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H.M.A.S. "Berrima",
Rabaul,
14th September 1914
The Rear-Admiral Commanding Australian Fleet.
Sir;
Beyond the general instructions received by me before leaving Sydney, to seize and occupy German Territory in the Pacific, and the telegraphic message from the Naval Board, Melbourne, dated 21st August '14, as to making suitable arrangements for temporary administration, I am not in possession of any formal appointment to the office of Administrator.
As I consider such an appointment most essential, may I ask that you will before leaving these waters despatch a wireless message to Head Quarters, Melbourne, so that this omission may be rectified at the earliest possible moment.
I have the honor to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant,
Colonel
Commanding Naval & Military Exped. Force