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[Page 47]
On the 5th October the Governor had the interview with me which he alludes to above. I then explained to him that the deported Officials were not prisoners of war, but were sent away as "Undesirables" from an administrative point of view here; they were therefore in a different position to the Officers of the German Regular Army, who would remain prisoners until the end of the war, unless exchanged, and would receive the pay of their respective ranks subject to the usual adjustment of accounts between the Nations at the conclusion of War.
I explained to the Governor that payment of the claims rendered was quite impossible, but I would arrange for his being sent to Australia at the very first opportunity and he would then himself be on the spot to negotiate for financing the deported Officials, who might in need. He informed me that The Imperial German Colonial Subsidy for 1914-1915 voted for New Guinea by the Imperial Parliament was M. 1,700,000, but up to the present he had only received M 100,000. I pointed out that when in Sydney he would be in a better position to arrange either direct, or through the German Consul General, for obtaining further funds than here. I also said I felt sure, pending his arrival in Australia, the Officials who had already been deported and were without means would be looked after.
In regard to repatriation, the Governor quite realizes that there may be great difficulties in accomplishing this before the conclusion of the War.
By same mail I am forwarding six copies of the first number of a Gazette which I propose to publish fortnightly, containing news of interest to the Troops, also a set of Postage Stamps of the late German Administration.
The health of the Troops still continues remarkably good, not a single case of serious illness being at present in Hospital.
The weather is very dry indeed; the wet season is expected to start at any time, and when it does I am anticipating trouble from Malaria, induced by a peculiar kind of Mosquito which will then become prevalent.
On the 7th instant an accident happened, caused by some men playing with a signal rocket, which exploded and injured four Soldiers, one rather severely. Two were operated upon by Captain Maguire, A.M.C., who reports that they are progressing favorably.
The names of the two men and the nature of their wounds are:-
No. 137 Pte. Gilbert James - Severely wounded in right shoulder by portion of metal from head of rocket. Next of kin - Miss A Porter, 27 Caroline St., Redfern.
No. 116 Pte. William Guard - Injured in head and leg. Next of kin - Mrs. W. Guard, Phillip St., Thirroul.