Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 102
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[Page 102]
Melbourne, Robson & Cowlishaw acknowledging medical Certificate, and one from A.T. Sharp London, saying he was sending my long wanted "Orilux lamp. Also a letter from Father and Mother and one from Mrs Parker, widow of Major Parker in answer to a letter of condolence I had written her.
I have been quite happy in my service with the guns for the past eek, though nights without sleep naturally leave one weary, particularly too when the position has been such an anxious one, but the reading of all my letters tonight made me feel somewhat unmanned. All contained prayers for my Safe Keeping. My letter from the dear old dad was perhaps the best I have ever received from him. The circumstances are unique. I read them all in my little "dugout" with an ammunition box for a seat and a candle on another box at about 9.30PM. The Navy's guns were booming out in terrific fashion at the Southern end of Gallipoli peninsula, my four guns were talking within a few yards of me, and as every round was fired dust and dirt fell from the roof of my "cabin". The enemy's and our rifles at the same time keeping up an incessant crackle. Of course just as I got settled to read my letters, staff officers, telephonists etc must come bothering me about something or other, while I wanted to be alone. I would give up a great deal if I could see all my family tonight. My heart is very full. The sights and experiences of the past week are indelibly stamped in my memory and can never be effaced.
Our attack scheme on Contour 400 set down for today has been postponed.
Monday 3rd May
Heavy cannonade this morning by navy. Our guns also at work early. I hear the enemy inflicted losses on our 4th Brigade about 5 A.M. this morning. The old 6" guns on our right flank again opened and fired a few rounds, but No 1 gun 7th battery stopped here. Heavy guns from direction of Fort 32 on the Dardanelles also fired many rounds at Transports and Men O' War. One transport appeared to be hit, but not seriously damaged. General Bridges with naval officers and Col MacLagan also myself discussed sending demolition party to Gaba Tepe at 4.30 AM tomorrow. Navy to land men, who will be covered by our Artillery fire and that from destroyers. Fresh gun emplacements being made for alternative use. Major Browne now connected up by Phone. His two guns are in action. The 6" gun again opened fire this evening, but we located and stopped him. So far he has done no damage. The shells are lead coated and have no copper driving bands.
A very quiet night and little shooting.