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[Page 127]
plant representing thousands of pounds now, alas, going to decay.
When returning I visited the graves of A.B. Courtney & Commdr. Elwell near the waterfront. As I stood before the simple crosses erected above their remains I could see again the bright face of Elwell, as I used to see it on the "Berrima". He was only 32 years of age & his short life was closed by one of those brilliant dashes one hears of on almost every battlefield. He was liked & respected by all who knew him.
Sun 24th : Church Parade was held this morning at 9.15 and the men joined heartily in the singing :-
"From 'eaven 'e came and sought 'er
To be 'is 'oly bride;
With 'is own blood 'e bought 'er,
And for 'er life 'e died."
What though some of the words 'ave their 'eads chopped off; aye, what though!
Standing on the platform at the end of the mess room one felt one's heart go out to these men in the green duck suits & blue navy collars indicative of their calling. Sturdy chaps they were when they left Sydney eager to do their duty, but now, worn by sickness & fever, they long for home. Nevertheless they have done their job; New Britain & New Guinea now acknowledge the sovereignty of King George, and when they return to Australia it is to be hoped that their compatriots will give them a fitting welcome.
They saw but little fighting, but they were