Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 106
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[Page 106]
a shrapnel shell caught him, smashed his thigh terribly, and badly damaged his head and chest. He died at 2 PM mainly from shock, tho' the medical officer stated he could not possibly have survived his injuries. I feel awfully sorry. He has done most excellent work during the 11 days we have been fighting. I hear we are to leave tomorrow for Alexandria.
Friday 7th May
Left Anchorage at Kaba Tepe about 8 AM, bound for Alexandria. Beautiful weather. Dr dressed my wounds, probing bullet wounds and extracting gravel gave me fits, as also the subsequent painting with iodine. I feel fairly comfortable, but back and knee very stiff and sore.
Saturday 8th May
About 700 wounded officers and men on Board with the exception of 166 British and 7 Indians all are Australian. Many very sad cases of terrible wounds. Another man died today. Doctor applied hot fomentation to my wounds, much to my relief.
Beautiful day and smooth sea.
Sunday 9th May
Another beautiful day. Back and wounds generally feeling much easier. Arrived at Alexandria about 3 PM. Hospital train waiting alongside Quay. About 250 stowed into first train which left Alexandria at 7.15 PM and arrived in Cairo at 11 PM. Three nurses, doctor and Indian attendants on board looked after men. Provided Bovril, coffee, fruit and cigarettes. Bligh accompanied me. Major Burgess stayed on ship, but I heard later went into Hospital at Alexandria. Motor ambulance took us to Heliopolis Hospital. Had wounds dressed and turned into bed at 12 midnight. Slept splendidly.
Monday 10th May
Cabled Nell telling of wounds. Wrote Charley. Mrs Christian and Harris called to see me during afternoon and in the evening Col Ryrie, Col Cox, Major Lynch and Lieut Hogue spent a half hour with me.
Tuesday 11th May
Wrote Nell, father & mother and Alvord. Capt Doody, half