Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 152
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[Page 152]
Wednesday 6th October
Again a very nice day. I slept, read and ate all day. The meals we are much enjoying after our limited diet in Hospital. We hardly miss a course. All the patients who were with me in Hospital are here, and we have a table to ourselves. Boat drill again today – everybody taking post at their boats, wearing Life belts - In fact Life belts are worn continuously by everybody during the day, even when at meals.
Thursday 7th October
Passed Malta very early this morning but not close enough to get a good view. Very nice day. Again boat drill. Left feeling still very shaky otherwise I am getting stronger.
Friday 8th October
Fine weather but somewhat of a swell. As however I now appear to be a seasoned sailor I have felt no ill effects. Amused myself at piano in smoke room in afternoon. Sang a couple of songs. Nothing much that I know in Ships Collection of music. To bed about 8.30 each night and sleep splendidly.
Saturday 9th October
Again fair weather but heavy swell. Boat pitching a good deal. She is empty and consequently well out of the water. Attended concert given in No 3 deck by the men. Very good indeed, especially their amateur band.
Sunday 10th October
Arrived off Gilbraltar at 5.30 AM. Instructions received by wireless to enter port and coal. Forts search lights, examination boat etc made a pretty sight. Went into harbour at 9AM and berthed by 11 AM. Gilbraltar a most imposing sight. Passengers allowed ashore till 1 PM. which was time set down for sailing. Chief officer had gone ashore, and as no attempt was made to hoist a gangway I decided to go down a rope ladder. I did not realise till about half way down how weak I was, and my arms nearly gave way. After pausing a while suspended in mid air I sufficiently recovered to admit of my safely reaching the wharf.