Item 01: William Sparkes diary, 9 June 1915-5 January 1916 - Page 73
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[Page 73]
the rabble in its streets. I dreamt of Port Said and the waterway of the Canal and the song of the Arabs coaling the ship was in my ears and so loud that I could see them as they went at night time up and down the planks between the barges and the ship's deck an endless chain of naked figures monotonously chanting. It was a rude awakening when a large shell from the enemy's gun went overhead and exploded near us. A large number of troops landed last evening mostly South Wales Borderers.
Thursday 5th August
Felt very bad today. Stomach and head trouble. Every preparation is being [made] for an advance. Instructions as to water bottles and rations. Everyone to have a distinguishing marks of white cloth on back and arm. The enemy seemed to have an idea that troops were landing last night and they put a good many shells