Thursday November 26 1914
We got underway at 6 oclock this
morn and as we were leaving the New Zealand troopships were coming past to get
into line and there was a close shave to a collision. We had to go full steam astern to avoid the
N.Z. boat which was making into line as fast as she could. Well as we passed along the coast we could
see a native village (Arab) on the edge of the desert and beach. We were in sight of mountains all the way to
Devil’s Gates into the Red Sea which we entered about 3.30 this evening. We didn’t stay as long as intended at Aden,
just as well it is a desolate place and we were not allowed to buy anything
from the Bumboats but some got cigarettes at 1s a 100 but they are not up to
much. The flies are very bad here the
small common house fly.
Perim Island on the approach to the Red Sea - the Devil's Gates
referred to above by Billy possibly denotes the narrow channel
between Perim Island & the Yemeni mainland.
[Courtesy of Wikipedia]
Left
British transports anchored at Aden, November 1914, as referred to below by Col. Rosenthal.
[Courtesy of Australian War Memorial - C01717]
Thursday 26th November
Weighed anchor at 5.30AM, ships got into station
during the next hour and about 7AM we got a fair move off from Aden.
The Japanese Man o’ War "Ibuki" which
acted as escort from Australia is going no further, and last night a message of
thanks was sent to her captain from "Orvieto". This morning as we
passed her she was flying several groups of flags which on reference to International
Code read as follows: - "I wish you further victories. Goodbye.". We
now only have the "Hampshire" with us, a ship somewhat about the size
of "Sydney" or "Melbourne".
We have passed several British Transports today
returning to India.
I received a message from the
"Katuna" today stating that they had lost 12 horses since leaving
Tasmania, five of which belonged to the third F.A. Brigade. I am now waiting to
receive a message as to losses on the "Medic". Our losses so far since
leaving Melbourne total four. Colonel Everett of the "Star of
England" informed me they had lost 14 horses on their ship.
The Arabian coast and Country beyond is absolutely
void of vegetation and appears to consist of nothing but rock and sand. We
reached Perim at about 4 PM, and it too appears a desolate place. The Signal
Station and Coaling station, also I believe a British Garrison are the only
evidence of life. A Russian vessel entered the Port just as we passed. Just
before reaching Perim we passed some very prominent peaks right on the coast
line, with what appeared to be mud houses built upon the slopes, one particular
cottage being right at the summit of the highest peak.
During the night we passed Meccha and islands in
the Red Sea. All lights are extinguished, being controlled by Turkey.
Exceedingly hot day but evening fairly cool with
good breeze.
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