ordered us to take Razor with fresh troops again but I think its practically [indecipherable] the only way is to attack its rear & then it would take some shifting. Godly passed with his [indecipherable] equipment at 6.30 a typical [indecipherable]
[Page 96]
6 June 1915
Sunday
Things are very quiet during the night, but at dawn the Turks opened up with some new guns they had brought up from somewhere, then the snipers got busy also. Harold & I went on an expedition after them got in a decent position & fired 50 rds each succeeded in shifting them from place to place, after lunch we went for a swim, good oh & then visited Teddy H who gave us a stack of cards & clothes On the way back I met George Windsor & Percy Clark & also Eric Parkinson. One of our submarines sunk a German transport with Turkish troops on board up in the sea of Marmara. Started our new dugout & had to work under rifle fire, got a few back letters from Friday mostly all for the naval chaps who were on the different boats. Turkish trenchs were in an awful mess after our bomb throwing last night Bed at 10.5.
7 June 1915
Monday 33 from home
Jack Johnson visits us, Hal & I arose at 5 & had a snipe at the [indecipherable] but business was slack for a while but later on they showed up & we got half an hours good shooting. Went down to Anzac for a swim after lunch. Met Merv again & later on George Lister of the arty. Reports to hand show that London was visited by 20 Zepplins, but not much damage was done. Jack Johnson in company with many 10 & 18 [indecipherable] gave us a salvo of lead yesterday morning they shelled our battys for quite a while but our guns are OK then they started on our positions & gave us [indecipherable] after 4 we again went up for a shot & put in for the day 140 rds on loop holes, snipers, boxes etc. Our dugout is proceeding satisfactorily George L informed me that Bert Hamilton went out to wounds hope same is not true Another attempt is to be made to take the razor tonight expect operations to start at 8 but I don’t think anything will come of it for we can’t attack in force on account of the nature of the hill
[Page 97]
8 June 1915
Tuesday Quinns attacked
The attack proved futile as usual, 180 of the Aucklands were sent out & they lost 80% of them we succeeded in reaching the trench but couldn’t hold it. Gen Godly supervised this one himself so now he ought to be convinced, the wounded started to come down at daybreak, but luckily the nature of the wounds is very slight. Hal & I went up for our usual shooting again in the morning & found sport very brisk we fired just on 180 rounds & then returned for lunch, Our shooting has improved wonderfully & now are down to the clock 6", went in for a swim after lunch & down there met Pat Eyre who had just returned from hospital he was wounded the first day he landed. A mail arrived today & I received two from Nell they came as a welcome break, another is expected on Friday. A monitor pays us a visit & is to proceed round the corner & give a village a little pill or two, heaps of shrapnel again all day, its about time they stirred it up, bullets lodge in our dugout
9 June 1915
Wednesday 43 wks of soldiering
The Turks welcomed us with a bombardment of our valley for a couple of hours & all out guns responded with a roar the Razor came in for a special helping & the way they knocked the trenches about was a picture Then Hal & I went up to our position & caught them busily rebuilding their loopholes, it didn’t take long to quieten them for our shooting is too deadly & the second shot generally finds the mark. The Monitor opened fire on the Turks transport today & did good practice with their 6" gun. Isla Tepe has not shown up lately for a wonder. I received another 3 letters today two from home & the mail is expected tomorrow. Worked on our new home all the afternoon & succeeded in finishing it & we took over at 5, & are having a house warming tonight. Rumored that the monitor succeeded in bagging the 6" Howitzer the Turks were bringing up per traction engine we couldnt reach it yesterday but had to wait until it came within range, so hope its true.
[Page 98]
10 June 1915
Thursday
Paid a further visit to the "nook" & fired another 100 rounds each, one Johnny proved a sport for when I fired he would mark with his shovel till the fourth shot when I "marked" him. After lunch Hal & I went down to the beach for a swim & on the way back called in on Teddy he had just brought a few stores off the store ship & Hal & I did well, for we got 2 tins of fruit 1 of cocoa & sweets so we faired well. I met a couple more of the company chaps & they look OK. Two more batteries of arty were brought up into position last night & we expect a warm time shortly when the Turks start searching for them, that gun at Tepe was put out of action a day ago & now one can bathe in piece, the 6" Howitzer accounted for it but the Turks have brought another on the other flank but they cant do much harm. All day a heavy connanade was going on over the Dardenelles. Enemy employing star shells & searchlights arty very brisk at 6.30 Water carts arrive at 2 pm
11 June 1915
Friday (annotated 49)
I & Hal were put in charge of the water convoy & finished up at 2 am, things were awfully quiet through the night, the enemy employed a few star shells & a searchlights or two, our fellows kept them busy with a little rifle fire, but nothing to speak of. Letters to Nell & home in the afternoon I was sent to ordance to inquire about stores but nothing doing, met Merv Knights & Tom W, when I got home Hal had a bonny tea waiting for me including fried onions, stew grilled steak, toast & dripping [indecipherable] jam etc. In the evening played cards till dark then turned in as tomorrow we again take over the lines, earlier in the day we paid our usual visit to the Turks but nothing of much importance took place only we gave them further work in the repairing line. Tom W who had only returned from Helles this morn said that their L flank was nearly in contact with our R & that they are 7 miles inland from the Cape. They landed 25 shells on the Base through the day.
[Page 99]
12 June 1915
Saturday Mail Day
Up at 7 to the tune of a bombardment of the enemy with shrapnel & some are coming too close for my liking. Hal & I went up to the Snipers retreat & gave them a final 200 rds before we go on duty again, took over at 12 & I again had first shift. 800 to 1000 Turks are opposite Quinns & our arty is making great practice. A mail arrived at 4 & I got 6 letters & 3 papers but again no letters from Nell. We blew a mine up at 4 opposite Quinns with satisfactory results we got the first news of our doings from home. A reconnoiting party of 1 NCO & 6 men is going out to observe where & how near the Turks sap are to us. Mortar guns to assist & also the machine guns are to lend a hand. Bridge party formed in [indecipherable] for an hour or two. Peace must be very near for the worthy Bill is going to lay a line from Quinns to Popes we expect an attack tonight so are looking forward to it as things have been very quiet
13 June 1915
Sunday 5 wks of action
We were awakened to the tune of two cruisers broadsides of 5 guns each, they were shelling a village inland through which the Turks are bringing up reinforcements, each cruiser was accompanied by four destroyers, who were on the look out for submarines, at 9. a Taube was reported making way for Lemnos [indecipherable] this way but we never saw it, later on one of our own put in an appearance & was heavily shelled by the enemy with a lot of rifle fire also. The shrapnel was bursting all round us this morning & our cook house was peppered with splinters of shell. One of our latest planes came over at 6 PM & dropped three bombs on the Razor, they seemed to burst with considerable force & we expect good results. Turks are reversing their bullets for some reason or other, further mail arrives but still no sign of Nell’s, another 6" gun is landed on the beach & is to be brought into action at night Masters gets news of his com at last & is quite jubilant of the affair
[Page 100]
14 June 1915
Monday 34 wks from home
It is rumored that we landed more troops between Gaba Tepe and Cape Hellas & troopships were seen leaving there early this morning the Cruiser accounted for all the reinforcements, German) The enemy were bringing up a further heavy bombardment opened up this morning and our 6in gun did splendid work – also our lighter pieces. One of our machine guns accounted for one of their 18 pounders yesterday another mail arrived at Alexandria have had a touch of fever today & if not better in the morning will report to doctor French advanced 200 yds yesterday. Col Chauvel was promoted to Brig Gen today & he rightly deserves it. Turks are still using the reversed ammunition. Old mail comes to hand but none for me & still none from Nell. Officers vaccinated for cholera & we are to be done shortly. [indecipherable] Tomlins visited us today& while he was in the clearing a shell knocked out one of his men & wounded four others.
15 June 1915
Tuesday
More arty [indecipherable] this morning & their firing is fairly good, they have brought up a battery to within 400 yds of our trenches & they blew our parapets to blazes, & it took our chaps all night to repair them, Col Chauvel was taken away today with Pleurisy & is pretty bad. I met Ted Griff & Geof Shep today down at the beach. One of our destroyers shelled Gaba Tepe & the enemy in return was dropping them all round her but that’s as near as they got. Two of our aeroplanes were busily engaged one in looking for submarines & the other on reconnaissance the Turks dropped a shell or two pretty handy. Influenza pretty prevalent with troops. The circular regarding applications for commissions in regular & territorial army has again been put before the troops with an urgent appeal to all COs to encourage men to go for them. Corp Knight is still in the land of the living
16 June 1915
Wednesday 44 wks of soldiering
Another heavy bombardment to wake us at dawn & they kept us on the move to some time, shell after shell came down the valley & got one of our sniper pals in the thigh. After lunch Hal & I went to pay a visit to a friend of his on Steels Post & there I met Pere & Eric both are well & in good spirits, they are now in a machine gun section & have been doing some rare shooting at time, while we were up there the Turks opened with their arty again & it didn’t take us long to get out of it, when we go down to our quarters we were informed that Bill Steele & [indecipherable] had stopped a few about them, then next shell Metcalfe stopped the case with his leg it made an awful mess of it tearing the flesh away & leaving the bone bare to some length I saw all of them fixed up & then got back to tea. Made application again today for commission at home & hope its ok this time met Fatty [indecipherable] down at the beach he is with the 4th arty reinforcements. Stopped one myself in the knee. Alright.
17 June 1915
Thursday
More arty at break of day its getting quite the order now for a salvo of shell to awaken us during the night the enemy erected many "gabions" & these had to be destroyed by arty today [indecipherable] Sykes baty was employed & in 24 rds he did the job but it drew a heavy fire in return from their guns. A Turkish patrol surprised one of our m guns & shot the gunner the remainder inskied leaving the wounded man to tend the gun this he did & accounted for all the visitors I might say that they came from NZ. Went for a swim today & after that on a hunting tour I got 6 today and 6 yesterday, am not feeling a scrap lonely of a night now All lines patrolled this morning & are now in first class condition, all going along satisfactorily at last, changed time to full Navy today & coded in [indecipherable] just the same..Mail expected tomorrow, Rations cut down by half no transport. No word of our wounded.
[Page 102]
18 June 1915
Friday (Centenian?) of Waterloo
(annotated 50)
Wrote home & Nell
Our engineers opened up new trenches last night but owing to decomposed nature of bodies laying about they had to abandon them, enemy used many star shells last night & this morning we had another visit from Jack Johnson he landed 4 within 30 feet of HQ one in our sap but beyond blowing up a lot of soil he did no damage, warships have been bombarding Helles & here all day long we hear that we are to move forward in a day or two. A bomb throwing competition was carried out today at Quinns & the Turks were quite annoyed at the reception they got. Visited the snipers today & made preparations for further visit tomorrow & as plenty of work is promised us we wont growl. An issue of rum to hand on account of the centenian of Waterloo the boys wish there was one every week. Enemy have bought 18 pds to bear on us Oh hell!
19 June 1915
Saturday
Plenty of bomb throwing all night & artillery as norm as day broke, shrapnel 18 pds mostly one of our planes put in an appearance about 8.30 & was heavily shelled for miles but escaped unhurt. Our field guns were placed in position at Coutneys tonight & are expected to open fire any minute now. All day since 4.30 am [indecipherable] have been bombarding Achi heavily this I believe is the supreme effort & we hear that the Tommies are in pretty well the last trench. The Turks have been withdrawing for days every available man from us & sending them to Achi the Monitor caught a column on the march two shells finish Turks. At 6 another of our planes put in an appearance this time they gave her both shell & m gun fire but she in her turn dropped two beauty bombs right on their trenches another 6" gun landed today we dont know where it is to be placed yet. We fully expected a mail today but it hasnt come to hand as yet. Finished up for the week at 12.
[Page 103]
20 June 1915
Sunday 6 wks of action
Nothing of much note during the night only a little bomb throwing a heavy cannonade at Achi after dawn they gave us heaps of shrapnel both in the valley & on the beach & when Hal & I were in for a dip they infiladed us both from Kaba Tebe & Fisherman but no one was hit though, down at the Cape the Turks put in 300 8" shells in 3 hrs & got on to our transport department. I met Frank Carter today for the first time & also Merv Knights. Another 6" gun on the beach she is a beautiful model & ought to shake up our friends once opposite. The Engineers blew up one of the submerged barges. Church was held at the rear of Courtneys Post & it sounded beautiful to hear the singing between the reports of both rifle & gun & the conclusion all the troops sang the National Anthem & it was carried right along the line.
21 June 1915
Monday 35 wks from home
We attacked per rifle all along the line to estimate the true strength of our friends over opposite but met with only a feeble response. Hal & I were up early after snipers & Hal got another notch after lunch I went down to the beach for the usual & just missed a Johnson it landed 6 ft away & didnt bust. I received great news down there the French had taken a mile of trenches & large bodies of Turks were reported (per aero) to be moving in a NW direction right into us, they took also an entire line of 2 trenches & held them. Mail arrived but I only got 3 papers. The Engineers finished the Pier today & it has been called "Watson Pier", oil engines have been installed for pumping purposes. Any amount of artillery from the Turks & high explosive stuff at that they have been trying to get on to the tunnel from Steels point but beyond giving our chaps some spice hunting they havnt done much damage. Bridge till 10
[Page 104]
22 June 1915
Tuesday
Up with the larks & off sniping only saw a couple though & pull their house down about their ears, plenty of arty again from daylight. Aeroplanes in sight 2 at 8 pm one ours & one theirs both our arty & theirs blazing away for all they are worth. News of yesterday confirmed. After lunch have a little fatigue work to do then make up our minds for a dip, beach closed as high exp shell is taking it but we get through & are OK until on the return journey when one ought to have got us but didnt. A Montor assisted by aeroplane is bombarding Gala Tepe with lyditte for all she is worth the effect of the shell is awful, & debris is flying about in heaps, the Turks have in turn sunk one of our water barges so mifish moia for today. Bert Fitton & Irving are back with us from the Cape again. Met Charlie Laurie OK. Paid a visit to Bill Nelson for bridge & nearly got another shrapnel it touched Hal only
23 June 1915
Wednesday 45 wks of soldiering
Sniping again at 5 light pretty bad but succeeded in giving one a start. An aeroplane was over early this morning & very low to so something is doing at the back of our position they were hovering there pretty well all day. Went for our usual at 3 pm & the Turks were pumping shrapnel in for all they are worth, they bombarded our positions to far into the night & high explosion at that. The effect is very pretty although pretty dangerous, quite a bomb battle opened up at 7 & for every one they threw we threw two & they quick turned it up. Things were as far as rifle fire went very quiet all day. Our howitzers get on to the gun opposite & Sykes lets his guns loose for once they make good practice on the gabions but the Turks quickly repaired them by next morning. The gun opposite Courtneys gave our parapets hell & blew one poor chap to bits & wounded others. No luck com again not for our brigade but paper will come in handy for future use.
[Page 105]
24 June 1915
Thursday
Had quite a battle with a sniper opposite but we with our periscopes sights got the beggar he was persistent & a good shot. The expected attack didnt come off last night & our chaps are quite disappointed. The gun opposite C is still giving the beach hell & one shell got 17 of our chaps, gunboats are shelling him with 4.7 but the range is to short for they are in a pit of considerable depth. A Glasgow battery (6" howitzer) has been landed to give us a hand. The Turks gave us a pretty exhibition of gunnery, one of steam [indecipherable] was bringing in a barge of goods & the Turks were trying their hardest to hit it they got within 10 yds every shot but no nearer. Had quite a lively 80 minutes Hal & I went a hunting & bet. us we got 50 & now we have a clean change on French & British still progressing favourably down at the Cape & Achi is in for a lively time. We hear that we had 500 000 Turks opposing us when we landed, but how many they have now is another story.
25 June 1915
Friday
During the night we captured a Turkish patrol consisting of 1 officer & 7 men, the officer informed us that they are confident if they wait long enough that they will starve us out & that also we are trying to find water everywhere but without success. The Lord Nelson with her 4 12" guns & 18 9" shelled Chanak from off our position for the whole afternoon. The burnt cordite formed a pall over the whole countryside, later on in the evening Chanak was on fire in many places, the Lord N had a cordon of 18 destroyers to protect her against submarine attack. A mail arrived at 5 but none for us as usual. At 9 pm we blew up a mine & launched an attack to try & find out the strength of the enemy, it proved successful all along the line. Went for our am dip accompanied by mine shrapnel. German aeroplane passed over at 6 pm & made straight for Maidos, our captive balloon was up spotting for the L Nelson All the afternoon the Turks gave an exhibition of battery fire & tried to blow up the L Nelson, also the balloon came in for its share
[Page 106]
26 June 1915
Saturday
Took bad with an attack of ptomaine poisoning at 4.30 due to a crook [indecipherable] temperature up to 101 so am off duty for today. Mustard is back & brought a mail with him, I was lucky enough to receive four letters a paper & 1 parcel & the long looked for letter from Nell, the Turks have been very quiet for the last few hours only plenty of shrapnel as usual but our how are proving their superiority everywhere. We took over again at 12 noon worse luck & work for another week is in progress. Aeroplanes both ours & theirs are to be seen at any time. Ward returns from Mountain Battery & [indecipherable] who was hit with a bit of a bomb was sent up to relieve him. Our guns have been concentrated onto the New Turks position up the head of Snipers Gully, we blew their defences to blazes & gave them heaps of work for a few days, 8 high explosives were put into the gabions opposite & now they none but they have been very busy all night, rumor of a relief for us
27 June 1915
Sunday
I have made fair progress towards recovery & temp is down to normal, Pere Parki was wounded by trying to smother a bomb & received 3 wounds one in the thigh being his worst, Artillery very brisk all day & the enemy has got a battery of 4.7" shelling the beach & they are landing very close to H.Q, the heads are in quite a stir over it, they succeeded in sinking another of our barges with 4 days supply of water on board, things are very active round towards the cape. Whilst sapping last night our chaps ran into a Turks sap & a pitched battle ensued, rifle, bomb & revolver being employed they we placed an armed man over it who shoots on sight. I went down to the [indecipherable] hospital to find out the latest re Pere & on the way down I had the narrowest escape possible from a JJ just whizzed past my head & exploded 5 yds off beyond getting a bath in dirt nothing happened, he is getting along as well as can be expected
[Page 107]
28 June 1915
Monday 36 wks from home
A heavy bombardment took place opposite Gabe Tepe & 15000 Scots are reported to have been landed there we could observe cruise shelling shore heavily with shrapnel & the destroyers are yapping close into the shore our right flank opposite the Lonesome Pine had advanced & successfully taken the 1st trench of Turks they then went on & took 8 more but had to retire as our ships out at sea were shelling these trenches. News from the Cape says that our troops have advanced 1100 yds & taken 5 lines of trenches troopers are everywhere around the coast The Monitor has been firing all day & JJ has dropped 8 in our lines but have done no harm. We had fairly heavy losses but we must look for this when such operations are ordered. We expect a very heavy counter attack tonight but are in the best of health for it swimming at 7.30 is great, We blew out another MG by our 18 pounders
29 June 1915
Tuesday Pere died yesterday
The counter came alright a real beaut they attacked all along the line, we were greatly helped by the aid of our star shell as our positions had been consolidated throughout the early part of the night they found it more than they could do. A heavy bombardment was going on all day today down at the Cape & quite a number of fires are breaking out all over the hill. The French advanced another 350 yds & held it. The 1st Brig is off for a spell to Imbros the 1st & 2nd Btns Heavy artillery fire has been directed on us all day especially down at the beach where high explosive has been playing all day doing a fair bit of damage Our losses for the advance were 250 so we did extremely well, an aeroplane was up during the attack last night we couldn’t find out who she belonged to, but not much importance is attached to the fact as the night was fairly dark
[Page 108]
30 June 1915
Wednesday 46 wks of soldiering 7 wks of action
Yesterday all day along the whole line the enemy attacked heavily but was repulsed with heavy loss, about 100 Turks left their trenches last night at 12.10 & attacked Walkers Ridge, then first of all struck our outposts who turned them to our right where they struck Popes, rifle fire laid them out & they retired (into our MG) in disorder, meanwhile one of our MG had been placed outside the parapet with this gun we either killed or wounded every man, 35 dead can be counted opposite Popes alone, 3 prisoners were caught & two officers, 1 Turk & 1 Ger no information could be gleaned from them. The French made important advances again today at Helles. Artillery gives us blazes again all day & High Explosive has been landing in our cook house but luckily no one was about, at the beach they got it pretty warm. Snipers again prevalent
1 July 1915
Thursday annotated 52
During the night a most violent thunderstorm came over from the South & our friends on the other side made the most of it by attacking but they only got bad for their pains, Enver Pasha has resumed command of the Turks again & has ordered us off the Peninsula at all costs. Advanced report from Helles today says that during the last two days the Turks have left 1500 dead on the field & they are getting greatly disheartened their equipment is also of the worst, canvas most of it & some have only slippers for boots. Met Eric P & went to the beach with him to try & find out about Pere, things are booming again at the Cape & the heavy guns have taken up the music again, a heavy sea has been running all day & has caused some damage amongst the works on the beach Created a bomb proof shelter over the Signal Office. Snipers got three this morning. Only a couple of hundred shells today
[Page 109]
2 July 1915
Friday
First thing this morning a large box kite was flown with a camera arrangement above our trenches, by some contrivance, papers were flown into the enemy’s lines . The mountain gun of the evenings did considerable damage to Popes defences this morning so at 11.30 our "How is yer" baty opened fire with lyddite & they created awful havoc in their trenches but somehow didnt manage to get the gun Our land & sea guns started another heavy bombardment down at the Cape today & its even heavier than the last. A sniper was observed digging himself in at 6 on the Razor & one of our m guns gave him a hand & now he’s not digging in. Two of our planes came over tonight one dumped bombs & the other reconittered the evenings position. One sniper caught last night by the 1st LH & found to have been armed with our rifle & ammunition. Another bomb (catapault) came over Courtneys tonight into a cook house & wounded the cook
3 July 1915
Saturday
Heavy arty has been directed against us all day & in return our howitzers have wrought awful havoc with lyditte in their trenches, they have dropped a few high explosives for distribution amongst us. The chaps down at the Cape have done splendid work & have practically decimated two divisions of the army They attack as usual with arty & infantry but this time in the broad daylight as that accounts for their huge losses they can now be seen from our position, from hill 701 at Anzac it is quite possible to see all over the country towards Gaba Tepe & Achi Baba even the road along which their main supplies go is visible, camel trains one after the other can be seen at any hour of the day, also one of their HQs from which despatch riders are seen to come from every few minutes. All along the crest of Gaba Tepe dozens of troops can be seen, entrenching, & others out in the olive grove where their arty is secreted. A mail arrived today & I got 10 letters
[Page 110]
4 July 1915
Sunday 8 wks of go
Out of the 10 letters I got 3 from Nell & 4 from home everything is great at home thank goodness, nothing much happened through the night just the usual rifle fire, we blew up [indecipherable] last night at 10 & this led to a friendly exchange of lead, we were down at 701 again this afternoon & were just in time to see the French explode 7 mines & then converge all their arty on to the ridge to the L of Achi, it presented a beautiful sight especially at sundown (golden) over at the back of imbros, we watched a Turkish Bn move from Gaba to Achi & not a shot was fired at them, the beach on which we were supposed to land has 6 rows of barb out of the water & at least another 3 in the water this extends right under & past the fort, so I guess we would have struck rich. Got a letter from Norm his doing OK & Wags gives me latest news from [indecipherable]
5 July 1915
Monday 37 wks from home
The Turks gave us a rather rude awakening this morning for they had all their guns including a new howitzer they had brought up through the night with this they were feeling for our 6" how but no such luck, late last night they dropped a Jack J on to the depot but did no damage After lunch we went for the usual swim, after which we strolled up to the observation post & spent a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon first thing of note was 2 Regts of the enemys [indecipherable] & no sooner had we sighted them than our howitzers opened fire with lyditte 2 shots fixed them up then they shelled the road for hours. The trawlers meanwhile were having a little game of their own out to sea, & after a while we saw a submarine under the water using her Deisel engines the exhausts threw a column of water 3 ft high & 100 feet long she was using both her Deisel & elect motors trying to get away as two trawlers had her in a net. Monitor accompanied by a aeroplane started to shell hill 701 with howitzers
[Page 111]
6 July 1915
Tuesday
A very quiet night for once, a little rifle fire on the right after lunch we went for our usual swim & afterwards went up for a view from Hill 701 Nothing much to be seen only the Turks (2 guns) sent a few shells after one of the trawlers & destroyer, had tea, Turks sent 5 howitzers shells on to our positions from Courtneys to Hells & beyond knocking the parapets about only succeeded in injuring 2 men & then by burying them, we again went to 701 at 6 pm & watched our mountain baty shelling the road (lyditte & shrap) under the Gaba Tepe , an 18 pounder of ours helped the 6" Hows to silence the Turks 5 [indecipherable] (partially) the gunboat on our left was busy shelling our friends at sunset. Two howitzers were rendered fit for service under Capt Pace & were to be put in position tonight. Two aeroplanes were reconnoitering over the Turks for a considerable time this evening.
7 July 1915
Wednesday 47 wks of soldiering
Things very quiet during night only an occasional burst of rifle fire & bomb throwing. In the morning we paid a visit to [indecipherable] & had a few shots at the loop holes, the Turks must have changed round for their men are very eager & daring & expose themselves but now they have lost a few they have calmed a little. Went down for our usual swim after lunch & found the water rather leady as a couple of guns in the olive grove were throwing it about a bit. Our howitzers got on to them after a bit & temporally silenced them. About 6 their 6" started to shell [indecipherable] with high explosives & after they had put in about a doz they turned it up & then the wounded started to appear, they got 10 altogether 2 seriously. A 11.2 gun shelled the M Gun Baty this morning but did no damage they appear to come from the direction of Maidos & is of a fat pattern. An effort is to be made tonight to draw the Turks fire at 9.15
[Page 112]
8 July 1915
Thursday
The ruse to draw their fire was every where successful about 2100 a firing of a mine was the opening of the ball then all troops gave three rounds of cheers but only two could be heard for the Turks fire was that heavy that nothing could be heard, dummys were then poked over the parapet & their fire got even heavier then died away about 2300 the same thing was repeated with the same success. A fine arty duel opened at sunrise & shell was busting everywhere, all our guns were speaking & with effect too Later the Monitor & destroyers lent a hand after an hour the Turks quietened a bit & then died away altogether. Paid a visit to Hill 701 at 1800 pm & saw a Turk battery in action at Gala & later engaged by our guns & silenced. 15000 men with 2000 more to follow landed down at Helles yesterday 265 bags of mail arrived this afternoon Played cards for an hour or two & then after yarning for an hour, turned in.
9 July 1915
Friday
The mail was NZ stuff.
The Turks made an attack on the right at 2100 pm but with no success they are more easily repulsed than ever, although their grenade work is really good Exceptional orders have been issued to them from Enver Pasha regarding their use of ammuns & care of shells everything points to the shortage we here so much of. Eric called this morning & told me of poor Pere’s death he died on the boat as a result to the wound in his stomach. Had our usual swim & then paid a visit to Hill 701 from where we could see the effect of the Monitors shelling from out in the Bay they were bursting at the Turkish HQs & making a bit of a mess later on she turned her attention to the 6" howitzer that has been giving us so much trouble, meanwhile our Baty (Indian, 18 pds & How) were peppering the chess-board to some tune & playing havoc with their works.
[Page 113]
10 July 1915
Saturday
Several minor attacks during the night just enough to keep one awake, but at dawn the guns began to bomb from both sides & soon the damage was apparent on both sides the U trench opposite Popes came in for a special dose both from Howitzers & field pieces After lunch went down for the usual swim & later on the Lord Nelson accompanied by 18 destroyers & she started with 8" 12" guns to shell the rear of Achi Baba & the effect was heavy especially on the roads At 6 pm a light cruiser accompanied by an aeroplane commenced to shell the Turks at the back of Steels 6 gun broadsides were the order the aeroplane came in for a special amount of shelling & at one time 20 shells were visible in the air at once but none hit her after a while the Turks opened fire again with their heavy guns & gave Steels another gruelling. The Monitor came down later on 1915 and gave them some more at Fishermans Bend. Weather fine & hot
11 July 1915
Sunday
All night the Turks kept us busy with bursts of rifle fire along the whole front but no Turks left the trench, the Turks at daybreak gave us more of shells & they shelled our whole front for 2 hours, nothing much doing through the day only a mail arrived & I got 4, 3 from home & 1 from Nell 9 pages (quois kitten) went down for a swim at 1300 & was in time to see cruiser open fire 1.6" & 4.7" guns on to a village E of our position she shelled it for an hour & the [indecipherable] was observing from away out to sea the Turks returned the fire with light stuff & followed the cruiser for 15 minutes & after about 30 shots succeeded in landing one under the bridge but did no damage. The [indecipherable] made a ruse at 2115 & when the Turks were in the trenches one of the warships imploded their trenches causing severe losses to the enemy, their return was only feeble after the shelling was over, showing that they suffered some. Expect a heavy attack at Achi tonight from the reports we are getting.
[Page 114]
12 July 1915
Monday 38 wks from home
At daybreak this morning we started to shell the enemy’s trenches with all the guns we could bring to bear on him & he replied with field stuff & his heavy later on & gave Steels a severe bombardment pretty well destroyed Steels firing trench also inflicting severe losses to us, the long looked for bombardment of Achi started this morning & has gone on all day without a stop, an officer returning from there this morning informed me that we had taken a trench from flank to flank & hoped to get more tonight 2 French warships in the Narrows were supported their comrades while 6 of our own were shelling Achi with 12" lyddite another big ruse tonight on our part accompanied by artillery fire. The 4.7 gun landed yesterday was today drawn up into position by 100 men. Firing looks to be one of the gunners, Ammunition arrives by the boatload. Innoculated again
13 July 1915
Tuesday
At daybreak & all through the day the Turks kept up a heavy bombardment of Steeles & Courtneys about 1800 it reached its zenith & the wounded were coming out in dozens they got between 50 & 60 all told if they don’t shift this gun they will shift us & jolly soon too. Went for a swim after dinner & saw another battery of mountain guns (6) landed also met Irving is on the 4th Baty now, Reg Allen the Melbourne lad ran into me on the beach, great news from the South they are still advancing steadily & inflicting heavy losses on the Turks. Received a parcel from dear little Nell containing socks & safety pins. Russians have turned the tables on the Germans again & now they are penetrating fast over the river & into [indecipherable]. Germans in W Africa have surrendered unconditionally to Botha along with 3000 men 200 officers 27 guns and 22 m guns. We got the timber at last for the bomb proof. The strength of the troop now is 21 all told, sickness is giving us hell, 3 men went yesterday & 2 more today. Swim again at 2030
[Page 115]
14 July 1915
Wednesday 48 wks of soldiering
The Turks through the night kept us busily engaged especially opposite Steels which front we abandoned through the night on account of their heavy howitzer fire, only a few observers being left there to give the warning in case of an attack, things were fairly quiet throughout the day Capt Richie was severely burnt by an 8" it exploded a foot away & tore his clothing to ribbons. On the doc again for [indecipherable] nothing much though Went down for our usual after tea, made inquiries for Eric who has disappeared but could find no trace of him, his gun was blown over the parapet & replaced this afternoon. Harold & I at 2000 started to build a bomb proof over the Signal office worked up till 2300 & succeeded in getting the frame ready for the iron which we intend putting tomorrow night Shells made their appearance on the beach during our swim much to [indecipherable] annoyance who made the most of the time available to get under cover. Mountain guns were seen to go into their new position on the right.
15 July 1915
Thursday 9 wks of Gallipoli
Things very quiet through the night only a little rifle fire occasionally, great news came from the Cape where our forces are doing exceptionally well on both flanks & after swimming we visited 701. where a cruiser could be seen bombarding the rear of Achi & all her shots were accompanied with beautiful bursts, a Turkish battery at the foot of Achi was put out of action through the accuracy of her fire, later on she in turn shelled the road below Gaba Tepe where the enemy were to be seen bringing up large bodies of troops. All day a heavy bombardment of the enemys trenches has gone on down at the Cape & we expect it to fall any day now Aeroplanes are subjected now when they put in an appearance to a heavy shelling which points to demobilization, 2nd LH furnish the escort to the General this week over at Imbros so they ought to be in for a fairly good time The weather is still on the warm side at 1930 the Jack Johnson make their reappearance at Steeles post, more casualties. go on ab 20,00
[Page 116]
16 July 1915
Friday
The Turks made another attempt to give us a little more trouble last night but didn’t do much good only wasted a few shells but at daybreak they came for us properly with all their arty after an hours bombardment they took up the rifle & fired continuously for an hour not a shot did we reply they were to cunning to come out though so beyond giving us a little entertainment they did no damage. A full brigade of 5.2 howitzers landed last night 8 guns are to go on our left & 8 on our right this brings the total guns up to 72. Gen Hamilton paid us a visit in a racing motor launch today from Imbros Night before last the troops down at the Cape advanced 2100 yds in one place & in others took two sectional lines of trenches. The Monitor has been firing continuously all day at the rear of Achi & getting great bursts evidently the Turks are keeping their reserves there now as they are being continually faced back. More Jack Johnsons on Steels at 1800
17 July 1915
Saturday
Nothing of note during the night only several bursts of rifle fire accompanied by bombs & grenades. Capt Fiaschi has been attached to the 1st Regt as M.O. During the morning Cecil Oliver called & informed me that Eric Parki was killed whilst attending his gun both his mates were wounded by the same shell so that’s "finish" Parky’s. Went down for a swim which was just perfect & came home under a perfect hail of lead I don’t know how I missed it both sides were at it tooth & nail for 2 solid hours & at the Cape the guns were continuously on the roar. Another baty was landed last night the first one opened fire toady on the Chess board & did effective shooting, finished the bomb proof shelter last night & made a good job of it. Turks towards evening threw dozens of bombs at our structures at Quinns but without effect they then made a false attack but nothing was doing so they fell in. Aeroplanes have been over all day so Turks must be in force in places
[Page 117]
18 July 1915
Sunday 10 wks of fight (annotated 54)
Awakened to the roar of a hundred guns at daybreak this went on for hours & then moved off down to the right, they gave both Steels & Courtneys particular hell with shrap & high explosive. Aeroplanes were fired on by an anti-aircraft gun the Turks have brought up but no damage was done They reported in turn that many reinforcements were being massed a mile back & then our howitzers took up the tune but no list of hits has come to hand. Went down for a dip at 1300 & was driven both in & out of the water with shrapnel 17 were hit around us, the burst was only 4 ft from us, we dived & when we came up it was all over. A mail arrived I got 3 from home but none from Nell so expect same in a day or two. Steels have been getting it hot with big stuff tonight & a company com was killed outright. Cooking a failure (dumplings)
19 July 1915
Monday 39 wks of soldiering
An attack was expected on our right last night for they after shelling out position for 2 hrs were massing in that direction. We fired star shell every fifteen minutes but nothing came of it. Went down for a dip after lunch & enjoyed it OK. Three warships were standing out 2 monitors & a cruiser. The latest monitor has 14" guns & she with the others were shelling the road at the foot of 751 & one of our 18 [indecipherable] batteries were also lending a hand with shrapnel Troops were moving along the road one could see by the dust & the guns must have done great damage. Our new howitzers are nearly ready for action as the emplacements are finished. A mail arrived & I got one from Keast & Wrig. Keast is in Heliopolis & Wrig is convalescent. Metch got one from Bert M who is going to England for a spell. Norm F & J. Duggan are being returned to Australia. Four aeroplanes made their appearance two on bomb throwing expeditions the other two reconnitoring
[Page 118]
20 July 1915
Tuesday
Things got pretty brisk through the night & news came to hand that 100,000 Turks were marching down the Peninsular to engage us this being a final flutter on their behalf We being the weaker force expect to get it pretty hot & the attack is expected any moment accompanied by gases. Two new Caldwell machine guns were firing today & they’re some class. had our usual swim & then went over to the batteries first to the 6" & then the 5" both are well on the way to completion & should be firing in a day or two, the emplacements of the 5" are tip top & will take some finding, ammunition is arriving by the boatload & 50 mules have been busy all day carrying same up to the guns the same applies to the batys on the left, two gun crews are at present on the 6" one to stand by the other Two more planes over tonight accompanied by heaps of shell from all quarters but they only wasted more lead than did damage
21 July 1915
Wednesday 49 wks of soldiering
Nothing of importance during night the long expected attack failed to come off but expect same tomorrow night for certain. Our howitzers throughout the day have been registering targets & made very good shooting at that. Things are fully brisk down the Cape as we within the last few days have been heavily reinforced & our arty has been booming for days.This 100,000 hasnt made their appearance yet & we dont want to be disappointed at the last moment. A mail arrived this morning & I got the long looked for from Nell, who is all of a quiver now that we are in action but there’s no need to worry for things will be OK to the end. Aeroplanes (4) have again been over our way & report that the enemy have cavalry & infantry on on L front at the back of the chessboard. The Turks got a bit figety at 1900 but our arty quickly quietened them. Had a visit from Cecil Oliver. Eric OK
[Page 119]
22 July 1915
Thursday
The Turks made a few feeble attacks during the night evidently feeling as to our strength & down the right it was a little heavier perhaps. Our howitzers made splendid practice during the night & probably they did much to subdue the Turks. Hal, Bert & I had a narrow squeak from a HE at the batteries possy a 4.5 from Silent Peter came along & burst at our feet but beyond bursting & smothering us in dirt no damage was done only we got burnt in digging for relics. The beach was shelled from all quarters today & so were our positions with both large & small stuff. Bert B & I went out tonight to hunt for caps got 2 & a live shell for the boys to play with. Hal went for a shoot had a little excitement at a Turk observing with a periscope at the Razor – Boss very crook. OK
23 July 1915
Friday
The long looked for attack didnt come back last night only at 12 they livened things up a little but only for a time though. Our 5" howitzers were busy all night & had some bonza bursts. Had our usual today & then went up to 701 & watched two Monitors shelling the rear of Achi Baba one was confining her attention to the roads along which troops could be seen moving & the other to [indecipherable] the Turks. at 3 this afternoon on the Northern end of our position at Helles the Turks made a rush at the trenches but although they employed plenty if bombs they only succeeded in getting near the trenches & wounding 2 officers & 28 men while we can count 50 of their dead outside the trenches. I met Cyril O who is OK down at the beach. Went out hunting for caps & were spotted by the Turks who promply gave us a fusillade but luckily no one hit. The Caldwell guns are doing great work at Steeles & their 1000 rds per run are sure to command attention from Turky
[Page 120]
24 July 1915
Saturday
Our guns kept up a hail of lead & high explosive on the Chessboard all night & this had gone on through out the day. The beggars are going to let us down after all & I think they have taken a tumble as to what awaits them over here. A mail arrived today but I only got one from Bert M who ought to be back any day now. The Turks have now French Mortars in use so that ought to even things up a trifle. Rumors afloat by the mile is troops are to land between here & Tepe also 1700 of Ks army to give us a hand here. CO & 2 operators to stand by for duty at Imbros on GHQ we resumed duty today at 12 & glad of the change. At sunset the Turks opened fire with all their guns on our positions the heavy howitzers did a good deal of damage to our earthworks although no men were hit. They got 16 men at the beach this morning with shrapnel & old silent Peter opened up again on the Howitzers who are OK
25 July 1915
Sunday
Howitzers busy all night but little or nothing to report only that a party of Turks (50) were caught out reconnatering and destroyed by machine gun fire. The enemy kept up a rain of shrapnel on the beach from both North and South they have brought guns around to the Southern end of the Salt Lake & now they can pitch a shell anywhere in Anzac The same thing applies from the other end. I went down for my usual at 1400 & then visited the Coy just in time to witness a few salvos of shrapnel One beauty demolished a huge stack of biscuits & blew off one mans arm. Ammunition is arriving by the million rounds & very heavy beach parties are needed for the next few days for unloading work. Turks have started to use the incendiary bombs on us but without success as they are easily extinguished. Howitzers got on to a party of Turks at drill & gave em beans. Mail dispatched today
[Page 121]
26 July 1915
Monday 40 wks from home
We made a demonstration this morning at 8 am to try & draw the enemys fire but they are up to the dodge now & only fire as long as we do. The new brigade of arty is doing splendidly C baty has accounted for 4 guns at least whilst the other 3 btys have made havoc of gun emplacements etc of the Turks. On duty practically all day & went for a dip after tea, visited 701 & watched as pretty an artillery duel as one could wish to see between our guns on the right & the enemy’s at the foot of Gaba Tepe, then troops were observed moving along the road accompanied by cavalry & transport 6 guns (3 field 3 How) got on to them & made excellent practice their bursts being very effective , after dark they gave attention to the beach & threw over about 20 or 30 shrapnel then the gunboat engaged the enemy on the S of the Lake also shelling the gun now in position there Aeroplanes spotting effectively
27 July 1915
Tuesday
The Turks have changed their garrisons again & tonight we are to try & draw their fire by a somewhat lengthy programme. The Turks have shelled the beach continuously all day & are doing a fair amount of damage. I went for usual swim at 1400 & combined QMS duties with it & drew all the stores needed from Ordance. The Turks are giving us a new bomb a huge un about 9" in diameter & are hurled by a catapult gun which has an effective range of a mile. Trawlers very busy all the afternoon chasing a submarine but without success. Nothing doing down at the Cape, no movement of our troops visible at all. Press reports that we have taken the offensive again at last. as it is very evident that they dont intend to come at us again so we will have to go for em. The condensers made a start today & are filling the local reservoir first, then the drop reservoir further up the valleys. [indecipherable] to be retained.
[Page 122]
28 July 1915
Wednesday 50 wks of soldiering
The ruse proved most successful they blazed away for two hours along our whole front & joined a little artillery in it as well, we gave them plenty of bombs. One of Gen Birdwood’s aide-de camps was killed this morning shot in three places with shrapnel whilst asleep outside his dugout he lingered for an hour, Eric P was down to see me this morning he’s OIT again a mail arrived & I got 5 but still no parcels. Finished the bomb proof under plenty of lead tonight but dodged 0ne. Harold not too good tonight. More guns to be landed tonight & taken round to the left flank, no more colonial ammo to be landed but any amount of MARIT VII & whips of artillery stuff, shells pretty thick all day & a Capt Armstrong killed at the beach. All sorts of rumors are afloat as to what and where we are going to when relieved shortly but India is the favorite at present. Incendiary bomb received at 1900
29 July 1915
Thursday
We landed a battery of 60 pounders & 3 of 18 pdrs last night also with the necessary equipments, ammunition is arriving by the boat-load along with stores, Two german aeroplanes came over at 1800 one was driven off by two French & British planes, the other passed over our lines & again our planes chased him, he dropped a bomb on the Turks who again in their turn turned their anti-aircraft on him, after he had flown a couple of miles he was seen to cut out & then [indecipherable], he then capsized burst into flames & then disappeared over a small hill. The Turks gave our trenches hell from about 5 guns & all men had to be taken out of the trenches, but only for that the day had been very quiet along the whole front but down at the beach they are getting tons of shell they seem to have found out at last the real value of their guns & just how much damage they can inflict with them
[Page 123]
30 July 1915
Friday annotated 56
Last night the Turks blew up a mine in front of Quinns, although injuring no man in the firing line we suffered 9 killed & 7 wounded in the supports, by falling dirt Another Taube came along this morning & tantalized one of the destroyers but looping the loop for our benefit, then a Sopwith driven by Sampson came along & chased our friend off but he reappeared at 1600 & dropped two bombs on the beach but no damage was done. 2 4.7 landed last night & 3 more 18 pdr all to go on the R. News came to hand that we had achieved a victory in Persia taking the railway and now the road is open to Bagdad, we gave three cheers & fired 1 round as a Jeux-de-joix & The Turks didn’t seem to appreciate it. Wrote home & to Nell. Downing leaves tomorrow thank goodness, we have 28 men away ill & wounded. Got another batch of trophies by seeking after dark. Monitors shelling Chanak
31 July 1915
Saturday
All through the night a constant rifle fire was kept up by both sides but no attack was launched by either side. Downing left at 11 AM with the heads for Imbros Went for one usual at 1500 & paid a visit to 706 where quite an interesting sight was seen, the Navy was carving small bits of Achi & it was enveloped in smoke shells were bursting all along our front with great rapidity. The Taube came over again & let down a rain of [indecipherable] in Canterbury gully but no one was hit. Turks give our positions a severe bombardment at sundown & our guns give them the same [indecipherable] & the trenches are a picture to see especially the Chess board. Our 4.7 guns were firing tonight from their special emplacements & are doing splendid work although the Turks have been shelling their positions for hours, but with little or no gain
[Page 124]
1 August 1915
Sunday
The Turks by doing a little mining on our right not only threatened our works but made enfilading possible by their guns so the 5th Brig & the 5 LH were ordered to go out at 1AM & take the first trench this they did & at the same time inflicted heavy losses on the enemy, they then stormed & took the second trench, this time no resistance was offered, not a Turk showing fight, as the trench could be commanded from the first so we were ordered to retire on the first trench, 60 Turks were counted in & about their trenches our losses were 10 killed & 74 W not too bad considering the nature of the job After lunch we went for our usual then paid a visit to 701 where a fine view was had of a severe bombardment of Achi Baba from all positions, the hills were smothered in dust & our guns were peppering Gaba with shot of all sizes & shapes. Dobbyns sent away with Influenza to Maidos for a couple days
2 August 1915
Monday 41 wks from home
During the night the Turks launched a heavy counter attack but nothing came of it & our returns were of the liveliest nature although we were content with consolidation only & not of offence, this must have annoyed them for they didn’t venture out of the trenches. We witnessed a great fight between a Taube & a British plane they manoeuvered for a position over the other for an hour & all the while they were chucking shots at one another the Monitor settled it by bringing into use her anti- aircraft gun she only fired two shots when the Taube thought better of the encounter & sailed away over her own lines. No water, barge either missing or sunk so things are again crook. A Brig & his staff landed today they belong to the 29th Brig, & also 3 Bn of Gurkas who have gone along to the left flank. Admitted into hospital with gastro arthritis but nothing of much consequence.
[Page 125]
3 August 1915
Tuesday
Hal called & saw how things are going, I passed a fairly good night temp 102. In the morning a Turkish aeroplane dropped a bomb which fell almost 20 yds from the hospital but luckily no one was hit during the night we landed about 1700 toops of the first Kitcheners army mainly the Glosters & the Worchesters they arrived from Lemnos, they seem a good sturdy crowd & ought to give an excellent account of themselves, All day long a terrific cannonade was going on down at the Cape & was carried up to her by our own guns this evening & the rifles took on the tale later on in the evening. Gen Cheaval & Chas Cox came back today. Plenty of "footys" came over at 6 but nothing of any importance to either side. The Monitor has been shelling the road very heavily for 2 hours & is supported by our Howitzers later the Talbot put a salvo or two into Silent Peter
4 August 1915
Wednesday 51 wks of soldiering 13 wks of Gallipoli
More troops arrived during the night & have filled in every available gully in Anzac they shelled the gully heavily this morning & one chap was shot in hospital, thousands of shells landed & still landing. The Taube came over again & dropped more bombs but again they did no damage our planes give them a dose of the same medicine & with better effect too. Artillery has been constant all throughout the day & ours is playing hell with their trenches although their guns are not doing ours much good. I think they have got the dirty end of the stick, rifle fire is still pretty brisk & snipers are fairly active again, We expect a bit of a counter by the Turks tonight although don’t expect it to be of any weight if it is they will get all & more than they want
[Page 126]
5 August 1915
Thursday
Still more troops landed & equipment & space is pretty limited now & water is none too plentiful. A heavy engagement was going on all day at the Cape & our arty has been pretty continuous here all day, preparations are going ahead rapidly for the dust up tomorrow night troops are to carry nothing but ammunition & huge white patches are shown on the backs of the tunics & on both arms. The Tommys carry a metal disc this is to enable our artillery to pick out our troops & fire accordingly everything points to a big affair this time & is anxiously awaited for by everyone ; expect to be out of hospital tomorrow. Mick sent away with sciatica, Hobbs called & so did Fred & gave me all the news. The Monitors have been keeping the reserves of the enemy busy with their accurate shooting & the road itself is ruined
6 August 1915
Friday AM 1.18
The Turks had a go at those two trenches we took off them a few days ago they put up a good fight but got the worst of it. Left the hospital at 9 this morning. Aeroplane reports that 3 Turkish camps are behind Hill 60 probably in all 5 Regts 12,000 to 15000 men, new men man the 3rd Section. The Ausn Divn attacks at 5 pm & then the German trench we are to support it with all possible aid then at 8 our posts join in & go for en on the left they carry on an advance of their own. Our howitzers have been carving their trenches about all day the bombardment proper starts at 1700 aided by the navy destroyers have been patrolling all day & a few big ships are now present here. Turks shelled Canty this morning & with one shell they got 2 killed & 14 wounded. Tauber drops more bombs & arrows but only two men were hit. Three planes have been reconnitering all day.
[Page 127]
7 August 1915
Saturday Battle of Anafarta
The bombardment last night was terrific & the explosions rent the air all night long at 8 pm the Ausn Divn had progressed well on to the objective the Lonesome Pine 9-5 they had got there & are now still holding it we went out as ordered with 400 men & did nothing instead the first Regt were cut to pieces & the second are just as bad, on Walkers ridge they are held up just the same, but on the Left again with the 2 divn that landed at Anafarta they have advanced 4 mile by 6 pm. Battleship hill is ours 2 guns have been captured 6 machine guns, 2 [indecipherable] nordenfeldts, all of which are now being used on the enemy. We have also taken 2500 prisoners, all day long the battle raged, in all their counters they have gained nothing, we have suffered heavily & the dead lay in heaps at the burial grounds. Scores of boats lay off the new landing & the navy is assisting the troops
8 August 1915
Sunday
Business was brisk through the night as the Turks counter attacked severly but beyond filling in between the trenches with their dead. On the Left our success is further prolonged & 971 is completely ours. Prisoners are still arriving & two of their own accord. We have advanced as far as Asma Dere, Chunak Dere, and the Tommy’s are doing even better further on the Left. Two of our submarines sunk between them 2 warships & a transport & then they rose & bombarded a Turkish column, not only did they inflict awful casualties but they succeeded in holding up the column for a couple of hours. We resume the attack again at 5 am tomorrow morning & to keep as many engage as possible for the troops go forward again in the morning. The gunnery has been terrific all day & the Navy has been of great assistance to us our howitzers have done splendidly all through especially on the Chess Board where the Turks could be seen being mowed down.
[Page 128]
9 August 1915
Monday 42 wks from home
Gen Cox attacked this morning & almost succeeded but was stopped by hostile counter-attack. In consequence of this Gen Baldwin was unable to advance far & is now consolidating on the line farm [indecipherable]. Attack on Damakje punar Bair defeated all enemy being all either killed or wounded. 1st Aust Divn inflicting heavy loss on enemy who is counter attacking Lone Pine position. Battle raged all day long on the whole front with undiminished energy on either side. Though we are getting it pretty hot the Turks are getting it even hotter, another 200 prisoners taken yesterday every one of them have been sent away. They shelled the beach for hours this morn but we had our swim. Met Les Bonning wounded from a bomb. Three of our planes did a little bomb dropping for practise at 1800 tonight & evidently did well judging by the fire the Turks directed at them. Achi Baba is being vigorously attacked by our forces
10 August 1915
Tuesday
Plenty of fighting still knocking about & on the Left we got more than we asked for & had to retire from Chainuk Bair at 4 this morning. We counter attacked & regained it then they took it again & this has been going on all day. Our artillery early in the morning cut their forces to ribbons the observers say that they must have accounted for fully 50% of them, they were holding this Chanuk Bair & were in force all over the hill, viz the damage done by the artillery. The navy has been "buying in" all day with their guns & one has been firing on the Chess board over our heads all day. Mail day today & I got four letters & parcels & 2 papers so didnt do to badly but none from Ern. Witnessed a great go in between one of our planes & 2 of the enemy’s. first ours charged theirs & drove it off over the enemy’s lines & she followed, but when a couple of miles over an Albatross drove her home so we dont know who got the best of it. Things indicate an interesting night
[Page 129]
11 August 1915
Wednesday 52 wks of soldiering
We had a pretty tough night of it & the Cheshires had to give up a trench they made it that hot for them, but I dont think we will come back any further. Only for a arty duel the day has been very quiet The cruisers bombarded the hill the whole day through & our guns have done more than their share, they reckon that the Turks losses exceed five times our numbers. Our troops down at the Cape have been awake lately & its said that they took 700 prisoners within the last few days & the French are progressing top hole. Aeroplanes have been chasing round all day and at 6 tonight there were four of ours when one of the Deutcher’s appeared & they all after him but he got away safely. I went down for a swim this morning & whilst there they were bombing for fish & we just came along in time to get about a doz & they went real well. New ballon ship working in accordance with Anafarta
12 August 1915
Thursday Wrote home & Nell
Heavy Turkish attack was delivered about 0530 this morning mainly against Rhododenda Spire, Chunak Bair & down the slopes E of farm. Turks massed in great numbers under the Bair & suffered awful losses coming over ridge as they were exposed to field & naval gun fire who made the most of their opportunities. They succeeded in taking trenches on the Bair but had to clear out later on account of arty & cross fire from No. 3 Section, the attack died down at 1100. Our left has been thrown forward by the South Wales Borderers to Naylor Chair. No. 6 section had also extended on the left, an 100 men was sent out last night to strengthen the L flank inner defence No. 5 section extending it from Bauchops Hill to the sea. Sniping on the beach has been pretty bad all day & at times they brought a machine gun to bear. Two Zepps & nine planes reported in Constantinople. Our planes have had two goes with the enemy & have driven him off on each occasion. They shelled our ships today
[Page 130]
13 August 1915
Friday
Although despite plenty of fire through the night the situation remains unchanged. Sniping is on the increase. Artillery silenced two guns which were enfilading the troops at Abdel Rahman Bair. The Turks continue to dig in energetically & to improve their trenches opposite Rhododendron Spire it was estimated that 200 were at work. The situation on left of No 6 section is as follows The operations carried out last night failed to capture the well at [indecipherable] & to prolong the S Wales Borderers trenches up to it, the enemy was stronger than anticipated. The right of the 9th corps rests on the cross roads south of [indecipherable] & the left of the [indecipherable] at the K in Kaslar. There is a gap of 400 yds between them. In the meanwhile the Sherwood foresters of the 11th Divn were ordered to patrol up to Kaslar Chair. The 14th Sikhs are being moved to Daak JALIR Bair. Enver Pasha has acknowledged receipt of our machine guns & has informed us that they are being exhibited in the museum. four aeroplanes were over tonight & also plenty of JJs at 1800
14 August 1915
Saturday
The Turks made a heavy counter attack on the left but nothing gained although they attacked with plenty of vim & sustained heavy casualties. Our troops on the extreme left are doing well but news is very scarce for some reason or other. Went down for a swim as usual & a few odd shells came over occasionally, on the Left the Turks were shelling our positions heavily but no harm was done. The Navy has been strengthened at Anafarta & has been bombarding 971 for all they are worth Looked up Bobs grave & think that I’ve found it at the Mohammedon Cemetry. The Turks bombarded our trenches heavily at 1900 and we returned the compliment only on a larger scale, they were bringing up heavy reinforcements when our artillery got on to them & inflicted terrible damage. We expect them to attack tonight after all their shelling & also on the L. Aeroplanes are constantly appearing in numbers now of an evening, last night 4 & then 3 more tonight. Monitors busy all day till night
[Page 131]
15 August 1915
Sunday
Both on the Right & Left we were attacked by the Turks about 1.30. On the right it developed into an acute bomb attack & we returned it & succeeded in bombing them out of it. On the Left its just one continual fight. Our reconnaissance on left shows Turkish trenches extending from 09 105+8 through [indecipherable] & Green patch to end of Spur at Kaiajik Aghala thence through 92.0.1, 92.0.6. 92P8 9 to 93 Ly & 8. All above are enfiladed from sea at Suvla Bay. Enemy are strengthening this line & its fire trenches, their fire has interfered with our work on hill 92M & our own entrenchments of picquets in 09 92 M & H. Well at [indecipherable] is no doubt a detached post in front of their line. There is a machine gun near tree marked in SW corner of 92C. Sniping is still pretty bad on beach. Navy’s strength has been increased to nine vessels, along with the "Swiftsure" Swim OK (2). Business throughout day. Quiet.
16 August 1915
Monday 43 wks from home
Ninth Corps reported that the 10th Divn made good progress but they havnt stated the line they hold. They have been attacked all day but they hold their own & they are shortly to be relieved by fresh troops. Both Brigades on Right of Divn considered in satisfactory position. Troopship torpedoed a days sail from Lemnos 1800 men aboard 600 saved, the same submarine had a go at the baloon ship but missed; in front of Walkers the Turks tried to repair damage in Nek & the snipers were active below farm & against new trenches being dug in Aghyl Dere. A machine gun on Nek-Chunak Bair ridge was very troublesome & moved its position several times when engaged by our guns. Rhododendron spur has been tunnelled from Post overlooking Taylor Bair Dere, at Asmar Dere the Turkish trenches are so placed that enfilade fire from Navy can destroy the whole from Suvla Bay "Beachy Bill" proved troublesome at 1800 & his shooting was fairly accurate. In is reported that an Aust has given information to the enemy
[Page 132]
17 August 1915
Tuesday
This morning the Ninth Corps reported that the 30th Bde on extreme left held a position from 135.0.0 to beach Mark to along crest to T of Tepe thence to S. A Bn of the 11th Divn rushed house in 105W2 with success but were pushed out again by counter attack. Went for usual swim this morning & got quite a bath of shrapnel from Beachy Bill. Cruisers were bombarding Chunuk Bair for all they were worth this morning & our guns were asked to co-operate. The men that gave the news to the enemy were one from a mounted reg & one from an Ausn bn, everything from our departure to our landing here had been fully stated & our strength at different times were accurately stated Evidently the U.C.H.Q know who it is as they are very reticent on the matter. Mail arrived but no letters only a parcel of chocolate from Dunk & Ada. Two of our planes drove off a German at 1800 Snipers fairly active during day & evening.
18 August 1915
Wednesday 53 wks of soldiering
Nothing of much importance happened last night, excepting for a few bursts of fire things were normal, the enemy in front of Quinns appeared to be using periscope rifles. A Vice-admiral reported this morning that a seaplane has sunk a six thousand ton steamer in Ak Bashi Liman & one large tug further up, it is understood that this was done by a fourteen inch torpedo lifted by aeroplane & released a few feet above water. Beachy Bill was very active during the night & all day through. Our troops on the left again took that house but were unable to hold it on account of the severe counter attack by the enemy. Ammunition is again arriving by the boatload & guns also which are to go to the Left. At 1400 a series of mines were exploded opposite Quinns with the maximum amount of damage. After tea the enemy let go a few Jack J into Steeles & Courtneys but they were not as effective as usual, although their "75" was bursting well. Germans retreating from Warsaw confirmed
[Page 133]
19 August 1915
Thursday Signed on this day
The Ninth Corps reported that on the 34th Brigade occupied a line last night near I of Menki & a trench South of C of Human Chair but were forced to envacuate at 1700 today by shell fire, their left on a line 135.0.3 through Bench Mark to 118 A 4 Held & consolidated, their right advanced last night again but had to retire. NZ infantry carried trench apex Rhodendron spur at 2050 but they had to evacuate. No change in old Anzac position. Fitton & Mick returned today & we had the true story of the "Tommies" doings on the Left, & now we despise them even more than ever, the sooner they give them their dues the better. A naval bombardment was on all day at Helles & sounded as if Chunak was stopping them. Japan has given Turkey 24 hrs to open the Dardenelles, hope its true for the weather has broken & is now decidedly much cooler, 6th battery from Helles has arrived & is to be sent to our Left & the 1st Baty is also expected tonight. Turks threw over a paper from one wounded asking the planes not to bomb hospitals
20 August 1915
Friday
Things along the whole front were normal during the night, mac guns were taken from Caddys round to the Left & our own guns from Helles are taking their place. During the night 2 Bns of the 5th Brigade were landed & are to be sent round to the Left for tomorrows affair which promises to be one of the largest yet, the business opening up at 4.30 to the tune of a naval bombardment. A mail arrived but still no letters for me, or parcels. Down at Helles things are practically at a standstill only a few heavy artillery duels takes place now & then, but no infantry action whatever, so it has about fizzled-out there as far as offensive operations are concerned. Our warships through the course of the day sighted a whale & mistaking it for a submarine cut it to pieces with gun fire. Our planes have been doing considerable damage inland as desperate efforts are made to drive them off. Tanks get a hot reception from our [indecipherable] whenever they appear.
[Page 134]
21 August 1915
Saturday Battle of Kaiajik
Things fairly quiet along the whole front, only a minor attack on the Left by the Indian Bde. At 1530 after an hours solid bombardment Gen Russell commenced his assault & reported at 4.30 as follows have occupied Kaiajik Aghala our L has pushed on slightly but R is hung up, matters developing against spur 105T, later his left had taken knoll 60, R held up by m gun; at 9pm he reported holding on with 200 [indecipherable] Bde across Kaian Dere 100 yds from enemy’s trench. On L we hold enemy first trench & have been reinforced by Con rangers, line digging in & put in state of defence. Otago & 7Rifles captured a m gun which is now being used against enemy. One of our planes at 1145 reported large body of enemy at [indecipherable] also one brigade of rein advancing from [indecipherable] Walkus reports large body of enemy moving SW from Kutchuk Anafarta, this is possibly same lot as plane reports. Our progress is slow & little can be seen on account of the dust, the enemy is in force SW of [indecipherable] & are holding up our line in the direction of Ismail. Very little visible owing to numerous fires, at midnight our troops were still progressing & hanging on
22 August 1915
Sunday continuing
General situation at 2.30 this morning Gen Russell reports:- Dutport line extends from Susak Kuya by green patch to Kaiajik, his troops although exhausted can hold on but to consolidate a communication trench running N & S across ridge[image] The heavy firing late last night was a counter attack by Turks but was driven off. [image] must be taken by Connought rangers, 19th Bn occupied trenches on Kaiajik, the Turks were seen retreating from them, but the enemy is bringing up his reinforcements from Bijuk Anafarta by sunken road S of [indecipherable]. Gen Russell later reported that the trenches taken by Australians had to be vacated owing to enemy’s bomb attack, but 80 yds of another trench has however been taken & is now held. The ninth corps took a trench late last night in C of Hetman Chair this was counter attacked this morning & troops holding it were bombed out of it & fell back on the old line of yesterday, the 11th Divn has been ordered to take this position tonight for it is essential to enable our L & their R to effectively link up. 887 bags arrived of mail for Anzac tonight Sgt Nelson to tea
[Page 135]
23 August 1915
Monday 44 wks from home
Early this morning the 4th Inf Bde got on to the enemy & inflicted several hundred casualties on him including his mounted troops. Bursts of fire took place at Kaiajik Aghala about 2300 & 0200 latter accompanied by bombs. Heavy firing heard beyond our extreme left direction [indecipherable] Hills about 1430 today. Situation quiet over all other parts of the line. A number of Turks approached the L flank defences at Kaiajik shouting & with both hands held over their heads, as it was thought they wished to surrender they were allowed to approach the line held by 14th Sikhs. Some salaamed & shook hands, it was then noticed that they had their rifles & attempts to take them were resisted a scuffle ensued & 2 Sikhs were shot. They then opened fire & the Turks who were not killed fled. They nearly all had bombs attached to their waistbelts, they evidently intended to bomb & then rush the trenches. Gen Cox is to again hold line from Susak Kuyu & Kazlar Chair with piquets tonight. Mail arrived but only received 3 none from Nell. Artillery blew out 8 m guns.
24 August 1915
Tuesday
Things were quite normal in our section only occasional bursts of bombing & rifle fire the situation on the Left is slightly changed & the 10th Gurchas hold extreme left of line to within 15 yds of Susak Kuyu well, which will be included as soon as sandbags are obtainable. Westward of this a practically continuous entrenchment runs about 70 yds S of the Kavakler Rd joining the R of ninth corps at Crossroads 200 west of Havakler. This line is now held as under on extreme right two companies 19th Aust inf thence about 200 Northumberland Fusiliers remainder of line up to Cross roads held by 70 South Staffords & some details 9th corps. Indian Bde have improved [indecipherable] across plain & communication from rear. Gen Russells position at Kaiajik Aghala now strengthened. Great news of a decisive naval victory to the Russians in the Baltic came to hand at 1800, one super-dreadnought (Molke) 3 cruisers & 7 TPD being sunk. They tried to effect a landing but the whole concern was captured. Italy has declared war on Turkey & Greece is about ready.
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25 August 1915
Wednesday 54 wks of soldiering
During last night & today things have been quiet along the fronts of No 3+4 Sections; a strong patrol of Cheshires worked down to farm last night & returned without casualties. a new front on Rhodendron spur was completed, the Northumberland F have entrenched between [indecipherable] Chair & our left picket of the 14 th Br our 11th Div line now runs from cross roads 92a between 2 & 5 West of [indecipherable] Kavalier thence to Australian Post The enemys arty opened fire at 10AM on our infantry near Q, they were engaged by the 2nd Bty effectively after firing 15 rds. The ninth corps reported 6 red objects like big cylinders visible from Lala Baba in Turks trenches 92.0.2. 4th Bty (1 tners) opened fire with 16 rds and finished em. The navy at 7pm shelled trenches on the summit of Chunuk Bair which were thought likely to be filling at that hour A sergt of Auckland Bn on Canterbury slope reports that he observed about 2000 Turks moving from Battleship Hill towards Walkers Ridge in march formation at 2015. Exceptionally heavy bombardment all day at Cape . Get news of a move being relieved at 10,00 AM this morrow morn.
26 August 1915
Thursday mail
Things have been comparatively quiet all day on all the fronts, only during the night the enemy made one demonstration on the left, our move was put off for 48 hours. Went down to the Beach this morning & nearly "caught" a piece of lead visited Henderson who supplied us with 4 tins of Milk. Late in the afternoon they shelled our bivouac for hours with Silent Peter, pieces flying everywhere, the Turks employed a new bomb on a long stick & fired on the rocket principle it makes a decent row coming down & gives very good warning of its approach. The 20th Bn have taken over Russells Top & we made a combined attack at 2000 oclock with excellent results. A 22 bag mail arrived today but again none for me from Nell or home which will have to be seen into The bombardment of the Straits is still being carried on & at times assumes a fierce artillery combat Holland went back to the Cape leaving [indecipherable] here the Navy from Suvla Bay having being shelling the Turks off & on all day & in some cases brought enfilade fire to bear on them.
[Page 137]
27 August 1915
Friday
Another comparatively quiet night & in the morning the artillery was banging away at each other, but at 4.30 the arty started a bombardment of Knoll 60 Navy assisting Gen Cox made the first report at 11.50 as follows. By 2200 we appeared to make some headway towards knoll 60, especially in centre but have not reached top as the Turks were not driven out by bombardment & consequently the resistance is strong, a later message states that Austns are on [indecipherable] with NZrs not far short of knoll the Connaughts are working trench D to C. Col Pope who can see well from his position reports he has gained two trenches & are not far from objective , a little later he reported that we held 9/10ths of hill & that at midnight with fresh troops endeavour to capture remaining tenth The Connaught’s are now in possession of the whole of their piece after desperate hard fighting. The NZ’s Bde have still to get a bit to the W. The Aust on the R through B trench have still a little to get. Gen Russell captured a machine gun & is using it against Turks.
28 August 1915
Saturday
We accomplished our objective although the Connaughts after capturing their positions couldnt hold them & they retired then the ninth LH were sent to do the job which they did with 175 men after suffering 100 casualties, the whole of the new line have been consolidating throughout the day. Artillery fire has been pretty prevalent throughout the day & later on in the day, about 6 rounds [indecipherable] were fired into No 2 Section. Monitors shelled Chunuk Bair for some time with 14" guns & secondary armament. Aeroplanes both ours out on reconnaissance on same section only ours drives enemy off after little manoeuvring. Went for a dip as usual & called in to see Ted H who was OK stores arriving by the boatload. No sign of our reliefs as yet they got mixed up in the fight & probably that may detain them. Our Howitzers are to fire on Turks as soon as they open up with the 75 mm both on R & the Left. News of one of our submarines torpedoing 4 large Turkish transports in the straights above Nagara was received today. The Turks were reinforcing their trenches on Hill 60 & our artillery is giving em heaps
[Page 138]
29 August 1915
Sunday annotated 59
Things were quiet on our front during the night but on the Left there was further action on Kaiajit Aghala position to gain more trenches & consolidate ground already won was carried out at 0100 hours by Gen Russell. The 10th LH regt successfully took the enemy’s trench held it & are now consolidating position round top of Knoll 60 & back to point held yesterday morning in continuous line, up to 0300 no sign of counter attack. Complete communication established across Haijik Dere between 4th Ausn Inf Bde & New Zealanders on Kaiajit Aghala where bombs are still being exchanged. The outlook on the Left is very promising & it is said that portion of the main railway to Maidos can be seen. On the R the Turks are trying our old game instantaneous bombs but no luck. Had usual dip this morning much colder. Visited Ted H at 1800 & nearly met it from two of Brady Bills [indecipherable] dirt flung up all round us & a man who was shoving me up the hill got it in the head killed instantly, mail arriving 19 bags
30 August 1915
Met Nell again this day 1914
Monday 45 wks from home
The enemy threw a few flares opposite Quinns during the night & at 10.15 pm we fired a mine for them to serve out amongst themselves, we drew heavy fire from the Turks & the Ausn Divn at Courtneys put another 3 into them. In no 6 section consolidation was carried a step further & more machine guns & trench mortars have been put in position, bombing is fairly prevalent. Our artillery has been busy throughout last night & today, firing on troops on the flat country to the L & the 5 Bty by High 6x demolished as observation station at Abdel Rahman Bair. The mountain Ctgs were firing on troops on road opposite their front all day & also destroyed a gun emplacement on which the Turks have been busy during the last few days. The ninth corps reports everything is quiet on their front. We have been subjected to a severe bombardment of 4.2 guns (1 bty) & they have blown our stores about some. Another mail arrived & I at last received one from Nell. Fritz has been dropping bombs off & on at the Right but all fall into water doing no damage. The Turks have a faulty bomb & are instructed to take care, we hear explosions regularly perhaps that’s the cause
[Page 139]
31 August 1915
Tuesday annotated 60
A very quiet night was spent on our front last night opposite Quinns the enemy tried a little digging & threw some flares, at 5 pm the gun (enemy) in mule gully opened fire but very little damage was done. Opposite No 2 post a party of Turks appeared evidently to repair damage done by our artillery on their parapets, but they were quickly dispersed by our machine guns. At 10 am this morning we shelled Chailer Dere for hours to make up for the grilling they gave us last night. A new com trench has been dug between Kaiajit Aghala position & Indian Bde N which will shorten the line & give a better field of fire. Works have also been improved in rear of Indian Bde. At Kaiajit Aghala there was considerable rifle fire & bomb throwing but progress was made in improving the trenches & clearing up. Our artillery was fairly active throughout the day putting one gun out of action at 1 pm by 5 direct hits. The M boys were registering & shelling trenches in turn on [indecipherable]. Felt pretty crook all day but better towards night fall
1 September 1915
Wednesday 55 wks of soldiering
After a very quiet night along our front, we had an exhibition of a Turkish ruse on a large scale along our R & Left, they drew little or no fire from us only enough to keep them going. They threw a few flares at Quinns but that is all. The movement of troops has begun the 17th are now in Auckland gully & the 1st Regt leaves tomorrow for our new rendevous where I believe the trenches are 350 yds apart so our chaps will get a spell from bombing which they have rightly earned. Gunnery has been fairly severe both here & lower down during the day on both sides. Ordance has several 100 rds of German 75 ammunition & 3 lb anti-aircraft stuff, also the barrell of the gun in No 5 battery in which a shell burst, busting it from end to end & separating it far enough to allow a hand to be put in quite comfortably. A Taube came over today & dropped two bombs at Suvla Bay & not a shot was fired at him they have made a practice of this lately our machines have been confined to spotting for the navy during the last few days. Prepared mail for home.
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2 September 1915
Thursday
A quiet night along the whole front they tried another ruse but it wouldnt work. HMS Grafton reported by wireless that the Russians were offering a magnificent resistance near Freiderstadt the German attempt to cross Drina was repulsed off Vina & [indecipherable], the Austro-Germans suffered serious check in Galiva on Line [indecipherable] many fierce attacks all repulsed enemy oblidged to retreat. Russians successful counter attacks resulting in capture of 30 guns 24 machine guns & 3000 prisoners. Russian recent victory in Caucasus vast booty 5000 prisoners pursuing Cossacks killed over 2000. Italians steadily pressing on. Artillery of allies busy in Flanders & the Turks are said to be preparing a general attack on all fronts, hope its true for I can see another armistice. Another of our merchant ships was torpedoed at 10 am this morning 10 mls off Helles. Artillery pretty busy on all fronts & the Monitors have been giving Rhodendron a bit of hurry up. A few shells made their appearance whilst I was having my usual old Silent Peter again. Moved over to new position at 1850
3 September 1915
Friday
Spent a very quiet night but on the Left things were very brisk as the Turks were getting a bit jumpy. We moved out at 2 pm for our new home with full kit & after a severe 4 ml march we eventually arrived to find our area very hilly just 2 ml this side of Sulva Bay our positions are as follows Destroyer Hill Benels Hump No 1 & 2 outposts these posts are only held by one squadron each so our chaps are in for a fairly easy time. Got fairly settled about seven then line between here was down so Smith & I went out on it over very rough country & any amount of danger. We found the break immediately under Snipers Rest one of the enemy had sneaked out & cut it debibualy with a bayonet so I can see heaps of work for the linesman. We get a splendid view from our hill right over Sulva across the flats where the infantry got such a grilling from the advance from Sulva. The crowd that takes over in No 3 are having a rotten time for they know F A of the job.
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4 September 1915
Saturday
Spent a very tired night for yesterday was rather strenuous for one not being used to it after such a long break of non marching. At dawn they (the enemy) filled our gully with shrapnel but luckily no one was hit although some were pretty close. Harold & I made a tour of the Turkish trenches which we found to be perfect, they evidently have studied trench comforts for some of the bomb proofs are palaces compared to ours, their dead are lying all around our new position & fatigue parties are on the job they must have got it fairly hot for the hills are full of dead & right rosy they smell at times especially when the winds blow in the right direction. Went down for our usual dip & enjoyed it immensely although snipers busily keeping the water warm. Stores have to be drawn at NZLH Div Supplies & brought up on mules Wally Moore put in an appearance at 6 & gave us all necessary information re the doings of the boys for the last 14 days going back tomorrow Mail expected
5 September 1915
Sunday
Things were exceptionally quiet here during the night but the Ausn Divn had a very successful ruse & drew a huge volume of fire nevertheless it brought nothing on our front but the ninth army corps benefited slightly by the activity on the Right. The 22nd & 23rd Bn landed early this morning so I made a trip to Anzac both for stores & to look up Eric, I found him, K Looker &young Hodges in Canty Rest Gully ok, beachy Bill has got em bluffed & consequently troubles their fatigue parties Had tea with Teddy & set out for home at 1900arrived in time to go on duty at 2000. Intend making a further trip to see Eric tomorrow A 12 bag mail is due tonight so letters shortly The enemy have been shelling our batteries in the flat all day & making rather good practice, Hal & I had our usual dip & got sniped all across blackberry flat but luckily his want of skill with the rifle saved us Sea is beautiful here after Anzac
[Page 142]
6 September 1915
Monday 46 wks from home
Spent another quiet night along the whole front only a little fire occasionally. A monitor shelled 971 with her 4" guns then later the gunboats gave Walkers Ridge a dose. Went round to pay Eric another visit but found that he had moved off with his Bn to Browns Dip & relieved the R I Rifles who are now in Rest. Gully. The enemy shelled us & the lines of transport all day with every shell & make at their disposal but they only succeeded in getting 4 mules, even the bathing parties got a share of it. Gun outpost came in contact with 12 men under a sergt last night in front of our lines they had been sent out to get a sniper but the sniper has got 5 of them instead. Mail came in last night we expect to see it tomorrow. Everyone busily employed in making winter quarters for themselves at present Sig office & Bde office nearly finished. Two more piers are being built opp the Sphinx & a huge store is being made inland probably as a base for the winter
7 September 1915
Tuesday
Save for a miniature attack on Camel Hump later last night things were only quiet, away on the left the ninth army corps had a successful demonstration. The Turks at daybreak gave us the usual shelling & the 60 pounders got hell for an hour or so, Indian transports also came in for a grilling & several men were hit, later when Bill & I went for water one showered us & one penetrated his shirt. Fritz was over in a brand new machine & had a shot or two with his bombs but nothing doing. Our new home is looking something like an encampment. Ships at Suvla keep us supplied with [indecipherable] bursting shells. Remodelled the lines of C both tele & Cable & saved a few hundred ft of wire. Fatigue parties still burying the enemy’s dead. Both [indecipherable] & Jack are wounded , J Ellesley is killed. Our 60 pounders have been pumping in shell for all they are worth & as they kick up a cloud of dust at every shot they attract plenty of whistlers from Turkey Canteen Stores arrive
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8 September 1915
Wednesday 56 wks of soldiering
The Australian Divisions took up the offensive at 2000 & succeeded in gaining ground off Brown’s Dip, the Turks with a severe counter in which they lost heavily got it back, the losses must have been 2 to 1 in favor of us, Fritz & his brother have been over paying us a visit regularly lately but he needs heaps of practice in bomb dropping for his shots were falling in the Turks lines as often as in ours the Russians are reported to be making a stand at last but they must have got the worst of it in the last three wks of fighting, Gen Joffe paid a visit to the Italian Frontier & found everything satisfactory Our submarines have been active again in the Sea of Marmara sinking more transports & another destroyer The 2nd in command of 215 swam ashore &undertook to blow up a bridge single handed he only partially succeeded after running the gauntlet & having to swim for it at the last. Throat getting sore [indecipherable] again I’m afraid off duty for tonight
9 September 1915
Thursday
Had rather a bad night & throat a little worse but that didn’t stop Hal & I making 3 good meals off the canteen stores, paid a visit to Anzac in the afternoon & things are very busy there, especially in the ammunition line, this points to a further engagement shortly, they are establishing our Winter base under the Sphinx & with Railways out to the piers the stuff is just pouring in & will have to to for the gales are expected to start any day now. The Turks have been giving us hell with their artillery lately & they have kept the ball rolling today especially in the region of the Sap where the Indians have been in a habit of taking the mules outside instead of in & consequently have fallen in over it, the 7th Brigade are expected to land tonight & to come up tomorrow they relieve the men who are going to [indecipherable] for a fortnight’s spell then they in their turn relieve others until everyone has had his turn. Wally Moore paid us another visit
[Page 144]
10 September 1915
Friday
Throat a little worse so I paid a visit to the doc who had no hesitation in giving me 3 pills & a couple of drops of condey’s to serve as a gargle, at about 430 the Turks opened up a severe cannonade on our Left center trenches they cut them to bits with their shell but as our men were withdrawn when it started our casualties were slight after the gunnery had quietened & our troops had occupied the trenches again the enemy came out expecting to find the trenches full of dead instead they were full of lead as they soon found out to their cost as our machine gun & rifle fire was deadly & they quickly got back into their trenches, as there was an issue of fresh meat today Harold prepared a royal feast for tea, grilled chops, fritters fish, custard & toast well I got the lot down to throw it all up again During the day several Taubes proved annoying, one was connected with the Turkish attack the other just in patrolling up & down the trenches dropping her supply of bombs, returning for more, & coming back to give em to us, this went on for hours.
11 September 1915
Saturday Left for Imbros ill
Spent a bad night, temperature rising & throat no easier, called at the Doctors again & he said that I was getting along ok I don’t think so & large mail came in this morning & I got 8 Letters and several papers but none from Nell Harold also received his chocolate. The 3rd LH are to fund the detachment of 1 officer LH other ranks to assault & take what is known as Snipers Rest this post is about 200 yds in advance to Camels Hump & the Turks are giving heaps of trouble for there with their accurate rifle fire & machine gun fire they not only command the flat’s breadth Sari Bair but the whole beach is under their gaze & men are being continually sniped, the range is longer but for all that they hit hard. The Turks have kept up their artillery bombardment off & on all day & the heavy batteries have come in for more than their share but after a while all guns were at it again thus showing that their fire was as usual. Burrel & Power sent away today for treatment, I expect to go tomorrow as I’m feeling off to blazes
[Page 145]
12 September 1915
Sunday
Had another bad night & have broken out in a severe rash which the the doctor had no hesitation as diagnosing as Fever so I was sent away first to L.H.F.A.H thence by trawler to Imbros where I arrived at 8.30 & where I am to remain for several days prior to my departure to Alexandria, The trip over was glorious although another chap & I were isolated in a boat with only a pig for company, we paid a visit first to the Hospital Ship [indecipherable] picked up the trawler there & set out for Imbros, passing on the way Monitors, destroyers & submarines going out on patrol work, a boom has been thrown across the harbour & entrance can only be made at one particular spot inside were all sorts & sizes of ships, Monitors of the two 14" gun turret class cruisers with their [indecipherable] on, Admiral boats & several French cruisers, alongside the quay a submarine was giving her engines a preliminary run both Diesel & Elect motors. Thousands of Gippo’s are employed carrying stones down off a mountain & throwing them into the water alongside submerged boats
13 September 1915
Monday 47 wks from home
Spent a fair night & awakened to find myself under the care of R.A.M.C. Leads am living all on milk, temperature up to 102 still, later on in the day two more chaps were put in my tent with the same complaint one is a New Zealander the other from Dublin, belonging to the Fusiliers. This island is very much like the country around Geelong & the birds are nearly all found in Victoria, any amount of water fruit etc. Just above the boom they have established an aerodrome both for planes & airships, one airship they were trying yesterday she is of a cigar shape, of aluminium color & has a suspended carriage in which there is room for 2 persons, engines bombs etc, she is tractor principal & the rudder & similar to a submarine by the way she was manoevering yesterday they are very easily handled for she despite her length was dodging in & out of the naval boats, Aeroplanes annoy you all day for they tune just where we are & also practice bomb dropping & we got the benefit of this. Men arriving & departing all day & we expect to be off in a few days time to Alex.
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14 September 1915
Tuesday
Had another bad night the rash is very troublesome & left me awake all night temperature is down to 101 am just beginning to peel & throat is still very sore. Things are normal in the harbour a little movement amongst the navy perhaps but that’s all, owing to the roughness of the weather & its now raining in torrents The aviators have also been quiet but as the weather out to sea shows signs of breaking we are hopeful of an early reappearance. The Arabs have been blasting the different hills round about for the stone with which it is intended to complete the breakwater now under construction The same old melancholy chant goes on as what used to exist in Cairo little work & plenty of row. We heard a rumor said to come from General HQ that the Turks owing to a shortness in ammunition had asked Germany to hurry up the supplies or otherwise she (Turkey) would be compelled to seek a separate treaty with the allies. Hamilton has his HQ just in rear of our lines & moves to & fro from the bay via a motor a real beaut.
15 September 1915
Wednesday 57 wks of soldiering
Still another rotten night the rash is giving me hell & I feel as if I could tear the clothes off me. The airships & planes on account of the day breaking fine were out & about & dodging this way & this, the French have added two planes to their fleet which now consists of 8, 3 mono & 5 biplanes. No movement in the harbor at all, only one Hospital Ship arrived, loaded, & sailed again. I thought it was a trip for us but no such luck as yet. The navy commenced a new slipway for submarines today & two divers have been fitting the pounds at 20 fathoms they are to be made in such a way so as to enable the ships to be brought up into dry docks or the repairing sheds which are also in the course of construction. Blasting has been going on in the hills all day long & the nigs have an ample supply of stone to keep them going. We got a fairly liberal supply of fruit grapes for a change & they went down lively after being without for such a while. Another Hospital Ship has arrived & I believe about 700 from here are to board her tomorrow.
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16 September 1915
Thursday
Spent another restless night & was awakened by a terrific cannonade from the Navy & found out later that two Taubes were hovering over Gen Head Quarters & later they started to bomb, they had three effective shots but only injured several men our planes went up but were quickly driven down by machine gun fire, our shells were bursting all round & succeeded in driving them off without loss. Later in the day our planes, airships etc came to light. About 4.30 in the afternoon we got the word to pack up for the Hospital Ship which we did arriving there about 5 we were then put into our cabins on the stern of the vessel, we were then informed we were off to Mudros to join the Aquatania reship on her & go home for a trip if its true I can see a goodbye to Gallip for me for a while. This is a 12000 tonner named the "Dunluce Castle" rather a superior type of vessel & makes an excellent hospital ship. The weather has come up very rough again & we expect a dirty night.
17 September 1915
Friday Sailed today
Spent another bad night the rash has assumed an irritable itch that not only annoy me but prevents all hope of sleep despite the tablets given by the doctor. More rain set in during night accompanied by heavy gales & the sea is running a treat & consequently has interfered with the transport of the sick & wounded from over the Peninsular. The naval vessels look fine ploughing through it with the waves sweeping them from stem to stern more especially the monitors. One of our trawlers was hit & sunk by a shell at Sulva two men were injured & the boat sank in 15 minutes. My temperature was down to 97 in the morning but up again to 98 at night We had a welcome change in diet for lunch rice & jelly & tea for tea so we are not doing to badly. Our departure is put off until tomorrow on account of this rough weather & we then sail direct to Lemnos & connect up with the Aquatania, started to feel today
[Page 148]
18 September 1915
Saturday Arrived Lemnos
No sleep again last night on account of the itch, the doctor thought that perhaps a little refreshment might do us good & at tea we were ordered bread & butter. We up anchored at 6 at last & proceeded to Mudros arriving there at 11 to find the harbour very conjested with shipping. The airship followed us for a long way & the way she can be handled is a treat, on our way up the harbour 8 hospital ships were passed the Aquatania sailed this morning for England with fever cases on board. Mudros the chief town of Lemnos is a few brick shanties with a rather superior type of church in it & the sole living of the populace is fishing & rural work. A few windmills adorn the ridges round a place they call Turks Head but nothing more breaks the view over dry & desolute hills that resemble very much the arid hills of Asia in the Red Sea. The French have a fairly large garrison in this place
19 September 1915
Sunday Went ashore
Spent a real good night at last & temperature was down to normal, at daybreak we moved further up the harbor passing on our way dozens of ships of the mercantile fleet, many French warships & heaps of ours also we took up our anchorage off the Mudros pier, stationary hospitals are on all the hills round the island in fact its practically a sick island the French also have their hospital here. Turkish prisoners are making roads by the mile under Sengalese guards. at 2 pm we were told that we had to go ashore to hospital & 10 minutes afterwards we were lowered in stretchers over the side into a naval picquet boat then landed at the quay to be picked up by a motor ambulance & conveyed to No 1 Gen Hospital & dumped in the hospital. The Swiftsure left during the harbour & she was no sooner out of the harbor than a submarine had two goes at her but both luckily missed she then went up to the Cape & its rumored they are going to force the Straits. doubt it.
[Page 149]
20 September 1915
Monday 48 wks from home
Spent rather a good night & the doctor who visited us early in the morning put me on to ordinary diet & now I ought to put on weight. All day the harbor has been very busy ships coming & going every hour, Lord Nelson & the Agamemnon look well standing out in the Straits in all Britain has 14 warships here & the French nine, Lord Brassy’s yacht is fitted up as an Hospital Ship & she looks real well The Admiral’s boat along with Gen Hamilton’s arrived after lunch & harboured close alongside the quay Later on the admiral came ashore. Several nurses accompanied by several doctors off one of the hospital ships paid the camp a visit & after a general inspection they went on board again. After went for a short stroll up to the hill from where a beautiful view was obtained of the surrounding country & harbour, every hollow holds a rest camp for convalescents, dozens of them, Had a decent bit of lamp reading last night & again tonight.
21 September 1915
Tuesday
Had another splendid night & can now feel myself improving the food is also doing me good, my old skin is coming off in handfuls & at present I present rather a patchy appearance. A hydroplane off the Admirals boat has kept us amused all day by its never ending manoeuvres, 200 Turkish prisoners arrived & we hear that our Left closed in another 100 yards, after tea we were allowed to take a stroll of a couple of hundred yards so we paid a visit to the French who are stationed just below the hospital, they have enough stores on hand to run another war & they’re still making provision for more, their troops are quartered in large sheds & canteen’s figure everywhere their navy is very lax compared to ours & so is their army anything is good enough for them, 4 more troopers & 3 Hospitals boats arrived today the last named points to an engagement. Blasting has gone on all day here
[Page 150]
22 September 1915
Wednesday 58 wks of soldiering
Getting along splendidly now & gaining strength daily, the submarine parent ship arrived today along with her 5 puppies one of which went for a trip up the Narrows, 2 boatloads of the French left by paddle steamer for Cape Hellas One of our fever patients was operated on for the removal of a shrapnel pellet which has been in his shoulder for weeks he came through OK. Lord Nelson got steam up & went for a short spin but has since returned, the other units of the Navy have been very quiet The Turk prisoners have been busy blasting all day & making new roads along the fore-shore, Four more troopers arrived laden with troops & 3 left at dusk for somewhere Weather has turned very cold & squally & on the Peninsular things must be getting on the cool side. Our advance on the Left is confirmed & our troops are now in Bifuk Anaparta & well over further on the Left, our Right still holds the same positions
23 September 1915
Thursday
Had only a fair to middling night & temperature was slightly on the rise, the day itself has been anything but pleasant, squally & windy not without a touch of winter either. News very scarce at present only a few troopers coming & going Hospital ships also on the move Navy doing nothing as usual. French soldiers still going away by the boatload to the Cape & more troops are continually coming in from Home, Two of our submarines have been manoeuvering for hours preparatory to going up the Dardanelles, the French submarines are like their ships stay in the Harbour a trifle too dangerous for them outside This is the last day of the 12 months of diary This day twelve months ago we were preparing to go on board the Karroo to sail for somewhere, what a change as the daily accounts previous to this will reveal I wonder if this time next year I will be keeping a diary I hope so at home
[Page 151]
24 September 1914
Thursday
Received news of marching out 5/30, went home for evening called in at Nell’s who later came out home saw all the boys & [indecipherable] promised to write when able to her
10.40 PM said goodbye to dear little Nell placing her in God’s hands
11.30 said goodbye to dear Mother Pater & boys
11.35 set sail on bike for camp had a good trip went past Malvern III for last time
12.45 arrived in camp
To Readers
This volume of 1915 pattern was commenced on the above date but in the year 1914 so the corresponding date was a day earlier. Hoping you may glean some information as to my doings for the past 12 months I will leave you with best wishes
25 September 1914
Friday
Went into town with Teddy to draw pay 11 o clock arrived back at 12.30 PM left camp at 2 o clock for SS Carole broke axle at station came on by train arrived on board Karoo at 6.15 PM wrote home & to Nell [indecipherable] issued with hammock at 8 o clock turned in at 9 for night
Day of march through city for troops of Expeditionary force & of course they caused a profound sensation to onlookers by their soldierly appearance & efficient bearing; Infantry have rather a rough march back to camp but they as usual bear the worst cheerfully & soldierly
[Page 152]
26 September 1914
Saturday
Reveille 6 o clock stowed hammocks after a bonza night.
6.15 got kits out of hold onto wharf for inspection then had breakfast which is good although the tea is [indecipherable] went down into engine room got locked in propeller tunnel which is 62 yds long
9 AM men got news to go back to camp news came to hand that German cruisers were knocking about outside heads Signal troop to remain on board till further orders
3PM Percy G & Ern arrive show them all new ship [indecipherable] also they leave at 5PM
6 ring up Teddy but he’s at mess so decided to stay overnight
9.30PM turn in
27 September 1914
Sunday
Reveille at 8.30
Breakfast 9.0 Eggs bacon curryed stew fried boiled spuds then fruit to follow cleaned decks Mr Watson & Gordon arrive also Troopship A26 From Sydney all hands up mast for signalling then play cards till 11AM write letters Nell included
Dinner 12.30 made out list as per mess orderlies Toby brother arrives for lunch no orders have come to hand yet for disembarkation
[indecipherable] arrived at 2.30 Troop to go back tomorrow morning after packing Transport. 2 naval amb men from England arrived & mess with us Mother & Dad put in appearance at 5.30 stay till 6.30 tea follows then boxing 8.10 bed with reading accompaniment 9.0 lights out
[Page 153]
28 September 1914
Monday
Reveille 8.30
Breakfast 9.0AM good night & splendid tucker 9.15 am brought kits out of hold had my first lesson in winch work nearly killed a labour with hook Banjo slung a tar brush from top of funnel but it happily missed me 10.30 Teddy arrives & sends us back per motor transport arrive here at 12 pm have a shave which is badly needed! Camp in fervent on account of treatment of men Teddy cut up accordingly. Wrig informs me of visitors including Allie Dot & Glady present me with a dainty little [indecipherable] 3.15 Sent back to Karroo to look after larger case inform Mack of same Horses in fine fettle. Mick & Frank on doctor Toby still [indecipherable]
7.30 evening parade 8.00 pm dismissed 9.00 pm bed
29 September 1914
Tuesday
Reveille 6 am
Stables as usual. Horses playing up considerably lack of cleaning utensils breakfast at 7.45 Boot & saddle 9.15 off on manoeuvours out Epping way a brilliant days work everything works smootlhly bar the wireless transport effects receiveing set. Given in charge for obstructing road by a 2nd Lieut reported to Teddy who reports 2’L to his CO L Col Semmens. Dinner at Thomastown then on to Epping retire on camp 5 pm receive letter from Nell also one from AF not too friendly either is coming out tomorrow so look out [indecipherable] no evening Parade so after writing letters turn in early Hear that have to revisit boat on morrow.
[Page 154]
30 September 1914
Wednesday
Reveille at 6 am
Stables as usual I had charge of watering detail! Horses very troublesome chiefly sore mouths on account of rotten riders
8.30 Boot & saddle for day [indecipherable] & peddlers went to boat to collect machines nothing startling on journey only had another dinner on board which was up to its usual standard after lunch set out for camp bought buttons at R & Ms met Bill Barnet & Bruce Styles in street on the road in my scrap heap caught fire like an [indecipherable] I put it out after arrival in camp set out to find the boss but were unfortunate enough to miss him
4.30 had a clean up (about time) stables at 5 pm men return from manoevours tea at 6 pm relieve picket at sunset for Mick is again on Picket
8.15 went to bunk.
1 October 1914
Thursday
Reveille at 6 am
Stables as per usual, had charge of feet party groomed Teddy’s horses (nothing doing) breakfast at 8 shortage of meat, struck tents, first parade & proceeded with washing & made a bonza job of it, rigged wireless aerial for clothes line. 11 am got mail one form Nell with a bonny photo enclosed at 12 pm got orders to proceed to boat & collect oil sheets arrived at 3 pm found sheets but lost fountain pen in No 5 hold got Banjo to give me a hand to look for same & after much searching found same thanks to his nibs, stacked 80 sheets on the scrap & started out for gaol arrive at 5.30 & got roused for being 8 short not my fault this time for a wonder. 7 pm ordinary parade 9 am raided No 5 tent successful 9 pm lights out.
[Page 155]
2 October 1914
Friday
Reveille at 6 am
Stables as per usual Teddy’s horse looking well, ordered boot & saddle at 8.30 for extensive operations During day L Horse officers to act as Sig officers moved off at 9.15 am for [indecipherable] then on to Craigeburn after dinner at [indecipherable] pushed on to Malpas Hill returned at 4 pm brought in tow the Duggan on bike got cleaned & cleared out for home at 5.30 arrived home at 7. then had a wash & anxiously awaited arrival of 8 pm train for dear little Nell who in due course arrived but who should also be on platform but Mrs F (out) all over at last, strolled around till 10 pm put in a most glorious time thanks to Nell & above all fixed up the complication of previous friendship permanently left home 11.00 for camp arrived at 12.30
Nell to come out on Sunday
3 October 1914
Saturday
Orderly Pageant for the day
Revielle at 6 am Stables as usual two horses down with [indecipherable] after [indecipherable] fatigue dress for cleaning lines [indecipherable] harness & mending machines [indecipherable] after that spell on stables at 12 noon two horses returned to remount def by Bert Masters who returned at 5 pm dinner at 1 pm parade at 2 pm clean up tents for COs inspection after which we were dismissed till 5 pm Stables followed but no water Tea at 6 pm Uncle Alex Jerrie Mrs Mac Mrs Daniel arrived through the afternoon. Heard of extensive operations for next week covering 240 mls of country & to last 3 or 4 days. [indecipherable] meeting on Tuesday have [indecipherable] for 2 ml
Bed at 9 pm after choir practice
[Page 156]
4 October 1914
Sunday
Reveille 6 am
Slept out during night & saw a glorious sunrise Mick remarked that it was the last one I’d see under Nells sway. 2nd Parade cleaning lunch at 12 noon, got pass off Irving [indecipherable] to leave camp & meet Nell Met her at 2.25 came back to camp afterwards went for stroll towards 2nd Force lines & put in afternoon under shade of an Aust gum splent a glorious time with her then came back for stables Teddy s trifle sundiitis but Bert M fixes him up splendidly, after stables Nell consents to stay for tea Toby acquits himself even more than usual but he was lovely & the No 4 mess extended true thanks for his joviality. Strolled over to lines at 6.45 pm for to say Au Revoir till next Sunday. Now have decided to make a tip top tea for next Sunday, as such an enjoyable time was spent today. Camp of piquet tonight turned in at 10 pm thinking of her
5 October 1914
Monday
Motor accident Frean runs over Beattie
Reveille 5.30 am
Stables as per usual & fixing up of bikes for day’s operations moves out at 9 am to Somerton’s Bde H Quarters. 1 2 & 3 Reg work tip top but Franklin as per usual is ------ lunch at Craigeburn run short of lubrication oil Toby goes to Coburg for same returns at 3.15 pm 4 pm move to Malpas Hill am then sent out to fixing line to try & raise 3 Reg no luck 5 pm heard of embarkation orders & then decide to write from our present position Ralhalls to Nell & have posted same on [indecipherable] expect her on Wednesday afternoon at tea take rations out to outlying station for men have a good fast ride but as usual something goes wrong. Tea at 7 pm with [indecipherable] whose sigs are at 7 for evening 6 for daylight. Tell off piquet for night as well as guard on camp 9 pm alls well & turn in.
[Page 157]
6 October 1914
Tuesday
Reveille 4 am
Moved off at 4.15 & felt cold after a rather severe night bikes hard to start bar Tob’s Norm & I race 6 heats I win 5; one special feature of tonight’s work was the efficiency of phones & competency of men two bridles missing – to pay from Teddy of course. All stations called at 8.15 am for breakfast after which a general retirement on camp is ordered just remembered Nells favourite piece of music The Norwegian cradle song. [indecipherable] for night & day never been better. Engrave my initials in wall for old Church of England along with Nells at Nalkalla on Sydney Road. Make camp at 11.30 have a good wank & decide to start in 2 miles start & have a hard race but get 1st after a lovely finish by beating Chalmers who is no sport & get orders decide to present same to Nell 9 pm bed time
7 October 1914
Wednesday
Reveille at 6 am
Ordered to [indecipherable] to fix up tanks & get enamel for bright surfaces. Had the order for trophy presented to me in front of troop by Teddy. Went to town for jobs for Teddy, also visited boat for slings for rifles but no luck as all cargo is covered over. Set out for camp at 3.15 but am unfortunate enough to break lead to [indecipherable] & have to fix same ½ mile from camp get back to camp at 4.5 have just time to get a wash & set out to meet Nell who is in the 5th Lines by the time I get out , have as usual a lovely time & she accepts the order of race but on one condition that I retake same on my return. She leaves at 6 pm but I have to put in an appearance on Sunday if we are unfortunate enough to be here No parade at night 9.00 bed
[Page 158]
8 October 1914
Thursday
Reveille 6 am
Stables as usual had charge of watering detail "nigger" giving trouble, gusty day with rotten north winds accompanied by dust cleaned M cycles 1st parade & had a sleep also received an answer from Flo Coles but answered it in quite a different fashion to what she bargained 2 pm no parade so with Toby Norm & Bert Larkin went for swim to Hegartys Bert hits a post no one hurt arrive safely enjoy dip immensely call in at Bert’s place for afternoon tea which is announced by all hands as excellent especially the tea leave for camp at 5.15 arrive at 6.10 pm receive orders for morrows trip to Keilor have tea which consists of usual fare beef & stew but the tea a trifle better than usual. Play chess with Frank till I steadily get worse instead of better. Write home then feed up without a light bed 9.45 pm
9 October 1914
Friday
Reveille 5 am
Woke cooks at 4.30 am Stables as usual Breakfast at 7 am Boot & saddle 7.31 move out at 8 am Cyclists follow on & Motors halt at stone bridge at [indecipherable] then push on to Keilor select a lovely spot for dinner all hands out to enjoy themselves horses feed first & Sgt Bill get round the girls for tea & Joe meets an old soldier friend Uncle & Joe celebrate the occasion by having a beer up they then give us an amusing display of sword & lance exercise, form sides & have an attack on the camp then finish up with a swim in the Deep Green. Saddle up at 3 pm set out for camp half hour later arrive 4 pm. Visit LH Lines for McHenry & meet Mrs, then have tea write to Nell & fix up gee gees (sick) one to be shot let go too far Bed 8.30 pm
[Page 159]
10 October 1914
Saturday
Reveille 6 am
Stables as usual No 72 still very ill & will have to be destroyed for he distributing the complaint amongst the other gees. Breakfast at 9 am. Any fresh trench disinfected nosebags cleaned harness then got orders to proceed to town for Teddy razors chemists etc have to go on Monday to collect same also went home for lunch. In two hours went to Mrs Gs heard about the evening which is to be a flash affair but yours truly is to be absent of course. Set out for camp at 2.35 had a good ride run out of petrol get it at Armadale, collect bracket at Pub opposite [indecipherable], lose all the tools in one bag cant be helped. Stables at 5 dismissed at 5.30 for tea no parade tonight. No 4 tent draws up rules relating to mess No 2 LH proceeds to Sydney for training Bed 8 pm.
11 October 1914
Sunday
Reveille at 6 am
Stables 6.15 had charge of watering detail black mare very troublesome, general clean up for daily inspection. 4 horses quarantined not fit for service. Tent inspection No 4 the best as usual. 12 pm stables no church too wet 1 dinner 2 pm set out for home with [indecipherable] up behind arrived at Nells 2.35 spent remainder of the afternoon in her company had afternoon tea at 4 pm set out for home at 5 pm passed Burke Rd terminus but failed to see the kids. engaged as per usual tea at home after tea Dink arrived went to church but was [indecipherable] rotten old maids in the majority of course. Visited Keasts then went home for supper set out for camp at 60 pm Camp [indecipherable] so came through without it met Ray at 4 pm & came in from there in 19 minutes turned in at 12 pm
[Page 160]
12 October 1914
Monday
Reveille at 6 am
Stables have charge of watering detail & have charge also of sick [indecipherable] who are not getting on as well as they might. 9 am sigs move off for days work in company with LH troops also regimental sigs, motor cyclists stay & assist wireless [indecipherable] 6 stables at 12 pm had afternoon off till 4.30 taught several to ride bikes Jack Latham merry & very amusing Burrell reported for disobedience let off with caution Wrigley court martialed for tent pulling by No 4 tent. Had a good time at chess beat Jenkins & then got tuition from visitor for nothing, got back had a yarn with Teddy about operations for the day also trip to Thornbury for tomorrow night Tent pulling very prevalent during night CO called out by men & men on fatigues for day. Corporal Larkin on leave take Corp for piquet
Bed at 11 pm
13 October 1914
Tuesday
Reveille at 6
Stables as per usual. Charge of cleaning detail Breakfast at 8 am fixed up machine for trip out for tomorrows scheme. Went out to [indecipherable] through beautiful country teach the Boss to ride, but blow myself out in the attempt arrive back in camp at 1 pm spend rest of afternoon cleaning bikes equipment & sleep stables at 5 pm tea at 6 have a shave, clean up, fix up lamp & set out for Thornbury at 6.45 by the way write to Nell at 5.00 arrive at Thornbury at 7.20, go for ride & eventually finish up at Northcote Picture Theatre meet Charlie Hardy there go to sleep as usual set out for Teddy at 10.25 meet him at appointed time arrive back in camp at 11.20 have a feed at Wally Moore’s [indecipherable] also coffee turn in for night at 12 pm
[Page 161]
14 October 1914
Wednesday
Reveille at 6 am
Stables as usual. Frean fixing up damaged machines for day, fuel marching order no blankets or oilsheets & haversack packed per regulations. Heard last night definitely date of sailing let girl know eventually. Toby getting anxious regarding his firl for she leaves Sydney on Friday & its 100 to 1 that we pass her at the heads. Move out for [indecipherable] at 9.30 [indecipherable] station at [indecipherable] till 12 pm then moved 4 miles N to [indecipherable] where we put night in & had the pleasure of a stampede at night & the boss after that ordered the men to stand by all night & you can guess what a time we had for a bitter night never was more severe, no tucker TSM omitted to requisition for same & poor cook of course fell in but the local residents came to the rescue & we fared sparingly no sleep all night.
15 October 1914
Thursday
Reveille at 4
After a sleepless night we attempted to get a riggle on for camp & get all troops together by 7.30 am Cyclists & motors move on independly to camp arrive at 10am have a meal of chops & chipped potatoes all ranks retire to bed to bed until stables stables at 12 move horses tail on to weather have a wash which is sadly needed dinner at 1.30 after which another sleep till 5 Orderly sergeant for the day & corporal of picquet for the night. Miss Coles never turned up & no letter from Nell, which is to be seen into sent telegram to Miss Ford. 2 bikes up the pole & are to be sent into Healings for repairs Write to Jim Mac Ern & Nell. Ern to meet me in town at 10.30. Wrig posts them for me. 2 horses down with [indecipherable] but are doing well.
Back at 9 up during night indisposed.
[Page 162]
16 October 1914
Friday
Reveille at 6
Stables in charge of Bert Masters I have the feed fix up machines for trip into town leave at 9.30 & get into healings at 10.30 Meet Ern & mother then set out for a trip round town with Ern call on Dot Armstrong first then up to chemists also chase after handkercheifs. Have lunch at Victoria Coffee Palace then continue search for articles call at Brownies for bike have a ride to St Kilda & decide to bring out bike here, break belt on way out say goodbye to Roy no letter from Nell cant make it out Ern to inquire. Clean bike & surprised at result. Teddy gives me an idea of routine & command of men on [indecipherable] LH advance guard left this morning. Toby presents me with a [indecipherable] ring up home to find out about Nell have orders to take Teddy down town to draw pay pack all kit bags for Sunday turn in at 10 pm
17 October 1914
Saturday
Reveille at 6
Stables, have watering detail after which fix up machine for trip into town, leave here at 9.35 & get back at 10 am After collecting money & seeing Roy at barracks, receive letter from Nell at last & she is to arrive later. Dinner at 1.30 have general clean up go to gate at 2.50 & await arrival of Nell, meet her & come back home, stables at 5. Orders concerning embarkation come out as to be on board by 8 oclock Tuesday so am to go home on Monday. Great activity in the Light Horse lines, advance guard leaves this morning main body to leave camp at 3 am tomorrow morning. Infantry also leave at same time. SS [indecipherable] to leave dock at 4 pm today everything ready on our boat. Say goodbye to Nell at 6 after promising her to get trophy. tea at 7 Toby’s brother stays until late & I have to mount picquet in Hal [indecipherable] absence also take over OS for Bert Masters Bed at 9.
[Page 163]
18 October 1914
Sunday Ninth week
Last day in camp
Reveille at 6
Stables in charge of Metcher
Ordered to proceed to Troopship Wiltshire for Teddy’s horse which was pinched last night by persons unknown arrived at boat at 9 horse not there so left & got stuck by officers guard, came home & Ern & Perce came along on their bikes, left them on the Esplanade, met all company’s cyclists en route for boat, broke belt again & yet again later in the day, arrived back at 12.15 then had dinner after which we searched all lines but no hope. Frean & I set out for a motor ride & after a splendid run put in the afternoon at Gisbon roads lovely best I’ve ever struck left for camp at 5.10 arrived back after 6, had a yarn to Joe Gillies who with Bob Faines were promoted to L Corporals, had tea with Bert Masters & Metch feed up at nine for horses, chaps knocking about for horses bed at Nine.
19 October 1914
Monday
Reveille at 5
Cyclists leave for boat at 6.45 motors follow ½ hour later have a got trip down cyclists take 2 hrs to get here. Load bikes then go round town for Nell collect fares for chaps, call on Dunk, set out for home on bike with Ern on back, arrive home at 11.10 Mother ill ran a nail in finger recovers after a while, dinner at 12.30 hot bath afterwards clean up and at 2 pm call on dear little Nell have an enjoyable 2 hrs poor little kid she takes it pretty badly but is still determined to wait. Leave her at 4.10 broken up myself have tea at 5.30 then say Au Revoir Mother bears up well but Dad is awful pass Nells home & family on the steps call back say goodbye but only had a glimpse of my sweetheart arrive at boat at 6.30 help with horses, take Teddy out arrive back at 11.30 say goodbye to old Ern bed at 12 pm
[Page 164]
20 October 1914
Tuesday Embarked today
Reveille at 5.30
Stowed hammocks then stables fixed up gees breakfast followed good oh loaded harness, saddlery etc I was sent up town for Teddy & got a mandoline for Chris. When I arrived back had dinner & then watched crew making preparations for sailing sent telegram also letter to Nell at 2 concerning sailing. Sailed at 4.35 for Albany got a bonza send off from crowds then watched the Malvern Town Hall until it was lost to the sight last link in the chain of our love goodbye at last to the girl I love, threw over message from boat to Uncle Al to deliver to Nell & Mother, tea at 6 after which went forward for music to await our going through the heads passed through at 9.55 pm then went to bed. May God bless me keep me & afford me a safe return to Melb
21 October 1914
Wednesday 270 miles out
Had a lovely trip down to the heads, were stopped at 9.30 & ordered to show our lights got Go on at 9.35 passed through at 9.55 got a splendid reception from forts through rip at 10.30 then went below passed Japanese warship at 12.30 well out, sea very calm off Portland 6.30 porpoises & sharks seen lost sight of land at 7.30 goodbye proper to all home & love ties. Stables run as mess numbers No 2 to be on for 4 days & so on, remainder have a [indecipherable] passed Cape Nelson at 11 oclock slept all the afternoon till 6 tea played chess with Frank Jenkins progressing favourably sighted SS Armadale at 4.30 also British Cruiser. 3 large sharks along side at 6 also a big school of porpoises, have not felt effects of sea sickness as yet but expect to see some of the chaps down tomorrow Norm Frean in particular, have long since lost sight of dear old Vict soon be back though.
[Page 165]
22 October 1914
Thursday
Reveille at 6
Spent a splendid night & were real sorry to get up. We caught the AM to Armadale during night & the first thing that greeted us on deck was a large school of whales on the Port bow, we could see them blowing for an hour or so, entered the Aust Bight this morning and by dinner time were well in it. Boxing followed for ½ an hour & 2 of our men were paraded before the Lance Sapper for sleeping on picquet at breakfast, good but the Tea was full of senna complaints numerous; stamped saddlert rest of the morning in aft hold & had a series of attacks amongst the chaff dinner at [indecipherable] good but rotten tea water all reported to be bad called up HMTS Armadale & asked her when she expected to be in Albany she replied Mon morning , exercised horses all day in hold rotten job on account of the confined space. Norm Frean down with sea sickness. Tea good but still crook tea boxing follows several good bouts especially one by the baker. Rememberances Bed at 8
23 October 1914
Friday 750 miles at 8
Reveille at 6
Spent a good night after a rather rough one wind got up early & more men sick, but I have still dodged it, first thing of importance was two big whales on starboard bow they were in sight for about 20 minutes. Armadale still about 20 lengths ahead - one horse down with [indecipherable] vet officer destroys it and several horses off their tucker. Breakfast was awful meat rotten absolutely bad & tea just as bad consequently a general complaint went in from all messes, after break had semaphore practice & gave Toby some tuition for he kept the officers on the bridge including Lane Sapper amused with his antics. 12 PM called up HMTS 26 & she asked us to take the lead for a bit & to keep up the speed to take advantage of the fine weather. Dinner good for a wonder, slept all the afternoon. Tea was unusually good & now hope for a renewal of good tucker. Weather setting in rough 8PM still thinking of Nell 9 Bunks
[Page 166]
24 October 1914
Saturday Henley Day
Reveille at 6
TS Armadale about 8 lengths on Port bow she comes alongside for signaling sea very rough and wind high, have semaphore pract with [indecipherable] breakfast good. Inspection by Ships Captain also the Lance Sapper dinner good soup roast & vegetables exercise horses during afternoon then write to Nell we hope to get into Albany tomorrow if weather holds. Frean very crook & Mitch has promised him a wash tomorrow for he hasn’t had one since he’s been on board. Sight large whale on port bow at 2PM. Have a fire alarm at 4PM all men to their stations for practice it doesn’t worry us much for we still sleep on, we form a mess today to lay in stores at Albany & Tob is [indecipherable] now we have collected £4.15 [indecipherable] champ of England gives exhibition with mits Bed 9
25 October 1914
Sunday Albany
Reveille at 6
We go on the stables for 4 days from today feed up & water first parade breakfast follows good this time. After that stables then church parade then finish stables Land is sighted at 12.30 during the night we left the Armadale miles astern the cruiser is still on our port bow, land is getting plainer every minute at 3pm the Kanouna came out from the harbour & passed us a few miles out , the hills look lovely from deck after seeing no land for days get into the harbor at 6 there find that 12 T ships & 10 unloaded ones await us Picket picks us up at the heads then proceed to moorings, Albany looks great in the distance. Tug comes round with officers on board from other ships . armed picquet on board. Write to Nell & Mother see Teddy Henderson on the tug & then have tea after which turn in.
[Page 167]
26 October 1914
Monday
Reveille at 6
Night very rough & windy, several more troopships arrived at daylight. Melbourne went past at daybreak at full speed. Tug came out for mails & got a rough handling on account of heavy weather. Stables is [indecipherable] Hal Letch & I have charge of the windlass for hauling. Dinner proves to be something out of the ordinary. More troopships arrive from Queensland. Have a go at shark catching but no luck. groom & exercise horses during afternoon & get my hair off at last save some of it to send home . Two of our chaps court martialed for sleeping on duty Hobbs got 14 days CB & 7 days pay stopped & Peterson 4 days CB all through a [indecipherable] sergeant. Melbourne steams past us at 6PM back to her moorings to safeguard us tonight, some more boats in sight making 8 for the days & 23 now in the Sound. Goodnight little girl at 9PM
27 October 1914
Tuesday
Spent a rotten night for I have been feeling off for a few days, crook water. Another TS arrives & later the Katoomba whose passengers get a cheer from all the troops. Orvieto and Port Lincoln go into Albany for water believe we are to follow her, hope as weather calm again. Mail arrives but none for me yet. Expect one tomorrow by today’s mail, another horse with pneumonia, dinner good soup with roast to follow, stamp harness & write letters to home & Nell. purchase pastry for canteen has run out buns 12 at 1/- pretty hot. Tea good after which have chess then go to boxing contests which are tip top Spr O’Niell gives an exhibition of the game hear that we are likely to be here for 20 days rotten Mick in the hospital with influenza temp 102. 12 months tday since I had the fallout with Nell good night at 9
[Page 168]
28 October 1914
Wednesday
Reveille 6
Had a good night for I’ good oh the first thing that greeted us this morning in the hold was 2 dead horses, after heaving them overboard we disinfected the ship. About 10 smoke was visible on the horizon & later on it turned out to be the N Zealand [indecipherable] of 11 transports with 5 warships as convoy 4 British & 1 Japanese the Jap came in & left the contingent at anchor outside then the Britishers followed & paid their compliments to us as they passed later on the troopships followed & got a rousing send in from the boys. Teddy went ashore & later informed us that all letters have to be postcards & thoroughly censored at that. No letter from Nell I can’t make it out. Got a crack on the nut from a bag of chaff this morning. have felt a bit off ever since. [indecipherable] & Armadale lost 4 horses last night so things are not as bright as they were, played more chess bed at 9
29 October 1914
Thursday
We were awakened at 4 this morning by firing out at the heads for a ship didn’t stop when ordered – the Jap let go. she was also flying the yellow flag. Had a decent smoke on our Port bow this morning but it passed right over censorship is strictly enforced from today & we have had some of our letters sent back to us. I got my first two letters today one from home & the other from Nell. they were worth their weight in gold. Another horse died in No 6 hold today, making 4 for the trip. fixed up No 1 hold as regards fodder. Toby gave a good lecture on map reading, his contouring & measuring was particularly good. Mick still in hospital, but is a trifle better expect him back with us in a day or so. Our mess fund has fallen through on account of no supplies available in Albany [indecipherable] go in the harbour for water also 3 N Zealanders all return later in the day & took up their mooring in their old place [indecipherable] good tea
[Page 169]
30 October 1914
Friday
Reveille at 6
Drew feed from No 1 hold then had breakfast which was good for a change. Boat unknown flying the yellow flag came in. Semaphore practice in the morning. Received rather a personal message from A M to the [indecipherable] concerning Pte Farrell who is not to come with the troops. Beer strike heads have cut down men’s supply from 2 pints to 1 result boycott by reservists. Captain goes ashore. Melbourne has joined an Imperial Fleet for she came in with two white bands round rear & bow funnel, she came in this morning & cruised out again at night. NZ Transports coming & going all day. Horse passes us this morning partially devoured by sharks. [indecipherable] steams out this evening for dear old Melbourne. Wrote letters to Nell & Ern & posted them. Got extraordinary special as Toby & I traced up positions of Allies in the field, played quoits, had tea, played chess. [indecipherable] horse under the vet, entered Hold No 2. Medical inspection final OK
31 October 1914
Saturday
Reveille at 6.
Drew feed for No 5 Hold & then had breakfast after which practical semaphore & morse for the benefit of Toby was indulged in. then we entered No 2 Hold to see after bikes then looked for jam – found other stores also raisins then had a washing parade, but water very scarce as only one gallon allowed per man. No mail today, & we are off tomorrow morning thank goodness. Steamers ordered at 2 PM today & we move out at 6 in the morning heard also the America has declared war on Japan but find out later that it is unfounded. We saw a beaut concert & it was surprising what talent there is on board from the Captain downwards during the performance a fire broke out but was instantly suppressed. Tim Elder paid us a visit during concert. SS Sydney came in during night & has joined the Imperial fleet more chess then went to bed, looking forward to the roll of the ocean again.
[Page 170]
1 November 1914
Sunday Albany Sailed today
Got up at 5 for the ships are on the move already everything is bustle & the different flagships are in their places. Director 1st Div FS sailed past us at 6.35 & from then onwards for 2 hours at intervals of 440 yards boats filed past us the NZ fleet bringing up the rear, the ships presented an indescribable sight for never has the worlds seen such an array before to leave on a trip of 14000 miles & 10 o clock the last boat had passed the heads & the remainder had formed up in three lines of 20 mls making about 60 miles of ships the Monitor AC took up the lead with the Melbourne on our Right & the Sydney on the Left. Flying fish seen about 9 Church Parade about 11 Gen Gordon takes the service 15 years ago today since the first Australian contingent sailed for Africa. Ships altered course at 6 pm to pass Cape Leuwin, hear that we go through the Suez Canal, also we won’t see land for three weeks. Good old Australia you now have passed from view at 7.5 goodbye Nell & Mother
2 November 1914
Monday
Reveille at 6
Stables for 4 days ship very [indecipherable] as a heavy sea sprung up during the night & got even worse through the day & some of the boats have had great difficulty in keeping to their course Great Britain declares war on Turkey & Teddy says that possibility we will go to Egypt that is if Turkey proves aggressive. The reserves went on strike yesterday & were brought up before [indecipherable] some got fined £ 1 & the Corporal is to be court martialed. Wing plaited & spliced three hammocks tonight & as JACK Latham is in one there will be some fun. Have had a bad attack of out of sorts & besides felt a trifle squeamish all day. Capt Mathieson startled everyone today by letting out a yell in No 2 Hold he got jammed by a horse. Norm Frean is as sick as a cat again, worse than before. No 2 mess vaccinated today & most of the boys have got lovely arms, expect we’ll be done tomorrow changed our course today to due N & it is now certain that we call in at Colombo & have a trip through the Suez went to bed at 8
[Page 171]
3 November 1914
Tuesday Cup Day
Roused out at 6
Sea running mountains high & as soon as I got up I knew I was in for a bad day & I got it sat dinner time & to finish agony I poked my finger down & saw Europe & have been alright ever since. The court-martial came off today & [indecipherable] & Latham were called as witnesses. The accused got 56 days confinement & lowered to the ranks. We sighted the [indecipherable] & 3 cruisers at 3PM & when we caught them the cruisers took up position on either flank & the Jap took up the rear. Stables as per usual but it was too rough to exercise the nags as the waves were coming over the focastle. Teddy was duly christened by a beaut whilst he was going down the hold. Horses all off their tucker & in a few days expect more deaths. SS Port Lincoln rolling along like a pig in a pulpit & has to rig a staysail to keep her head to it. Bed at 8pm
4 November 1914
Wednesday 2 weeks out
Had the roughest time last night that we have gone through for the sea was awful but went down early in the morning & now is very oily. We narrowly avoided a collision with the Port Lincoln for she is like a bee in a pot of blanc mange. Toby has been bad all day & is now slowing recovering. We are just a week off the line. Saw more flying fish this afternoon. Two more horses died in No 5 Hold last night making 8 for the voyage. One of the boys on the NZ boats was operated on for appendicitis & it has proved successful. Canteen run out of soft drinks so we are on nothing but crook water. Met a chap from Geelong who knows Mrs Coles, also DB. We got vaccinated today & are now expecting sore arms in a few days time. Blanket inspection by Q Sergeant everything OK in our lines. All horses had a bran mash tonight about time for it’s the first since we left home. Bed at 8
[Page 172]
5 November 1914
Thursday Oaks Day
After passing a rotten night our first christening of the tropics we had stables. Bert Masters crook so had sole charge. Toby has broken out in a rash all over the body. 1 more horse dead in No 5 (9 up to date). HMS Minatour came right down the line of ships with certain sigs up & all ships gave them the general salute, after a time she returned price of jam cut down from 1/- to 9d about time to. Smoke seen on our rear & at 4 this afternoon she came in view & turned out to be the mail steamer Osterly sister ship to the Orvieto she kept straight on her course at 16 knots. Vaccination a farce for it hasn’t affected me yet so expect to be done again. Entered No 5 hold had a feed & fixed up the flags they expect to lose another 2 horses there tonight. Toby has got the measles & is now isolated boxing erupts tonight & Joe is [indecipherable] also funny. Struck good water Bed at 9.
6 November 1914
Friday
Slept out last night on account of the heat & during another night horse pegged out & was dumped this morning. Vaccination was proved a failure by doctor’s verdict this morning. Officers practicing for tomorrow’s night concert. News came to hand that Turkey apologized to Great Britain but she was calmly told that the time for apologies was past & now has to fight. A burial took place on board the NZ fleet the chap who had appendicitis died, got orders concerning appearance of enemy by closing all port holes etc & heard tonight that Germans are hovering around. Canteen run out of soft stuff & now have to die of thirst. We are to be inoculated next week so another bad time in store. Had all the afternoon off & occupied my time by playing chess & having a general clean up. Entered [indecipherable] at 9 AM. Changed our course at 7 PM tonight goodnight at 9
[Page 173]
7 November 1914
Saturday Steeplechase Day
Slept out all night & the first thing I knew this morning was the niggers washing down the decks without warning us. Drew feed from No 1 for our gees then was off till dinner, no soup now for we are on tropical diet on account of fever. I met Guy Booth today who used to drive Mountjoys coach at home & had quite an interesting chat to him concerning the celebrities of home. 4 Oclock a fire alarm took place but nothing unusual took place [indecipherable] alarm of enemy in sight at 8 pm when every man had to stand to his [indecipherable] await further orders. Roy Mathers discharged from hospital & Bob Powers taken in poor old Toby is progressing slowly. Joe Gillies horse (Blitzen) bit me a beauty on the right arm this afternoon. Concert is to take place as arranged at 5.30 & expect great things for talent is good this time & an orchestra has been formed called the "Karroosel" a very appropriate name too.
8 November 1914
Sunday
Spent an awful night Australian summers r nothing, drew feed for our hold. "Minatouri" left for our rear & later left on a reconnoitering cruise something doing & "Melbourne" took up her position in the lead. had my first experience of stables done on a hot day am not over pleased with it either. Another chap has died on the Euripides with appendicitis buried at 7 tonight. Germans sunk our three cruisers off Val Piriso no Germans down. Church Parade this morning taken by Capt Williams Toby is convalescent again & will be out again in a day or two. Had a game of chess with Capt Large, my vaccination has taken slightly & got a lovely bump this afternoon sailed through a large shoal fish flying early this morning, 900 miles from equator & 3° below Cocos Islands early this morning changed our course again tonight expect to reach Colombo about Tuesday week.
Bed at 9 after more chess
[Page 174]
9 November 1914
Monday Late King Edwards Birthday
After another hot night rose anything but refreshed at 7.00 we received an SOS from Cocos Island that an enemy’s warship had put in and was threatning the place the Sydney immediately left soon engaged enemy at 9 fighting was rather severe & after an hours fighting the Emden as she turned out to be had to be beached to prevent her from sinking all funnels were blown off & front mast gone by the board, casualties also were extremely heavy, the Sydney then set out for the Collico & caught her took off the crew & sank her She then returned to Cocos Island & found that the Emden had landed a party who destroyed the wireless & cut the cables the Sydney then took off the crew [indecipherable] a few more shells into her & sailed for Colombo after putting in an excelent days work. Two horses died during day & another chap on the Euripides making the 4th Toby progressing tiptop & will be out in a day or two Bed at 10
10 November 1914
Tuesday 3 weeks out from Meblourne
Revielle at 5.15
The nigs have been rousing us out at 5 to wash decks & consequently we are losing more sleep. No news of the Sydney or her doings had come to hand till 4 oclock when the official report was published. The Sydney got out of the scrap without a casualty & is badly riddled like a sieve. The Jap & the Melbourne have been consoling themselves as to their bad luck, but they only did their duty. Horses still continue to die & we have now lost 14 Another [indecipherable] on the Medic also passed away & another fell overboard from the New Zealand boat & up to yet we haven’t heard if he has been picked up or not that makes 5 lost during voyage. Stables was quite a transformation & a pleasure today for we only had one loss & that made all the difference. A hair mash with a decoxion of Epsom salts had to be mixed & Teddy & I did it, it was rather a hot job & one sweated like the horses. Fed up at 7 oclock then retired
[Page 175]
11 November 1914
Wednesday 12 weeks of soldiering
Revielle at 5.
A heavy thunderstorm came over last night & nearly drove the horses frantic with the peals, & a hatch fell from above to make matters worse. Great preparations have been taking place all day for Father Neptune’s visit a large canvas tent has been made to receive all visitors & policemen have been told off to assist. We got word today that we would probably arrive in Colombo on Sunday morning & stay there three days. The Boxing Comp started tonight & our chaps Monty won his bout easily & Trumpeter Longwill his & they are to fight off in a couple of nights time. I have drawn against Fred Jenkins in chess & hope to win. Horses are in grand fettle & very [indecipherable] & they are also picking up condition. All men were issued with lime juice again today Toby still on the road to recovery slept out at 9.
12 November 1914
Thursday
Another hot night which resulted in another death in one hold. The picquet fought for 2 ½ hours but with no avail as luck would have it, it belonged to the Infantry. Father Neptune is to visit us tonight at 8.30 & [indecipherable]
A large steamer came into view [indecipherable] rushed up & intercepted her she afterwards turned out to be the 3 funnelled [indecipherable] 18000 tons [indecipherable] carrying the mails to Australia for protection [indecipherable]
Chess to follow. Bed at 9.
[Page 176]
13 November 1914
Saturday [Friday] Crossed the Line
Revielle at 6.
Awoke to the air of Neptunes orchestra & expected great things through the day & we weren’t disappointed either punctually at 1030 the police drew forth the first batch of victims including Teddy & 4 other officers everything went off well & some caused more fuss than others. The HMS Hampshire joined us today from Colombo she is a first class cruiser with 6 in guns & has now taken up her position at the head of the new lines. The New Zealanders & the Karros left the main body to steam on to Colombo to coal up & to [indecipherable] no 1 hold on account of the leak as we expect to sight land tomorrow after none for a fortnight also there’s a chance of fruit also letters. While steaming ahead tonight the [indecipherable] was seen to stop & lower a boat she dropped a man overboard but they got him again. Received mess from King asking us to be "home" for Christmas due to arrive 15th.
14 November 1914
Saturday
Out of sight of other ships only the Jap on the horizon another horse dies in No 6 hold today cast overboard & fouls the screw. Teddy parades the men & lectures them with regard to beer all beer, eds stand out & are issued with chits & a corporal put on canteen to prevent second helping. The New Zealanders have been practicing shooting all day at floating targets. Another infantry horse takes bad & is raised up onto deck for fresh air. Concert takes place & as usual is good but not long enough. Played with Corp [indecipherable] my heat in chess but lost to superior play. Receive news of [indecipherable] captured also that we are running into Monsoon & later vivid lightning is seen dead ahead. Great expectations exist among the troops on the prospect of sighting land on the morrow. Fred comes out of the hospital
Bed at 9.
[Page 177]
15 November 1914
Sunday Sighted land Colombo later
Revielle at 5.30
Sighted land at 6 then arrived at Colombo at 10.30 after running through a large native fishing fleet. The Sydney & Empress of Russia passes at 10 oclock & they get a rousing reception We then go into the breakwater & get a surprise at shipping 6 warboats present Melb Sydney Hampshire Ibouki Emp of Russia Minstowe also a Russian Cruiser the nigs start to come round with papers [indecipherable] & fruit. This is the prettiest place Ive seen for the horses blend beautifully with the green foliage & the costumes of natives adds to the panorama. Rikshaws & bullock waggons to be seen. New Zealanders leave for shore 200 off each boat no leave for us though. Write 8 letters to friends expect same from home tomorrow nigs diving for money. heard that we sail tomorrow & that the main body has gone to Aden. The place reeks from cause or other very hard to tell men from women
16 November 1914
Monday 4 weeks out
Out of bunk early but the natives were already on the go. They never go to sleep seemingly especially on the coaling stations. Shipping is very conjested in the harbour at present there is at least 150 large vessels without warships, & they are coming & going all day. We received orders to weigh anchor at 8.30 but no pilot arrived consequently we are still here. About lunchtime a chap fell overboard & caused a stir for the time being. [indecipherable] frequented the boat all the afternoon & fruit was obtainable at a ___ of a price. Oranges 8 [indecipherable] cocoanuts 8d each. The N Zealanders left tonight & we are off in the morning thank goodness for it is cruel seeing the N Z lads get off & no chance for us. Catamarans are in abundance the nigs propelled same from the outside edge of same. The beer racket is not working too well for Chris has [indecipherable] Ormah arrived in at 7.00 with Vics on board No beer or smokes to be had. Goliath comes along side for morning. Bed at 9.
[Page 178]
17 November 1914
Tuesday Left Colombo
Revielle at 6
Weighed anchor at 6.35 & then proceeded at half speed to anchorage out in the bay in our old signal positions the whole fleet moved out at 11.30 with the Hampshire at the lead. During the morning the sergeant of the guard whilst inspecting the rifles of guard failed to replace the [indecipherable] & pulled the trigger the bullet chipped the rail underneath a man but happily no damage was done. Wright got clink for not wearing a hat 3 days 4 nt. Canteen Corporal & not a troops man presented a chit. Last glimpse of Ceylon was Adam’s Peak away up in the clouds expect to make Aden in 10 wks time. We have got jam at last & bought a doz small @ 7/-. No mail at Colombo but theres a chance of it at Aden Bed 9.30
18 November 1914
Wednesday
Out at the usual hour & am glad to be at sea again. Our turn at stables came round again & we are glad to be under Bert again. The vessels had fog practice today the procedure is:- A barrel whitened on the end of a long rope is let off the end of the boat then the rear vessel steers by it then the vessels also blow their different calls on the siren at frequent intervals. Huge shoals of fish are to be seen in the water as it is very clear here also shoals of flying fish. The finals of the boxing started tonight & Maty fought the Trumpeter. [indecipherable] was altogether to good for him for in the first round legboned him 3 times then in the second he knocked him out. The Trump took it well but was no hero. Drinkwater also was beaten through lack of knowledge. 200 bags of chaff have been thrown over board & there is to be naval inquiry. Bed at 9.00.
[Page 179]
19 November 1914
Thursday
Revielle at 6.
Had a bad night as I’m feeling a bit off color & all day have had a trying time of it. Great indignation exists among the [indecipherable] concerning inoculation & our men are very bad especially Gillies Joe the [indecipherable] has been asked what to do concerning the refusals & we expect an answer tonight. The remainder of the div comes into sight & at 10 they close [indecipherable] Capt Witfield informs us that No 1 hold’s horses are in the best of condition & are also the best looked after & keep the most cleanly. Beautiful sunsets take place in this locality & are very confined the colors are altogether different to Australian ones & night sets in very suddenly for at 6.30 it is dark. Motorcycles brought on deck for cleaning after [indecipherable] they got in No 6 hold none to be placed in our stables. Great argument bet Tob & I concerning administration aboard.
20 November 1914
Friday Three months since we signed on
Revielle at 6.
Another crook night & for the first time I have been thinking of home & darling Nell but hope to get over it shortly & soon be back again home. The other boats caught us up during the night & we were asked by the [indecipherable] could we steam at 12 knots to the canal so as to prevent congestation of traffic we answered yes it the staff stoking was strengthened. The Jap is again at the head of affairs. The official report concerning the "Emden" came to hand the first broadside from the "Sydney" went overhead the next carried away 1 funnel & a mast the next swept the decks & the last smashed her up shockingly inside. The scuppers ran with blood & the carnage was awful. Another horse died in No 5 hold making the 17th. Teddy has been laid up all day with the [indecipherable] good job too. Heard that it is certain to be Egypt now for our training & then to proceed to the front when the Spring campaign opens. Bed at 8.30
[Page 180]
21 November 1914
Saturday
Revielle at 6
Great consternation existed among the ships of the third division for one of the ships during the night dropped a man overboard & when the lifeboat was launched the ship hadn’t stopped & capsized the boat & drowned all the crew. The warships have been searching the water by the aid of their search-lights & then when daylight appeared searched & parolled the locality for quite a while. The ships of 12 knots & over have gone on as specified yesterday & by 6 tonight were out of sight. The remainder of the troops got inoculated this afternoon & now sore arms are very prevalent especially mine it’s a dead pain with feverish accompaniment. Had a pleasant talk concerning home ties with Corp Holland. Was Canteen Corp again tonight but didn’t see one of our chaps. The boss is a little better today worse luck. Bed at 9.
22 November 1914
Sunday
Revielle at 5.30
Had an unpleasant night for the inoculation troubled me that much that I lost all my sleep & consequently feel washed out. Church Parade was held this morning & as we were off stables I attended it. The warship has been very erratic all day & the [indecipherable] likewise. We ran into a storm this morning & it broke the monotony of fine weather. Had quite a change for dinner in mutton peas potatoes & plum pudding quite a royal feed. The niggers paraded for inspection by their Captain & right royal did the two castes look. All the jack-tars were having church when their boat passed us & it looked like a huge cloud of white that had settled on the deck. Today at 11 we were 1200 miles from Colombo & at 9 in the morning we expect to sight a Cape on the coast of Africa, also we are not going to call in at Aden but go on to Suez. Bed at 9.
[Page 181]
23 November 1914
Monday Sighted Land
Revielle at 6
Sighted land at 9 oclock, the island of Loyota off Cape Guard [indecipherable] on the N E coast of Africa inhabited by Arabs & Cannibals. The isle is about 80 miles long & of a very rugged nature & very high mountains from our view it presents a very impressive appearance. Huge sharks have been seen today proving that we again are in shallow water jelly fish by the [indecipherable]. Stables this morning under Metch. Motors lowered into hold this afternoon at last. The moon rose early & presented a most unusual sight with a gold & varied coloured ring around it. phosference about 2 ft long in great evidence also due to jelly fish also. Three large steamers passed this morning going eastwards expect to see Aden tomorrow but are not calling in our next call is Port Said. Tonight [indecipherable] play chess. Bed at 9.00.
24 November 1914
Tuesday Sailed 5 weeks today from home
Revielle at 6
Land was out of sight this morning when we arose. The [indecipherable] cleared out & left the Wiltshire in charge of us. A great shoal of sharks pass early. Toby & the Boss go down the No 5 hold for stores & succeed in finding the majority of the stuff but no motor spares. Find that the raisens fruit etc have been broken into by some other enterprising youths also come across two cases of petrol which Teddy promptly reported to the Skipper & who has ordered it to be thrown overboard. Expect to reach Aden tonight late & sighted Somaliland at 7 this evening on the S W horizon. Red seaweed is largely noticed now as that proves that we are approaching the Red Sea hear also that we are to stay three days at Port Said for engine repairs. Oneill starts training for home bout. Bed at 9.
[Page 182]
25 November 1914
Wednesday Reached Aden 5 pm
Write home to Nell
Revielle at 6
After an uneventful night we arose to find ourselves in sight of the Arabian coast & about 1 pm came in sight of the rock that commands this part of Aden a marvie piece of masonry on the top of which are the forts manned by imperial artillery & territorial forces man the lower defences. The harbour is at present full of ships & 4 Indian troopships. The township is out of sight at present the country is vey barren & rugged no place for a pleasure trip. We expect to move again in the morning on to Port Said. The warships inside are keeping us interested by their searchlights then the three light houses are busy too. A large school of porpoises have been playing round the boat all night & the men have been fishing & got a few cat fish. Ran wireless engines & found them alright OK Bed at 9.
26 November 1914
Thursday Left Aden 6 am
Revielle at 6
We moved off at 6 the other boats taking up their old places. During day we have passed no more than nine Indian Transports on the way back from the old dart & saw the largest school of porpoises hundreds of em just outside Aden is even busier that Colombo for ships have been passing us every hour in [indecipherable] about 2 pm we passed through the Gulf of Aden then through the straits of Belan [indecipherable] passed Perim a fortified coal port sighted the African coast then entered Red Sea & passed round Hells’ Gates a gap between two immense rocks on which are two large lighthouses. The New Zealand boats have pushed on & left the Hampshire in charge of us the Jap has finished her job. The old tub has been steaming 11 knots all day to make up lost time. Expect to go through the canal about Tuesday it being 1200 miles from Aden. Lights out early on account of danger.
[Page 183]
27 November 1914
Friday
Revielle at 6
During night 3 more troopers & [indecipherable] passed us en route for India. One signed to us saying that they took Indian troops home then brought Territorials to Egypt & are now on their way to Bombay to take reinforcements home for the first force. No 6 & our hold were taken down to the aft hold to shift & throw overboard chaff as the flooring in the stables has proved defective again so now the same things have happened as did in No 1. 200 were turned out there & there will not be many less in No 6. I took picket for Burrell who is busy shoeing nags now & the day off [indecipherable] prevailed on me to do so. Ship has been averaging 11 knots as there is a two mile current running with us. Sighted three pelicans in the afternoon. Picquet mounted at 6 Bed 12
28 November 1914
Saturday Destination made known
Out of bunk at 5
Night the worst on board on account of the heat & horses very troublesome with mange. Stables were started half an hour earlier as today is sports day for the ship. The programme was long including tugs of war, pillow fights etc & a huge tank has been fitted up for swimming & is being very largely patronised. Great news arrived at 12 today to the effect that we are to be landed in Cairo to complete our training & from there go to the front but it looks that we are to be denied the actual thing & have to take on garrisoning. We expect to land on Wednesday & are to bivouac straight away. Toby very disappointed for he counted on seeing his people home in the old dart. Went down No 5 & freed up waggons besides looking after myself in regard to bins. Am starting letters home expect it will be a long job. Bed at 9.
[Page 184]
29 November 1914
Sunday
Revielle at 6
During night a headwind of a strengthy nature sprung up & now the sea has risen to something like old times its good to see movement in the water again as perpetual calm is not to good. Sports have been resumed again today. Tug-of-war final was something to be remembered. Beattie & I were told off to prepare sidings for gangway up from the hold as the horses are first to be tried before resorting to the box. Reservist caught with articles he could not account for & Mackworth let him off. Another inspection is to be made in No 5 tomorrow morning in company with the boss. Two steamers pass us en route for more troops. We were informed today that we are to be quartered in the Cabaly quarters in Cairo. Weather has changed from hot to cold. Collected all addresses.
30 November 1914
Monday
Revielle at 6
All lamps have been fired up during the day for the horses & this morning we entered the Gulf of Suez & now land is visible on every hand. Passed 4 vessels this morning & the sea is very rough & the wind high at lunch time the 2nd division left the main our division followed later on & now the shipping is strung out over 60 miles of sea. Two nurses on the Geelong have been signaling to us on semaphore. Two huge lighthouses have been throwing out their warnings to us one Jabeltein in particular is an island rises steeply from sea to a height of 500 ft. Mt Sinai was sighted at 3 pm the mount of Bibical fame & is a great height. Wrig lost his censored purse containing a quid. Troops to be issued with chits for use in Cairo married men not illegibale
Bed at 9
[Page 185]
1 December 1914
Tuesday Reached Suez at 9
Sailed 6 weeks Vic
Revielle at 6
Entered the Suez Bay proper at 9 this morning & found some of the other division fleet but during the afternoon they moved into the canal. Each boat is equipped with a huge searchlight fitted to the bow of the vessel & steams only 4 knots. Suez is divided into 3 ports British French & Arab all round the coast guards are constantly on the watch for gun running. Two more British gunboats in port. Arabs come round & fruit is better than Colombo the mouth of the canal is hardly noticable only marked by a buoy. On the left of Suez is a huge slate & granite quarry with a railway attached to same. News comes to hand that Russia has surrounded the main German army & is now starving it into submission also that British officers are home on leave. Toby has his automatic pinched. Search ship on trace of it
2 December 1914
Wednesday Indian fleet arrives
14 weeks of soldiering
Revielle at 6
The first thing that greeted us while drawing feed was a huge line of ships on the horizon in about an hours time they turned out to be an Indian contingent of 21 ships escorted by a French dreadnought cruiser. The [indecipherable] are mainly regiments returning home & Indian reinforcements for the fist army. Our lamp arrives & is fitted by two French engineers & now are only awaiting the Pilot & our turn is next for the "Geelong" left last. We got our extra dose of inoculation this afternoon & is likely to prove troublesome. Boat leaves for [indecipherable] for further medicine. Corp Reid held a demonstration of hypotism & among one of his items was trying to find Toby’s [indecipherable] by the aid of hypotism & he nearly did for he found a strange one. Horses are looking splendid & are now on heavy feed again expect to be unloading day after tomorrow.
[Page 186]
3 December 1914
Thursday Made Port Said at 7
Revielle at 6.
Had a rotten night on account of inoculation & consequently I missed the last part of the Suez We arrived in Pt Said at 7 this morn to find a British Squadron quartered here also three Frenchmen; in the squadron are three Dreadnoughts Indians are on guard all along the canal. Gurchas & Punjab infantry Royal Engineers are busy throwing up earth works on the Suez end. We anchored in the roads off the town but can see enough to satisfy one that Port Said is quite capable of living up to its reputation. Musicians come round in boats & play Melb dance airs. Mail arrives but none for me. Write home & to Nell. 6 Reservists are called off to "Euripedies" but later on are recalled. Teddy goes ashore also Latham on leave. No leave is granted below the rank of sergeant. A hydroplane off a French Dreadnought has been flying up & down at lunch time on guard against aircraft from the Turks. We are to sail at 4 tomorrow Bed at 8.
4 December 1914
Friday Left Pt Said at 4
Revielle at 6.
Nothing of importance happened through the night only men breaking leave. Hydroplane flying again today up the canal also cutting capers on the water. Left Port Said at 4. Passing along the canal the town looked great for it is built on European [indecipherable] only the facings are all cold coloured. One thing noticable was the number of large hotels to be seen. We passed the HMS Swiftsure also 3 French the Swiftsure is very heavily armed she fairly bristles with guns & she also flys the Admirals flag & is equipped with derricks, as she is a battle cruiser Outside there were two destroyers with the transports which have emptied their charges, about 20 of them. During day about 20 wireless operators & [indecipherable] men arrive on board to return to Melb. All troops get into uniform preparatory to going on shore. Mail arrived but again none for me. [indecipherable] came through while we are in. [indecipherable] Bed at 9 after pow wow
[Page 187]
5 December 1914
Saturday Arrived Alexandria
Revielle at 6.
Sea very rough & many men are sea sick sight land at sunrise arre Alexandria a hour later. The harbour is behind a huge breakwater & shipping is moored on the same principal as Colombo. French cruiser on guard under the forts which are posted on a hill above the town. Many troopers unloading & we go alongside at 11 o’clock. 26000 rifles were found in the Khedive palace who has cleared out to Turkey. 70000 troops are here already & there is to be another 70000 before a month is out & then the British Jack goes up. Guard posted on trucks as niggers are very troublesome. Men break leave in scores. Worked winches in No 1 hold for removal of chaff succeeded in getting over 20 tons. Company had all horses for moving off at 7 in morning, finally arrives at 6 pm. [indecipherable]
6 December 1914
Sunday
Revielle at 5.30.
Start at daybreak for unshipment of stores goods etc we made a start at 7 & got 7 or 8 horses off but the train for the N Zealanders came between us & we had to knock off till 6 at night we then removed and entrained them in 2 hours. I with Latham was put on to watch No 5 hold for our stores but couldn’t place them although we waited until the waggons were unloaded. We finished up at 11.30 & then Corp Letch & I broke leave & went up to Alexandria. We took a cab & drove round the quays for a while & then entered the town proper by one of the gates the natives are very dirty & real pests After walking round the town we entered a French restaurant & had our first feed of ham & eggs (good oh) & kept 7 French girls amused with our actions, had another walk round also (+) came on a beautiful square of buildings of white sandstone the streets are very [indecipherable] & shockingly dirty the nigs are the dirtiest mongrels imaginable Bed 3 oclock
[Page 188]
7 December 1914
Monday Arrived Maadi at 6.
Revielle at 4.35
Loaded personal kits, had breakfast, then entrained horses through Alexandria into the celebrated delta of the Nile the most beautiful piece of country of the world miles & miles of rich fields of rice cotton, wheat, tomatoes, etc follows on one another for 140 miles the natives live in mud huts all bunched together & on the roof all the maize cobs are dried this seems to be the chief industry, the women do all the labouring & some of them are exceptionally pretty. The canals run every direction about every mile these are damed up & then run off into channels onto the gardens. Date Groves in all stages are seen on every hand. At 2 we arrived at Cairo & were shunted on to our proper line. Cairo is much on the same lines as Alexandria only a little more dirtier if possible on the way Maadi we passed through the Dead City thousands & thousands of houses empty also the Great Pyramids were seen & 5 more further over made camp at 5.00 men arrived at 6.
8 December 1914
Tuesday Sailed 7 weeks today
Revielle at 7
First thing water & feed, it was good to get back to the old style of camp again. After that breakfast on nothing. Horses were exercised then & my party erected our tents [indecipherable] & also the Pyramids are to be seen from camp & with the glasses the Sphinx can also be seen where we are camped is the old site of Napoleons camp for the Egyptian campaign & on the W horizon some 20 or 30 windmills are still there, erected by him for some purpose or other. The roads are exceptionally good here & the village is a very pretty place the population is chiefly native & French & English. All transport is done by the nigs & their horses can pull anything pullable. Toby took bad & had to be attended to by a doctor but during the day picked up a bit & the horses are very restive & to make matters worse there are no bed pegs. I’m corporal of the piquet also Roll call at 9 but town leave things are going to be fairly easy I think. Bed at 9.
[Page 189]
9 December 1914
Wednesday 45 weeks of soldiering
Revielle at 6.
Had a rotten night for without bed ropes the piquet is kept busy. Wrigley horse was down & had to call up the boss who fixed him up alright. First Parade motors overhauled & tried mine OK only oiling a little unsatisfactory. Toby & I went for a run around the Nile the road follows round the river & is exceptionally good at here the river is about 400 yds wide & rich growth is on the other side. I also visited a native mud village which is too dirty to describe for the nigs only exist & as for washing themselves its unknown the motor [indecipherable] the niggers nothing also the donks cant make it out. After dinner all the horses fetlocks were bathed & ointment given to those that needed it for the sand plays havoc on the hoofs. During the night 200 LH came in & tomorrow we expect more. Letters arrive but none for me. Have been ordered to Cairo in the morning with the boss am looking forward to same.
10 December 1914
Thursday
Revielle at 6.
Stables as usual horses [indecipherable] very sore & Toby has been splicing rope all day for [indecipherable] at 18.30 I set out for Cairo with the boss up on the bike the roads were great until we came to the native quarters & there is was shocking the mud & water goes right into the huts. When we arrived in Cairo we went to the Continental Hotel & from there to the Anglo Egyptian Bank for our money. Met a corp motor cyclist of the Res, have arranged to have a run on Sunday of all motor cycs. Started out at 12 pm for camp & had great difficulty of finding the street as they run any way. The road was all along the Nile which is a fine river after our Yarra & the natives draw their water from it by a series of water wheels in the afternoon the men were paid & I was on leave for the night. I set out with Sgt Metcher for Cairo had a fair time but am already sick of the place for nothing exists but filth & uncleanliness on every hand Arrived back at Camp at 11 oclock & bed later.
[Page 190]
11 December 1914
Friday
Revielle at 6
After stables fix up the motors for Toby & I are to go Cairo for repairs also to change money & then to go out to Mena. We left here at 10.30 & went straight to the repair shop & got a pattern taken of Toby’s backstand & then on to Ordance had a bit of bother there for no one seemed to know who was to [indecipherable] the petrol & when we did get it we couldn’t get a transport & had to put up with a donkey turnout they messed us about that much that we missed the bank so had dinner at the Obelisk & then went from there to Mena a lovely trip of 8 miles on the best of roads of asphalt the Pyramids are right on the camp & look immense when you get up to them, found the Company & got our motor spares also shoes for nags so did well then came back to bank & straight home.
12 December 1914
Saturday
Revielle at 6.30
Orderly sergeant for the day & have charge of stables, horses hoofs still bad with rope galls after waking, horses are groomed then breakfast, in the morning the horses are taken for a 6 mile walk round the native villages close to the camp & round the rifle butts also arrive back at camp at 12 pm. the same thing in the afternoon. Old Fergy arrives in camp during the morning & gives his account of his trip it seems that all have a better trip than we. I wrote home & 4 to Nell also to AF so that ought to keep them quite for a while. Light Horse keep arriving all day & now the camp presents quite a [indecipherable] appearance the canteen is a great boon to the men for anything can be bought from a date to a feed & from 2 PT upwards [indecipherable]
[Page 191]
13 December 1914
Sunday
Revielle at 6.30
As I’m writing this the men in the YMCA are singing hymns which sound lovely in a sin sodden hole like this & make you wish that you were home. Nell dear I’d give everything to be with you now if only for an hour. All motor cyclists met in Cairo at 3 pm opposite Sheppards Café 29 in all & had our dials taken & then went from there to Mena had a drink at the Pyramids & then climbed em had a look at the Sphinx, got our dials taken again & then set sail for home, it took us 22 minutes to do the 17 mile. Frean as usual loses himself but eventually turns up. I write home to Dad also met Ian Metchers brother who knows the Chats well, having met them in Malven House. Corporal of the Piquet again & have now to feed up it’s the worry of my life Bed 9.30.
14 December 1914
Monday 8 weeks out from Home
Revielle at 6.
Stables as usual & I’m orderly sergeant for the day. Saddles are placed on the horses for the first time & they behave very well. Toby is attached to Head Quarters as dispatch rider & is sent out to the New Zealand camp which he reports to be a much better one than ours he gets back at 9 & is ordered to stand by on the morrow. We heard also that the Aust second force had been disbanded & the men given a bonus of £10 each & placed on the Reservists. No mail arrives yet & two more men off to the Citidel with dysentery. Jack Latham is also to go but bluffed the doctor to let him stay on. Bert Lachin returns from hospital & is kicked out of the mess. Pow wow is held by the CO & [indecipherable] sergeant & the others don’t invite us to supper turn in early after playing Jenkins chess nearly beating him in all four games. Bed at 8.30 pm Lights out 9.30
[Page 192]
15 December 1914
Tuesday
Revielle at 6.
Horses watered & exercised before breakfast they take well to the saddles except bluey who promptly kicks off his pack [indecipherable] is causing trouble but you can expect things of this sort. Representatives of all the units were invited by the residents of Maadi to be present at the ceremony of handing over the huge tent given by them & writing facilities to us. Sgt Masters was ours. Water melons are very numerous here & as cheap as dirt. No mail arrived today, heard also that we are to proceed to the front at the end of February. Toby’s again at Head Quarters & has another trip into Cairo. All men are told off again in squads & I have charge of T squad Camp work takes place again at night. Picquet is in future to be feed party for next day & it is to be mixed in the proper quantities. Petrol [indecipherable] run out & none to got at ordance. Bed at 9.
16 December 1914
Wednesday 17 weeks of soldiering
Revielle at 6.
Stables as usual during night 48 plays up & picquet uses the boot & is promptly called up for it by Sgt Masters. Saddles put on & horses exercised with them the temptation proves too strong for some of the chaps as some of em mount including the sergeant in charge. Motors pulled down & gears of "Sunbeam" overhaluled. Frean ordered to stand by with machine. Gen Bridges arrived & made a general inspection of camp. Still no mail things are looking serious. Telegraphy is to go on & Field sketching from tomorrow but alday job it is. Made dummy shots today for musketry is to commence right away & dummys are necessary our course is to be carried out on our map sketching trips. Cooks have to cook to a Menu from today the extra cost coming from the field allowance to men Egypt of [indecipherable] per day CO latest leaves on our truck. Bed 9.15.
[Page 193]
17 December 1914
Thursday 22 today
Revielle at 6.
Stables as usual & I shale timber to make a scraper or two to fix up the lines. Bert Larkin leaves to go to Cairo for [indecipherable] for petrol carbide groceries etc. arrives back at 6. Musketry exercises are carried out during the day & horses mounted Billings horse bolts but no damage done have afternoon off only teach B Masters to ride motor & the Boss to shove a scrapheap. Write home to Ern Nell & Stan but am still disappointed for a mail. British Jack hoisted today & leave is stopped for 5 days in consequence of Turks proving troublesome, no such luck though. Groceries for Xmas arrive don’t get much for 600 pts. Lamp walk at night chaps good reading in all ranks. Are to go out tomorrow on sketching all day after visiting Cairo first Bed 11.30.
18 December 1914
Friday
Revielle at 6.
Stables as usual whilst I [indecipherable] made a stretcher [indecipherable] saddle at 8.30 Wrig hands his horse over to me for day. Teddy as usual gives us nothing but troop drill return at 10.30 feed up then dinner. After dinner Toby & I with glasses P compasses table & bikes set out on reconnaissance & work to Helman about 10 miles out make several casts on the way & plot same on return at night. Helman itself is approached by beautiful roads & the town itself is grand, one place in particular a French residence had the most beautiful column of Egyptian architecture that I’ve yet seen, the town is noted chiefly for its baths of which there are many. Boss for once was very pleased with the work of the day, & at night I had two hours on protractor work expect to improve greatly in a short time now. Lost pen at night Bed 10 pm
[Page 194]
19 December 1914
Saturday
Revielle at 6
Stables per usual nothing of much event during the morning only horses ridden again but in the afternoon I was sent to find Bill Latham & deliver a mss to him from the CO set out at 2 pm for the Citedil & after spending an hour & a half in finding same I’m told that they are over in Abesia so over I go but before that I went all over the Citedil, the most gorgeous building I have ever been in the staircases are beautiful white marble & the handrail is 9 inches wide & 22’ feet long out of the solid & in one piece under the domes they are paneled & then decorated in diminishing figure of bronze the guide told me that they havn’t been touched for at least 200 years & they now look far & away better than our most beautiful theatre when new. I arrived at Abbasia at 4 pm & found Bill, niggers very offensive & expect trouble any day now. Bed 9.30 pm.
20 December 1914
Sunday
Revielle at 6.
Stables as per usual but nothing much doing, no work to be done during day only inspection & then Church Parade after which dinner. The boys all go on leave & the boss goes over to Alexandria with Frean to see the [indecipherable]. Bert & myself are left in camp, I amuse myself by writing home to Nell & Ern. Frean returns at 5 & tells me that it took him 2 hours to find the joint. Larkin & Harold go over to the Pyramids, Harry gets back alright but Larkin doesn’t put in an appearance at nine, went for a walk at eight to the Café de Nil & from there saw a most perfect reflection of the moon on the river then came home & wrote & I shouldn’t have. Bobby Faines & I have a sing song & then go the YMCA to the church meeting which is great with the Chaplain that we have. Concerts have been [indecipherable] for every Monday night. Bed 9.00
[Page 195]
21 December 1914
Monday 9 weeks from home
Revielle at 6.
Stables early as the horses have to go out early Break at 9. Boot & saddle 9.30 lead out later & trot for the first time, have a real enjoyable trip for scouts are sent out 7 men & flung out is skirmishing orders. [indecipherable] report heavy firing on left flank, troops advance & take ridge, get back at camp at 10.30 then other detail goes out. Frean pulls his machine down & finds that the big end is vertically loose experts come over from LH & report that machines are entirely unfit for job. Report is to be sent into HQ of same. Chevel then comes over & also is against Healing. During the afternoon we went to the baths in the prison at [indecipherable] it’s about the only decent thing they have both hot & cold [indecipherable] it’s a three mile walk from here & were mighty glad to get back to camp at 2. Bed at 9.30
22 December 1914
Tuesday
Revielle at 6
Stables under Bert Masters & I the camp ride follows the horses are tip-top & we hears tomorrow that we march through Cairo with the LH & New Zealanders [indecipherable] mounted too. All arrangements made for Xmas dinner & have decided to leave the Boss out of it, but the [indecipherable] are very indignant over [indecipherable]. During afternoon Toby & I explore the catacombs about 9 miles from camp, they are of enormous size & some go in fully 200 yards [indecipherable] under & any height they have huge columns supporting them every few yards on one face Toby found some Roman writing but nothing more. The next one was no different only has a few more bats Toby gets several decent pieces of old [indecipherable] Arrive back at camp at 5.15 then get roused up by Teddy for leaving camp with out permission Bed at 9.
[Page 196]
23 December 1914
Wednesday Review in Cairo
Revielle at 5 pm
Stables at 6. Breakfast at 6.15 & boot & saddle & we moved off at 7.30 after taking our place behind the 3rd Reg in the column at our rear where the 17 SC & the 4AMC the column was about 2 miles in length & included 2000 horsemen we only preceeded at the walk & we arrived in Cairo at 12.30 just outside the city we met the N Zealanders who were 10000 men strong we went down the main street past Shepards on to the Continental where the saluting boss was with Gen Maxwell in command The troop ,marched well but the CO was crook we then went down one or two side streets which brought us out on to the main road to Maadi we got back here at 2.5 pm after a bonza parade one which will remain long in the minds of the troops. A holiday in the afternoon then stables at 5 after which leave Bed at 11.30
24 December 1914
Thursday Christmas Eve
Revielle at 6.
Stables per usual after which Harold L & I proceeded into Cairo to purchase goods for Xmas dinner in our mess, got that fixed up alright then went to the Obelisk for lunch [indecipherable] then for a parade around Cairo through a native bazaar which is very interesting for the nigs are at their trades, where we left our bikes was opposite a drapers shop in which were three lovely Francais of course HL must speak consequently he is likely to prove a constant visitor we left at 2 for home, whilst in Cairo I saw an Indian & I’m thinking of purchasing same, Helis long distant was the order of the day & splendid work was done. About 9.30 tonight several men where singing & Teddy [indecipherable] & charged them with drunkenness trial in the morning. Bed 10 pm.
[Page 197]
25 December 1914
Friday Christmas Day
Revielle at 6
Stables per usual & 6 men warned for orderly room at 9 remainder parade at 9.15 am. I as orderly sergeant parade these men & also was a witness indirectly for the prosecution the charge was for being drunk, the CO found the men to be guilty & thereby sentenced them accordingly & as defaulters I had to get them fatigue work about 12 PM they demanded a retrial or a court martial the CO therefore deferred the cases at 2.30 one & all each man witness for D & P some on oath that the men were not drunk but slightly merry nevertheless they were again convicted one only being discharged, they therefore have demanded a court martial which will take place shortly; we have a tip top spread with everything you could wish for & Bert M has his brother to tea Bed 10 PM
26 December 1914
Saturday Boxing Day
Reveille at 6.
Stables as per usual & after breakfast riding school under Sgt [indecipherable] [indecipherable] followed &then a gallop. The horses enjoyed it as much as we did dinner at 1PM after that the remainder of the men under Bert Masters had their ride & the WT hacks were taken out by Harold [indecipherable] I pull my scrap to bits & try to clean some of the rust off them but of no avail, the bearings are all worn & the tyres settled, but another expert arrived & I condemned them so there is every chance of getting the new scraps either Indians or Rudge Masters Toby & I are to go in on Monday & find out how many are available Wrote letters & paraded defaulters after tea hear that mail arrives. Toby sent to [indecipherable] at 8.30 Bed 9.15 PM
[Page 198]
27 December 1914
Sunday
Reveille at 6
Stables as per usual but no riding for church parade takes its place. Defaulters have to do all cleaning round camp the men have another medical inspection & one is bad & is being treated locally then after dinner men go for ride. Bert M & Larkin go to Mena on bikes along with Toby. Write home & again to Nell no mail is in sight yet. In our Xmas doily I got all the signatures of the men in the troop & sent it to Nell. Had a visitor to tea an old 21st man named Bruce he’s now with the A.M.C. from Queensland Lieut from HQ came over & passed his opinion on the bikes again, the "Big H" came in for some hard criticizing, Masters proves very annoying for he is over jubilant at his successful ride & now considers himself a "[indecipherable] cyclist". Bed at 9. As day as been rather lazy.
28 December 1914
Monday 10 weeks from home
Reveille at 6.
Stables under Sgt Masters & then at the school the boss gives me "Beauty" who proves a lovely hack & if ever we get home I would like to have her, for the second ride I have Goty’s which is just the opposite & I rip the side out of it with spurs after dinner Toby & I went into Cairo to find how many motors are available, 3 Indians 1 Rudge a BSA & a Douglas so it looks that we must have an Indian [indecipherable] scrap partially seized today & mine is the same Toby’s is just the same, get all the work. Women are numerous today whatever is up for since we left Australia it is the largest number that I have seen. Mail left today for Australia but again none for us get awfully homesick for the first time the cause of it was AF. I wonder if it is likewise with her. Bed at 9.30 after [indecipherable] off defaulters.
[Page 199]
29 December 1914
Tuesday
Reveille at 6
Stables as usual Riding under Bert M we went for a trip up to [indecipherable] all over the hills & the men went & explored the Catacombs. Freddy [indecipherable] finally as usual no acting the goat. after which we got all over the Egyptian Granite quarries supposed to be the largest or one of the largest marble quarries in the world after dinner Sgt [indecipherable] took out the WT & their hacks. Bluey’s horse good but Cox’s horse is rotten won’t look at his lead. They afterwards go for a ride & towards [indecipherable] too. Toby complains of not enough riding a day as after 65 miles trip he is knocked out so will try & increase the trips. Mended all the clothing available & after tea we had another lamp practice with Bobby [indecipherable] wrote up this to date then filled in night at Chess with Larkin Bed at 9
30 December 1914
Wednesday 19 weeks of soldiering
Reveille at 6
Stables as usual then riding under Bert M we went on a touring expedition round the hills we got several miles to the rear [indecipherable] visible from camp – about 5 miles to the south men explored the catacombs round about, then the quarries these quarries have been in existence for centuries & in some places they run in to the hills for yards & in many cases the hill that once was is leveled to the level of the dessert. The criminals from the [indecipherable] prison attend to all the quarrying & the worst type are clothed in red to make them conspicuous their boots are also studded in such a manner as to make them a cert for recapture providing they get away. In the afternoon Harry L & I have the afternoon off so fill in the time at cooking , try two suet puddings & they turn out tip-top only we have to wait until evening parade is over. Bed 10.5
[Page 200]
31 December 1914
Thursday
Reveille at 6.
Stables under [indecipherable] Latham has come back & commences to make himself obstreperous by picking out simple little faults. Riding follows under [indecipherable] & he as usual does his nut he galloped for miles & then comes down to the {indecipherable] after lunch I went out again under [indecipherable] this time we went over to [indecipherable] the men as usual go for an exploring trip whilst Bert & I make plans for the future . Nell comes into it of course , The L Horse have been putting in splendid work all day they now are working in squadrons. After Tea Teddy gets his first lesson in [indecipherable] he gets only 3 falls & then a drunk shoves him – over head the boss ordered me to avert them which I did but at the time I didn’t at all like the job, the main guard form the gate arrest him. Good bye 1914 & the last thoughts of mine were for dear Nell & Mother at home
[Page 201]
[List of Transport AIF 1914
Not transcribed]
Not transcribed]
[Page 203]
[Complement of 1st Signal Troop Australian Imperial Force
Not transcribed]
[Page 204]
[Continuation of Page 203
Not Transcribed]
[Page 205
[Newspaper photograph of 3 unidentified women inscribed on back Mrs P Williams 2 Spring St Fitzroy and Mr C Williams 815 Smith St Fitzroy
[Page 206]
[Not transcribed]
[Page 207]
[Not transcribed. Pencil drawing, newspaper clipping relating to American contribution to the war effort]
[Page 208]
The Military Fever prevalent in Melb recently & its result
After great consideration
With due deliberation
And much [indecipherable]
I sent my nomination
Then came expectation
Followed by realization
And then consultation
With heads of our nation
I’m a soldier in creation
On board the Karroo
The home of [indecipherable] stew
We sail to our station
We suffer in [indecipherable] time
Suffer in starvation
Vaccination privation
Inoculation constipation
Stagnation humiliation
[indecipherable] examinations & then
No Germanation
Lights out
I thought you were an angel dear,
But now I’m sure of that,
‘Twas only wings were wanting,
Now, I see them on your hat
This is the luxury of wine
It touches every key of memory
And stirs all the hidden sprigs of sorrow
And of joy
I love it for what it makes me forget
And for what it makes me remember
Thou art the hope of my after years
Sum of my winter sorrows
But the years go by neath a clouded sky
When shall we meet who knows
Who knows
[Page 209]
[Not transcribed]
[Page 210]
[Cut out picture of woman (possibly related to poem in previous page)]
[Cut out picture of man and woman annotated Miss Keasts friend
A.E. Carter. Esq
"Dalmally"
Trewsbury Road
Sydenham S.E.O
London]
[Page 211]
[Cut out picture of a woman annotated 'strong lass']
[Transcribed by Lyn Williams and John Kerr for the State Library of New South Wales]