Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 35
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[Page 35]
and the "Anglo Egyptian" and "Karoo" of 1st Division also received similar orders. The New Zealand Fleet with our three boats is moving ahead to Colombo to get in early re watering arrangements etc. As we passed the "Shropshire" I sent a message to Colonel Hobbs informing him that our losses in horses was 2. He replied to the effect that we had done very well. Received message from Flagship prohibiting all leave at Colombo.
We crossed the "line' about 7.30 AM. Gave all ranks half holiday for ceremonies incidental to the occurrence. At 2 o'clock we found a large canvas tank rigged up and filled with salt water. The "Bosun" as "Father Neptune" came Forth properly attired and with him Doctors, barbers & assistants with their huge combs, scissors and razors also shaving bucket and brush. Headed by Bugles and Kettle drum, they paraded the ship, followed by about 12 stalwart policemen. Presently we saw Capt leslie being led Forth for initiation, then several other officers including my adjutant Colonel Sutton. All took the proceedings in good part excepting one Army medical man who fought vigorously, and in consequence got a more severe ducking than if he had acquiesced at once. Rain fell during the day but did not spoil the proceedings except for the fact that no photo could be taken.
Altogether the men had a good day, finishing up with a concert at night. I sang a few songs and played some accompaniment for the men.
Strict orders again received re censorship of mail matter at Colombo. As we are steaming faster than the main convoy we should be well out of their sight by daylight. The "Hampshire" is with us and the "Ibuki" with the rest of the Convoy.
Nearly all men inoculated. A few still object but I think they will fall in line tomorrow. Run to 12 noon today 260 miles. Position Oo44'N, 84o41'E. New Zealand Convoy disregarding order re floating materials. I counted 27 boxes afloat today, a number I actually saw thrown overboard from the "Waimana", the ship immediately ahead of us.
Saturday 14th November
Almost out of sight of Australian Convoy at dawn. Have not gained much on them. The "Waimana" dropped a horse overboard this morning making their total 7. Balance of men inoculated today. About 30 refused and were placed under arrest for disobedience of orders. At 5PM I had them all paraded, told them of the advantage of inoculation and then ordered them to go to the Hospital for treatment. All but one refused. I therefore called a guard of 40 men, and ordered two men to compulsorily take the first man in. When they found I was determined to be obeyed they "caved in".