In Mediteranean Sea
Friday December 4 1914 – Port Said
Are still anchored off Port Said;
there is only room at Alexandria for a limited amount of ships so we, having
the latest persentages loss in horses flesh, are waiting here till the other
unload. There is a good four others here
also, the Star of England is just behind us and one of the signallers got a
message from her that Pacey and McLennon are O.K. Some mail come abroad this evening but none
for me. I am in pro guard tonight and
have two in the cage. It is very likely
that we will stay at Cairo to garrison the place. I would like to get on shore for to get a few
things, such as note book etc.
The First Convoy troopships anchored alongside one another at Port Said.
[Courtesy of Australian War Memorial - PS0299]
Friday 4th December
Still at anchor. We do not yet know when we will be
leaving here for Alexandria, but expect it will be tomorrow or Sunday.
Assistant wireless Operator left ship this morning to be returned to Australia.
The Ship’s captain also went off in a Torpedo boat. This boat returned about
4.30 PM, and dropped Captains of several Transports at anchor. While sea was
very smooth in the morning when they left, it was very rough when they
returned, and as a consequence our Captain had a hard job getting back to his
ship. The Torpedo boat could not safely come along side so a boat had to be
lowered. The Captain and crew had eventually to scramble up
a ships ladder hung over the side, and the boat was left astern till morning
when perhaps the sea will be smoother. Many Transports here waiting for orders.
The "Argyleshire" is just behind us with all the N.S.W. Artillery.
Another horse foaled tonight, quite an unexpected arrival. As we are so near to
disembarkation the foal had to be destroyed. As I write one of the gunners is
playing an Accordeon on the deck, and the crowd is singing all sorts of songs.
Have been sorting my clothes today and packing same. Wrote letter to Charley
and John Halford and had same taken ashore. Units at work at Gundrill, laying,
Semaphore, and rifle exercises. Now getting all gear sorted up ready for going
ashore. Most glorious sunset this evening at about 4.45. Days are very short
and nights quite cold. A marked contrast to the Red Sea.
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