[Page 89]
[Translated from the German]
(Copy).
"Siar"
4th October 1914.
To - The Commanding Officer,
S.M.S. "Kormoran".
I beg to inform you that several weeks ago I sailed in the "Siar" to Macassar in order to buy rice for the Laborers of the New Guinea Coy., who are in great difficulties.
As it does not appear advisable to proceed further in the direction of Friedrich Wilhelmshafen, I deposit in Tadji (as our plantation at Eitape offers more safety than our station in Eitape itself), the goods according to attached list 'A'. The goods mentioned in list two remain on board, I bring with me the Benzine for W/T Tower (Funkenturm) in Rabaul, the other things are principally for my own requirements.
These interests return, of course, in the event of the being supplied with these goods, therefore this information to you. I also sail to Kaewieng to erect another depot (Ungan Naimanne, or another Island of the New Guinea Coy.). I myself will attempt to reach Massava in a cutter or get to Rabaul overland.
The "Siar" I shall leave in safety at Tingare; the harbour has two entrances.
The New Guinea Coy. have great interests to keep the "Siar" as after the war our trade might be saved by having a steamer at our disposal. In spite of that the "Siar" is at the disposal of the fleet if required. I should be obiged if you would forward the following telegram to the "Komet" for transmission to our Administration, Peterhafen:- "Send Riemenschneider on account of rice to Kettnis-Taefert. Reimenschneider is the Master of the motor schooner "Witu" ; Kettnis is the Manager of our depot in Kaewieng.
I report that I was in Offachafen with the "Siar" on Septr. 28th to deliver a warning letter to the S.S. "Marc" from Macassai. The "Siar" left Offac in the dark. The "Marc" wanted to leave by moonlight.
Captain Lowe asks me to mention that Amboina is exchanging coded message with "Amazena" who Captain Lowe thinks is a French Warship, by certain - (call of a Lieutenant, etc.). Am out of coal. The Imperial Station here puts 12 tons at my disposal. For the rest we use wood and cocoanut shells. Copra and coal mixed is a good substitute, which I mention for your interest.
Two coded message which I received in Macassai with orders, if possible, to represent them to the fleet.