Item 02: General William Holmes operation orders, 1914-June 1916 - Page 114
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[Page 114]
Capt. Maguire
Will you give an account of the condition of Gov. House when you arrived there.
I arrived there at 6.30 am with Col Paton In the study papers were strewn about the floor and one or two drawers were open.
What damage was done to furniture, etc.
I saw no damage on my first visit. Clothes were strewn about one or two of the rooms.
[Signature] F.A. Maguire. Capt. O.C. A.A.M.C.
Major Beardsmore stated:
Are you prepared to swear that your written statement is true. I am.
Copy marked "A" and initialled by the President and attached to the proceedings is the copy of evidence read over to Major Beardsmore. and sworn by him to be true. [See page 122]
Did you see any guns up there.
Yes and I had them sent down the hill towards Rabaul. They were not taken along the road, but were thrown over the hill. I tried first of all to remove the breach lock, but could not do so.
If the guns had been pulled up would they have been of use.
Have heard since that the breach locks had been removed.
What was your object in throwing the guns down the Hill.
I thought the guns might have been used against the town, and the Force. I would like Liet. Creswell to be called as to the condition of the Building after my Coy. left.
[Signature] R.H. Beardsmore Major