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[Page 78]

and you will see a sight you have never seen before, namely a battleship sunk by a submarine. Just before turning in, I went to the P.M.O's Cabin to get a book, and he asked me if I had a life belt.
I told him that I had one of the bicycle tyre Variety, but that I didn't think it was of any use, because it was leaking. He then gave me another, which I decided I would ask one of the marines on duty to blow out. I then went down below, undressed and wrapped up all my notes and valuable papers in a waterprotff coat, and placed them in my small handbag. I had my mattress carried up to the shelter deck, just above the after turret, intending to sleep up there for greater security, and I almost decided to take my bag up with me, but at the last moment I changed my mind, and left it below. Instead, I took my cigarette case and put £30 in notes in my pyjama pocket, went up an deck, lay down and was soon fast asleep.

Thursday May 27th
I woke up at 6 o'clock, and called out to a sentry to ask the time and he replied "Six o'clock Sir." I then said "All right call me at seven", and went to sleep again. (For full account of sinking of "Majestic" see elsewhere).
Very shortly afterwards a steam pinnace came along side, and took us off our overcrowded boat which was in imminent danger of being swamped. I was wet through, and exremely cold, and we were taken on to a small French transport. The Captain was very kind, and also the crew, for they served us with coffee and brandy, and also with suits of sailor's clothes. I acquired a pair of blue trousers and a white singlet and a pair of rubber soled shoes. Some of the old veterans were in a state of complete prostration from the cold and shock, but I cannot say that I felt any the worse myself. A little later some officers came off in a motor boat, and took me

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