Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 164
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[Page 164]
Tuesday 30th November
After breakfast reported to Adjutant, Wyke Regis Camp. Telephoned Brig Gen Peake War Office re trip to France. In view of delay in getting transport away to the Dardanelles he is arranging for me to leave tomorrow for Southampton and France. Olding and I intended to walk around Weymouth before breakfast, but rain was falling heavily so we desisted. Weymouth a very pretty spot. Two Destroyers and several Trawlers in the Bay. Secured official Municipal handbook of town. War office rang up during evening. Leaving for Southampton in the morning.
Wednesday 1st December
Left for Southampton at 9.5. arriving there at 11.50 AM. At once took Taxi to embarkation office. Instructions are to board Havre Packet after 10 tonight. Boat will leave at 7AM tomorrow. Had lunch at Southampton West Hotel. Then took ferry to Cowes (Isle of Wight) thence small launch to East Cowes, then motored to R.N. college Osborne. Made myself known to the Staff, had afternoon tea with them, and afterwards paymaster showed me all over the grounds and buildings. They have now about 480 boys in College. Saw Charley's photo in group of 1913 First Rugger 15, also photo of our first fleet entering Sydney harbour. This I had sent to Capt Bentwick, who has had it framed and hung in one of the reading rooms. I consider the boy who has the opportunity of training and education at Osborne is distinctly lucky.
Returned to Southampton at 7 PM, had dinner, read the papers, and embarked on the Turbine packet "Hautaua" at 10 PM. I discovered I was the senior officer on board, so had to act as O.C. Troops, not very arduous, as the run only lasts 6 hours, and the only troops on board were about 26 officers and about 60 men.
Was called up at 2 AM to sign certain papers.
Thursday 2nd December
Left Southampton at 7 AM. As soon as we cleared Southampton water the boat began to pitch and toss most unmercifully and as a consequence I lost my breakfast, but enjoyed my lunch just as we were entering Havre. A very wet miserable day. Could do no sight seeing. After reporting myself to the Base Commandant, I went to the British officers club which extended to me the privilege of Honorary membership. I read a number of papers, dined there and returned to Base Commandant's office at 8.30 PM.