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[Page 139]
1916.
the Dockyard wharves. Thus, it was difficult to tell when the enemy was likely to move, whilst in former times it was apparent from the fact that the crews had to repair on board.
July 20.
During July the Bishop of London (Dr. Winnington Ingram) visited the Fleet for two days. He came on board "Australia" & gave an excellent address to the officers & men. The Germans were now busily employed in laying mines, & distributing fuel to submarines by means of motor fishing smacks flying Dutch colours. Our patrols quickly snapped up these craft, and some dozens were brought into harbour under armed guard.
Aug. 5.
At last, all the surviving battle-cruisers of the Jutland action having been repaired, the Fleet left for Scapa Flow to carry out exercises.
Aug. 6.
Foggy weather, for the most part, delayed our programme, on arrival at Scapa Flow.
Aug. 16.
However, after 10 days we completed our exercises, & left for Rosyth. Here we completed with coal & oil fuel.
Aug. 18.
Only 24 hours elapsed before we were hurriedly despatched to sea, the German High Sea Fleet having come out.
Aug. 19.
We were all excitement, & as keen as mustard. Early next morning one of our light cruisers "Nottingham", was torpedoed by an enemy submarine on two separate occasions. She remained afloat for about two hours, & then sank. Destroyers were sent to rescue the crew. During the