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[Page 48]
1914
was running. This caused us to roll tremendously, but gradually the sea went down after about 30 hours.
Oct. 20
The object of our visit to Savaii, was to locate a German war store, which was supposed to be here, but we could see nothing of it, nor did we see any signs of the German cruisers, which it was thought might be found there. After sailing off the coast in the most delightful weather we shaped our course for the French islands called Wallis Islands, to the west of Savaii.
Oct. 21
Another object in visiting these places was to see if there were any German colliers or oil ships in the harbours of these islands waiting for the German cruisers. We did not land at all. This day was Trafalgar Day, exactly 109 years since the Navy won its last great victory. It was suitably celebrated by the band playing "The Death of Nelson" & other nautical selections. Everyone remarked that it would be very fitting for the occasion if the German cruisers would only turn up, but alas! we were disappointed.
Oct. 23
Two days later we arrived at Suva & immediately coaled. The weather about this time was magnificent, & the island was looking extremely beautiful after the recent heavy rains. The harbour presented quite a busy appearance with so many ships in it. The natives had never seen torpedo boat destroyers or a submarine before, & evidently they were greatly puzzled by the latter. I remember one day in Rabaul harbour, there was a submarine practising diving,