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[Page 7]
and the Signal Station asked us our name. Orders were given for the S.S. "Physa" to switch off all her lights and to remain in absolute darkness. At daybreak the Ship proceeded into Thursday Island and made fast alongside the pier and Everything that was moveable and not required was placed under the Charge of the District Naval Officer and all Boats with the exception of 2 cutters which are used as life Boats at Sea.
Saturday 8th.
Sydney and 2 destroyers departed from Thursday Island to join the Flag ship H.M.A.S. Austrailia with the Parramatta also in Company, we also took the S.S. "Physa" with us, but owing to her great draft of water we had to Anchor by Raime [probably Raine] Entrance of the Great Barrier Reef.
Sunday 9th Aug.
At daybreak weighed Anchor and sent the Physa to Port Morsby, during the afternoon we sighted the Austrailia and Parramatta and proceeded to New Britain, German New Guinea arriving there on the 10th. It was reported that the China German Squadron was under the Command of the Vice Admiral in the "Scharnhorst" with two more Cruisers in Company. Each night all the Ships were in darkness. At daybreak orders were given for Battle flags to be flown this being two big White Ensigns on the foremast and one big white Ensign and the Austrailian flag on the Mainmast, half way down and lashed to the Masts with wire. It is to be considered this a Great Praise that the Austrailia has been doing as regarding Vessels of War. The Austrailian Fleet whatever was done so they would have fought under two flags. The flag of England and the Flag of Austrailia. This being a thing that has never been done before in the History of the World.
Tuesday [11th]
At 6 P.M. the order was made for us with the destroyers in Company to proceed and attack Rabaul. We steamed past the Austrailia at 20 knots in line ahead. The Admiral wished us Success saying "I have my entire Confidence in you" at the same time the men on board the flagship gave
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