Item 05: General William Holmes reports of operations and instructions for officers, 1914-1915 - Page 101

[Page 101]

(6)

12th December:
Following disjointed message intercepted:-
"Administrator, Rabaul ------ reconnoitre ------ Kaiserin Augusta River and found no armed ------ arrived Rabaul about Wednesday - Pethebridge 1901."

13th December: From Major Colonel Pethebridge:
"Arrived Frederick Wilhelmshafen this morning; all well.  Sealed orders from Head Quarters for you on Destroyer "Warrego", Commander of which expected meet you here.  I have copy of your orders, which are in effect (begins) In accordance wireless instructions already sent you will consult with Commander Destroyers and proceed to Kaiserin Augusta River where Destroyers will blockade Enemy's exit of Enemy's vessels  Troops together with Nusa will seize Mission Station on coast 40 miles West by North of Mouth River.  German Station with armed ship and troops reported 60 miles up River.  Do not take too much risk pending arrival "Eastern" with 200 more troops, and "Una" with three 4 inch guns.  If Enemy's force will not surrender they will be (six words missing) - Legge. Orders end.  My instructions are to co-operate and put my troops your disposal.  Have consulted Commander Destroyers and assuming Bracegirdle's force is all you propose to send will carry out plan of operations indicated by C.G.S. unless you desire otherwise. 2200 of 7th Decr. "(Few disconnected hoists of this signal received 10th. but were unintelligible)

[Note in Margin] See amended wire

13th December: To Minister Defence:
"My 1900 6th December Bougainville occupied 9th Decr. Flag hoisted, proclamation issued, and garrison posted.  Govt. Steamer "Buka" sunk harbour by Germans.  Will arrange to raise.  Information from Master "Kulambangra" conveyed in Navy Office message 15th Novr. absolutely false. 2200."

14th December: From Colonel Pethebridge:
"Eastern" will require 200 tons water at Rabaul.  Hope you can arrange supply."