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[Page 84]
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BRITISH ADMINISTRATION - GERMAN NEW GUINEA:
Rabaul,
New Britain,
27th October 1914.
The Honorable,
The Minister for Defence,
Melbourne:
Sir;
I have to acknowledge the receipt on 24th Octr. of the following wireless telegraphic message:-
"Minister Defence to Administrator:-
"Merchant Steamer "Messina" due at Rabaul, 24th Octr. Detain her until further orders are received, but in the meantime make necessary arrangements so that if required 2 Officers and 50 others may proceed by her to enforce, if necessary, occupation Nauru, and bring back the Germans as Prisoners, who are to be sent to Sydney when convenient. In Political matters party under direction Representative High Commissioner, Western Pacific, but in Military operations senior Military Officer responsible - 2350."
The "Messina" arrived in Simpsonhafen yesterday, and last night I despatched the following message to you:-
"Administrator to Minister Defence:-
"Your 2350: "Messina" arrived; request further instructions re Nauru."
This morning I received the following reply:-
"To Administrator - Rabaul:-
"Letters for Commissioner Ocean Island carried by Steamer "Messina" are cancelled. Instructions to the Master of the "Messina", insofar as they relate to Commissioner Ocean Island, are also cancelled. "Messina" my proceed Nauru without escort, taking 2 Officers and 50 others, so that half may cover landing of remainder. All Germans to be brought to Rabaul under guard. Maintain Military occupation until arrival of Representative High Commissioner, Western Pacific. Administrative work may be left to Representative Pacific Phosphate Coy. Troops must take two months supplies - Pethebridge."