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[Page 11]
In the rear came the New Zealanders, and as far as I could ascertain, that Flotilla was composed of the following ships - the Manganui, Tahiti, Rapehu, Orari, Limerick, Star of India, Hawke's Bay, Aranta, Atlentiland the Warmara, - Our Convoy included the H.M.A.S. Sydney, H.M.A.S. Melbourne, H.M.A.S. Pioneer, the Japanese Gunboat Ibuki, and the Minotaur.
That is how we sailed from the shores of Australia on that day of days,and we all felt that the Great Adventure had indeed started.
2nd [November]
We were told just now that War has been declared between Great Britain and Turkey. May we soon cook the dear bird.
3rd [November]
A good stiff breeze is blowing, and mal de mer is getting too prevalent - must confess that I feel pretty dicky myself. Further news issued - 'Rumoured that a British Cruiser has been sunk in the Straits of Dover.' Pretty close thing that, far too adjacent for England to be considered healthy. Some German sneak mine, I expect.
4th [November]
Food absolutely unspeakable. If they want to keep men fit,why not feed them on wholesome stuff. It costs enough to train us, and good food is always a sure economy in the long run. We did quite a lot of extra actions to-day. A false alarm of fire was given - bugles were blown, and all the sick had to be got up on deck, with lifebelts on. It was good practice, and a very sensible one.
5th [November]
Two Troopships, with W.A.Troops on board picked us up just now. One of our Mess Orderlies suggested sending up a deputation about the tucker. This was done, but we got no satisfaction. Soft shoes were issued to Hospital Orderlies, for night wear. It is a grand thing to tumble up on deck of a morning, after a long night's vigil, and look on the four lines of Ships steaming along - a wonderful sight I don't suppose I shall ever look upon the like again. It makes one