Primary tabs
Transcription
[Page 5]
(5)
I think it will be found that supplies are very short at these Islands, as the ordinary trade has been interrupted since the War broke out, and I rather fear we will have demands for food from both European and Native inhabitants; but we, as you know, only have 60 days shore provisions with us for ourselves. No doubt when we occupy these places and the German Cruisers in these waters are accounted for, which no doubt the Admiral will take in hand as soon as he gets us off his hands, ordinary trade traffic will be resumed, but I should not be surprised if it be found necessary to wire to Australia for a supply ship, as we cannot let these people starve.
I wish you to also bear in mind that my force is only provisioned for 60 days, so that if we are to remain longer, which seems most likely, this must be considered and sufficient supplies sent to me.
At the same time I am hoping that when the situation is cleared up, small garrisons at these places will suffice and the bulk of my force will be withdrawn and utilized elsewhere in the Empire, as it will by that time be a well trained and well seasoned unit, which I am convinced would do credit to Australia anywhere.
Particularly do I wish this, as although the work on which I am engaged is of great importance to the Empire and will be of historical value in changing, if ever so little, the face of the map, it will, as far as I can see, be carried out without a shot being fired, which will be a keen disappointment to many with me who, like young foxhounds, would be all the better as Soldiers if they were blooded. They are like the Irishman just "spoiling for a fight."
I am hoping to send this to you by the "Sydney" or "Melbourne" which will, I believe, be leaving Rabaul for Australia to escort the Expedition to Europe. I will write again and let you know how my arrangements for the dash to Rabaul have worked out.
I am extremely anxious to know how things are shaping in Australia with the Expedition, as my fear has been that we have taken on a pretty stiff proposition, especially in the matter of Officering the force. I am, of course, entirely without news of the outside world and am just longing for a post and newspapers.
Hertitage, Watson and Paton send you their very kindest regards, and so does also,
Yours sincerely,
(Sgd.) W. Holmes, Colonel
(P.S.) Although I have written you this in a semi-private and non-official way, you are quite at liberty to use it in any way discretion may dictate.
Another matter I should perhaps mention in regard to the boots issued to my force. They are a good pattern and very comfortable, but on inspection yesterday Watson found that 170 pairs required attention by the Regimental Cobbler.