Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 49
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[Page 49]
had eventually to scramble up a ships ladder hung over the side, and the boat was left astern till morning when perhaps the sea will be smoother. Many Transports here waiting for orders. The "Argyleshire" is just behind us with all the N.S.W. Artillery. Another horse foaled tonight, quite an unexpected arrival. As we are so near to disembarkation the foal had to be destroyed. As I write one of the gunners is playing an Accordeon on the deck, and the crowd is singing all sorts of songs. Have been sorting my clothes today and packing same. Wrote letter to Charley and John Halford and had same taken ashore. Units at work at Gundrill, laying, Semaphore, and rifle exercises. Now getting all gear sorted up ready for going ashore. Most glorious sunset this evening at about 4.45. Days are very short and nights quite cold. A marked contrast to the Red Sea.
Saturday 5th December
Dull and wet morning, clearing off in afternoon. Two New Zealand ships returned here today from Alexandria, having disembarked their troops. They are apparently returning to New Zealand. Heard yesterday of loss of H.M.S. Bulwark. On looking through the navy list today I notice that eleven cadets who belonged I think to Charley's term went down on her, and another 10 in the Monmouth. We are all preparing on board ship for packing. Units getting their blankets and camp equipment (also landing ration) ready. We shall be very glad to finish the journey. We are still anchored here but on present appearances expect to leave tomorrow evening. Again a beautiful red sunset, enhanced by the movement of two hydroplanes passing over our ships and being silhouetted against the evening sky. Chief Steward arranged a special dinner tonight. He did things very well indeed. I have given him letters to his own Company and Shaw Savill, telling them of the satisfactory carrying out of his duties.
A chorus just outside the Smoke room is singing "It's a long long way to Tipperary", and others singing "It's along long way to Sunny Queensland". All seem very happy and anxious to get to serious work.
Sunday 6th December
Another very nice day. Early this morning the 10 Australian transports here moved anchorage to allow Indian transports to take up our old position. Nine came out of port today. A French Hydroplane has been circling over us this morning and afternoon, once or twice coming down on to the water.