Item 01: J. E. Morrison diary, 13 October 1917-29 October 1918 - Page 95
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[Page 95]
Marseilles
A good many of the large windows of the shops in the City of Marseilles were broken so that the concussion was very severe.
NB. Since we heard officially hundreds of lives were lost.
June 5
4 pm Shipped 1000 French troops & blue jackets. 500 Brittish officers & blue jackets for Malta & Egypt. Also a few hundred English troops for Egypt & left the inner harbor for anchorage in the roads. Two ships formally torpedoed & sunk at anchor where we are at present & several reported sunk out side the mine field of the entrance 2 miles away.
Whilst at Marseilles this trip several officers invited us out to the veteenery hospital. Saw about a thousand sick horses. The hospital laid out beautiful. Every appliance operating rooms & surgeries etc. In fact as well laid out as any ordinary hospital for troops. Situated 8 miles from Marseilles & travelled 2 miles through a tunnel & through the country. Well cultivated & beautiful scenery. Had dinner there & everyone enjoyed the trip by motor splendidly.
The Ormonde the latest of the Orient SS. Co. being sent home to London. She could not maintain the required speed 15 knots causing the convoy to reduce & delayed whilst at sea.