Item 10: General William Holmes diary, 23 August 1914-22 February 1915 - Page 318
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[Page 318]
[Duplicate of page 284]
WEDNESDAY - 30TH DECR.14:
Major Maguire, P.M.O., has recommended to the Administrator that the Troops arriving from Frederick Wilhelmshafen by the "Matunga" be not allowed to land at Rabaul, owing to the malignant form of Malaria which is known to be prevalant at Frederick Wilhelmshafon. Arrangements have, therefore, been made for these throops to remain on the "Sumatra", which will be taken out into the stream, until the "Eastern" is ready to proceed to Sydney.
Reply to messages from Secretary Defence relative to German currency, referred to in diary of yesterday, has been prepared for despatch as follows:-
"Your telegrams w.8219 and w.8319. German currency calculated twenty and a half marks to the £ sterling, plus 2½ per cent bank exchange. This applies also to first orders. Full details by mail. In accordance your request German paper money now refused for Australia - Administrator 1900".
A message was also prepared for despatch as follows:-
"Minister Defence - Hamburgische Sudsee Coy. here states, advised by Justus Scharff, Sydney, difficulty obtaining possession copra shipped by "Matunga", although intended for shipment Liverpool. Matter stated under consideration Attorney General. Has decision been given. Delay affecting despatch further shipments. Administrator 2100".
Health of troops is fairly satisfactory. Patients in Hospital are making satisfactory progress.