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| Frederick Trouton Small in Clayfield Brisbane, 1907, the eldest boy standing behind his parents |
DIARY OF FREDERICK TROUTON SMALL 1914
Transcription from the original by Marit Hegge, Brisbane Australia.
Whose mother Eunice Hegge (née Small) was a half-sister to Frederick Trouton
Small (1888 – 1971) Additional photos, and footnotes from Internet sources.
Original diary can be viewed here:
Man should be
judged, not by their tint of skin
The Gods they
serve, the vintage that they drink
Nor by the way
they fight, or love, or sin,
But by the
quality of thought they think.
September
3
Heard Jimmy Hunter had been accepted for
Home Service. Have decided to try again myself. Rang up Toowong 214 & informed N of the
fact. Got just what I expected. Went to Victoria Barracks & was passed by
the M.O. & told to report to Enoggera at 10am the following morning.
Enoggera
Barracks new recruits 1914
Said goodbye to all the chaps after the
football match. Shirty, Eric, Stan, Sid, Mac, George, G C Wilson, Pup, Chook
& others too numerous to mention. I will never forget those hearty hand
shakes & sincerely trust that I will.
September
4
Went to Enoggera CM by motor with Jimmy but
not without some misgivings. Were cheered off by “Kings”. {Footnote[1]}
Never really knew before how the College was home to me. Will I ever see the
place again? One knows what one likes in others but cannot see what others like
in him. Such thoughts flash thro’ one’s mind on occasions when good fellowship
appears to be revered or expressed.
September
5
After a somewhat broken sleep, was called
out at 6. Made straight for coffee. Then tidied up and paraded at 6.30. Felt a
bally ass but found plenty just a big. Had breakfast at 7.45. Stew and plenty
of it. Paraded again at 9.15 till 12.15 & from 2 to 4. Leave granted from 4
to 12.
September
6
6 o’clock again. Almost got the Colonel’s
prize for the most tidy tent & yet my room (perhaps it was Norm’s) is
never tidy but of course men judged the tent. A lady would
certainly insist that the blades of grass on the floor should face the same
way.
September
7
Same routine with the exception that I was
inoculated & vaccinated. The former did not trouble me as much as I thought
it would. Got portion of my kit at 4 o’clock & was free again. They are
certainly very lenient with us here. Rang up 214 & Mrs Les answered. Con’s
clock had not arrived.
September
8
Jimmy made Cpl But I doubt if he will keep
his stripes as he is seeking popularity & getting big in the head.
Rang up Con & asked her if she could
give me a photo before I went instead of posting it. She told me I could get it
on the following evening. Stayed in camp that night as leave had been blocked
thro’ the drunkenness of others.
September
9
Same routine. After 4 Jimmy went to Kings
& I to Toowong. I received my picture, but I will not write my feelings
here. As it needs no diary to recall them. They will remain where they are.
Norm & Bern gave me a pipe & William a knife. Mrs Les had perversely
given me this diary.
September
11
Bible from Mrs M. Most important event
today was the rifle test. Got a possible. The Colonel complimented the Company
on its appearance. We turned out in khaki for the first time. Got leave from
4pm so left for town by the 5.03. Rang up T 214 & got the usual cordial
invitation for the evening. Came to Central in the motor with the boys, Mrs Les
& Con. Seems hard to have to leave them but live in the hope of returning.
September
12
Today I am tent orderly for 8 hours. Rotten
job cleaning up greasy dishes with cold water. Was sworn in & acted orderly
to Capt Ryder till 12 o’clock. This confounded military etiquette has me
thinking badly. Played football with the ‘Varsity against the camp & won by
22 to 6. Spent a most enjoyable evening at Hillcrest {Footnote[2]}.
Had tea with Col, Til & friends at half time.
September
13
Did the usual march before breakfast &
at 9 church parade. Tried again for the engineers, found Capt Ryder unwilling
to let me go. All hands given leave from 12 to 12. Hurrah! Rang up T 214. I
always ring 214. I don’t know why unless its home sweet home. Mum Dock & Co
came to see me. Spent evening at Hillcrest. Came into town with motor.
September
14
Marched out about 2 miles at the early
morning parade with Colonel Lee reviewing. Got orders to change into different
squads. This meant breaking up our happy tent. However with a lot of cohesive
working we managed to once again get together with the exception of 4 whom we
changed for Peter S., Jack A. & the two Foxes. At 2 parade got notice to
prepare to join the Engineers at Melbourne. Left Enoggera at 5 & joined the
barracks at 6. Given leave until 12. Went over to Kings, dear old Kings &
what a welcome & what a dear little watch. Afraid these people think me
better than I am. I would like to believe half the good things they said about
me but appreciated the motive. I went over to see May. She’s to be married on
21st Oct. Poor little girl she has had a hard time. Asked for some
stocks & then travelled to see Hillcrest.
September
15
First morning in the Victoria Barracks. My
awakening thoughts fly in one direction. Must try harder to curb them. I have
too much of Father’s & too little of the Trouton blood to ever make that
dear girl happy.
This morning I was put on fatigue duty as I
was mistaken for a deserter. Bad management somewhere as my papers had been
mislaid. Got the afternoon off & went to Mrs Lloyd’s for tea & afterwards to a splendid lecture
by Dr Mawson. This was spoilt by having to report to the barracks by 9 to get
my warrant. Slept at 214. Les came with us, he having been away 6 weeks.
Vaccination troubling me a good deal. Saw Con in the drawing room a few minutes
before tea.
September
16
Got up and dressed at 6. This is the last
day I will spend in Brisbane for some time. Left at 7.30 by motor. It is
certainly hard to say goodbye to such dear friends. Mrs Les will look after Con
for me.
At the station Eric & Stan were there
to see me off & at 8 o’clock I
had started a new life in new spheres. I picked up two rather nice travelling
companions on the trip to Sydney. But they must have found me very unsociable
as I slept nearly all day & right thro’ the night.
At the table I had rather a funny
experience. My boots being steel shod played all sorts of tricks on polished
oil clothes with the result that I pulled a completely set table over in my
underarm to save myself. Left Wallangarra at 6.25 for Sydney.
September
17
“Get up Mr” awoke me at 7.20 with Newcastle
in sight. I had a grand night’s sleep, which speaks well for the comfort of NSW
Railways. Saw nothing of Uncle Yard at Station so put luggage in cloakroom and
booked a sleeper birth. Rang up Auntie Flo & discovered Auntie Eff had
arrived from the Continent. Met Uncles – Fred, Yard, Bert at “Wongoon”? &
had a royal welcome. Left again at 7.30pm and caught the “Limited”. Had a
splendid sleep & arrived Albury at 8. Had breakfast & nearly missed the
train. Just vaulting the gate in time.
September
18
After the above episode settled down to
sleep again. At 11.30am had lunch in the dining car. Arrived at station with
nobody to meet me. Jumped into a tram to Princess Bridge & walked to
barracks & was directed back to Alexandria Avenue & saw Major Healy.
Met Crocker. Very disappointed with the whole camp. Everything very lax. A few
drunks in the tent & the general tone left much to be desired. Went out to
see Les’s people and had a very warm reception. Invited to spend Sunday.
Started to rain shortly after I turned in.
September
19
Turned out at 6.15 am. Raining. Had to take
off putties. March from the parade ground into the avenue to do nonsensical
idiotic drill which consisted of “frog jump” along the avenue in bare skins
& heavy overcoats & thro’ pools of water. Men cursed horribly. Doubled
back to breakfast. Served out with more kit & then told off to dig trenches
in the rain. Nearly a mutiny. Several members previously left camp for town so
escaped. But were caught afterwards and told not to leave camp. However they
have cleared. Wired address to Uncle, Norm & also wired to Con.
September
20
Reveille at 6.45. Cleaned up camp ready for
kit inspection after breakfast. This inspection lasted till 11. During the
process three bottles of beer were found in Jim Gooch’s plant, much to the
general amusement of the crowd congregated outside. Thro’ messing around we
were deprived of our Sunday off so could not see Mrs Mills till after tea &
then only for a few minutes. Paraded at 9pm & received some kit.
September
21
Reveille at 5.30. Packed kits & paraded
at 6. Took bedding down to drill shed & received remainder of kit.
Dismissed & brought kits down to shed had a mere smell of a breakfast so
bought some Frankfort sausage from the vendor. Fell in outside the shed and
marched to station. Entrained for Williamstown & boarded the “Geelong”.
September
22
Wooli to Norm!
Orderly for the day. The arrangements were
generally better than those of the camp. Did no work all day & set sail at
last about 2 o’clock. There was a fair crowd on the wharf to see us off. We had
tea about five o’clock & were just clearing the heads when the signal said,
“Stop. Go back & await orders”. So we had to heave to. A few minutes later
the P & O liner outward bound came along. She was stopped but subsequently
sailed. Slept on the table. Found it a deal more comfortable than the hammock.
Jim Gooch created a bit of amusement thro’ losing his hammock & blanket.
September
23
Sailed again at 5am. Evidently sailing
along West coast to pick up escort.
Gave cook a tip of 5/- to make things good
for the trip. Things started to get very lively as the weather is getting very
dirty. Men are very ill & helpless. The seas remind me very much of the
film we saw at Sir Douglas Mawson’s lecture. The seas were continuously
breaking over the ship & on more than one occasion drenched mobs of 20.
I was going to find another spot to sleep
but as our mess seemed fairly well, I decided to risk it but took the
precaution of covering myself with canvas. Slept well, so did the crowd. Was
again orderly owing to some of the lads. “Feeling it” a bit.
September
24
Wrote to Con 2.
Water puzzlingly cold sorry to hear that
there is no likelihood of the hot water being turned on. Asked the cook for
half a dozen buckets of boiling water, everything O.K. Weather extremely dirty
but the No 16 17 Mess is sticking to it well. Our mess made me bookkeeper for
extras etc. Again helped
orderlies. Speculated on a tin of Peach jam. No 16 & 17 Messes generally
manage to the first in the ration line. We thus get an early start & quick
finish.
September
25
Talk about a lively night.
We shipped sea after sea & about 12
o’clock our saloon was swimming. Tubs, buckets etc simply from one side of the
floor to the other. Before six we were all out & bailing for all we knew
& it was not long before our feet were numbed with cold. On deck many funny
sights were seen as men endeavored to keep their feet. This state of affairs
lasted all night. Dave, Fergus, Bill, Moller & self lay for a couple of
hours on the boat deck. I showed evidence of a heavy cold. Camped in hammock
with a very hot whisky & lemon inside. Shipped green seas during the night.
Canteen seemed to have slipped its moorings.
September
26
Wrote to Dick, Mrs Lloyd.
Tables 16 & 17 complimented upon their
appearance.
Much calmer – land in sight. Expect to make
Hobart about 4pm. Cold slightly better. Had tug of war against Tas, S.A Gunners
A Service. We came 2nd.
Came into Hobart shortly after 4.30pm. Was
very struck with the beauty of the place & for the first time saw a snow-capped
peak. We were all dressed in our very best & planning a great trip up Mt
Wellington & fine time in town when to our sorrow “no leave” was granted.
All the sections paraded & formed a deputation but all to no purpose. I
think after our rough trip we might have been allowed ashore. Gwyn slipped
thro’ the port & swam for it. Plucky!
September
27
A grand morning & a grand sight at
sunrise. Mt Wellington was in shadow while the pretty scene at its foot was in
a delicate shade of light. Fine crisp air. Once our tables (16 & 17)
received praise for their appearance. Church parade at 10.15. Splendid service
much interrupted by the coughing of the men. Dinner on ship. Party of nine
hired two cars & went up Mt Wellington. First of all went to Fern Tree had
refreshments and then walked to a beautiful spot Fern Tree Bower.
September
28
Six am again. Orderly for the day. Managed
to top the pile again. Poor Tom was put in the “boob”. For the first time I was
made a guard. Rather novel experience. Put on the main entrance & kept all
bluffers back. Had dinner at one o’clock. Rather disappointed as no mail has
reached me from B’bane – live in hope. Had to guard a prisoner over the barrier
while he talked to his wife & child. General leave was given to the whole
ship but being on guard I could not get off; we were relieved at 10pm for good.
I turned in early as the cold was troubling me. Poor old Tom was released from
the guard room after spending 2 days there. He was fined 2/6 & had to report
every hour for 14 days. Two of our guard who were off duty went into town but
as it was against regulations they were put in the “boob”. Jim Lindsay was one.
Craigshead the other. The former went out not knowing it was against the rules.
September
29
Orderly again. Paraded again at 9.30.
Marched to the Domain & did skirmishing work. Wrote to Bern & started
one to Mrs Les.
Spent afternoon writing & drawing
stores. We also had to parade in full marching order & after the usual
messing around we took everything off again. Most of the lads are spending the
night cutting & buttonholing holes in their shirts for the tags of their
braces to go through. There has been a good deal of grumbling lately over the
“mucking around”. Great fun after “lights out”. Sgt Savage came down to see
what was disturbing the fowls. Cat & dogs were the main cause; some of the
impersonations were splendid.
September
30
Another grand morning. Have to pack kits
& get ready to go into camp. Something wrong on the ship. Suggested to Sgt
Tom that one man be allowed to go to town & do the business for the mess.
This was granted & I was selected to go for No 16 Mess. Had any amount of
business to do but unfortunately was unable to do any for myself. Returned at
10.10 & found the 3rd Company ready to embark on the train for
Brighton Camp. Left about 11.15 & arrived at Brighton safely. A very pretty
& interesting trip. At Brighton we marched about ¼ of the mile from the station,
we halted & dropped our heavy baggage & had dinner. Sgt Major Healy
& Quarter Master honored us at dinner. Poor old Time drunk again but
extremely amusing. Fell into ranks after about an hours spell & was told
off with 4 others to arrest 4 missing men. This done we marched off to the camp
about 2 miles away. It was a rotten march, hot, dry & dusty & we were
not sorry when it was all over. Turned in fairly early & am pleased to say
with the same mess as I was with on the boat. Dave joined us.
October
1
Freezingly cold. Paraded at 6.30 & did
rifle drill. Finished at 7.15. Went to creek for bath, which is against orders.
Paraded at 9.30 in D.O., did rifle work again. Cold pretty bad. Had half
holiday for the military sports but did washing instead. Went to bed early.
Jack Sin & Hudson not in at “lights out”. Heard Lt Bage “Posting Guard”
which means they are sure to be caught.
October
2
Cold again. Jack S & Hudson caught, the
former was made to do sentry duties. Paraded at 9 in D. O. & did
skirmishing work. Like this work but almost fainted in the ranks.
“Constable” Hinks did a rather clever
thing. He & several others “broke bounds” & where they congregated the guard
was sent to arrest them & others. Hinks was equal to the occasions when the
guard came along & arrested them he stepped in and said “fall engineers”
and when the corporal of the guard said, “to whom am I speaking” he said “Lance
Corporal Smith” at the same time displaying a police badge. The corporal
allowed them to go & by the same ruse they passed the sentry but they were
caught on their own lines by the guard that Lt Bage posted.
Turned out in M.O. at 2 returned at 5. Had
a wash at the creek with a bucket. After tea had a tug-of-war against the “pick
team” & WON. Feeling very “off”. Afraid I’ll have to knuckle under.
October
3
Too sick to parade. Doctor said “off duty”.
Slept nearly all day. Mail arrived. 12 letters, 6 of which were from “Hillcrest”.
Leave granted from 2 to 9.15 Sunday. Made an attempt at 5pm to get into Hobart.
Arrived there at 10pm. Stayed at the Carlton Club. Had glorious hot bath. Its
great to be between sheets again. Bill Farquar not to well but Dave, Fergus,
Wilson, Chas in fine fettle.
October
4
Spent morning writing to Con Had dinner
& tea with Mr Ross who drove us around Hobart. First to Ridgeway & then
to Kingstown via Brown’s River. Most delightful trip at Ridgeway. We saw the
site for the new water works, which is to hold 200,000,000 gallons. It is built
into massive basalt formation & when completed the wall will be somewhat
like this.
October
5
Paraded at 6.30am & practiced present
arms etc for the march thro’ the city Hobart; Paraded at 10.30 marched to the
station at Brighton. Left the train at New Town & had three bites of
“grub”. Engineers first off with Hooper, Lindsay, Craig & self leading the
way. Rotten marching as the Lt & Captain made the pace “too hot”. All men
growling as only soldiers can growl. Marched thro’ the city about 3pm & up
to the Domain where we were dismissed for an hour and a quarter.
First
AIF parade Hobart 1914
Anderson & I went to “Hunts” but found
them full up, so went elsewhere for a cup of tea & enjoyed it after my
first long dusty march. Fell in again at 4.15. Marched to station where Dave B
& self were marched off to the boat & dismissed so as to enable us to
join Mr Ross at dinner. Most enjoyable little evening. Caught the train to
Brighton at 8pm & wrote 4 postcards to “Hillcrest”. Thought our reception
at Hobart could have been warmer.
October
6
Poor old Jim Gooch dismissed. Collected
some cash to help him on his way. Paraded at 9.30 for foot inspection &
with soiled clothes washed “both” & retired to tent to write this &
letter. All my spare time seems to be spent in writing. It’s a case of write
& you shall receive. Received a letter from Con & Shirty. Its great
getting letters. My nose has bled profusely lately – went to the quack who gave
me quinine tabloids. Jack Sinclair got the same for an entirely different
complaint. Wrote to Mrs Wells, Mrs Les, Mater & Bern. Turned in early.
Cough too troublesome but it is useless going to quack. Tent Fergus F1.
October
7
Paraded for bath after Company drill &
knocked off till 3, as day was too hot. Spent time in writing. Received letters
from Auntie Eff, Mrs Scott Fletcher, Mrs Wells. Placed on guard but relieved.
Helped Fergus to fix up the nominal roll. Rotten Camp. The men’s tempers are
becoming more & more pronounced. I think a change to the river side would
rectify matters.
October
8
The drill of the 1st Section at
the early parade was a treat & received credit. Terrible day. I can
honestly say it is the worst I have experienced. Wild dusty gusts almost
blowing tents & putting all the men in bad spirits & cover our beds in
inches of dust. Had 3 baths & really must have a fourth. The men are all
growling & in the morning intend to complain about the camping conditions.
They all say this is absolutely the worst camp any of them have been in & I can believe it. Under such
conditions one cannot write & my mail is all behind.
Brighton
Camp Hobart 1914
October
9
The rain during the night made matters
easier. But conditions are still rotten. Parades as usual. Mutton at dinnertime
was bad. So had bread & jam. Capt Savage at tea time provided us with an
extra tin of jam and a tin of “bully beef”, while we spotted two cray pots?
& cheese.
Write to Flo, Mater & Con. Writing is
not at all easy in camp on account of the faint candlelight & the noisy
chatter. Wish I was back on the boat with the second to look after our wants.
October
10
Paraded as usual. Shifted to a more
agreeable spot. Hair parade but ducked out of it. Wired for Norm but now regret
it. I hope he comes and yet –
Had leave to went into Hobart. Had hot bath
and a great tea at “Hunts”. Saw Miss Van who greeted us cordially.
October
11
Church Parade. Stayed in camp & smoked
my first pipe since leaving Brisbane. Wrote to Bill Brennan, E J Wells, Dick,
Uncle Yard, Chas Jones, Mrs Beilby.
October
12
Paraded as usual but enjoyed lectures with
Sgt Major Healy. Also enjoyed a bonza meal on eggs procured already fried at a neighbors’
house. Got wires from Norm {Footnote[3]}
to say he is coming. Hooray three times. Wire Norm to bring £10 for me & to
leave the balance with Bern.
Received a letter from Eric Francis.
October
13
Skirmished up over the hills but put in a
rotten afternoon on the parade ground. Received a letter card from Con & a
letter from Bern. Had eggs again for tea & settled down at once to write.
Found myself thinking a lot of “Hillcourt” today.
Signed Soldiers Pay book. Wrote to Eric
Cribb & Con.
October
14
Paraded as usual but was sent into town to
get the pay books, by the 7.30.
Got books, axe handle for Lt Bage. Sent watches
to watchmaker, got boot polish, handkerchiefs & looking glass for Sgt Major
Healy. Arrived back by the 10am.
Sent a postcard to the Mater of the
“procession”. During the afternoon the Capt took us for field duties &
informed the Queenslanders they could go into Hobart that afternoon, sleep on
the boat and to their musketry course the next day. We accordingly left by the
5.25 & marched to the “Geelong”. We were then given “leave” until 11pm. I
made a beeline for the Hunts Café & thoroughly enjoyed a “civilised” meal.
October
15
Got up at 6.15 had breakfast at 1. Cleaned
rifles & marched out to the rifle butts. Shot on butts for the first time
in my life. At 100 yards grouping I got 8 in a 20 out of 25. At 200 yards I got
16. 16 out of 20 at 300, 16 & 8 out of 20.
Marched home & had leave till 11.15.
Had tea at “Hunts” after a warm bath. Then spent the evening at the Dandies
& after the show had supper at “Hunts” new tea rooms. Not a bad day.
October
16
Arose as usual & marched out to the butts.
Capt Clogstoun {Footnote[4]} then sent us
out in fighting order up to the flagstaff on Mt Nelson signal station.
Mt
Nelson Semaphore Station
It was a highly instructive trip & the
view from the top of the mountain fully repaid any discomfort we suffered on
the way up. We marched to the butts via the Sandy Bay road & received
hearty cheers from the troops at Fort Alexandra. At 2 o’clock we had a very
scrappy dinner & then went on to the range for our tests. It is sufficient
to say that I qualified. At the ship I found two grand letters awaiting me. One
from the Mater & one from Con.
October
17
Turned out at 6.30. Bad tempered but my
spirits swung around as I realized that Norm would soon be with me. Sgt Major
Healy kept me with him to attend to pay duties. Went with Lt Bage to draw pay
& acted as pay clerk. Came back to camp in motor at 10pm. Met Norm again.
Dave Sinclair met him at Brighton Junction. I went to Hobart Station on the
chance of him coming right through.
October
18
6.30 parade. Church parade at 9. Paid
remainder of pay at 12. After dinner wrote under the trees to Auntie Eff, Bern,
Kings, Auntie Eff Post Card, Mater PC, Con PC, Uncle Yard. Norm left for
Claremont to be fitted out. Wrote letters at night in the midst of a noisy
camp.
October
19
Paraded at 6, with Sgt did physical drill.
Orderly for the day. Paraded at 9 when all the defaulters were paraded. One
chap was discharged for having “cold feet”.
“Clogie” gave us a great lecture. We then marched all over the country to Bridgewater where we had a swim. We also had a drink at a Hotel and bought some biscuits & chocolates at the store. I then wrote Con a card from the P.O. At 5 o’clock we marched off & arrived back in camp at 7 feeling very tired but thoroughly enjoyed the 15 miles march. Clogie proved to be a sport.
“Clogie” gave us a great lecture. We then marched all over the country to Bridgewater where we had a swim. We also had a drink at a Hotel and bought some biscuits & chocolates at the store. I then wrote Con a card from the P.O. At 5 o’clock we marched off & arrived back in camp at 7 feeling very tired but thoroughly enjoyed the 15 miles march. Clogie proved to be a sport.
October
20
Roused at 5am. Had breakfast at 6 after handing
back blankets, waterproofs, plates etc. Left camp at 7 for railway station. Went
straight on the “Geelong”.
Departure
of transport ship “Geelong” from Hobart
In the distance we could see the “Katuna”
leaving. Sgt Major Healy sent Cpl Farquhar & self to bring £5000 down to
the ship. We left at 4pm in the presence of a great crowd. “Constable” Hinks
again proved a great forager. Today he shook 4 pairs of sand shoes & a
couple of bottles of beer. Wrote to Con, Pater, Geoff. Wired to the Pater.
October
21
Called at 6.15. Mixed hammocks as usual.
The sea was very smooth while a misty rain fell all day. There was a regular
jumble up at meal times but is a little too early to expect smooth running.
Norm has quite settled down & although “messing” with us he will be in No 2
squad. I intend to get him in the No 1 if possible. We were again medically
inspected & survived. Our “foraging” expeditions resulted in quite a
respectable number of tins of fruit. Spent some time in reading “Othello” &
Stevenson’s essay on “Falling in Love”.
October
22
Norm & Fred H were orderlies. Paraded
at 10 for lecture, and then at 11.15 went on the deck for exercise. No16 mess
pulled No 17 mess at a tug-of-war & after a pull of 4 minutes – which is a
great pull – we won. In the afternoon we paraded with life belts & marched
up on the boat deck to No6 lifeboat, which Queensland will occupy in case of
emergency. Wrote portion of budget letter.
October
23
Orderly today. Nothing sensational occurred
except the siting of a school of whales & the “bath” parade. At the latter
“Clogie” made the whole of the 3rd Field Coy have a bath under the
supervision of an N.C.O. Some caustic remarks were made about certain members
of the section. Glorious sunset resembling wind driven snow cliffs. Had a great
tea on “stolen fruits”. Wrote budget letter.
October
24
Got up at 6am & had a bath & shave.
Clogie came down in a singlet & was greeted with cries of “Chidley”.
Physical drill included Boxing. Paraded with life belts & at 8.30 to with
hammocks.
October
25
Church parade. Wrote to Home, Aunts, Dick,
Con & Gibie. Were told to be on sentry tomorrow. Expect to see Albany about
9am.
October
26
Restless night as bad weather set in: at
day break St George’s sound was in sight. The “Orreta” was just behind us &
when we entered the harbour there was some 19 troop ships at anchor. Three more
came in during the afternoon. The cruiser “Melbourne” went out to patrol about
6pm & stayed out all night. We gave her a great cheer as she passed us. As
the engineers had to supply the guard I was quartered in the Infantry troop
deck from 8am to 12 & on the budge from 8pm to 12. At the latter post Jim
Lindsay & I had to watch the mooring of other ships & hail any ship
that came near us. The Morse lamp was in frequent use during the night. Could
not write.
October
27
Awakened from slumber at 5.30 as the crew was
sweeping the deck. Returned at 8am. Had any sort of breakfast & the self
for an hour. Had a hot bath at 10am & did a bit of washing. At the 2 parade
S.M. Healy gave a lecture & then we had a fair go at physical drill. After
tea, being tired, I slept in the hammock rack till 9 & then finally retired
for the night. No letters written. “Horonata” joined us. 4 bags of mail came
aboard but none for Norm or me.
October
28
Stew horribly burnt so had jam issued to
us. Indulged in some fish. We have been living like fighting cocks mainly due
to the Mess A/C. “Miltiades” came in about 8.30am & had a great reception.
We then had a lecture at 10. By 11 the six boats for N.Z. joined us as well as
the escort. They were given a very hearty welcome.
We went thro’ the usual exercises & had
a right royal tea on Brawn, tinned fruit etc. The event of the day was the mail
& received letters from Eric Francis, Chas Jones, Mrs Beilby, Mater, Con 2,
Bern. I immediately started on the budget letter & one for Con.
October
29
Heaved anchor & sailed into Albany for
coal & provisions. Finished Con’s letter & gave both to a coal lumper
together with a wire for Auntie & Mr Lloyd. Wrote to Eric, Mrs Fletcher,
Mrs Les, Mater, Bern & an acknowledgement to Mrs Bielby. Slept on floor for
a change. Dashed hard.
October
30
Was told to make a list of all the wants of
the two Messes. I then applied for leave & it was granted although previous
applications had been turned down. Accordingly I changed into my best &
just happened to miss a boat & while Clogie was signing my pass I missed a
second. The third was caught about 5.30. As this went the rounds of the fleet I
had a great chance of seeing all the ships at close quarters. We called at the “Oviela”
about 7 and had to tow a hospital case into Albany where I arrived at 7.30. I
did as much shopping as possibly before 9 and then stayed at the London Hotel
for the night and shared the room with a young Q.M.S. Slept well. I might
mention that I had a few commissions to fulfill for the “Oviela” – reg Lt
Dorkin.
October
31
Finished my shopping in Albany. Returned to
the jetty at 10.30. Caught the “Bruce” out to the Katuna & was landed at
the “Geelong” at dinnertime with all my belongings including the Oviela’s. I
had got rid of most of my belongings by the 2 parade. Letters were then given
to me from Con, Mrs Fletcher, Mrs Les & Stan Francis. Later in the evening
Clogie took us for three rows in No8 around the “Geelong” & over to the
“Star of England”. Fixed up the accounts at night. Wrote a batch of last mail
as we were leaving at 6 next morning.
November
1
AWAY AT LAST
Went to early morning service in the
officer’s mess. Wrote in the morning & attended at 11 parade. All
Queenslanders joined the choir & let themselves go with a will. The text
was Jove & Consecration. Part of the afternoon I slept & the rest I
spent in writing. It was a great sight to see all the ships lining up &
sailing in their formation.
Anzac
fleet Albany Western Australia
November
2
Orderly today. Had a great bust up with the
steward over cleaning up his portion of the deck. The case was taken to
Clogie & I won hands down. But this did not soothe my ruffled spirits, as I
was touchy all day after this. The weather is inclined to be rough. Dave
told me that I’m “getting a devil to rouse”. Destroyed heaps of letters!
November
3
Rough again; plates beginning to slide. No
drill. Too more boats join us. Watch the movements of the ships with interest.
Wrote to Pater & Les. Norm saw doctor as a rash was giving him trouble.
November
4
Section on guard. Allan Wilson & I
orderlies. Put in pump & filter on our mess deck for drinking purposes. Tom
Lindsay helped me. This was Norm’s first day on guard. Bad temper last couple
of days. But orderlies. Some sandwiches for supper & took up their
hammocks.
Mac Walt & I made a couple of drawn
thread cloths for the mess tables on which to display our silver during
parades. Wrote to Con, Mater. Norm’s first guard. He managed to have a good
feed forward.
November
5
Lime juice issued & 2 packets of
cigarettes. Much calmer today but fairly hot. Easily seen we are approaching
the tropics. Our boats look well on this clear day. The “Minotaur” sailed down
over lines evidently inspecting. Norm & I joined Clogie & N.C.O.s in a
bridge lecture. Gained a deal of information. Full dress parade at 2pm &
inspections at 3pm. Some interest was created by the arrival of the Orient mail
steamer “Onterly”. Tired of sleeping on floor so decided to join 17th
Mess & join the porthole “posy”.
November
6
Issue of cigarettes – 2 packets per man.
Hot again today & nothing doing. Pump
filter is going to be a trouble as water is continuously coming into our clean
mess. Boat drill at 2. Clogie had a “silence competition” with the Light Horse.
Of course we won. Jack S & I had a scrap much to Clogie’s amusement. Most
of the mess suffering with sore heads partly because they are “off colour”.
Norm’s health good. Mine also.
November
7
Paraded before the doctor. My wrist was
painful as a result of my scrap with Jack. Norman orderly, but several of the
other “moustache reakers” had to
clean the latrines as Clogie gave us 4 days CB for clean shaving. The result of
our labours received great praise from the Captain who praised the latrines for
the first time since leaving Albany. Fire alarm at 4.15 pm for practice. Sultry
day. French classes started today. Had a huge scrap. On Clogie’s orders we took
Fred H’s trousers off in quick time. Boat parade at 8pm.
November
8
Paraded with the sick again. Nothing really
wrong only bandages needed for foot & this is the only way to procure them.
Church parade at 10am but it proved uninteresting, as we could not hear a word.
Sleep during the afternoon. Hot & sultry weather prevailing. Another issue
of lime juice also one tinned fruit. Started beer a/c for Mess. Wrote to Mater,
Con & Bern. Some mystery hanging around. “Minotaur” has left us while the
“Osterley” has returned & gone again. All lights out until 8.30. “Minotaur”
has not returned.
November
9
Orderly today. F Class supplied O at
inspection. Last night was very sultry. So is today. “Minotaur” was reported to
be engaged last night. About breakfast time the “Sydney” cleared at “full
speed” smoke simply heaving out of her funnels & after breakfast the “Melbourne”
came on our port flank at a fair bat. Then about 10 o’clock while we were
having a lecture the “Ibuki” (Japanese escort) put it all on and joined the “Melbourne”.
She looked great as she tore in front of us under a dense mass of smoke. “Things
were doing” but where? We heard that the wireless received a “Telefunken
message” & this was the cause of the “stir”. Shortly after we heard that
the “Emden” {Footnote[5]}
had been sunk by the “Sydney” after 12 shots, the “Minotaur” & “Sydney”
were then after the crew. Reduced speed was ordered to enable the three ships
to rejoin about midnight. Great excitement on board.
The German light cruiser SMS Emden after being run aground in 1914
following her battle with HMAS Sydney.
November
10
Extremely hot today. I am going about in
shorts & singlet. The following is the official report – Orvieto General –
“Sydney “started off for Cocos at 7am, at 9.0am she had sighted the enemy
travelling at full speed, she was able to get within range in 20 minutes, at
the same time she signaled that the chase was steering N at 10.45. “Sydney” was
engaging the enemy briskly & at 11.10 the latter had to beach herself to
avoid sinking. Her fore mast & 3 funnels were down by the flag was still
flying. “Sydney” then went after. “Emden’s captain took the crew off & sunk
her. “Sydney” returned again to “Emden” who surrendered. Extent and nature of
the German casualties are not yet known but they are believed to be severe. The
“Sydney’s own causalities required hospital treatment, which was probably found
on Direction Island. The “Emden” had time to destroy the wireless telegraph
station & cut 1 of 3 cables. A second cable is intact and possibly the 3rd.
All the instruments had been destroyed excepting one. This one had been buried
and is in use again. The wire & cable operators deserve praise for sticking
to their post & sending out distress signals & for saving instruments.
Following are censorship arrangements. All mails from AEF transports will be sent
to “Orieto” for censorship. Open letters, plain PCs & urgent telegrams will
be passed by censor for immediate dispatch providing that all reference to
ships, places, dates are omitted. Closed letters & parcels will be delayed.
“Sydney” will sail for Colombo as soon as she has succeeded in getting the
German wounded prisoners on board. The operation may take 24 hours as it
presents considerable difficulty. On Sunday night the “Emden” probably passed
within 20 miles of the convoy. The wireless was silent: the van of the convoy
so well darkened that she might have passed 5 miles ahead of use. Had she
passed astern of us certain Australian ships were showing lights visible 6
miles or more and Emden’s torpedoes would probably have taken toll of the
Convoy before the escort could attack here.
November
11
Hot again today. Started new timetable
& did semaphore on top deck. Orderlies (Norm, Jack from No 16) went on strike,
as the time for duties was so short. I had an argument with Clogie over the
same thing but am not sure whether I convinced him. During afternoon Norm &
I were sent into hold to do a bit of cargo bumping. Damn hot but we managed to
score a bottle of limejuice. Another argument with Clogie over pump. Band? (24)
in the “boob” for refusing duty 3 drivers. Got 7 days CB & No pay for refusing
duty & Sgt Major Healy had a look at this diary & smiled a lot at a few
bits. Clogie also had something to say.
November
12
Rather cooler last night so slept well.
Hudson, Hooper orderlies. Hooper in bad nick probably due to ill health &
swallowing “words”. Paraded for signaling at 8.30 & for “tackle” lecture at
9.30. First French lesson at 11. Clogie threatened to separate Q’land as they
were too frisky. “Melbourne” left us today about 9 o’clock leaving the “Ibuki”
to look after us. About dinner time the C.P.R. steamer “Empress of Asia” passed
us. She is an armoured merchantman & was carrying the mails to Australia on
account of the “Emden” flying around. No more fear from that source now. Few
tropical showers during the day. Had a heated argument with Bill over Chas
Robinson’s capabilities in work. It annoys one to be flatly contradicted on a
subject that one has watched & tested for its accuracy. 15 & 14 Messes
placed under open arrest over a case of fruit supposed to be stolen – nutty Quinn?
again.
November
13
Spent a great night alongside the porthole.
Conditions changed from the hot still days to wet windy ones. Allan & I
were orderlies – nuf said. Clogie got the crowd on the boat deck – naked – with
a towel & a piece of soap. It was a case of wash while the rain fell. I was
offered my stripes today but refused them for two reasons. One being my wish to
stay with the Q’land section.
The “fruit” case was investigated but Jim
Campbell cleared matters & took the onus. Wrote to the Pater in connection
with the “case”. A little story was written about Sgt Major MacCowan & how
the Sappers, after a lot of resourceful tactics, managed to procure a sleeper
for firewood purposed. The theft was not discovered till the sleepers were
removed some time afterwards. This story Clogie has read before the Section, by
Norman. At the conclusion he said, “Somebody said what’s the moral? Well it’s
don’t pinch from your mates & when you do pinch don’t be caught.” I had a
long talk with the Captain over the “stripe” business & he considered that
I was not doing my duty to the Company and myself & that he was sorry.
November
14
Our Company on guard today. I changed
places with Fergus. I like being orderly on guard days as the meals take a bit
of handling. Wrote to Auntie Eff, Uncle Yard, Mrs Les, Flo & started one
for home. Made sandwich for guard, also lime juice. Sent Auntie Eff 3 packets
of letters.
November
15
Got up early & started letter for Con
containing all news. Clogie told me to be ready in a minutes notice to row over
to “Medea” & “Orvieto” when we got into Colombo. This did not eventuate.
Did not attend church parade as I wished to finish Con’s letter.
Orderly for 3rd time in
succession.
Norm wrote several letters home. Ceylon in
night. “Sydney” & “Empress of Asia” passed us in the early morning. As we
neared our port the ships formed in the “Anglo Marine” formation presenting a
grand sight. We were all struck with the beautiful buildings across us as we
viewed them from the harbour & earnestly wish to see them closer. Plenty of
sampans knocking around in the distance. N & I joined the sing song in the
evening. Russian “Askold” on our port flank.
Colombo
Harbour 1914
November
16
Norm & Jack orderlies. Jack annoyed because Durack missed
a turn. Very hot. Did early drill on account of washing parade later on. Took
three pounds of Nagels to mind. Washing parade at 10. Shortly after dinner we
were told that Queensland were to row Lt Barber, Dave Crocker, Moller over to
the “Medea”. We had a devil of a row in the heavy wind & against the
current. Three of the crowd were seasick. Norm, Bill, Hinks, Lindsay, Jack
& self formed crew. Jack broke an oar. Stopped at “Star of England” for
spell. The men here annoyed the officers in our boat very much. Poor old
Colonel Clarke presented a sorry figure as he attempted to scale the ship’s
side. Clogie was looking very white & to save disaster decided to lead the
way up the side followed by other officers. Sgt Major Healy, Sgts Crocker &
Thorn. The latter over-stayed their leave & were placed under open arrest.
We could not make the “Medea” so we returned to A2.
November
17
Rose as usual feeling a bit off, just a bit
livery. Norm even more so but it cleared off as the day progressed without one
“word” with anybody. Cigarettes are once again in stock so we procured a £1
worth for the Mess. Instead of the second French lesson the tutor told us how
the Russian “Askold” fought in the Russo-Japanese war.
Russian
cruiser “Askold”
Off at 11.30am for? perhaps Aden. The
second division remained behind. The “Dartmouth” is accompanying us as escort.
At the 2 parade we were all mustered & blown “sky high” by the Sgt Major on
account of the supposed slackness of the Company on matters of discipline &
general attitude towards N.C.O.s
No 17 orderlies in trouble for not being at
their table when “inspection” was on. There is a mistake somewhere as they do
not deserve 3 days C.B. I took their place from the French class as there was
none of their Mess attending. This was Capt Clogstoun’s arrangement on Monday 9th.
November
18
Damned hot again with the sea like a millpond. The boats
practiced for drill during the afternoon while we did Maths! At conclusion of
lecture Clogie told we were a D – lot of slackers etc & that we had to have
our dishes up by 9.30 parade even if the cleaning had to be done the night
before. The Sapper has now “organized” & in future polishing will only be
done on “Guard” days. This will mean that finish by 9.10 & can have a smoke
& wash which we were unable to do before. Clogie has put work on & we
have taken it off. To me it seems silly as the men in 16 & 17 looked on
their appearance with pride & pleasure. Now it is becoming a drudgery. Wrote
to “Shirty”, May, Mater, Aunts & Uncles, Prof Priestly, Prof Gibson, Bray.
Increase of argument. I am putting in the
following order taken from Clogie as he brushed us up after Maths “No mess
orderly will be allowed in the Mess deck while inspections is being carried on
by the C.O. Their places will be taken by members of the French class.”
November
19
Wrote to Mrs E G Wells, Flo, Mater.
Orderly today & evidently fell out of
the wrong side of the hammock for I blew Fergus up a treat when I knew he meant
nothing.
Alteration to timetable for Morse signaling.
Norm, Jack, Durack & self were told off by Capt Clogstoun to learn Morse; unfortunately
I was unable to: I feel already that I have too many irons in the fire to do
the thing properly much as I would like to master it. However I intend
to learn it in my spare time – the trouble is to find it - & perhaps
even then I may keep apace with the others. I am very much afraid that our
happy little Mess will be broken up over this whole business. Clogie at first
would not hear of me withdrawing but on explaining the Mess accounts he crossed
out my name saying he was disappointed.
November
20
Slept badly although the night was cool.
Every time I awoke I had a signal incident on my mind. And while I was doing orderly
duties Clogie came and said “To him that hast it shall be given to that hast
not shall be taken away”. So far I have not been able to fathom his reference.
Maths in the afternoon saw me
tutoring another Sapper. The absurdity of the affair annoys me. Thank goodness
our Mess is to remain intact. As all except two are signalers. Allan & I
decided to go as permanent orderlies & thus prevent others coming in to act
as orderlies and so push our own out. The “Ibuki” has again joined us together
with the third division, which remained behind at Colombo. The weather very hot
but the sea remains calm. Norm’s time is much taken up now & he can do very
little writing.
November
21
Very hot again today Sgt Major lectured on
Offensive tactics & Thorn on Defence. Had second French lesson. Engineers
concert at night. Clogie gave us an address on “My boys” in his characteristic
style.
November
22
Attended early service at 6.30. Thought of
home folk at their Morning (11 o’clock) Church. Too hot to do much so lolled about.
Went to 11.15 Church parade & enjoyed it. Slept or rather tried to sleep on
top poop deck with Norm, both decided that it was too noisy so come &
spread ourselves out on the troop deck only to be disturbed by the singing
attempts of Cpl Townsen & “Gregor”. Sorry to say we missed out on our usual
Sunday night sing song. Tried to write home but the noisy crowd & hot
conditions made it impossible so gave it up.
November
23
Land in sight – Socotra Island – is grand
to see land again. The island looks pretty barren with fairly high mountains.
Very hot again today. Paraded at 9.30am in Marching Order but got into “blue
duds” again at 12. Drew £1 for Nagel who told me to keep & not allow him
any more before he arrives in London – so be it.
Listened to a miserable lecture by Lt Savage
in the afternoon & missed Maths lecture as Clogie failed to put in an
appearance. Wrote to Con & while writing Clogie came and told us what he
thought of us for not working – damn work I say. Our section on guard
tomorrow. I’m off thank goodness I may get some writing down on the right side
of the sheet.
Poor old Second took a fit in the dry
canteen?. Went to his aid & was sorry to hear that he took a second fit
about dinnertime.
November
24
Our crowd on guard & like good sappers
they made the most of it. Anderson & orderlies got very little time to
write as we put in a lot of time making the deck spick & span; of course the old skipper had something
to say & picked on the hammock rack. Got the guard sardine sandwiches &
coffee at 7pm. They seemed to enjoy them thoroughly. Had a Maths lesson with Lt
Savage. Weather still hot and the sea appears to be as smooth as glass. The
surface is only disturbed here and there by a “cat’s paw”.
November
25
Mess deck again spick & span although
the skipper examined the hammock rack. Capt Clogstoun or rather Clogie called
us together over the NCO business – Fergus Campbell Lloyd Jack & self. The first 4 have decided to take or be
ready when called upon to take stripe. After a talk with Clogie I’ve decided to
take on Morse. Land again in sight. While we were having a Maths lecture we
entered Aden.
Aden
Harbour 1914
This is a very rocky place – wonderfully
so. The distant hills are almost obscured by a heavy haze. The wireless station
is perched on top of one of the highest pinnacles while the at the foot the
light house flashes out its warning. The whole place has an exposed jagged appearance,
which stands out against the skyline.
I heard the Engineers being blamed for the
broaching of the cargo in No 2 Hold. I don’t fear any ill & hope the
Sappers will prove equal to the occasion. Wrote to the Mater.
November
26
Spent morning from 6.30 on boat deck doing
my first lesson in Morse.
Heaved anchor at 6.30 & sailed away
from Aden. The formation of the rugged hills was very striking. These hills
were interspersed with sand dunes & away in the distance we could dimly see
thro’ the haze large grey & white mountains. In the harbour itself lay a
large number of Indian transports. We passed through “Hell’s Gates” about 3.30.
I was rather disappointed with them. I had heard such wonderful reports about
them and the danger in passing them that I was thoroughly disappointed with the
whole scene. I’d sooner have Hinchinbrook Channel any day.
No 1 Squad sent down in to No2 hold to do a
bit of straightening up.
Our boys were being tried for broaching
ships stores. Some body had had a “haul” for articles were strewn all over the
place. Numbers of the Indian transports are passing us on their return journey.
One had 113 on her side – How many were of them??
November
27
Stifling again today but as we were down in
the hold again we were unable to find a cool spot. Lt Savage brought us down a
tin of cocoa which we had at 10.30 and 3.30 Capt Clogstoun was very pleased
with our efforts. Amongst antics we had some rare scrums over the ships linen.
We also practiced the rocket – with great effect. We came across a few tins of
fruit in different “plants” and
sent them up as “empties”. Others also procured a few bottles which needless to
say went up as dead ‘uns. We were unfortunate enough to miss a “summing up”
lecture by Clogie who said the Engineers were exonerated from all blame –
Caesar’s Ghost!!!! & here we were filling ourselves down below the whole
time. Just finished “It Happened in Egypt” as we pass into the Red Sea. While
in this sea all physical training is being suspended, but all the same we are
doing plenty of it down in No2 hold, but thank goodness it is over the freezing
chamber. Caught up with the Orvieto who transferred some tobacco to us as we
had run out.
November
28
Down the hold again today and as usual had
a great time. Plenty of work & plenty of fun with it. There is no doubt
this Queensland crowd is hard to beat when one looks around. While down the
hold we heard great cheering from above and thought dinner was on but different
news greeted us when we enquired the cause. “We are going to Cairo,” they said.
What they had to cheer about I do not know. Our mess with the exception of
Allan Wilson detested the idea but like sensible beings decided to make the
best of it & no doubt we will have something to be thankful for. During the
afternoon Clogie gave a lecture on EGYPT but we were down in the hold. PAID.
November
29
Weather is degrees cooler. In fact we are
running in face of a fair head wind Attended Church parade at 11.30. The sea is
still smooth – what a wonderful trip this has been for our forces – we have a
lot to be thankful for. Although land is not in sight a light sand is covering
our decks. Rather remarkable. Wrote Pater, Bern, Aunties & Uncles, Mrs
Brydon.
November
30
Down in the hold again. The weather remains
beautifully cool with the sea a bit choppy. Signed for our equipment & also
got our identification tickets or tags. Land in sight. Our ships are forming
into single file. Finished letter to Con, Eric, Kath.
Down the hold from 7 to 8.45. Can now see
the opening our ships are making for. While in hammock I could see a brilliant
minute flashing light. Weather quite cold while the days are much shorter. It
is quite dark at 6 in the morning.
December
1
SUEZ
Land quite close on either side now. At
sunrise there was a wonderful effect. The rays struck the land on our port side
throwing it up in a beautiful pink & purple blending. Both Norm & I
remarked that Les would go “dilly” over it. The whole outline has a very sharp
appearance as if it is being rapidly denuded away. Down in the hold at 9am
& returned at 11am in time to see the fleet entering Suez. We dropped
anchor at 12.30 and it was not long before the Bumboats were alongside with the
crowd on. At sunset we witnessed a grand sight. The sand hills were blended
into beautiful shades of pink purple gold & yellow – wonderfully delicate.
We hear there has been some trouble locally with snap shootings on the canal.
The Victorians have been told off for “special service”. Wrote to D.E.B., Mrs
Les.
December
2
Bought some PCs from bum boat & wrote
to Con, Bern, Auntie. A2 moved in close at 6.30 to draw water. There are about
12 ships on the Indian Convoy, which has just come in escorted by a French
cruiser. About 2 we passed into the Canal.
We were all much struck with the beauty of
the spot. The streets were beautifully kept & planted with trees. The
shores of the Canal were all properly trained & bricked. It was about 80 yards
in width. We noticed a peculiar effect that the displacement of a large vessel
has on a narrow sheet of water. The stations along the Canal were very
picturesque & quite relieved the long stretches of sand. At intervals along
the banks were quartered companies of Indian troops who gave us a great
reception. Our ships were all fitted with searchlights to enable us to pick our
way thro’ the canal but as the night was beautifully moonlight they were more
as an ornament than use. Sleep put an end to sight seeing. Found my purse with
£6 pounds & bank receipt has been stolen. Feel horribly upset about it.
December
3
PORT SAID
During the course of the day saw a great
flight by a French hydroplane. There were 4 of them stationed on one of the
piers. We were entering Port Said as the bugle called us up. The moon was still
up & crowds of people were astir even at this early hour. Away in the
distance we could hear the Arab calling the Port Lincoln & it was not long
before they were around us. While the engineer was measuring the coal these Arabs
were begging for money & scrambling over one another in the endeavour to
grab a coin. Others were diving for coins. In contrast the women appear to do
most of the work & keep up a dismal line as they run up and down the plank with
their baskets. Bumboats were also very much in evidence. Some amusement was
caused by one of the Arab boats being sunk by the “Hampshire’s” wash leaving
his ice floating down the canal. Had a fruitless search for the stolen purse
but all to no avail. Sailed again at 4.30 & anchored in the Canal.
Steamer
arrival Port Said – the chaos of the small local boats!
December
4
Still anchored outside Port Said. Our
section on guard today, which means I’m orderly. At inspection the OC
complimented us on the appearance of our decks. Wrote a P.C. to Con & 2nd
card to Mr Well. Went down hold again. Orderly for the day. Busy watching clue;
for Bruce seems to be spending money very freely amongst stewards etc.
December
5
Down hold again. Had a tiff with Fergus because
he intended undressing while orderlies were down, duties. Bruce being watched
every turn.
December
6
Reported to Capt Clogstoun Bruce’s actions
& he decided to put it to the Section. This was done on Sunday morning. The
result left little doubt as to the thief but he would not admit anything.
Heaved anchor & moved closer in.
December
7
Down the hold again. Indian troops left in
the afternoon. Bruce matter left over for a while. I am heartily sick of the
whole thing. Wrote to Bern.
December
8
Wrote to Flo & Dick, Auntie Flo.
Nothing doing except a full dress parade & inspection. Spent evening
marking all gear. Sailed for Alexandria at 9pm. PAID. Wrote to Les & Mrs
Les.
December
9
Orderly. Spent afternoon down hold getting
gear (disused) ready for advance party who were embarking on the early morning
train. I stayed all night in the hold slinging our carts, wagons etc. Relieved
when I saw our heavily laden G.S. wagon reach the wharf safely. Finished at
3am. So turned in until 4.30 am as I was very tired. Jimmy, Lindsay & Bill
Farquhar worked liked Britons? While in the hold we were very much amused at
the Arabs. We arrived in Alexandria at 12. In the distance the place looked
very flat & hundreds of yellowish buildings glittered in the sun. There
appeared to be an exceptionally heavy tonnage in the harbour. There were at least
14 captured German Merchantmen there & a great number of sailing ships.
Wrote to Mater. These are fine days. So much work to allow one to have a
minute’s spell – I like to be “moving”.
December
10
Alexandria in town.
CAIRO.
December
11
MENA
Arrived in the camp under the shadows of
the pyramids at 1.30am. The place is extremely sandy but it is clean sand
resembling that of an ocean beach. Our tents accommodate 40 & are 30 X 15.
The two pyramids are about 300 years away & look tremendous. There are huge
ruins being unearthed around these by the Harvard University. It is most
interesting. Unfortunately we are not allowed to visit this. We hear that two
people (troops) have been killed through falling down (not off) the pyramids
while a N Zealander has had his throat cut by the natives or lifting the veil
of a woman in the street. Clogie has explained all the religious customs, which
must be observed by the troops. Our section told off as picket. I was one &
went on from 10 to 12 & from 4 to 8. The night was a beautiful moonlight
one. The pyramids looked fine. Their size is amazing. Norm & I hope to go
over them on Sunday. Jack released from detention to CB. No mail for Norm or I.
December
12
Finished horse picket at 8am & spent
morning in sleep; our tent brought 18 mats for lining to cover sand. It was a
great improvement & kept very clean. Our section allowed to go into Cairo.
Norm & I stayed behind. Before they left all unpacked the carts & took
them into the store. I put a Ruffalo forge together & then joined Norm at
tea. After tea we went up & visited the Queenslanders & afterwards went
down to Frank Hayman’s tent & met Bosie, Rigby, Chambers, Jones &
others. Jim Savage our C.O. joined us and we took home after a most enjoyable
evening. We gathered from our impressions that Col Tec is not altogether too
popular with the officers or men. Pater Stuart was in good health. Letters to
Company but no mail for “us two”.
December
13
Reveille at 6.45. Paraded at 7 &
straightened the peg in our lines. At 11 were marched to Mena House to have a
swim in the baths.
These were marble & beautifully kept.
ANZACS
in swimming pool at Mena House Hotel
My ankle had been troubling me a deal
today. Norm & rest went over the Pyramids & shopping in the afternoon.
I stayed at home to write to Pater. Heard that the “Afric” had been sunk. The
crowd are full of wonders of the pyramids & the excavations that surround
them. My poor little brother. I hope he’s a bit brighter than I am.
December
14
Did fatigue in the lines in the early
parade & spent a rotten morning up in the sand marching & forming rows
in the hot sun. In the afternoon had some fine rifle work in the shed. There
was a barney over the QM having the handling of the 6’ allowance & the
short weight bread. The Sappers are right after every penny & every ounce
they can get.
December
15
Checked the tools in the Queensland
section’s carts. This occupied all day, involved plenty of work. Not feeling
all that good. Often wonder if poor old Dick is still alive. I do wish Flo
would write – perhaps she has.
December
16
Cleaned rifles. Got ready for a route
march. We started off at 10am but before leaving Clogie read out extracts from
his private letters regarding the state of things at the front. This little act
was much appreciated and is typical of our Capt. Well we marched along the main
road from the Pyramids. This is a beautiful street covered by the Acacia trees,
which are growing up on either side.
Pyramids
Road to Ghiza
We halted by the side for dinner, which
consisted of a tin of sardines between two men & a loaf of bread between 5.
We then turned on to the first “burn” which is a raised roadway fringing the
bank of one of the many irrigations canals in the locality of the Nile. This
road turned & turned is all sorts of direction & on two occasions we
passed thro’ native villages. These villages covered about 5 acres & had
over 5,000 inhabitants. The houses are built of mud bricks & face in all
directions. The “streets” are about 5 feet wide & are pretty filthy. All
the drainage is put into a sloppy pool in the road & as it fills up it is
carted off & worked into the soil. These pools are right in front of
dwellings. Strange to say there are some fine houses in the midst of these
human cells. The odour and filth as well as the general appearance of the place
disgusts the white man who wonders why there is not more disease than there is
& goodness only knows there is enough of it.
December
17
Heard great news. We are to leave for
service on the Canal in a few weeks time. This means we will be the first
Australians to be in the thick.
Had an interesting lecture with Clogie on
the tool cart drill etc. He also read interesting extracts on the war from his
Mother’s letter. Had a half-holiday in afternoon. Made for Cairo by tram. We
met Clogie at the G.P.O. and about five cab loads of sappers went on an
interesting tour. Clogie took us to “Jacks” an art shop; here we had coffee
& Turkish Delights provided by Jack. We spent an interesting hour
inspecting beautiful beaten brass work & silks.
Old
Cairo bazaar 1914
We made a purchase or two & departed to
Cohens – a similar shop. We then wended our way to the Scent shop & enjoyed
Clogie’s “way” immensely. Dinner was then the next item, which we had at the
“New Khedive Hotel”.
The small waiter caught our eye. We then
walked Cairo & at 9.30pm got into a taxi for home. This drive was not the
least interesting part of the trip for we had a race with five others for home
& came last.
December
18
Physical drill at the early parade &
marked clothes at the 9 parade. Q.M. Wynn is absent without leave so something
ought to be “doing”.
Spent afternoon bedding pump onto tool
cart. Went up to see Cpl Hunter in 13 Coy of the 9th Qld Light. Wrote
to Con, Mater.
December
19
Went into the barracks at Cairo to load
mining gear on to 3 pontoon wagons. Saw the Museum alongside but was unable to
go thro’ it. Although we (Norm, Jim & I) hurried the job along. Had dinner
as the Soldiers Café in the Gardens.
Soldiers’
Club Ezbekiah Gardens Cairo
The meal consisted of a Roll, butter, 3
eggs, bacon, as well as a cup of coffee for 3 piastres (7 1/2d). Went around
the town & caught train home. Arrived at camp & found letters from Con
& the Pater. Cairo is a
wonderful place & terribly wicked. Today it is one mass of flags. For England
has broken her away from the Turkish yoke.
December
20
Paraded with sick on account of a cold
& then spent the morning making up “Defunct” sheets for the Coy. I intended
going over the Pyramids but thro’ a misunderstanding I was prevented. In the
afternoon Chas O and I climbed the big pyramid.
Climbing
the Pyramid
The view from 475ft is great and the mass
of stone that was beneath us will give great food for reflection in the future.
We were about an hour away altogether and then got on the pay sheets. Norm went
into Cairo to see Miss Roe at the Citadel. Poor old Dick seems very near me
today.
December
21
Spent most of the day making out Tool cart
lists. At night was up long after lights our making out pay sheets.
December
22
Up as usual & at 9 started to make up
the L.G.S. slip & to check the pay sheets. In the afternoon started a
letter to Con but as usual, was interrupted by the cry “Sapper Small” which of
course put a stop to my writing. Off I went surveying with Sgt Crocker who had
to make a plan & contour of the fort & ditch as well as the trench,
which we were attacking from. Its seems to me that I am to be a clerk instead
of a sapper, so am getting out of the job by going on with the rest of Queenslanders
at 10pm till 4 & then resting when I would be “clerking”.
While on shift one of the sentries in the
“lines” fired a shot & after the cry “halt” and “guards turn out” we heard
moans as if somebody had received a bullet.
Saw Lt Dorkins about my £2. Norm & the
crowd went to the Zoo where Durack was dismissed.
December
23
Came off shift at 4am and slept in till
10am. The first “sleep in” since leaving home. Spoke to Clogie while he was
inspecting the trench about the clerkship. He told me I was to be Clerk of the
Section when it was detailed away by itself. I would then be pay clerk &
Section Q.M. Sergeant. I pointed out that I wished to be in the “thick of it”
and he told me I could rest assured on that point.
December
24
PAID
Got leave all day so motored into Cairo
first to Eastern Telegraph Office to Cable home & then to Museum. We were
greatly struck with the statuary & enamel work of the ancients. We had fine
lunch at “Saults”. The food was excellent. After lunch we journeyed to the
Citadel & saw the Mosque of Mahomed Ali.
Citadel
& Mosque of Mohamed Ali
This place is marvelous. Marvellous in its
270 feet of height, marvelous in its alabaster composition, its beautiful
carpets, its thousands of electric lights, its ancient history, the
ornamentation in fact everything connected with it.
Interior mosque of Mohamed Ali at Citadel
The stone was carted from the great
pyramid. The guides told us the history of the Koran & then gave us a
glimpse of Cairo from the Citadel walls. We next visited the Royal Mosque – 45
steps & here were magnificent tombs of Sultan Hassan & his three wives,
son & daughter. The tomb of the daughter cost £30,000 & was made of
mahogany, ebony & sandalwood inlaid with gold and silver. The others were
of the finest marble. At the foot of two of the tombs were of solid silver,
glorious design & wonderfully massive. There was one lamp that was too
heavy to lift with one hand.
Tomb
of Sultan Hassan at Citadel Cairo
The next mosque was that of Sultan Hassan.
Here we did not use slippers as it was not being used. The place was bombarded
by Napoleon & there is a cannon ball still in the wall. One of the doors is
inlaid with gold & silver & cost £3,000. The guide told us that the
architect had his two arms cur off by the Sultan to prevent him constructing a
similar mosque; this building was over 600 years old. The dove tailing of the
stone is a problem. Tea at “New Khedive”. Picked up some Egyptian students and
spent night at circus with them.
December
25
What a Christmas! Roused up for untidy
lines & dirty rifles. Made to clean everything up. Got leave at 10am &
after lolling in the tent for an hour & chewing Turkish Delight, Norm,
Durie & I went into the Big Pyramid. We had to take our boots off, as the
passages were slippery from polish. We crawled down about 40 feet & up 200
into the King’s Chamber. Here were two huge blocks of polished granite 15 X 4 X
5 feet. It is simply marvelous how it was got there. On reaching home we found
some mail awaiting us from Home. My word it is fine hearing from home again. No
word from Flo. No news of poor Dick. Xmas dinner rotten. The crowd got in on
the vegetables & rabbit but kindly left us a “sensation of meat &
stuff. Never mind we got letters instead.
December
26
Went out to Heliopolis with Norm, Durie &
Bill. We were greatly struck with the architecture & magnificence of the
buildings.
.jpg)
Heliopolis
Main Boulevard
Came home in the motor & nearly had a
smash. Had one tooth done.
December
27
Went to have my teeth seen to. One tooth
pulled. Wrote to Con – 2 & Bern – 3. His birthday today.
December
28
All excitement today for we were to get off
to Suez tomorrow. We practiced “mobilizing” all day & at the end were told
that we were not wanted for a week.
December
29
Our Company orderly Company for the whole
camp. I was detailed on the water scheme but on account of Section duties was
unable to go. Jim Linday took my place. Norm in charge of the roads & plate laying gang.
December
30
One half of our troops marched past Sir G
Reid today.
Pay duties kept me busy.
Norm on plate duty.
Our section went on guard at 6.
Heard we will leave for Suez on Sunday for
sure: of course this means Monday or Tuesday.
December
31
Norm not too well so did not parade. Pay
duties & section clerk work kept me busy. Our crowd marched past Sir G Reid
today.
[2] Home of Norm Lloyd who also joined 3rd Field Company
Engineers, and had been studying engineering with Fred at University of Qld –
“Hillcrest”, Stanley Terrace, Taringa, Brisbane
[3] Norman Austin Lindsay, born 1892 – it was his home in Stanley Terrace,
Taringa, Brisbane where Fred had boarded with his father, Frederick Robert
Lloyd. Norm was also studying Engineering at University Queensland.
Norm Lloyd in
University Queensland Rugby team photo 1914
[5] Sinking of SMS “Emden”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SMS_Emden_(1908)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SMS_Emden_(1908)
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