History of the Atlantic Cable & Undersea Communications
from the first submarine cable of 1850 to the worldwide fiber optic network

Alfred Lawrence Spalding
and CS Levant II

Introduction:

Alfred Lawrence Spalding
1886 –1933

I sadly know little of my Grandfather except that which my father has told me. Facts of his formative years are sparse. He was born in Birkenhead in 1886, the third child of four of William and Katherine Spalding. His mother died when she was only 40 and left four children William, 13. Ida,12, Lawrence,10 and Harold, 8. After the death of their mother, their father left the family to travel first to Australia and then to Vancouver, Canada where he died in 1912. As a result of the ‘loss’ of both parents Lawrence was brought up by his Mother’s brother and his wife, John and Mary Knox.

Lawrence was educated at Christ’s Hospital and went on to join the Eastern Telegraph Company as a Probationer in 1902 at the age of 16. He started in London but was transferred to their Porthcurno site in 1903 where he was appointed to the staff in October 1903.

His work for the E.T.C. (later to become part of Cable & Wireless) took him to many parts of the world. His first taste of this came March 1904 when he was transferred to Gibraltar where he stayed until his next posting to Zanzibar in March of 1907.

The Staff Records of the E.T.C show that he was promoted almost yearly but unfortunately do not state to what and that his salary rose accordingly. His next transfer came in 1908, this time to Malta. He was to be based here for the next eight years and again the staff records record annual promotions and salary rises. This Malta posting was to be an important one on two counts. On a personal note, he was to meet and marry my Grandmother in 1912 and two years later my father, their eldest child was to be born in 1914. Meanwhile, Lawrence had been transferred to the Cable Ship Levant II in the March of 1912. This ship was to become his ‘home’ for the next four years and he was to see and experience first hand, warfare, while on board the Levant II off the coast of the Gallipoli Peninsula.

It was during his time on board the Levant II that Lawrence kept a daily Diary. And it is the Extracts from his Diary that have been passed to me by my father and published here. I call them Extracts because the Preface states this clearly. Whether a more full diary was kept I do not know. Neither do we know if the Diary started before and was carried on after these recorded events. What is important is that the Extracts of this remarkable time in history have survived and bring to us now, first hand accounts of a different aspect of the Gallipoli Campaign.

Though of course the wartime experiences of the crew and Cable Laying Engineers were nowhere near as bad as the Troops who suffered on the Peninsula, the Levant II itself saw a lot of action and had several narrow escapes whilst laying down and servicing the numerous communication cables that were required by the Allied Armed Services during the Campaign.

Lawrence and other members of the cable staff were ‘Mentioned in Despatches’ in May 1916, and the ship’s Master, Harold G.E. Wightman, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, for their services in a difficult operation involving the laying of a cable from Imbros to Suvla within the first few hours of the troops landing, on August 6th and 7th 1915.

Despite the evident dangers of this operation, the daily entries for those dates are quite matter-of-fact with little or no emotion. They had a job to do and so they did it.

I have transcribed the Diary as it was written to keep the style. I have made some very small changes in spelling and punctuation to make the text make sense where before it didn’t.

A point to realize is that this Extract was in fact written in September 1917 as it states in the Preface. Therefore, at the end of each month the Notes pertaining the entry are written with hindsight and contain interesting reflections on some of the entries.

The diary spans the time from April 25th 1915 to January 18th 1916 and though the war continued Lawrence was transferred to Car. [sic – staff records] in 1917 after what I imagine was a well earned furlough [sic].

After the War he was transferred to Bombay as a 4th Grade Office and the family lived there from 1919 to 1922. After Bombay the next posting was Cape Town in 1922 and then in 1926 onto Ascension Island.

In 1929 he moved to Alexandria and also to Port Sudan.

Meanwhile he had settled his wife and three children in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire.

In 1932, while he was stationed back in London, Lawrence first became ill, suffering from a brain tumor. Although treatment was given and operations performed, it was to no avail, and Lawrence died on the 24th March 1933, leaving a wife and three children aged 18, 14 and 8. His obituary was published in the Welwyn Garden City newspaper.

He was 47 years old.

Peter Lawrence Spalding
April 2007

The Diary

Cable Work at Gallipoli
1915 – 1916

By
A.L. Spalding

P r e f a c e

The following pages are simply a record of things seen, heard or experienced while on board Cable Ship LEVANT II, together with the occasional remarks expressing my own feelings and impressions at the time. At the request of Captain Wightman, Messrs Black and Birkbeck, I have made these extracts from my Diary, well knowing that other records kept on board are far more worth reading. As my own Diary however, was the only one on the ship embracing the whole period of the Gallipoli Campaign, I have thought that these unliterary writings may in future be of interest to the few of us who, working together under trying and often dangerous conditions, passed many anxious moments in each others company. Moments which I know are not fully or well described.

When reading through this Diary myself I have enjoyed going over again in my mind, the times we passed together. I have noticed that some events that meant a great deal to us in the way of anxiety are often described with a few short sentences. We, however who took part in these events can mentally fill in the blanks to complete a picture from the rough outline.

I have added after each month’s Diary, some notes correcting or enlarging upon first impressions or information. I should mention that occasionally the diary was not fully written up at night . The reason for this was often pressure of work and sometimes the fear of putting on paper information of importance. For instance, no mention of the Evacuation was written down until the event had taken place.

1915

April 25th 1915

At Tenedos. Witnessed general bombardment of the Dardanelles and Asiatic Coast as far south as Besika. Just after dawn many transports passed Tenedos on their way to the Dardanelles. Battleships, Cruisers, Destroyers and armed Merchantmen were also in pre-arranged positions, many of them having come up from Mudros. These all took part in the general bombardment. The noise was terrific. The ships operating against the European side of the Straits were too far off to be seen by us but incessant gun flashes could be seen and reports of big guns heard. The ships bombarding the Asiatic side were the ones that came immediately under our notice. It was a stirring and awesome sight in the half light of dawn, especially to us whose only knowledge of warfare had been culled from books. The firing continued but with less intensity during the day. In the evening, a large Hospital Ship passed us steaming South showing the landing of troops had not been effected without loss.

We afterwards heard more details of the landing. After the first terrific bombardment the troops were towed ashore in Lighters. The Steam Picquets boats and tugs were commanded by young Midshipmen for the most part. These Middies in their teens contrasted greatly with the grown men in their charge. The conduct of these young boys who had never seen Active Service before, was spoken of by Admiral Wemyss as more than exemplary.

One ship, the ‘RIVER CLYDE’ ran purposely ashore in order to expedite the landing of her troops. These troops suffered terribly. The first 100 or so, who stepped on to the Lighters were shot down to a man by the sudden and terrible fire from Machine Guns and Rifles and about 50 men who did get ashore, were unable to either go forward or back to the ship and had to remain under shelter of the cliff for 36 hours before help could reach them, when the landing from the ‘RIVER CLYDE’ was successfully accomplished. Two men, Captain Unwin and a Midshipman here obtained a V.C. for wading up to their chests in water under a hail of Rifle fire, to rescue lighters of men which had broken loose.

Meanwhile troops were landed at other points on the European side of the Straits under cover of shell fire from the Men-of-War but always fiercely resisted by the Turks who held their fire until troops were within a few yards of the beach.

The Australians had the most difficult place to land at but eventually established themselves on shore after heavy losses.

The French Troops made a feint landing at Kum Kale on the Asiatic side and were afterwards re-embarked.

An incident worth recording is that HMS ‘IMPLACABLE’ anchored 500 yards from the shore and fired her 12” Shrapnel from that short range into the Turks.

April 26th 1915

Still at Tenedos. awaiting orders from Admiral to lay cable from here to Cape Helles where troops landed yesterday. Received no news but afterwards learnt that positions taken yesterday by our troops had been consolidated. Could hear intermittent bombardment all day and after dark the flashes can be seen almost incessantly.

April 27th 1915

Admiral sent us orders this morning to carry on with cable laying. Laid out nine miles and dropped anchor off Kum Kale. Waiting for daylight.

April 28th 1915

Finished laying the cable today and are now anchored abut 140 yards from Cape Helles beach where three days ago such fierce and terrible slaughter took place. Have still got cable end on board which two local clerks are busily working in the test room. The fire of Machine Guns can be heard from time to time showing that the firing line is not very far away. The camp on shore is being shelled with Shrapnel from time to time and wounded are continually being brought in from the firing line, some on stretchers others hobbling with along with assistance.

The Straits are a wonderful sight. About 200 vessels of all descriptions are anchored between Helles and Kum Kale. Battleships and Cruisers, Transports from huge Cunarders down to humble Tramps, Patrol vessels, trawlers and tug boats. The Warships are continually firing over our heads towards the Turks.

April 29th 1915

Went on shore to land the cable end. An office was fitted up this morning in a tent on the beach. Walked up the hill to have a look at some of the old Turkish trenches. Could see the present firing line about 2 miles away. From time to time Shrapnel would burst overhead making me wonder if it was not better to return to the ship. Obtained a few curios before returning on board.

A German aeroplane flew over the ship, dropping bombs without damage. Our ships failed to bring him down though they fired until he was out of their range.

We hear that the Turks are mutilating our wounded and prisoners. Some of our wounded have been discovered evidently burnt alive. This they say has fired our troops with desire for revenge. The Munsters say they will take no prisoners after what their men have suffered.

April 30th 1915

Have been doing cable work today between the shore and the ships , one of whom hooked and broke the newly laid cable.

News from shore says our troops are doing fairly well . Turks have made a determined attack against the French who are on the right flank at Seddul Bahr about half a mile up stream. The French at one time were in a very bad way.

German aeroplane again visited us and tried more bomb dropping which did no damage. Our aeroplanes today have also been busy.

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NOTES: APRIL

As regards entry under April 29th , concerning the report that the Turks were mutilating our wounded and prisoners, although there have been instances, most of the stories were found to be untrue. For instance, the remark that some of our men were afterwards discovered burnt alive was literally true. But the burning was caused by our own guns which struck the house or shed where these unfortunate prisoners happened to be confined. Any mutilations, I imagine must have been perpetrated by Turkish Conscripts from Asiatic tribes. The Turk generally was said by our soldiers to fight like a gentleman.

A case in point was when the ‘TRIUMPH’ sank,(May 25th), the rescuers were fired on but the next day a message came from the Turkish Commander regretting the incident and stating that the fire was from a German Battery over which they had no control.

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May 1st 1915

Finished repair to the Tenedos cable and returned to our anchorage close to Cape Helles. The fighting, we hear is still vigorous. Our ships continue to bombard the Turkish positions and the Turks shell the beaches from time to time. We saw one shrapnel shell burst quite close to our office on shore.

May 2nd 1915

Laid cable today from Gaba Tepe (where the Australian troops landed) to Cape Helles a distance of about 12 miles. Gaba Tepe beach is almost continually swept by shrapnel. Had a yarn with Lieut. in charge of Signal Office while cable end was being landed. He said they have lost far more men by the shrapnel fire on the beach than in the actual fighting against the Turks. Our Troops apparently only hold the top of the ridge and are unable to advance. Our ship was hit several times by enemy’s shrapnel fire. After landing the cable end we paid out to Cape Helles.

While we were at Gaba Tepe a Destroyer anchored close to us. She had made a raid higher up the coast and captured 18 Turks. The boat load of these prisoners being unable to make shore in a strong wind, tied up alongside of us. The Turks look a wild dishevelled lot. They had been treated like lords compared with the lot of our men captured by the Turks.

May 3rd 1915

Laid three more short cables today from Helles beach to S.S. ‘ARCADIAN’, the first one of which was broken by a trawler’s anchor within an hour of its laying. S.S. ‘ARCADIAN’ is the Head Quarters of the General and Staff and is anchored off the shore among the numerous Transports.

May 4th 1915

Very little news obtainable today. We are still anchored of Helles. Heard that one 15 inch shell from H.M.S ‘QUEEN ELIZABETH’ wiped out a whole battalion of Turks . This seems incredible even for H.M.S ‘QUEEN ELIZABETH’s’ massive guns.

May 5th 1915

Last night about nine o’clock the Gaba Tepe cable was reported broken so I went ashore with Cottrell and took a rough test showing the break was at the far end. Steam down on ‘LEVANT’ so the ‘WHITBY ABBEY’ a patrol vessel was engaged and this morning at day-break Cottrell, Jordan and I with boat load of cable and men were taken to Gaba Tepe or Anzac as it is now called. Arrived there at 7.00am and finished repair by 9.30 am . The men working on the joint and splice in the boat were subjected to rifle fire from the Turks. This may have been stray bullets coming over the cliffs or direct sniping. If the latter, it was not very successful as no one was hurt.

Matters at Anzac seemed much worse than on May 2nd when we were there last, that is as regards fire from the enemy’s guns

Whilst off Anzac, we saw a big shell drop in the water close alongside a collier. This was said to be fired from the German Battleship ‘GOEBEN’ anchored at Chanak. Every now and again she fires one right over the peninsula among the ships anchored there off Anzac.

May 6th 1915

Working on repair to the Helles-Tenedos cable. No news

May 7th 1915

Finished repair to Helles-Tenedos cable. News today that our troops had captured the village of Krithea and are making progress. Krithea is not far distant from Helles but is I believe an important step in the advance towards Achi Baba, the height which commands most of the adjacent country.We also heard today that the German Taube which has become so familiar to us, has been brought down by the Australians at Anzac. But this may only be a rumour.

A shell fired from the Turks today dropped within five yards of our office on Helles beach. The ships are daily bombarding the Asiatic side of the Straits to prevent the Turkish guns being brought up to shell our camps. Whenever a Turkish gun is seen to fire, immediately five or six shells from the French and our Men-of War are at the spot. The distance of the Turkish guns on the Asiatic side is about four miles from our camps.

May 8th 1915

Today we repaired the Anzac cable again at the Helles end. As I write a furious fight is going on shore over the hill. We are making an attack on the slopes of Achi Baba, the next commanding height. This seems to show we have made some progress. The ships are taking part with their twelve inch guns, firing over our heads and making a deafening roar. We hear that Wedgwood, M.P. was yesterday wounded badly while serving his maxim.

While our ship was waiting alongside H.M.S. ‘BURNALUS’ today we could see the fight going on in the distance but the distance was too great to distinguish objects.

Read Wireless news today. One German telegram dated 5th says the Australians attempted a landing at Gaba Tepe but were driven back. Having seen with our own eyes on the 2nd and 5th that the Australians are  firmly established there, we are able to judge the accuracy of the German news.

This afternoon we steamed to Gaba Tepe again to buoy the cable (to prevent anchors fouling it.) Went ashore. Shrapnel storm was just beginning as we returned to the ship. Captain Lear, Jordan, Cottrell and self. An Officer informed us that this shelling of the beach was a daily occurrence at this time, (4-5p.m.) for half an hour or so, during which time, the beach is unsafe. Needless to say we were not sorry our work on shore was finished before this performance got into full swing.

When we arrived back on board we saw seven shells in succession with half a minute fired right on our Red Cross Tents; thus seeing with our own eyes that we have many times read of in the papers with more or less incredulity.

The ‘GOEBEN’ this morning firing right over the peninsula got within 30 yards of H.M.S.VENGEANCE’.

On our return to Cape Helles this evening the fight which started this morning was still raging. Just near Cape Helles we passed close to ‘QUEEN ELIZABETH’ with her mammoth guns—a veritable floating fort.

May 9th 1915

At Helles. Camp was shelled this morning from 8.0a.m. to 8-30 a.m., apparently from the Asiatic side. Saw many wounded of yesterday’s fight being brought off from the beach in trawlers.

Our ships renewed the bombardment of the Asiatic coast endeavouring to find the enemy’s guns. Aeroplane hovering above them to report on ships gunfire. Have not heard how successful they were.

Australians today are said to have brought down one of the enemy’s aeroplanes. I have not seen a German aeroplane for a week.

Yesterday’s fight apparently was very sanguinary. We hear that our losses were very heavy and those of the Turks enormous. Krithia  and Achi Baba not yet taken though night attacks took place last night.

May 10th 1915

At Helles. Have been working on board SS ‘ARCADIAN’, the G.H.Q. ship today. A Trawler was alongside ‘ARCADIAN’ with many wounded on board. The result of yesterday’s battle. Three of the poor fellows had died in the night. Some hitch here. Apparently all the Hospital Ships were away and there was no accommodation for those men. Perhaps the is some explanation but it makes one indignant to see the luxury and comfort on the ‘ARCADIAN’ in contrast to the suffering on the Trawler made fast alongside. One would think that the poor fellows could be lifted on board the big ship and made more comfortable pending the arrival of a Hospital Ship

And I understand the Trawler had been there all the previous night.

Went to Tenedos this afternoon and returned to Helles this evening.

May 11th1915

At Helles. Nothing very eventful. Camp shelled during the evening. Otherwise quiet.

‘GOEBEN’ reported to have been hit three times by warships’ guns.

May 12th1915

Laid another cable today from Tenedos to Cape Helles. During the paying out we received a wire from Tenedos reporting that a submarine had been sighted off Doro channel at 9.00a.m. Finished laying cable at 6.00p.m. A few more shells from the Turks on Asiatic side, one of which exploded 100-150 yards astern of us.

All lights ordered out tonight.

Attack evidently in full swing on shore tonight judging by the noise of rifle and machine gun fire. But glad to say our troops seem to have advanced a little as the firing sounds further off.

May 13th 1915

This morning early, H.M.S. ‘GOLIATH’ was sunk by torpedo. Only 150 saved.

We have seen her for the last two or three days at her station near Seddul Bahr about ¾ mile up the Straits from us. Submarine having been reported in the Aegean yesterday, it was at first thought that she had been sunk by her, but it appears that a Turkish Torpedo Boat crept down the Straits unobserved and torpedo the ‘GOLIATH’ and got away again. Being at such an hour of night there was a terrible loss of life. We on board knew nothing of it till this morning. An explosion would attract no notice on account of the continual noise of gunfire.

Our troops on shore are said to be advancing slowly. This afternoon the camp on  Helles beach was shelled severely from Asiatic Coast. Several horses and some men killed. I saw six or seven large shells burst within half an hour. One burst close to the ship and a hot piece of shell fell on deck.

We proceeded  to Tenedos at 4.30p.m.

Mat 14th 1915

At Tenedos. Could get no news today. We could hear heavy bombardment going on at Helles even from this distance. Trawlers have been patrolling round about here all day, probably looking for  the submarine which is known to be in the vicinity.

We remain at Tenedos all day waiting further instructions about the cable we are to lay for S.S. ‘ARCADIAN’

May 15th 1915

G.H.Q. informed us this morning that they did not now require the cable at Tenedos and we proceeded to Helles where we are now anchored with all lights out.

Last night store ship ‘AJAX’ was it by a shell while anchored off Helles and report says that 22 casualties occurred among whom were 18 Turkish prisoners. 70 horses were killed yesterday on the beach by shells from Asiatic side. There is of course no shelter for these animals in the camp and the casualties among them are heavy while men of course can take cover in dug outs when shelling begins.

May 16th 1915

Repaired Imbros-Cape Helles cable today close to Cape Helles. No further news of importance. Submarine scare is still on. Anchored for the night at C. Helles. Camp on shore was shelled again today. Battleships at anchor replying.

May 17th 1915

Cable work off Imbros

May 18th 1915

Spent most of the day on cable work off Imbros, returning later to Cape Helles. While in Kephalo Bay (Imbros) Submarine S.14 returned from an expedition into the Sea of Marmora, having sunk 2 Turkish Men-of War and 10 Transports. Two other of our submarines that went up the straits with E.14 passed into Kephalo Harbour enthusiastically cheered by every sailor in the Harbour.

May 19th 1915

Proceeded to Tenedos and thence to Mudros. On the way found drifting pontoon and towed it to Mudros. Splendid harbour here and useful base for Fleet. Net defences across the harbour at night time.

May 20th 1915

Remained here at Mudros taking coal and water.

May 21st 1915

Laid another cable today between Cape Helles and Imbros. In the evening we procured printed press messages from S.S. ‘ARCADIAN’ also Ashmead Bartletts account of the landing at Cape Helles, C. Tekek and Seddul Bahr. These were the original sheets and we could read under the blue pencilled lines of the Censor. Went ashore at Helles today and things were fairly quiet. Our E.T.C. (Eastern Telegraph Company – Ed.) tent has  been removed to a safer place under the shelter of the cliff. The original spot in the middle of the beach was very much exposed and the clerks had had some very narrow escapes.

Heard today that the Australians at Gaba Tepe (or Anzac as it has now come to be called) are doing splendidly, causing so many casualties among the Turks that there is a danger of disease breaking out unless the bodies are soon buried. Turks seem to be weakening.

Remain at Imbros for the night.

May 22nd 1915

Returned from Imbros to Cape Helles this evening. All quiet today. Believe truce  arranged for burying the dead. Australians at Anzac said to be doing splendidly and inflicting enormous casualties on the Turks. Here one could hardly think there was any War at all. Everything is so quiet. But submarines are said to be in the neighbourhood and all precautions are being taken. Most of the Transports have been sent off to Mudros and Imbros and the waters are very different to what they were a fortnight ago when 150-200 ships were at anchor off Helles. Destroyers and Trawlers are patrolling incessantly for submarines. No lights allowed to shown by ships.

Italy said to be declaring war on Austria in 3 days time.

May 23rd 1915

Arrived at Mudros this afternoon after calling at Tenedos on route. No news.

May 24th 1915

Left Mudros again this morning, picked up a Clerk and Military Officer at Tenedos and came on to Helles. All is quiet here tonight. Hear that Italy has declared War on Austria.

May 25th 1915

At Imbros. German Submarine at large, succeeded in sinking H.M.S. ‘TRIUMPH’ off Gaba Tepe. We have often seen ‘TRIUMPH’ lying at anchor strafing the Turks on the Anzac’s right wing. Trawler full of naked survivors came into Imbros Harbour today. It was a sight worth seeing – these sailors, some stark naked and others clothed in Signal Flags, cheering for all they were worth and calling out the now famous catechism re downheartedness. One fellow I noticed especially cheerful sitting on the bulwarks without a stitch of clothing acting as Chanty-man. One who does not know the temperament of the British Sailor would have thought a great victory had been scored.

Destroyers and Trawlers seem more busy than ever submarine hunting. I hear today that one of our Submarines has been busy in Marmora and has sent a Turkish Gun-boat to the bottom.

May 26th 1915

We left Imbros yesterday afternoon and anchored off Helles for the night to be ready to repair the cable Anzac-Helles which was broken.

Early this morning we proceeded to Anzac where the cable was broken. We were told that the ‘TRIUMPH’ had gone down on it yesterday and went for the spot but found it broken close to Anzac Beach. During  our attempt to repair the shore end the ship was subject to heavy shrapnel fire. We were about 150 yards from the beach with the cable at the bow when the Turks from Gaba Tepe suddenly opened fire on us. Three shells in quick succession burst over the ship. Two men were slightly injured. We cut the cable and cleared out as quickly as possible. We then found the ship was holed above the water line. Two shrapnel bullets entered the testing room, one passed through the inkstand and the other struck the wooden bulkhead. Fortunately for me I was at the Morse Instrument and not at the table.

A Doctor from one of the Mine Sweepers attended to the injured men whose wounds proved to be very slight. We then had lunch at anchor further out and considered how the new end could best be laid. After lunch we secured a Pinnace and coiled the end of the cable in her stern and steamed in close again. Jordan jumped in and the end was landed in two or three minutes. The E.E.’s on shore took the end and the Pinnace returned. We were now spotted again by the enemy who again opened fire just as  ship got turned round. However we paid out quickly and got away with no more damage than riddled decks and awnings.

Finished the repair without further mishaps though rifle bullets from time to time struck the water around the ship. Our final splice was made about half a mile off the Turks and it is marvellous that they did not shell us again.

After the repair we anchored off the beach and a general hunt for curios began on board. The binnacle top had been smashed and the saloon sky-light scored. The awnings were pieced in many places and some of the bullets had buried in the deck.

May 27th 1915

Proceeded to Imbros this morning and have been working on board S.S. ‘ARCADIAN’ G.H.Q ship. Another Battleship was torpedoed this morning. ‘H.M.S. MAJESTIC’ off Cape Helles. Unfortunately the submarine made off without being hit. Orders re lights out at night are more stringent than ever. Very few casualties in the ‘MAJESTIC’. The ship itself turned turtle and her keel is partly visible above the water.

May 28th 1915

No news today. Remained at Imbros.

May 29th 1915

Submarine reported off Gaba Tepe today. Saw official report of sinking of Turkish Transport in the Golden Horn by one of our submarines. We remain at Kephalo all day.

May 30th 1915

Went to Helles this morning and did a cable job there. From Helles we proceeded to Tenedos and thence returned to Kephalo.

May 31st 1915

Working at Helles today. Cables keep getting hooked and dragged by trawler anchors. The beach is fairly quiet now except for aeroplane bombs. Presume our ships have silenced the Asiatic battery. We were speaking to some R.N. Division men today and they were full of enthusiasm and say we ought  to have possession of Achi Baba (the dominating hill) in a week.

A big attack is on tomorrow.

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NOTES: MAY

Although no mention is made in the Diary of the wonderful transformation of Helles beach after landing, I remember how amazed we were even during the first week at the change effected by the Engineers. The ground between Capes Helles and Tekeh was a gradual slope of sand. On the first two or three days of the Occupation, guns, stores and ammunition all had to be landed and dragged up this slope and over the rough ground to their different destinations. It was a sight to see the drags and gun carriages with fine Clydesdale horses harnessed to them dash up this slope amidst clouds of dust. But within a week a fine road took the place of this rough ground and other wonderful changes took place. The men soon had their dug-outs and shelters , finding canvas was hardly enough protection from the shell fire. Telegraph poles appeared to grow daily, sign posts directed the stranger to the important centres, in fact organisation took the place of chaos. I ought to mention the piers which were speedily constructed to enable the Picquet Boats to land their passengers etc. with ease.

May 4th 1915

If one read ‘Company’ for ‘Battalion’ the report sounds more credible.

May 8th 1915

As regards firing on the Red Cross the excuse urged for the enemy is that the Hospital was too close to the other objects. This excuse seems plausible as the Anzacs were so congested that it must have been difficult to find a secluded spot for Red Cross tents.

May 19th 1915

The Captain of the ‘ARCADIAN’ humanly tried to ease the lot of the poor wounded in the Trawler and was reprimanded by a Staff Surgeon for interfering . The Captain took the matter to the highest quarters and the Surgeon I believe had to apologise.

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June 1st 1915

At Imbros on cable work.

June 2nd 1915

Proceeded to Mudros where ‘LEVANT I’ is arriving tomorrow to relieve us.

June 3rd 1915

‘LEVANT I’ arrived and we left for Syra.

June  4th/June 7th 1915

At Syra shipping  fresh stock of cable

June 8th 1915

We arrived back in Mudros today with cable to lay a line from Lemnos to Helles from the French Government but there is a hitch in arrangements with the French War Office so we are annoyed at being hurried away back from Syra. We are remaining here at present with ‘LEVANT I’

June 9th/June 12th 1915

At Mudros . Nothing special to report.

June 13th 1915

At Mudros. This morning about 10 o’clock a German aeroplane dropped a bomb on the camp on shore. The bomb exploded close to water’s edge without doing any damage. Fleet opened fire with shrapnel and rifles but the aeroplane soon got safely away. It was reported to have been brought down later on its way back from Mudros.

June 14th/ June 20th 1915

At Mudros . Nothing special to report.

June 21st 1915

We left Mudros this morning and proceed to Tenedos. Met ‘LEVANT I’ there who had just done a repair close to Anzac. They apparently had an exciting time being exposed to rifle and shell fire but evidently nothing like our experience of the 26th ultimo. From Tenedos we went to Imbros. Passing close to Cape Helles we heard and saw fierce bombardment going on near French positions on right flank. Guns can still be heard incessantly (11.0 pm) and we are in Kephalo Bay some 12 miles or so from the battlefield.

June 22nd 1915

Left Imbros this morning early for C. Tekeh to test Anzac cable which had again broken down. Tested at Tekeh and proceeded to Anzac to remove fault close to beach. On passing the point of Gaba Tepe a Turkish battery opened fire on the ship. shots fell wide though pretty close and we diverted our course seaward a bit to get out of range. Anchored about 3½  miles from shore out of range and waited for night fall as it was impossible to work in daylight owing to the enemy’s gun fire. After dark we steamed closer in and did repair without mishap, removing fault due to trawlers anchor. Saw Smyth at Anzac and had time to have a yarn and see his dug-out.

After finishing our repair we left Anzac about mid-night and steamed towards Helles. While off Tekeh with lights out we collided with a trawler. Smashed up our Cutter and Boat Davits and some damage was done to plates on port side. Anchored off Helles about 1.00 a.m.

June 23rd 1915

This morning we laid shore end for the new Helles-Lemnos cable, at Helles. Two days ago this beach was severely shelled from the Asiatic side. 220 shells fired on to the beach and adjacent parts in the space of 1½ hours. Casualties amounted to only one man killed and three wounded. 70 horses were also killed as these could not get into shelter. The men seem quite safe in their dug-outs.

June 24th 1915

Today we laid cable from Lemnos to Helles, being assisted by ‘LEVANT I’ at Lemnos end. Anchored at Helles for the night.

June 25th/ July 21st 1915

During this time ship was repaired and damages sustained in our collision were made good. We then left for Syra  to replenish stock cable and after spending three days there returned to Mudros arriving there on July 20th ‘LEVANT I’ had relieved us for this period.

July 21st 1915

This morning we had to leave Mudros to repair Imbros - C. Tekeh I cable. Arrived at Helles in the afternoon to test. Jordan had been left behind in Mudros with bad legs. Birkbeck (my new assistant from Syra) and I took the boat to underrun from the beach. While trying to get the cable into the boat near the pier, three shells came whizzing over from the Asiatic Coast and exploded along the beach. The third one being within 40 yards of us I thought it time to clear out. We dropped the cable and began rowing back to the ship. Only just in time. The fourth shell came with its hideous shriek and fell five yards from where we had been working and the pieces splashed around our boat. Birkbeck had been told he would get some experience by coming in the boat. I think he did.

During the afternoon we worked with the ship and the repair was nearly finished by dark.

July 22nd 1915

Finished the repair off Helles today. While making the final splice on board, the enemy fired on us from another battery and all but hit us. Two shells fell into the water right under our bow. We fully expected to get struck this time but beyond the two shots, they did not fire and we finished the repair as quickly as possible. Anchored for the night close by. Troops are pouring in from Mudros. Arriving here in small ships by dark.

July 23rd1915

Steamed over to Kephalo Bay, Imbros, this morning and anchored.

July 24th 1915

Remained at Imbros. A new cable is now required from here to Anzac. Capt. Lear has fallen sick and Jordan has been wired for to return from Mudros.

July 25th 1915

This morning we laid the shore end at Imbros for the new Imbros-Anzac cable. Afterwards Jordan rejoined the ship from Mudros and we proceeded in the evening to Anzac to divert a cable end there and to complete the new cable to Imbros. Had to choose night time on account of shell fire. The cable end was diverted with difficulty by moonlight and we proceeded on the work with the new cable.

July 26th 1915

Working all night the new end was laid at Anzac by 4.00 am . there was no shell fire on the beach during the night though we were informed by the R.E.’s that the last two nights had seen the beach heavily shelled. We had the usual rifle bullets from the cliffs, the ship was hit by several. Paid out cable to Imbros and finished the work by 11.00 a.m. and left for Mudros where we arrived at 6.30 p.m. very tired.

July 27th 1915

At Mudros. Another new cable is now required between Helles and Mavro Island

(Rabbit Island). A large Monitor with 14” guns stationed at Mavro required Telegraphic Communication  with her spotting station near Cape Helles. This Monitor keeps the Turkish guns on the Asiatic side more or less quiet.

July 28th 1915

Proceeded to Helles via Rabbit Island to arrange re new cable. Remaining for the night at Helles.

July 29th 1915

Laid shore end this morning at Helles for the Rabbit Island cable. No shell fire to worry us. Paid out to Rabbit Island without trouble. After completing the work and while Cottrell and I were still on board the Monitor the latter got a request over the wire to open fire. Guns were quickly swung round in the required  direction The distance was 9 miles and it was interesting to watch the proceedings. Report by wire from Helles spotting station was phoned after each shot. First so much over, second so much under, third, ‘Thanks, that will do’. Significant words those last. After this the ‘LEVANT’ left for Imbros, arriving there late afternoon.

July 30th 1915

At Imbros. Bad weather.

July 31st 1915

This morning we laid out a new shore end at Imbros for a cable shortly to be required in connection with a new landing of troops in Gallipoli. Much speculation as to where this landing is to take place. Can make a shrewd guess. After laying shore end at Imbros we proceed to Mudros via Tenedos.

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NOTES: JUNE

The Higher Command must have realised by now the hopelessness of the campaign yet I know the general feeling of others including Military officers was one of optimism. Some who we spoke with talked of taking Achi Baba in a day or two. The dash and daring of the Anzacs raised hopes to a high level. My disappointment was keen when on our return from Syra we found things practically the same as before and even worse as regards the conditions under which we worked.

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(No NOTES for July – Ed.)

August 1st/ 4th 1915

At Mudros repairing harbour cables there. Capt. Lear is relieved by Capt. Wightman

August 4th 1915

Left Mudros this evening and came to Tenedos to test Helles-Tenedos No. 2 section which had broken down. Break proved to be at Helles end and ship was anchored for the night off Tenedos. Turks today, while shelling W. Beach at Helles, placed a shell into the R.E. Signal Office killing six men including Lieut. Ward and wounding many and of course wrecking the tent. This R.E. Signal Office has been for 3½ months in a most exposed position but up to now has escaped being hit.

August 5th 1915

Left Tenedos at day-break for Helles and arrived about 7.30 a.m.. Went ashore  and found new Signal Office in a much safer place under Tekeh Cliff. Underran cable and as break was not in shore end and weather bad, we returned to the ship and proceeded to Imbros to be ready to start laying the new cable from there in connection with the fresh landing of troops. This new landing of troops is to be made north of Gaba Tepe (Anzac) and it is hoped that the operation will make an end of the Turkish stand at Gallipoli. The laying of this new cable simultaneously with the landing of troops is, we are told, most important.

August 6th 1915

The excitement in Imbros harbour today was intense. Landing of troops is now taking place. Our ship left Kephalo Harbour first this afternoon and we commenced splicing on to the shore and outside. Meanwhile troop ships and other craft left harbour and set on towards Cape Suvla at dusk. Motor Lighters specially fitted for dashing troops ashore quickly were in procession towards Suvla Bay. We began paying out at 8.20 p.m.

August 7th 1915

After paying out about 15 miles we arrived at Suvla about one o’clock this morning and dropped anchor. An armed Naval party whom we had brought with us laid a light shore end while we made the splice. It had been a strangely dark night until the moon rose about this time. Hardly a sound could be heard except an occasional rifle shot and the continual dropping of anchors as the troop ships came in.

A general attack has been going on at Helles and Anzac all day and the fighting there was still fierce at this time so far as we could judge by the sound of distant gun fire.

The cable was laid and in use while the first lot of troops were landing.

At day-light our ship moved out clear of rocks. I believe Capt. Wightman was alarmed when he saw what little depth of water the ship had been in all night. We evidently had a narrow shave of being stuck on the rocks, so close did we anchor last night.

Stood by all day in case ship should be required and witnessed the proceedings on shore. Our ships all day bombarded the Turks. Monitors fitted with 14 inch guns appeared to create earthquakes when their shells fell. We hear the landing was a success. The Australians at Anzac have joined hands with the Suvla people though this connection is barely consolidated yet. A fresh attack is supposed to take place tonight.

In the evening ‘LEVANT II’ returned to Imbros proud of the part she had taken in this historic event. The Navy and Army Chiefs expressed themselves as well pleased with our work.

August 8th 1915

At Imbros. Coaled ship.

August 9th 1915

Left at day-break for Suvla Bay. Diverted and laid permanent shore end there. During operations rifle and shell fire were incessant on shore. The Battleships, now immune from submarines on account of the nets laid across the bay, shelled the Turks with guns large and small. Through glasses this morning we were watching the fighting on shore and could see the Turks in the distance and the British shells dropping and bursting amongst them. Report says that our troops are doing well but our losses are very heavy. Our object is apparently to cut off the large main body of Turks to the South.

We hear that West Yorks Regiment badly cut up, only some 40 or 50 remaining of the Battalion. Some of these survivors were bathing off the rocks this afternoon as if nothing had happened.

Ship remained at Suvla Bay for the night.

August 10th 1915

Rabbit Island cable broken down this morning and we were ordered to see to it. The repair did not take long and we had the opportunity of seeing the Monitor ‘LORD ROBERTS’ open fire as soon as cable communication was restored. Three or four rounds were required before the target in Asia was hit.

August 11th 1915

Went to Helles this morning and repaired the Tenedos-Helles No. 2 about half a mile from shore. Luckily we received no shelling though we were expecting it. After the repair we proceeded to Suvla Bay and have anchored here for the night.

August 12th 1915

In Suvla Bay. Saw the Turkish positions being bombarded today by the Men of War in the Bay. Turks replied by shelling the ‘SWIFTSURE’ hove up to change her position showing her wounded side. The mark looked like the splash of a rotten egg so little damage did the explosion do. Shelling and counter shelling continued until sundown when we left the Bay for work.

August 13th 1915

During the night we laid the Anzac-Suvla cable getting to Suvla in the early morning. the Turks again commenced shelling the ships in Suvla Bay after and during breakfast. Several Store ships changed their position to avoid being hit while the Turkish batteries scorched the Bay. ‘LEVANT II’ followed their example but being twice nearly hit , decided it were wiser to clear out, having finished our cable work. Proceeded to Tenedos where we remained for the night.

Apparently the landing at Suvla though said to be successful has not yet achieved the expected results.

August 14th 1915

Returned to Mudros.

August 15th 1915

At Mudros.

August 16th 1915

Left Mudros this morning and came to Tenedos where the ‘LEVANT I’ is to relieve us.

August 17th 1915

‘LEVANT I’ arrived and relieved us and at 4.00 p.m. we set of for Syra.

No definite news yet from the Peninsula though we hear that Suvla troops have thoroughly joined up with Australians at Anzac. German submarine on 15th fired torpedo at the Balloon ship but missed her. Submarine reported to have afterwards been caught in the nets near by.

August 30th 1915

After a fortnights stay in Syra we left again for Mudros. For the last week anxious telegrams have been continually received from Athens and Mudros to endeavour to get ship back to Dardanelles. Bullet proof screens long sanctioned by Head Office had been fitted round the wheel and windlass to protect men when ship would again be in the firing zone. We left Syra for Mudros at 5.10 p.m. During the evening about 9.45 p.m. H.M.S. ‘HONEYSUCKLE’ stopped us with gunfire, examined us by searchlight and allowed us to proceed.

Tuesday August 31st 1915

Arrived at Mudros 10.35p.m.this morning and relieved ‘LEVANT I’

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NOTES: AUGUST

The brief entry at the beginning of this month referring to the arrival of Capt. Wightman no way expresses the importance to us of that event. A few days of his companionship served to show us that his command of the ‘LEVANT’ was going to mean a delightful change for all of us on board. His cheery temperament made the lives of  all who served with him more agreeable in these trying times and his boisterous laugh, annoying as it may have been in the early hours of the morning cheered us all and made us feel that things were not really so bad as we had been inclined to think.

As he will probably read this, I may as well say that it is not written with any idea of flattery but simply to record and explain an event which meant so much to us. I think the others will understand what I mean.

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September 1st 1915

Left for Tenedos at day-break en route for Suvla Bay to repair Anzac-Suvla cable. Weather coming on bad, put back into Mudros.

September 2nd 1915

Proceeded to Tenedos and remained there for the night.

September 3rd 1915

Proceeded to Kephalo and did repairs there to the Imbros-Suvla and Imbros- Anzac cables which had both been damaged by a trawler running aground. Repairs still unfinished.

September 4th 1915

Finished repairs outside Kephalo today and came inside the harbour for the night as it was then too late to get to Suvla and weather is bad. Lieut. Wanstall a friend of ours in the R.E.’s came off to dinner.

September 5th 1915

Did more cable work outside Kephalo this morning and then proceeded to Suvla to test the Suvla-Anzac section. Artillery duel between ships and Turks going on intermittently all day. While our boat was ashore with men, Turks commenced shelling the beach so testing was pretty hurried and when completed we steamed out of the bay and waited off Anzac till dark as it is impossible to work off this place by day-light. All ships close enough in shore are now invariably shelled by the enemy like we were on May 26th. Later weather became too bad for us to work.

September 6th 1915

Ship returned to Suvla this morning and anchored inside the nets. Had to shift our anchorage as Turks commenced to shell us. After anchoring  again we began breakfast but the meal was disturbed. A shell fell within 40 or 5o yards of us, so we hove up anchor and left for Tenedos for the men to replenish their food supply. Arrived at Tenedos about noon and remained there for the night.

September 7th 1915

Left Tenedos this afternoon for Anzac but arrived rather too early and had to wait for darkness before commencing work. Went ashore to the Signal Office and afterwards effected repairs to the shore end of the cable. The usual shower of rifle bullets were continually coming over the cliff and dropping on and around the ship. Talking with R.E. Officers who remarked what marvellous men the Australians were. Though our troops are prepared for a Winter Campaign here they hope to get something decisive done before Xmas. Cable being still faulty we had to cut in outside.

September 8th 1915

After working late into the early hours of this morning off Anzac we continued operations during the day between Suvla and Anzac. Here we were in a safe position being rather too far off for the enemy to rely on hitting the ship. Had a good view of the artillery fighting on shore. Turks were constantly dropping shells on to the beaches where our men were. Our guns both on shore and on ships were effectively replying. We saw one large Monitor off the coast firing her fourteen inch guns. She fired about 30 rounds. Turkish battery tried vainly to drive her away with shrapnel fire. We continued our repairs off Anzac during the night.

September 9th 1915

Finished repairs off Anzac early this morning and cleared out before day-light to avoid the indignity of being driven out by shell fire when the enemy saw  us after sunrise. It is rather amusing to watch the general exodus of ships from Anzac waters in the early hours of the morning. No ship can safely remain near the coast. We came to Kephalo and remained at anchor for the night.

September 10th 1915

Proceeded to Mudros and received mails.

September 11th 1915

At Mudros. Strong northerly gale.

September 12th 1915

At Mudros repairing H.M.S ‘EUROPA’s cables.

September 13th 1915

At Mudros. Laid new cables to S.S. ‘ARRAGON’ and to S.S. ‘MINNETONKA’ from the shore. The former ship is the G.H.Q and is rather disliked in Mudros harbour. This ship replaced S.S. ‘ARCADIAN’ well remembered for the luxury on board, contrasting with the hardships endured by the thousand acting under her orders. ‘MINNETONKA’, the Army store ship has proved useful to us by providing us with khaki clothing.

September 14th 1915

At Mudros. Laid another cable to ‘EUROPA’ from the shore. In the afternoon we proceeded alongside S.S. ‘REMEMBRANCE’ and obtained coal and water. Bad news today concerning submarine E.7. She has run ashore in the Sea of Marmora.

September 15th 1915

Two cables between Imbros and Gallipoli being down, ship left Mudros this morning to Tenedos en route for Imbros. On the way we met a British submarine which had evidently come from the Dardanelles. We arrived at Tenedos about 5.30 p.m. and anchored for the night. Bekiarelli the Superintendent came off and had dinner with us on board.

Yesterday Cottrell told us he saw a German submarine off Castro, Lemnos and reported same to Admiral by wire.

September 16th 1915

Left Tenedos at day-break off Kephalo at 8.30 a.m. Flag signal made to us from the beach saying that the cables we had come to repair were now working alright and testing perfect and that ship should proceed to C. Helles where another repair awaited us. The journey to Kephalo was therefore fruitless and we were rather annoyed to think we had been brought so far for nothing, though pleased to know the cables had righted themselves. Ship left immediately and arrived off Cape Tekeh after lunch and started cable work. Luckily today the beach was not shelled and we worked in peace. Towards evening a strong wind and sea got up and we had to leave the job only half done. Saw some splendid shooting by our Artillery in the distance. There appeared to be little or no reply from the Turks. While at Imbros this morning we heard that two German aeroplanes had been seen over the camp on shore an hour or two earlier and dropped several bombs, one falling very close to the R.E Signal office. Only two men were hurt. The Anti-aircraft guns failed to bring then down. This is the first we have heard of German air activity for a month or two.

September 17th 1915

Wind and sea having increased, ship set on for Tenedos but owing to heavy sea, was unable to anchor in our usual place off the town. We therefore went round to the Southern side of the Island where we knew of a cosy anchorage. During the morning Captain, Birkbeck and I went ashore and walked over the hills to the town (an hours walk) getting back on board for lunch. In the town we saw the French Captain of the Port (Tenedos being now in French hands). He told us the E.7. (mentioned  on 14th) had been caught in the Turkish nets. Two killed. It is thought and hoped that the submarine was blown up by our own men. Suppose we must expect losses in submarines at times. On the other hand we have I believe discovered and caught several German submarines up here in our nets. These events are not published lest the news should assist the enemy. Our own submarine craft up here have done wonders. It is an achievement in itself to navigate as far as the Marmora owing to the current, mines and nets. We also heard in town this morning that the Turks are very short of ammunition. This I have heard before but did not know if true. Last time we were at Suvla, we were thinking that such must be the case or the beach there would be hell as the Turks have all the commanding heights. If the news of ammunition shortage is really true I hope soon we shall hear of a big movement on the part of our troops.

September 18th 1915

Left anchorage at day-break and arrived at C. Helles before breakfast. Found our buoy had disappeared so had to start repair from its beginning again. Finished about 5.0 p.m. and returned to Tenedos. The ship nearly got hit while off Helles though the shell evidently intended for French aeroplane which was rising at the time from C. Helles. Shell fell harmlessly in the water close to us. A French Battleship appeared off Kum Kale in the afternoon and for about an hour, furiously bombarded the enemy positions opposite the French flank on the peninsula. Salvoes were fired almost continually during this time. One shell is bad enough as we know but the effect of these salvoes must have been awful. Many aeroplanes up during the day spotting. Shrapnel puffs all around them showing they themselves were having a pretty hot time. There was more gun fire than usual today and we think there must have been a big attack. We shall hear when we get to Imbros. Reached Tenedos at dark and anchored.

September 19th1915

This morning repaired Tenedos-Helles cable close to Tenedos. A pleasant change to be able to do cable work without anxiety, such as we get off Helles-Anzac or Suvla. Heard news that yesterday a big attack by Turks had taken place on the peninsula and that the Turks had been heavily defeated. Saw the monitor at Rabbit Island this morning firing at points opposite Tenedos. Heard other news ashore more or less doubtful. One yarn says French have driven back German in France 16 miles. Bekiarelli came off to dinner on board this evening.

September 20th 1915

During the night while lying off Tenedos Town, Northerly wind and sea got up. Had to shift anchorage to South of the Island, where we have remained all day. Wind and sea still strong.

September 21st 1915

Calmer weather. Set off at 6.00 a.m. for Imbros, arriving in Kephalo Bay after breakfast. Went ashore and walked to G.H.Q. and found all cables working ok. German aeroplane has been very busy over Kephalo Camp, visiting them almost daily or rather nightly, dropping bombs and darts. Bombs had been dropped close to Signal Office and splinters had torn the tent in several places. Anti-aircraft guns had had no luck. At noon, ship left for Tenedos and arrived at 2.30 p.m. Things seemed quiet on the Peninsula as far as we could make out while passing.

September 22nd 1915

Stayed the night at Tenedos and left this morning at 10.45 a.m. for Mudros in answer to request from Cottrell. Arrived at 4.00 p.m. and received welcome mails. Cottrell brought us latest news. ‘SWIFTSURE’ missed by two torpedoes from a submarine. Collier sunk off Matapan.

September 23rd 1915

Working at Mudros harbour lines but sea too rough to do much.

September 24th 1915

Attempted  harbour lines repairs again but had to knock off for weather. Went aboard Repair Ship ‘RELIANCE’ with Henderson to call on Chief Engineer and there met ‘Chief’ of Sea-plane ship ‘BEN-MY-CHREE’ and heard some interesting yarns from him. Only a few days ago their sea-planes were spotting for a Monitor up the Gulf of Xeros, Monitor severely bombarded the town of Gallipoli (or Marmora side of isthmus). Our sea-planes are fitted with aerial torpedoes which are used with effect. I had not know before of their use in our Navy but apparently they are often used up here, as the ‘BEN-MY-CHREE’s’ sea-planes sank two transports in the Sea of Marmora by those means only a few days ago. One hears a lot of German methods and their wonderful ability to adapt new means of warfare which our Navy works in silence and without applauses.

September 25th 1915

Still at Mudros. Working today at S.S. ‘MINNETONKA’s’ cable. News of Greek mobilization and report of Bulgarians’ declaration of war appears to be untrue.

September 26th 1915

Today working at cables to H.M.S. ‘EUROPA’. Had good news this morning of Russian victories and this was capped in the afternoon by the report of French and British breaking through German lines in France. This raises great hopes of an early termination of war.

September 27th 1915

Still at harbour work in Mudros. Good news of yesterday confirmed.

September 28th to 30th 1915

At Mudros doing harbour work. War news from France continues good.

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NOTES: SEPTEMBER

After the Suvla landing of troops, an optimistic feeling similar to that which followed the original landing, was general. Two days after the troops had got ashore at Suvla what to G.H.Q. must have been a disaster simply appeared to us as an unavoidable halt before the advance across the peninsula. As for us in the ‘LEVANT’, Suvla Bay appeared at first the most delightfully peaceful anchorage we could possibly have and I remember Capt. Wightman discussed it as a possible base for us where we could rest after work at Anzac or Helles and enjoy the bathing in freedom of shell fire. But by the end of the month this plan was definitely abandoned and we no longer looked upon Suvla as the delightful haven we at first though it. Ships were shelled here more than anywhere else except Anzac where no one but a fool would anchor in the day time.

Much as we disliked Mudros in those days, we agreed that it was the only place in these waters where we could drop anchor with a feeling that it would not be hurriedly hove up in the night and we could sleep peacefully in our bunks.

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October 1st 1915

Left Mudros at 11.00a.m for Tenedos en route for repair to Anzac-Suvla cable. While nearing Tenedos we were overtaken by a British Airship flying so low we had a splendid view of her. This was the first time that I and most of the others had see a dirigible in the air. She had just arrived from home so we hear. While the Airship was flying over us we noticed several splashes in the water us and on our arrival at Tenedos we learnt that the Turks were firing at the Airship from the Asiatic coast about three miles off. Arrived at Tenedos at 5.30 p.m. and anchored for the night. Lieut. Graeme came off to dinner. Got further good news on shore of the French successes at Champagne. They are said to have accounted for three German Army Corps. This is splendid news even if exaggerated a bit and we are eagerly waiting to see it duplicated in Gallipoli.

October 2nd 1915

Left Tenedos at 11.00 a.m. for Kephalo, having received instructions to repair the Suvla cable there, broken last night by a trawler. Soon repaired damaged cable outside Kephalo and are remaining at anchor for the night outside the nets.

October 3rd 1915

Proceeded to Suvla Bay and arrived at 2.30 p.m. Tested cable (Anzac-Suvla) and placed fault near Anzac. Just as we had finished testing, shells commenced falling on the beach near. One explosion laid out two men. Ship moved and anchored further out. Towards dusk we proceeded towards Anzac. Made repair close to Anzac shore under the usual rain of bullets which however were not as bad as usual. As cable was still faulty seaward, another repair is necessary. It is too late now to finish before daylight when the Turks invariably shell any ship close enough. Little news from R.E. officers on Anzac beach. They told us that ‘Beachy Bill’ – the enemy gun which sweeps the beach was still as active as ever, though Monitors and Destroyers had had a good try this day to knock him out.

October 4th 1915

Remained at anchor during the day at a distance of about 1½ miles from shore. Saw much artillery fire. Shells bursting on the beach and enemypments (sic) towards Suvla, in great quantity. German Taube visible in the distance. After sun set we were able to complete our cable work about ¾ mile off the shore. Two stray bullets hit the ship, one digging a hole in the deck. Finished at 1.00a.m. and anchored.

October 5th 1915

Steamed down to Tenedos at day-break and thence to Mudros.

October 6th 1915

At Mudros working on harbour lines.

October 7th 1915

At Mudros working on harbour lines

October 8th 1915

At Mudros. News received today of Rumania’s mobilisation and Bulgaria’s unsatisfactory reply to Russian ultimatum. Also resignation of Greek Premier.

The War is getting more complicated every day.

October 9th 1915

This morning we were advised from G.H.Q. that all cables to Helles were interrupted. Communication completely cut off. Ship left hurriedly about 2.30 p.m. and arrived at 9.00 p.m. On going ashore we found that four cables were interrupted and one faulty. A Lighter washed ashore had done the damage.

October 10th 1915

Repaired one cable , diverting clear of these anchorages. Laid two new ends ready for diverting and repairing two more cables. Helles has been fairly quiet today. Only a few shells fired at the beach and camp. Had Naval Steam Boat to assist us in our work and from the cox’n we obtained some interesting curios.

October 11th 1915

Still working off C. Helles today. A German aeroplane flew over us this morning in the direction of Imbros but was driven back by anti-aircraft guns on shore. Capt. Wightman also had several shots at him with his rifle but he hasn’t brought him down yet !!

October 12th 1915

Steamed down to Tenedos to test and returned to Helles in the evening. While proceeding to suitable anchorage off  C. Helles, the Turks commenced shelling the newly made piers there. Ship stood off. Thought it better to wait awhile. Shelling continued till after sun set so we anchored off Tekeh for the night. All ships had to clear out in a hurry from that pier, on account of the shell fire. One small ship in her haste nearly rammed us. We forgave her, knowing her distress.

October 13th 1915

Finished our repairs in Helles vicinity this morning and set course for Mudros. In the Straits this morning we saw a British Submarine rise to the surface where convoy of Destroyers were waiting for her. The Turks were also waiting for her with their shore guns, (she had returned from a trip in the Marmora) and they opened a hot fire on her from the Asiatic Coast. The Submarine got clear and out of their range in a few minutes. We arrived at Mudros about 5.00 p.m. and found Black, the new Chief Officer awaiting the ship.

October 14th 1915

At Mudros. Lemnos-Helles cable is faulty and we are to repair same when weather suitable. Today it has been blowing hard.

October 15th 1915

At Mudros. Still blowing hard. Jordan ex Chief Officer left us at noon having handed over to Black. In the afternoon Captain and self paid a private visit to H.M.S. ‘ADAMANT’ the submarine Depot Ship and saw Commander Brodie who desired information about the cable in Sea of Marmora, data and charts of which we took over with us. One of our submarines intends to try and cut the cable between Karteal (Constantinople) and Nagara. At tea in Ward Room saw Lieut. Boyle and other now famous Submarine Officers, including the one who proposed going tomorrow and cutting cable. The free and easy manners of these daring fellows contrasts with that of some few others we have met who have far less reason for conceit. The latter are few but we have met them.

October 16th 1915

Weather having improved we left for Helles this morning intending to call at Lemnos C.H. to test but the sea being still too bad off C.H we continued our journey to Helles and arrived there at 4.00 p.m. A few shells were exploding on the beach and camp so we waited till dusk before steaming in. Renewed the faulty shore end and finished work by 8.30 p.m. The shelling having ceased with sun set we worked unmolested. Remaining at anchor till morning.

October 17th 1915

Proceeded to Kephalo this morning and visited G.H.Q. Left again at 11.00 a.m. for Tenedos. Nothing startling to see on the Peninsula while passing. Only the usual artillery fire the effect of which we were too far off to see. Arrived at Tenedos at 2.00 p.m. and after tea went ashore. The Rabbit Island Monitor was busy bombarding the Asiatic Coast near Kum Kale. The Turks have now erected a gun there and have been annoying the Monitor. To us that means that one more of our cables is now unsafe to repair in day light. Remaining for the night at Tenedos . On shore we learned of Bulgaria’s entry into the War. Our troops which landed at Salonica and pushed up country to help Serbia have now been blocked by the Bulgarian Army. The Officer who told us this news thought the plight of the Serbians is pitiable.

October 18th 1915

Left Tenedos this morning for Mudros. The news re Serbia this morning was good if it is to be believed. 25,000 Austro-Hungarians killed and 6000 wounded, runs the report.

On arrival in Mudros, Cottrell came aboard and told us the ‘SENTINEL’ is expected at mid-night. We are beginning to look upon Mudros as home. It is delightful to feel one can be up on deck at night without being sniped at, can have lights exposed and can sleep at night without danger of an alarm.

October 19th 1915

‘SENTINEL’ did not arrive until 7.00 this morning. Went on board as soon as she arrived and obtained her news. She is to lay new Lemnos-Chics Cable and is now waiting for weather to moderate. All ‘SENTINEL’s’ Officers except Capt Hunter and Gooch came over for dinner and we had an enjoyable evening.

October 20th 1915

‘SENTINEL’ left this morning to start her work. Our new Chief Officer Black is busy looking for cobwebs. A proper new broom. This is the first time since Wightman took command that we have no work on hand.

October 21st 1915

At Mudros. Weather cold and windy. No letters from home and no news. Meals in the saloon again now. Winter seems to have started. However we make ourselves comfortable and we get along well together. Three months ago we were a very different crowd.

October 22nd 1915

At Mudros. Cold, raining and stormy. No letters yet. What a difference letters make to an exile.

October 23rd 1915

At Mudros. Weather colder and windier. Baths on deck are becoming hurried. C.S. ‘SENTINEL’ returned to port this morning having had to cut and buoy her cable on account of the bad weather. She anchored at the far end of the harbour rather to our disappointment.

October 24th 1915

Still at Mudros. Weather improved. Gooch and Weston from the ‘SENTINEL’ paid us a visit this afternoon. Saw a strange looking ship enter the harbour this morning. She turns out to be a dummy ‘ORION’. One of those old merchant ships of which we have heard altered and faked to look like modern battleships. Much speculation here as to what she is to do up this way. This evening Cottrell brought his son off to se us. He is in the R.F.A. and bound for Suvla tomorrow. So are we as Cottrell also brought us news that the Anzac-Suvla and Suvla-G.H.Q. cables are interrupted.

October 25th 1915

C.S.’SENTINEL’ left harbour. During the morning we made endeavour to repair cable between  S.S. ‘ARRAGON’ and shore but seeing that a complete new cable would be required, it was decided to leave it until we should return from Suvla and Anzac. We were all the more pleased due to this because Black had been snubbed by the ‘ARRAGON’ Officer of the watch this morning. This high and mighty Officer of the Head Quarters Staff Ship had made Black leave the Starboard and row round to the port side of the sacred vessel thereby delaying the cable work. Since the work can suffer delay to please this snob with his telescope at the head of the gangway we are all of the opinion that a further delay, considering the importance of the Suvla-Anzac Cables will not lengthen the war appreciably. During the afternoon ‘LEVANT’ cruised around the harbour looking for certain ships from whom we had permission to draw stores.

It gives one an idea of the size of Mudros harbour and the immense number of ships at anchor when I say it took us roughly two hours steaming about to find the ships whose names only had been given to us. Being too late for our stores on the second ship, Captain went on board H.M.S. ‘GLORY’ for biscuits. He was very cordially received and returned to us laden with a large variety of tinned dainties besides the biscuits. We remained at anchor for the night.

October 26th 1915

Left Mudros at day-break for Kephalo to test Anzac cable. Weather being bad we were forced to go into harbour at Kephalo, arriving at 4.00 p.m. and are remaining here for he night. Saw very little firing on the Peninsula in passing but later saw a large Monitor doing her duty with 14 inch guns.

October 27th 1915

At Kephalo. Weather still bad. Unable to work. Went ashore during the morning with Captain and visited the camp which has now moved to the inner side of the Bay—a more sheltered position for the coming winter. The new camp is a great improvement on the old. Fine roads replace the sand paths. Saw Captain Owen and Evans. The new General was expected to arrive today, General Munroe, who has replaced Sir Ian Hamilton. Great confidence seems to be placed in the new General and better developments are now expected. After leaving R.E. Signal Office, we paid a visit to A.S.C Colonel and obtained a good store of provisions. Our Skipper pointed out to the Colonel the fact that our ship is working for the R.E.’s and the rest was easy. When we require Naval Stores we find we are working for the Navy! Our requisitioned stores include a box of the much prized bacon. Colonel Carver had expected an order for 100 boxes. A hearty welcome awaited us on our return to the ship owing to the booty we had with us.

October 28th 1915

Weather still too bad for cable work or even to allow us to test. Received a request  from Lieut. Somerville to lay a cable tomorrow from shore to H.M.S. ‘TRIAD’, Admiral De Roebeck’s yacht.

Our afternoon was spent in clearing out the saloon and hunting cockroaches.These insects seem to have multiplied greatly in the last few months and the skipper is very keen on ridding the ship of them. Had great sport with patent cockroach killer resulting in large bag. After dinner we sang songs round the table and spent a very enjoyable evening  thus. Lieut. Somerville today gave us vivid description of the bombardment of Dedeagatch and Bulgarian coast. His ship took part and they played havoc with the above Port. Many troops in barracks were killed by the shell fire.

October 29th 1915

This morning we laid a cable from Triad to the beach in Kephalo Bay and then put to sea and tested Anzac cable outside. Break in centre of cable. Returned to harbour as it  was too late to start cable work. We all had a walk ashore again up to the R.E Signals. This evening we are informed that the Suvla cable is also down. Our Monitors have been throwing their weight about today of the Gallipoli Coast.

October 30th 1915

Left Kephalo at day-break and repaired Anzac cable about 6 ½ miles off Anzac and tested two other cables from the ship. By the time Anzac cable was through about 5.00 p.m. it was too late to go to Suvla or Anzac so ship proceeded to Tenedos for the night. Our sailors were thus able to replenish their food supply. Arrived about 7.30 p.m. and anchored off Tenedos town. Had a good view of our ‘Blister’ ships today bombarding the Turkish positions on shore. Through glasses we could see the shells burst right in the enemy trenches.

October 31st 1915

Left Tenedos after breakfast and set course for Suvla, arriving there after lunch. Boat went into the under-run cable but found sea to heavy to continue. Left Suvla and anchored under lee of Imbros for shelter. Heavy mist over Suvla today evidently prevented the Turks shelling the harbour as is their custom. Battleships ‘PRINCE GEORGE’ and ‘GLORY’ anchored in the bay did little firing, otherwise everything appeared peaceful. At any rate we were left unmolested while our work was going on.

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NOTES: OCTOBER

The dirigible mentioned on 1st was an ingenious adaptation of an aeroplane body to a cigar-shaped balloon. She was christened ‘SILVER QUEEN’ and became a familiar sight to us afterwards. After having various homes in Imbros she finally settled down in a comfortable wooden mansion near Egyptian Pier in Mudros from which house she could sally morning or evening as weather permitted for her daily task of looking for submarines in the vicinity of Lemnos and Strati.

Black arrived on 13th relieving Jordon as Chief Officer and completed what turned out to be as happy a mess  as can be imagined on board ship.

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November 1st 1915

At Imbros. Early this morning ship put to sea again but finding weather too bad for work returned to Kephalo. Received a small mail from H.M.S. ‘CORNWALLIS’. During the afternoon we coaled from collier. Captain and Black went ashore and brought back the news telegrams. News not over bright, especially from the Balkans and this quarter. Ship remained alongside collier all night as coaling party is unobtainable till morning.

November 2nd 1915

At Imbros. Weather still too bad for cable work. Finished our coaling by 1.00 p.m. and then obtained water from ‘MERCEDES DE LARINGA’. Remaining in harbour for the night.

November 3rd 1915

Weather having improved we proceeded to Suvla and by one o’clock had repaired Suvla G.H.Q. cable. Turks continually shelling ships in the harbour so we  did not feel at all comfortable during our stay. We saw H.M.S. ‘PRINCE GEORGE’ struck twice on her quarter deck. She was making a semaphore signal to us at the time, when the Turks started shelling her. At the sound of her ‘Take cover’ bugle the signalman bobbed down and disappeared for half-an-hour. Just before we left, the Turks commenced on the Merchant Ships in the outer anchorage hitting one right abaft her funnel. We had luckily finished our repair and were glad to be free to clear out of the harbour. The harbour at this time was rather a funny sight. Each ship as the fire concentrated on it, hove up anchor and shifted. The Turks then began on another vessel. She would follow the example of the first ship and soon all the ships were under way steaming round and round until the shelling ceased. If the Turks had a sense of humour he was amused today. After leaving Suvla we set on for Helles where the Tenedos cable was giving trouble. Arrived at Helles at dusk and found repair was necessary on beach. This was very soon done. Major Newell and Lieut. Sanderson of the R.E. came off and stayed to dinner after which we talked round the saloon table till 10.00 p.m. Our visitors told us that the Turks had only fired 6 or 8 shells today from Asia but not one of them burst, though a mule was killed by one.

We are remaining anchored off W. Beach till daylight. A mail was brought off to us this evening much to our surprise as they don’t often send our letters after us.

November 4th 1915

Shifted at 6.30 a.m. to safer anchorage as Turks have a nasty habit of shelling ships of Helles now in day time. Worked at cable ends at C. Tekeh until breakfast. Turks shelled the beach as usual and we noticed one explode in the place where our cables used to land and we felt distinctly pleased that we had diverted our ends to a safer place. After breakfast ship steamed down to Tenedos and the sea was too high for work at Suvla or Anzac.

A remarkable and almost incredible story was told us yesterday by one who should be a reliable authority. With the General’s approval a magic lantern and the necessary screen and gear were being got ready with the intention of working them in the trenches for the benefit of the Turks opposite them. Presumably propaganda slides would have been shown. However, now the new General has come out, this brilliant scheme is indefinitely postponed. Evidently the new General prefers fighting the Turks. We would not have believed this tale had it not been told us by the man whose work was to arrange this lantern part of the business.

We are remaining at Tenedos tonight.

November 5th 1915

Set on for Suvla this morning to effect a repair in Anzac-Suvla cable. On the way we met H.M.S. ‘SWIFTSURE’ with three Destroyers. She took up position off Anzac right flank and commenced her bombardment. Half a dozen Trawlers patrolled around her as protection against submarines. Afterwards she was at Suvla with us. We finished our repair at Suvla without much trouble and then set on for Anzac getting there at dark. Ship anchored and boats put ashore. Bullets were flying plentiful. One struck the car buoy in our boat and we were thankful to reach the shore. There we at once paid a visit to Capt. Dodd R.E. and Black was introduced (this being his first visit to Anzac). Under-running the cable the break was found fairly close in. Bullets from over the ridge were continually falling around the boat making the work more than unpleasant. Luckily there was no mishap and the work finished by 4.30 a.m. when the ship moved out to anchor at a safe distance from the shore. We have still another repair to do off this beach but cannot commence it until darkness fall again.

November 6th 1915

As we did not get to bed till 5.00 a.m. this morning we slept on till nine. Being anchored about a mile from the beach we could see all the firing on shore from a fairly safe distance and as we had to wait till nightfall before beginning our work we had the whole day to spectate. One of our aeroplanes was brought down by the Turks. the pilot however managed to bring the machine down softly into the water. A Pinnace from the Hospital Ship was soon on the scene and took off the two men. Another Navel picquet boat then arrived and tried to save the machine and the Turks opened fire on them and the shells were soon splashing all around them. The men had to rush ashore for cover. The aeroplane was pretty well wrecked though the parts were salved later. The Picquet boat got ashore in her efforts to salve the machine.

This evening at dusk we got underway and steamed in and anchored again off Anzac beach and the boats pushed off and soon finished the work on the cables. Rifle bullets as usual but luckily no accidents. After the work the ship anchored outside the range of bullets.

November 7th 1915

Worked all this morning on the Suvla-Anzac cable which was still broken further out. This being at a more or less safe distance we dared the attempt in daylight. Found anchor damage on cable for at least ¾ mile necessitating complete renewal. We decided to renew all from Anzac beach to save grappling for that end in the dark. After sunset we therefore steamed in and put the new end ashore and paid out and buoyed the cable at a safe distance by 9.30 p.m. We then came to anchor and are here for the night. Can hear much rifle and machine gun fire in Anzac direction. The R.E.’s there told us our men are to take the trench tonight. Black suggested to Capt. Dodd that he meant an attempt was to be made, whereupon Dodd explained that our men can take trenches whenever they want to. It takes a Military experts to explain why, if such is the case, an advance cannot be made.

November 8th 1915

Resumed work this morning on the Suvla-Anzac cable diverting it clear of all anchorages. This means a large expenditure of cable but seems to us the only way to ensure communication. We laid in some six miles of cable but found there were still two faults in the line, one at each end. Our work today was carried on in full view of the enemy but at a pretty safe distance. There has been a good deal of shell fire during the day. The Turks sprinkled the beaches and rest camps liberally. A Monitor stationed close to us replied with her 9.2 inch guns making a deafening roar. We are anchored off the beach for the night and going to Suvla in morning.

November 9th 1915

Steamed into Suvla Bay early this morning and repaired Anzac cable, diverting the end to a better position. While we had the lead on to cable, talking to Anzac on the ’phone, the Turks dropped a shell close to our stern. Apparently it did not explode but shook the whole ship and gave us such a shock that we made preparations to shift further out. We then anchored nearer the nets which is apparently only just in range of the Turkish guns. The latter made another attempt to hit us but the shell fell short and we told each other we were safe here. Personally I was glad when darkness came on to further ensure our safety and I fancy the others were too. We are remaining here for the night.

November 10th 1915

This morning we finished off the work at Suvla, diverting both cables. We then set off and picked up a good length of the old Anzac abandoned piece, being careful not to get to close to Anzac before dusk. At nightfall the ship anchored off Anzac beach and the boats went in to examine the cable ends further South. Birkbeck followed in the Cutter. We intended to coast up to the cable ends when we arrived near the shore where we expected less rifle fire. But we got too far North and for some time were in almost a hail of bullets which were coming down from the gullies. We had some distance to row to get out of this and were never so glad as when we landed at the pier. It seems to me a miracle that no one was hit in either of the boats. Anywhere off this beach there can be heard the constant ‘plomp’ of bullets in the water but tonight it was as if a machine gun was constantly trained on the boats.

We unanimously decided never again to try ‘short cuts’ to the beach. When we landed we made straight for the R.E. Signal tent and from there were conducted to Capt. Dodd whom we found in his dug-out in the act of catching a flea. We worked until after mid-night cutting in and examining cable after the fault but later proved to be outside in deeper water.

November 11th 1915

While the others were putting the line through again I came back to the ship in one of the boats. So black was the night that for half an hour I was unable to find the ship although she was lying less than half a mile off.

At 4.00 a.m. wind and sea rose suddenly and from the ship we signalled the boats to come off. They only just got back in time. The sea by now was very high and the boats’ crews were drenched. Even at this anxious time Black found time to purloin two cases of biscuits from the beach, our stores being very low at present. The Cutter couldn’t make the ship and the Life Boat arrived alongside towing the Cutter. Ship then hove up and set on for Tenedos where we arrived after breakfast. We slept most of the day. I have had rather a bad ‘tummy’ and have not eaten anything all day

November 12th 1915

Ship remained in Tenedos all day. I saw a French Doctor on shore who has treated me for dysentery. Weather coming on worse we left anchorage further South but eventually returned here to the town, the anchorage being more comfortable.

November 13th 1915

Weather improved. Left Tenedos about 10.00 a.m. for C. Tekeh to test the Anzac-Tekeh cable which had just been broken, arriving at Tekeh at 11.30 and anchoring. Testing lead was paid out from the ship but with difficulty owing to the rough weather. During the delay the Turks opened fire on us from the Asiatic side of Dardanelles. The first shell exploded ahead of the ship and splinters struck the bulwarks. No one was hurt though one of the Greek firemen fishing over the side nearly had his arm taken off. Capt. at once hove up anchor. Most of the ship’s crew being away in the boats every one eagerly assisted. A second shell came along and fell short in the water. By this time we were under way. The boats were soon picked up and hoisted and ship set off for Kephalo. Although the weather was bad and would have prevented further work we mentally decided that C. Tekeh and vicinity is safer at night time. A telegram from Cottrell arrived after we had dropped anchor in Kephale  Bay informing us that the two  Anzac cables were down. Of this we were quite aware seeing that we had just been almost blown to pieces in our endeavours to repair one of them. The Skipper acknowledged the telegram and if the tone of the reply was somewhat curt it must be remembered that we have been at cable work for eighteen days continuously save for short rests during bad weather and this without any one being aware of the amount of work done by us or the trying and frequently dangerous conditions under which it has been accomplished.

This afternoon I went on board ‘SWIFTSURE’ with the Skipper to see the Fleet Surgeon who pronounced my trouble to be dysentery and treated me accordingly. He told us th