Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 31
Primary tabs
Transcription
[Page 31]
assisted the ships crew to work coal from No 4 hold to Bunkers. This will involve about a fortnights work. The Captain has allowed each man a pint of beer per day – and doubtless with the very hot weather his action will be appreciated.
Just before noon both the "Melbourne" and "Ibuki" bolted off to the westward but returned in about an hours time. In the meantime our wireless operator was listening at his receiver and presently brought us information that the German Cruiser "Emden" had been run aground (presumably at Cocos Island) to prevent her sinking, and that the "Sydney" was scouting for her merchant colliers. Information was also received that two men had been killed and fourteen wounded in the engagement.
We do not know which ship accounted for the "Emden" but hope it is the "Sydney". We expect the ships May return to the Convoy tomorrow and they will certainly receive a rousing reception.
At 3.15 the "Euripides" drew out of the Column and word was received to hoist Ensign half mast. Apparently another of her men has died, but we have received no information concerning the matter.
Horse returns were again rendered today with result as follows;-
"Karoo" 1, "Marere" 2, "Armadale" 1, "Katuna" 2, "Hymettus" 11, "Shropshire" 2, and "Star of Victoria" 1. Several ships displayed no signals, so I do not know result. "Hymettus" total seems large, but her signals were very clear. Total losses during the last two days according to our readings are therefore 20, which added to previous total makes 75 since leaving Albany.
Total run up to noon today for last 24 hours 244 miles. Position 10o 38'S 97o 2'E. About 630 miles to line. Expect to cross about noon on Thursday.
Lecture tonight to N.C.O.s by Major Hughes. Two more wind sails fitted to Horse deck.
Tuesday 10th November
Another exceedingly hot and trying day. About 1 Am a mare belonging to the AMC gave birth to a foal. She is very frisky this morning and is another addition to ships pets.
We expect another foal arrival in about a week.
The second officer and our signallers on watch report that about 3 AM the "Melbourne" and "Ibuki" rapidly moved forward and later flashes were seen and sounds were heard resembling discharge of ordnance.
At 11.40 the "Medic" drew out of line, and notification came down the Division to hoist Ensign at halfmast. There has evidently been a burial from the "Medic", and as she carries mainly artillery the chances are it is one of our men.