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[Page 3]
Transcriber's note: Lieut. Bartlett, who was English born, enlisted in September 1914 and was a Signaller in the 4th Battalion, A.I.F. He embarked from Sydney on the Euripides on 20 October 1914. The diary commences on 4 April 1915 when he reaches Alexandria. He spends some time on Lemnos before returning to Alexandria and then proceeding to Gallipoli towards the end of May. His diary gives details of his various duties, the food available, the arrival of mail and lists names and addresses of some of his many correspondents. He is quite critical of conditions and the food. On 19 December his Battalion evacuate Anzac and Suvla and on the 24th embark on the Simla where they spend Christmas.]
Sat. 3 April 1915
We get our marchg. orders at last! Broke camp at 4 p.m. & marched to Cairo. I walked with my cycle. Left Cairo at 10.10 p.m. for Alexandria. Wrote to Ede & sent "Brothers" by Vachell.
Sun. 4 April 1915
Reached Alexandria at 4.30 a.m. and embarked in "S.S. Lake Michigan". The conditions are pretty thick, obtnd. blankets at last moment. No hammocks, last of Kit Bags. Left port at 11.30 p.m. for usual unknown port. This boat has been troopg. all the winter & took some Canadians over.
Mon. 5 April 1915
Dull day & squally, was not sick as generally am. Our departure last night was quite a surprise. Infrmd. that we are to go to Lemnos as rendezvous & then on to the Dardenelles. Full instrons. given re landing. Reading "Waters of Jordan" by Vachell. Rather indulging to this author of late.
Tues. 6 April 1915
Slept on a hatchway last night & expected the rolling of vessel to pitch me off but slept thro' it all, O.K.! Stormy trip this! Went down to the forard hold & got up helios. Served out with 200 rds. amm. Sent p.c. to Ede.