Wednesday November 18 1914
Well the sea is calm as a
millpond. We could just see the southern
extremity of India for a while today. We
are in the second division of boats. The
first division went about 8 hours before us. It is considered safe to travel in these
parts. The Emden had the traders about
here frightened out of their wits but now the insurance has dropped 50 per cent. It is a beautiful evening, the sun is just
setting and the clouds on the horizon are tinted with gold, the evening star is
just out and a slight breeze is blowing so what could one wish for better than
that. Of course it won’t be for long so
had better make the best of it. I am
sleeping out on the horses boxes on the deck, it is a bit too close in the mess
room just at present.
The Australian Convoy, back at Sea again, November 1914.
[Courtesy of Australian War Memorial - C02545]
Wednesday 18th November
When I appeared at the Bridge at 7AM this morning,
India was showing up on our starboard bow. The mountains appeared very high and
rugged and capped with clouds. I can at least say I have seen India. Spent the
morning preparing ranging model. After lunch a number of the Officers had some
practise on it. We have now taken up station as leader of Second portion of
Third Division. It means a big relief to our Ships Officers. As I write at 8.30
PM a cluster of electric lights is burning on main deck. Some of the men are
dancing to music supplied by an Accordeon, some are card playing and some
reading. All are in their pyjamas for it is a close night. The sea has been as
still and smooth as glass today, and the sunset this evening was particularly
fine.
Have just been in Signal
Communication with Col Hobbs. He tells me he has lost 8 horses. We are
fortunate for so far we have only lost four. I asked Major Christian how he was
getting on with his horses, but I cannot get a reply. We are now travelling in
two lines of 5 ships each with the "Ibuki" leading us. Horses are
making an awful row through the ship. They are fed at 9 o’clock and well they
know it. They stamp and whinney for some time prior to feeding. Attended
Battery N.C.Os lecture tonight. Position at noon 7°45’N, 76° 44’E. days run 191
miles.
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