Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 109
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[Page 109]
though Infantry alone total about 1800. Some of the latter are very much a rabble, and have had too much liquor before coming aboard. At 5 PM when well out to sea we heard cries of "man overboard". One of the Infantry who was worse for liquor had fallen overboard. Buoys were thrown to him, ship turned about and a boat lowered. He managed to swim to one of the buoys and secure it, but he was in a bad way when lifted into the boat. Evidently he had swallowed a large amount of salt water.
Assembled all officers in the saloon during afternoon and arranged details re allotting of troops to decks etc. Also read out instructions from Vice Admiral Pieise, re treatment of hostile torpedo or submarine craft. Called by the Captain at 9.30 PM A ship showing only navigation lights was manoeuvring around us in a suspicious manner, but eventually went on her course. I think she was scared of our ship (being in darkness) and kept her bow on to us till we had passed.
Good night rest.
Monday 24th May
A beautiful day with smooth sea. Adjutant getting all units adjusted. Not an easy job with so many units represented. Careful lookout all day for submarines or Torpedo boats. Armed guard of 250 standing by with 750 men available at a minute's notice. Expect to arrive at Mudros about 6 PM tomorrow. What a strange 'Empire Day". No celebrations required this year to prove the solidity of the Empire. The world's battle fields are sufficient indication.
Tuesday 25th May
Again a smooth sea and a very fine day. Passed Syros early in the day and reached Mudros Bay in Lemnos Island at 4.30 PM. Anchored well up the bay. A destroyer crowded with sailors entered the boom just ahead of us. Reported to "Hussan" at 5PM, thence to Headquarters on "Atlantean". Was there informed that submarines were in the vicinity of the Dardanelles and therefore it was dangerous for transports and other large vessels to proceed there. In consequence we have to wait here till trawlers carrying about 500 men apiece can deliver us to our destination. As there are 6000 troops here we May not get away for a week. I am however trying to get upon a destroyer.