Item 10: General William Holmes diary, 23 August 1914-22 February 1915 - Page 33
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[Page 33]
WEDNESDAY - 2nd SEPTEMBER 14:
At 6-30 a.m. Submarine AE1. was sighted and she made fast alongside H.M.A.S. "Sydney" at 7-15 a.m. AE2 was sighted at 7-20 a.m. and made fast at 8-0 a.m.
All Units were engaged at Physical Drill and Rifle Exercises during the early morning parade.
At 9-0 a.m. the "Sydney" signalled the Fleet - "Prepare for sea; raise steam for 12 ½ knots by 4-0 p.m. and report when ready to proceed.
The work done during the day consisted of Rifle Exercises. Musketry Instruction, Company Drill and Instruction - one Coy. of the Naval Force working ship.
At 3-50 p.m. received the following signal messages from the "Sydney": -
From Navy Office to "Sydney", 1st Septr. 5-10 p.m:
"With reference to my telegram 1205, 31st Aug.; "Warrego" reports "Kanowna" requires to be completed with water from a Cruiser before she is able to leave. R.A.C. desires she will accompany the Expedition. Please arrange."
R.A.C. to "Sydney", 2nd Septr. 2-45 p.m.
"I propose in first instance to land at Rabaul and Herbertshohe and take wireless station at that place. Please consider this in consultation with Officer Commanding Troops; also consider number of [space] required and provisions, stores, etc. for occupying Auguai, Yap Island, and Nauru. "Sydney" and "Encounter" are to prepare customary mine sweeping apparatus."
At 3-50 p.m. the Submarines were under weigh; at 4-0 p.m. The Fleet weighed anchor ad at 4-3 p.m. was under weigh. The order of the Fleet was single line ahead.
"Sydney" leading, with a Submarine on each flank.
Followed by: -
"Encounter" "Berrima" and Aorangi"
A wireless message was despatched from the "Sydney" to the "Warrago" as follows: -
"Expect to arrive Port Moresby 4th Septr. Have oil for Government and plenty fresh provisions."
P.M.O. reports a insufficiency of salt water for flushing latrines aft before 8-0 a.m. A decided improvement was noticed in the cleanliness of the latrines during the day. There are no cases of infectious disease, and all patients are doing well.
At mid-night the Ship had travelled 95 nautical miles since leaving Palm Island.