Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 78
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[Page 78]
trying day. Practically impossible to do any outside work.
My batman has had a big day washing my soiled linen etc, and I now have a fine prospect ahead of me to darn all my socks prior to leaving Egypt. Still no definite date laid down for departure. Major Burgess slightly improving. Criticised work of officers Patrols. The 3rd Brigade L.Horse has come into the Camp.
Thursday 11th March
Again an exceedingly hot day and filthy in the extreme. This is the 4th day continuously that we have had this weather.
Tents, food etc covered with dust and dirt. Very little work done.
Friday 12th March
Again filthy dirty and dusty day. Received invitation to dinner with the High Commissioner Sir H. McMahon.
Completed to day all equipment excepting cutting and shotting of tyres to some of BAC. G.S. Wagons. Had a long interview with Major Nicholson re Brigade Work in general. Standing orders of Army Corps (Australia & New Zealand) issued to O.C- units. Interview with major Brown re dismissal of charge "neglect of duty" laid against one of his sergeants by Mr Forrest, pointed out the seriousness of his action.
Saturday 13th March
Obtained leave for the day. Left camp at 9. With Ali Bey and his son I visited the Arab Museum also the Egyptian British Museum. Both are exceedingly interesting especially the former. Would like to spend a couple of days in the latter. Had lunch at Continental Hotel. After lunch we went to the Tombs of the Mamelukes. There is certainly some wonderful work to be seen. I also wanted to see the interior of some of the Mosques, but we were pressed for time.
Went to dinner at the British Residency at 8.15. All Australian Brigade Commanders present excepting Col Christian who for some reason was not invited. Very interesting evening. Returned to Continental Hotel at 10.30 for my coat etc. saw some naval officers and Midshipmen in the hall. I spoke to them and ascertained they had been with Charley at Dartmouth. They are serving on the "Doris". She is at present at Port Said and they had 48 hours leave. They have been shelling bridges etc in the vicinity of Alexandretta, and indications point to our going in that direction.
Major King and Hughes, Lieut Olding and Garling came home