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[Page 92]
BRITISH ADMINISTRATION - GERMAN NEW GUINEA:
RABAUL,
New Britain,
27th October 1914.
The Captain Commanding
S.S. "Messina""
Simpsonhafen.
Sir;
I have to inform you that I have received this morning the following wireless telegraph message from the Department of Defence, Melbourne:-
"To the Administrator - Rabaul:
Letters for Commissioner Ocean Island carried by Steamer "Mesina" are cancelled. Instructions to Master of "Messina" insofar as they relate to Commissioner Ocean Island are also cancelled. "Messina" may now proceed Nauru without escort, taking 2 Officers 50 others, so that they may cover landing of remainder. All Germans to be brought to Rabaul under guard. Maintain Military occupation until arrival representative High Commissioner, Western Pacific. Administrative work may be left to representative Pacific Phosphate Coy. Troops must take 2 months supplies - Pethebridge."
In accordance with these instructions, I have to request that you will be ready to proceed to sea at 5-0 p.m. to-morrow, 28th instant, for Nauru. I propose going myself, and will be accompanied by one Staff Officer. The Troops for Nauru Garrison will consist of 3 Officers and about 50 others ranks. Two months rations will be taken with the Troops.
May I request that you will arrange for the necessary accommodation and messing of the 5 Officers while on board. Other ranks will take hammocks with them.
After the disposal of the Troops at Nauru, I desire to return by your Steamer, along with my Staff Officer any any German Prisoners that you may be taking to Rabaul. It is probable that the prisoners will the be required to continue their journey by your vessel to Sydney.
I have the honor to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
[W.Holmes]
Colonel.
ADMINISTRATOR.