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[Page 130]
1916
base, so we retraced or steps homeward, arriving the following day.
March.27.
It transpired afterwards that "Medusa" sank after having been abandoned by her crew, who were taken on board by "Laverock". After having coaled, we settled down to a few weeks of comparative peace.
April. 21.
On Good Friday we were despatched on an enemy search expedition to the Skagerack. However, before we got in the vicinity the operation was abandoned, and we moved to where an enemy force was expected.
April. 22.
All next day was spent at "action stations", whilst the fleet careered round the sea at 20 knots, in very thick weather. During the afternoon, about 3:45, as I sat in my cabin, there was a fearful convulsion throughout the ship, & I was hurled out of my chair. My first impression was - that the ship had struck a mine forward. I instinctively rushed to the Starboard Engine Room lift, & descended to the Starboard Engine Room, incidentally, forgetting my life saving waistcoat, which I always kept hanging in a very convenient place in my cabin, for use in such an emergency. I had enquiries made by telephone to each Boiler Room, to ascertain if everything was all right there, & if any of them had been pierced. Suddenly there was another severe convulsion, which shook the ship fore & aft. The Engines were moved to full astern, & gradually the ship listed to Starboard. To my great relief the Boiler Rooms reported "all correct" ! & as the