Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 91
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[Page 91]
was caused here by news received today. A Turkish Torpedo boat which evidently came out from Smirna intercepted the Transport "Manitou" from Alexandria, ordered her troops and crew to take to boats prior to being sunk. About 60 troops and crew crowded into a lifeboat, but the davits collapsed and precipitated the occupants of the boat into the water. In the meantime the Torpedo boat had sighted Transport "Osiris" also from Alexandria, and steamed off to treat her in like manner. Her captain however managed to escape, and in the excitement the first steamer also escaped. Both arrived here today. I understand the 60 men were drowned, but whether as a result of the accident or because in steaming away to save the rest they had to be sacrificed I do not know.
We hear that in all probability we shall be moving to our goal on Monday. I have been carefully marking on my maps position of enemy's guns and trenches as discovered by Aeroplane Reconnaissance, and after afternoon tea I lectured to the Officers in the Saloon, showing them what they were up against. Received letter from Charley.
Sunday 18th April
An easy day. Some boat loads of men went ashore, several officers with them. Corporal Hare conducted Service in the evening. A very good muster including ships officers and an excellent address. Saw Colonel Hobbs and General Birdwood on the "Minnewarka" during the afternoon. Received letter from Alvord.
Monday 19th April
Very useful work done today. Several punt loads of Horses went ashore (72 Horses in all including Jack & Dick). They had a good swim and roll, also a feed of splendid clover. All transhipping done without hitch or accident. Major Hughes moved a Section to forward hold so as to admit of both holds working vehicles and horses simultaneously. Attended conference on "Minnewarka" at 4.30 PM. Operation Order No 1 issued and carefully considered. Further conference of Brigade Commanders arranged for Wednesday morning. Combined naval and Military Signal book issued with Amendments and Additions. The following British ships (exclusive of submarines, Torpedo boats and Destroyers) are to cooperate in attack: - "Queen Elizabeth", "Agamemnon", "Lord Nelson", "Vengeance", "Triumph", "Prince of Wales", "Albion", "Goliath", "Blenheim", "Hussar", "Ark Royal", "Swiftsure", "Cornwallis", "Canopus", "Implacable", "London", "Queen",