Primary tabs
Transcription
[Page 28]
disreputable-looking women tinkling string instruments, the sound of which , amidst this tremendous noise, was very much like the buzzing of a fly on the dome of St.Pauls.
Opposite to us is a French ship. We are drawn up in a line on the deck of the ship – the Bugle sounds the "Still" – two men go past carrying a little heap covered with the Union Jack; another poor chap gone on his last journey.
Our band is giving us a few selections – it plays the Marsellaise; The French ship opposite is highly enthusiastic, much applause and cheering from all the ships in port.
Jan: 31
Leave Port Said.
Feb: 1
7 a.m. arrive in Alexandria – see American warship "Tennessee" which has brought in refugees from Smyrna.
Feb: 2
Hear various rumours about the advance of the Turks.
Feb: 3
Treat myself to a new pocket handkerchief. All through the sea has been like glass.
Feb: 4
Our troopship, the "Cerania", has been the largest ship to pass through the Canal. 8 a.m. make up alongside wharf – grey day, very cold, large quantities of gulls, dark brown wings – natives on wharf, scarlet, yellow, green, blues and white; a great deal of colour.
Feb: 5
Very cold. Entrain Alexandria 10 o'clock – arrive Damanahour 11.35, arrive Cairo, Zeitun station, 4.30 – march to