[Page 296]
[Duplicate of page 262]
FRIDAY - 8TH JANUARY 1915
Colonel Holmes officially handed over the Administration to Colonel Pethebridge. A guard of honour for Colonel Holmes consisting of 2 Officers and 100 rank and file, was drawn up on the wharf, and at 10-0 a.m. Colonel Holmes went on board the "Eastern".
At 10-0 a.m. a guard of honour for Colonel Pethebridge, consisting of 2 Officers and 100 rank and file, was drawn up in front of the Administration Head Quarters to officially receive Colonel Pethebridge as Administrator.
A farewell dinner to Colonel Holmes and Officers returning by the "Eastern", was given by the Officers of Rabaul Garrison who are returning at a later date. Colonel Holmes in a farewell speech thanked the Officers for the loyal assistance they had given him since the inauguration of the force. Colonel Pethebridge also spoke, and, amongst other things, said that people who were not on the spot could not realise the immense importance of the work, from an Empire point of view, carried out by Colonel Holmes.
Colonel Pethebridge took up his quarters at Government House.
A message was received from Major Martin, in reply to despatch forwarded by Colonel Holmes per "Matunga", viz:-
"Before deciding remain as District Officer, would like to consult you on various matters. May I come to Rabaul by the "Siar".
Reply was prepared for despatch as follows:-
"Am handing over Administration to Colonel Pethebridge. You are to report at Rabaul for instructions".
Additional patients suffering from Malaria were admitted to hospital. Others are making satisfactory progress.