Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 177
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[Page 177]
During the day we passed along close to the Coast of Africa. The rugged background of mountains in colour reminded me of the Blue Mountains in New South Wales, and they were heavily capped with snow. Passed a dozen mine sweepers at work. Sports held during the day. The men thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Officers competitions commence tomorrow. Specially nice dinner arranged this evening. We Anzacs usually dine at 6 and the British Officers at 7, the dining saloon not being large enough to accommodate all at one sitting, but tonight we divided the officers into groups with an equal number of British and Anzac officers, thus ensuring a better knowledge of each other. One of our officers again forgot himself and for a time made things a little unpleasant. A very nice Church Service at 10.30 this morning. It was quite a treat to hear the troops lustily singing the old Christmas hymns.
Sunday 26th December
A comparatively quiet day although Boxing day. Church parade at 10AM. Quite a full attendance. Band performed during morning and afternoon. In the afternoon a corporal of the East Lancs sang solos (with band accompaniment) very effectively. Heard by wireless that a Japanese passenger boat had been sunk near us in the Mediterranean with considerable loss of life. Wrote letters to all the family – and to Alice Lindsay for posting tomorrow at Malta.
Monday 27th November
Arrived off Malta (Valetta) about 8.30 AM. Some delay in passing through entrance because of a collision inside between two boats. Saw a French Cruiser outside and one of our own submarines passed us going in. Took several photos as we entered Harbour. Finished our morning at Buoy 12. Hope they turn out well.
Bumboats pestered us round the ship – Boys diving for silver, copper would not tempt them. Went ashore immediately after lunch.
Obtained permission from the Superintendent of Police to take photos in Malta. Wandered round a good deal. Saw S.John's Church, the Museum opposite, Library, palace, Armoury etc and altogether had a most interesting afternoon. Bought some Maltese lace for Nell. Streets very narrow and well crowded, even goats being given street room, and the owners halting at various houses with their goats and drawing off milk as required. Milk must be fairly cheap as one owner was wishing to sell rather a good