8 JULY 1910 -13 JAN 1911
ON FLEET EXERCISES
8 July - Friday
Left at 9.45 am Brighton. London 11 am. Caught the 11.50 am from Paddington, arrived at Torquay 4 pm and on board the Shannon. Had tea and then landed with Lowry. We had a walk to Paignton. Made many enquiries there for Col and Mrs Douglas, the latter my cousin, and at last on going off from the Pier, found them there. Ethel delighted to see me. I met her husband for the first time. A dinner party on board.
9 July - Saturday
Left Torbay this morning.
10 July - Sunday
Binney an old Mid. of the Revenge on board this ship.
14 July - Thursday
' War’ declared yesterday at 4.30 am. Last night one of the Cruisers fired on a Trawler, mistaking her for a T.B.D. The Dogger Bank incident over again, and with the Swift and Zulu reported that they had seen a flotilla of T.B.D, which turned out on further investigation to be a fleet of fishing boats.
Three of Blue’s Armoured Cruisers escaped yesterday by the North Minch.
18 July - Monday
Yesterday morning, a raid was attempted by Blue, sending down some small cruisers and a Collier. Two were captured by 2 Cruiser Squadron off the Mull of Galloway.
About 9 am, heard from our advanced cruiser that the whole Blue Battle Fleet, some cruisers and a flotilla of destroyers were coming South and were off the Mull of Galloway and at about 4 pm we sighted them and kept station ahead, some miles.
At dark Lowry fearing a Destroyer attack, made off 18 knots and I think unwisely opened out his cruisers. One read N 80° W for S 80° W and went off in the direction of enemies B. Fleet, but I suppose she escaped as she is not ‘out of action’ as we are.
The Blue Fleet altered course for Tuskar Light, so Sturdee informed us, he was following up behind with 3 Battle Ships, Vanguard Class. We then by ourselves made a cut for Tuskar and eventually found ourselves abreast of B. Fleet, a string of lights. Lowry went below midnight leaving Ferguson in charge.
At last it was decided that the lights were the Destroyer Flotilla. I could see the lights quite plainly with the naked eye and we were much too close.
Eventually at 2 pm we were attacked most successfully by a Destroyer, who turned her lights on to us and the Blue B. Fleet finished us up and very soon C-in-C, Exmouth, signalled to us “You are out of action”, so to our intense disappointment we made for Milford and here we are.
I can see how the strain tells on men. Lowry and the Flag Lieut, who never spare themselves, quite done up. Noon W/T received, practically the whole of the Blue Fleet are captured and the manoeuvres are over, so Lowry can be congratulated on his part and Sturdee also, in keeping C-in-C of Red informed so accurately of Blue’s movements.
19 July - Tuesday
Lunched with Captain and Mrs Munday at Admiralty House, Pembroke Dockyard. Fine avenue of trees, etc., surrounding and leading from the house. A very large garden. Lieut Vaughan of the CG and Lieut Lawrence, D1 Submarine, also lunching. The latter told me how he torpedoed two cruisers and appears to have done it very well.
The Munday’s little girl of 6, pretty and an attractive child and I should say clever.
Sailed this evening at 6 pm for Rendezvous off Wolf Rock.
20 July - Wednesday
Mounts Bay. All Red met and a magnificent fleet it looked as we steamed along.
22 July - Friday
My Madge’s birthday. Sent her a telegram.
Last night a dinner party on board of about a dozen Com. Officers of the Irish Patrol. Captain Hall of the Natal, son of my old friend Capt. Hall who died the day he was app. to Pembroke D.Yard, sat next to me.
Had tea on board Surprise this afternoon with Miss May and had a yarn with Sir Wm. and Lady May. The former said all the men of the Submarines of the earlier type were quite played out, by the end of the Manoeuvres.
Admirals Brock and Gamble dine on board to night. Bertie writes that MacLeod has retired.
Olga, poor dear bothered with the ever lasting servant difficulty.
24 July - Sunday
A South West blow coming on. The whole fleet weighed and left for Torbay. The sea is getting up and not much shelter.
27 July - Wednesday
We arrived at Torbay early on Monday morning a very much better anchorage than Mounts Bay. Weather much finer. On Tuesday (yesterday) I lunched with Poë, my old friend. He was senior Mid of watch in Narcissus when I just went to sea in 1865. Many other Admirals there. Neville Sturdee, Lowry my host, Colville, Brock, Lady Poë, a party of about 24. Also Philpotts and his wife. He lives here and was one of the our mates in the Narcissus - 1865. I had not seen him since 1866. Delighted to meet each other again. The Royal Yacht expected at 4 pm and a salute of 20 guns went off too soon. The letting off by accident started the whole fleet. Not long afterwards the Yacht came along flying the Royal Standard. Signal hoisted by Dreadnought to fire 21 guns.
The King promptly hoisted “Negative fire salute”, implying to May that he was the Senior Officer, which of course he is, and not long afterwards he made the signal himself to fire 21 guns. One can see that the way he is doing things he intends to shew that he is to be taken seriously as a Naval Officer.
Reception of all the Admirals, Staffs and Captains took place. Frock Coat and Swords. A large Dinner party. This morning a fog prevented us going out until the afternoon, the King visited informally several ships.
Fleet went out this afternoon and very soon all enveloped in a very thick fog. Squadrons and ships all over the place, sirens deafening. We nearly ran down 2 Destroyers, had to go full speed astern and hard a port. They passed a ships length ahead and then nearly went into a Division of Battleships at anchor.
Eventually after several anchorings, etc., we all had to give it up. The C-in-C got into harbour with the King and Queen and at 8 pm wired out to remain at anchor where we were. It cleared up about 9 pm and revealed the ships anchored everywhere. It was a risky afternoon and I am thankful no accident has taken place.
28 July - Thursday
Dreadnought came out flying Standard, the whole of the fleet formed up and moved out some 10 miles from Dreadnought which carried out Battle Practice. We could see the shots falling all round the Target. It appears she hit it 18 hits out of 39. Target 90 ft x 30 ft. Towed 10 miles. Dreadnought steaming 14 knots. Eventually she joined up and led the Fleet in, flying the Standard, the V & A also flying Standard of Queen. We got in at 3 pm and I caught the 4.40 pm train up, arriving at 30 Belgrave Road at 10.45 pm. Bertie waiting up.
29 July - Friday
Our dear father left us 24 years ago.
Went to Admiralty, saw Sir Arthur Wilson. Told him I was ready for anything, abroad or at home and felt fit for anything. He was very pleasant and straightforward. I told Troubridge, Private Secretary to McKenna what I had told Wilson. T. said. “Your name is before McKenna as one of those ready, and fit for anything” and he added “Your name is down as a Candidate for RN College as President, as I thought you would like it.” I said I was ready for anything, and that I had mentioned Australia to Wilson.
I came away feeling that I was certainly in the running, and that I have done all I can or should do.
Lunched with Bertie at the Naval and Military and home, arriving at 5 pm, finding my beloved Olga and the two little girls all looking well. Stevie we shall have on Wednesday, D.V.
8 August - Monday
On Thursday, Olga and the three children start for Freiburg Baden, on the edge of the Black Forest. The Pension Kircher, 50 Zahringenstrasse, where we shall spend the winter and leave the house in charge of caretaker, ready for letting.
Bertie came down yesterday, and most kindly offered to help financially and insisted on paying £12. Clothes at Seagrove for Stevie.
I pray that the change will enable us to live more economically and do Olga good. She is dreadfully thin and quite alarms me at times. Stevie at home a great comfort and help. He is doing well in Service. Our children seem great favourites wherever they go. They have such good manners.
11 August - Thursday
Olga and the children with Mellings, the maid, left this evening for Freiburg and 640 lb of luggage, tickets £3.7.0d.
The house very lonely without them. I trust that we may soon let and assist to reduce the heavy bill that I owe Woodhead. Bertie came down on Sunday to wish us good bye. So affectionate and insisted on paying Stevie’s bill at Seagrove, £12. Dear Baldie’s birthday, 42 years old.
14 August - Sunday
The Elms. My 60th birthday and I thank God for all His goodness. His mercies to me during the past year.
A most sultry day and very oppressive. Mrs Orton staying here until to-morrow. Mrs Shaw, David’s wife, made a plum pudding in honour of my birthday.
15 August - Monday
This afternoon Charlotte and I drove to Beaumanor to tea. Mrs Perry Herrick as charming as ever and delighted to meet me again. Several people there. Mrs Doddington whose husband is in the 52nd and curiously enough a Colonel Winter, in conversation with whom I found he had been at school at North Grove House, and had also been in the Britannia about a year before I was. Sir Matthew Joyce and Lady Joyce there. He is a Judge in Chancery. We got back about 7.15 pm taking about an hour and a half to drive back.
TO GERMANY AND SWITZERLAND FOR WINTER
21 August - Sunday
Freiburg/Baden
Very hot, as yesterday. On Wednesday I left The Elms and got to Hove that afternoon, and was soon busy arranging for the house being turned over to the caretaker. Dined with Harriett Humphery, and Betty Horky. We had a long talk on spiritual matters. The latter is much engaged in work in Notting Hill District, ritualistic I think.
Thursday the 18th. Lunched with Harriett and we had another talk together and after busying myself all day, paying bills etc., etc., I left at 4.53 pm for Victoria and by the 8.30 pm train for Queenborough and Flushing, 2nd Class.
Steamer Zeeland vibrating so much, I hardly slept at all, and went on deck at 3.30 am. Left Flushing 5.20 am and arrived at Freiburg 7.30 pm. A hot journey, but much enjoyed seeing the country, Holland and the Rhine Valley and the different cities. We ran into Cologne, Coblentz, Worms, etc. It was most interesting.
The Rhine Valley from Mayeuse to Bonn should be traversed by steamer, as the train rushes through everything so fast. Olga and Stevie met me at the Station, both looking very well. Lou and Madge also well and like Freiburg. The gardens etc. are pretty. We have decided to stay here a month and then probably move on to Vevey, or Montreux, as we hear that Freiburg is cold and rather damp in the winter and we are anxious to start Lou at her music and instruction again.
I am anxious to see how the bill runs up for the week, for owing £200 and house unlet is a serious matter.
Heard this morning a good sermon from Mr Hall at the English Church.
AT FREIBURG
23 August - Tuesday
Olga’s birthday. No notice taken of it, by special request. Lou however, bought her some very pretty roses.
Weather turned wet. Stevie left with Willie Kircher and Hans on a trip through the Black Forest on bikes.
25 August - Thursday
Dear Francie’s birthday. Last night the bike party returned, having gone right through the Black Forest, as far as Baden and then returned, via Strasburg, having visited the Cathedral there. They covered a lot of ground.
This afternoon Stevie and I took the train to Hinterzarten, 2900 ft, leaving our Bikes at the next station Hollsteig. We were on the plateau of the Black Mountains and very lovely it was, hills, covered with pine trees of all kinds, rich fat farms and large farmhouses and altogether it was a very pleasant scene.
We walked to a guest house, large Inn and some refreshments, milk, butter roll and honey for 30 pfennigs each (3d) and then walked down the Ravenna Schlucht, a wild ravine with fine cascades. It took us three quarters of an hour coming down, and it certainly was most striking, a narrow footpath, high hills covered with pines on each side and a tumbling, roaring torrent coming out to the main road at Hollsteig at 2430 ft.
We picked up our bikes and came down on the free wheel some 6 miles, through the renowned ravine of the Hollental, grand and beautiful scenery, thickly clothed pine mountains rising up each side, a rushing stream and most interesting old farm houses of huge size by the road side. We came down in 20 minutes that took us an hour and a half to get up by the Cog Wheel railway.
The rocks at times rise sheer up 100 or more feet and close to, on one is a model of a large stag, where a stag is supposed to have jumped across. We got back at 7.30 pm having had a most enjoyable trip together.
In the evening I took Lou out for music in the Stadts Garden.
31 August - Wednesday
Olga left for Lausanne to look for a flat at Montreux for the Winter. Stevie returned from his three days trip to the Vosges, biking about 60 miles a day and enjoyed himself very much.
Today I had tea with Professor Dr Goldmann, who has a hospital of his own here and a great investigator in the laboratory, is now looking into cancer. His wife is a daughter of the late Bosworth- Smiths and lived near Canford Manor and knows Olga’s cousin Lady Wimborne.
The Professor and I had a most interesting talk on Germany, politics etc. He says that the Centre party have great influence and that the RC’s are most subtle and are trying to capture the professorships at the Universities. They have seminaries for all the RC Scholars at the Gymnasiums, etc., and shepherd them right through in the most careful way.
He said one of the ablest Professors there said that of course if a war broke out between England and Germany, though the German Navy might be destroyed, the Germans would at once seize the mouths of the Rhine and annex Holland and Belgium or incorporate them into the Germanic Confederation.
I thank God most sincerely and humbly for only a few minutes ago I slipped on the parquet floor and fell flat on my back with a great crash and most mercifully just saved from fracturing my skull by throwing my head up. It gave me a momentary shock.
1 September - Thursday
This afternoon Stevie, Lou and self biked out to Gunterstal to the Hotel Kyberg and had tea with Mrs Macklin.
The sister in law of the proprietor had been married that afternoon to a florist and the Hotel was beautifully decorated with flowers. A great luncheon and then a dance, in which Stevie and Miss Bertram and Lou and Helene Macklin danced.
We had tea outside and biked back about 6.30, some 3½ miles. Mrs Macklin is a widow of a Pittsburg Steel Manufacturer for steel wagons which are largely used not only in America, but in England. Is evidently very well off.
She improves very much on acquaintance and I quite liked her after I had been having a long conversation with her.
6 September - Tuesday
Stevie went up to the Feldberg Hotel yesterday as Mrs Macklin’s guest returns today. Lou was also to have gone, but the weather being so very rainy, it was not considered wise to let her go, which was a great disappointment. The weather has simply been atrocious the last fortnight and so much rain has made it cold and damp.
On Sunday, I played Harmonium for the morning and evening service at the English church and we had tea with Mr Hall and his wife. The latter heavy, the former superior to his wife intellectually and an earnest man, but like so many other High Churchman real spirituality pressed down by services, rites and ceremonies.
8 September - Thursday
Yesterday Olga and I went to Professor Goldmann for tea, meeting his young wife there, a pretty girl, daughter of Bosworth-Smiths.
His brother, Mr Goldmann, MP for Falmouth, and his wife, daughter of Lord Peel’s, and Miss Bull of Falmouth who was to have lunched on board Shannon when at Mounts Bay last July. I missed meeting her there and little expected to make her acquaintance at Freiburg. They are motoring to see the Passion Play at Oberammergau. We had a great talk about Germany, Navy, etc., etc.
This morning Stevie and I left with our Bikes by the 9 am train for Titisee, 18 miles up the line, 2815 feet high, very pretty. We then biked about 2 miles and then pushed our bikes up 6 miles to the Hotel 4190 ft at the foot of the Feldberg. I, most frightfully hot and running with perspiration.
Having refreshed ourselves with a cup of coffee, we pushed our Bikes up the final hill about a mile and most trying work it was, and arrived at the Seebnetz, 4755 ft, the SE of the Feldberg ridge, where we obtained a most magnificent view of the whole of the Black Forest, stretched out like a panorama before us. The weird Feldsee below us, towering rocks and cliffs rising up from it.
The sight was magnificent, the mountains covered with pine trees, looking so dark, valleys intersecting them in every direction, dotted with farm houses, some of great size. The lower slopes of the mountains in many places being rich meadow land. Large pine trees cut down ready for transport on every slope and in the distance looking like matches thrown down. We biked and walked along the ridge to the highest point of the Feldberg where there is a Gasthaus (small Hotel) 4905 feet, only 1000 feet lower than the Rigi.
By this time the clouds had descended and we had a hail squall and the drift making most fantastic shapes all over the Black Mountains. Sometimes through the rifts we caught some delightful views and saw the Jura in the far distance.
Descending Feldberg, we biked on the old pack road, through the Forest to the Schauinsland, the first five miles being through thick woods, and the last five or six on the Main Road. Having coffee at a Gasthaus we then free wheeled down 18 kilometres to the Gunterstal, and with the exception of ten turns of the pedal, I came from the top of the Schauinsland right down to the town of Freiburg and we got home about 7 pm, having had a most enjoyable day. We had biked and walked 56.5 Kilometres. I thoroughly enjoyed, as did Stevie, our day together.
It was a good day’s work for an Admiral turned 60 years of age.
10 September - Saturday
Olga and I went up by train to Hinterzarten and biked back the 26 Kilometres. We both enjoyed it very much. Unfortunately just as we got into the town Olga and I collided and both came down. Providentially neither hurt.
Helen Macklin fell from her bicycle and badly hurt her foot and poor girl has had no sleep for several nights and has now been removed to a Clinique in the town.
12 September - Monday
Stevie left for England by the 11.49 train, through carriage to Flushing. He has thoroughly enjoyed his leave and is looking very well.
19 September - Monday
A card from Stevie, left D’port on Saturday.
My dear wife, still hors de combat from her knee. Professor Goldmann came to see her last Wednesday and found that the little sac under the knee tendon was full of blood, so a rubber has been in every day. Poor dear, it is most trying being confined to the house, especially as the weather the last few days is so fine and sunny. It is now 8 days since the unfortunate accident.
On Friday last, I took Lou up to Hinterzarten walked through the Ravenna Schlucht and biked home from Hollsteig, having our lunch on a stone by the river in the ravine.
Wrote today and took the flat at Montreux from the 3rd of October for 8 months. Trust we have done wisely. Many people been over our house, but no good offer yet.
Heard of Mr Langton’s death, my colleague on the Hospital Committee of D. Sea Mission, etc. Wrote Mrs L.
Had a long talk with dear Lou yesterday. Felt much happier after it. She is a dear girl and very very dear to me and her mother.
21 September - Wednesday
Olga out for a walk. I am glad to say, her knee is nearly well. The rubber comes again to-morrow, the fifth time. Have engaged to take the flat at Montreux from the 3rd of October, for 8 months. Feel a little concerned at our house not letting, though many people have been over it.
26 September - Monday
My dear Mother born this day 1826.
We have let our house, I am most thankful to say, for 6 months to Sir Berry Cusack-Smith from the 1st of November and almost at once, another offer from Lieut Drummond for 2 years at practically the same rent.
Weather is turning cold, but we are getting the sun at last. My best walking stick, given to me by dear Olga, stolen yesterday morning from the Hall, where I had carelessly left it.
28 September - Wednesday
Olga left this morning for Montreux. Weather has turned very hot. Have misgivings sometimes that we may find May much too glaring and hot at Montreux.
Took Lou and Madge out to the Waldsee, they both much enjoyed going on the water. Lou in a canoe, and Madge and I in a skiff. Debts accumulating and I cannot see my way out, or clear at present for reducing them, or curtailing the expenditure.
30 September - Thursday
Heard from Bertie that the Neptune commissions on the 31st January and becomes flagship the end of March, so Stevie will be fortunate belonging to her.
Heard from Olga at Montreux.
The two girls spent the day with Mrs Macklin and Helen at the Kyberg Hotel. I went out to coffee 4 pm and then walked up the Louisenhohe and had some very fine views of the different valleys and the Rhine Valley, though on account of the mist, I could not see the Vosges.
I walked back, about 5 kilometres through the forest, in the gloaming, the branches of trees meeting overhead, every now and then an opening, disclosed very fine views and I admired the symmetry of the Cathedral and its steeple, which is much more noticeable from a distance than when close to.
3 October - Monday
On Saturday, a very hot day, I left Freiburg with the two children and Mellings, first of all having gone up with Lou to the Market place round the Cathedral and invested in 2 lbs grapes, 2 lb pears, ½ lb of plums for 1 mark 20 pfennig.
We left Freiburg (2nd class) at 11.49 and in a hour’s time were at Basle (A fine town, as far as we could see from the train) and staying in the carriage, crossed the Rhine to Swiss Basle, the main town. Very fine railway station, waiting there an hour, we got into the Swiss train and arrived at Lausanne 6.15 pm, being in a through carriage to Montreux.
After passing through the Tunnel, on emerging, a magnificent panorama burst on our view. The whole lake of Geneva lying at our feet at the foot of the pine clad hills, lofty mountains all round, some covered with remains of the last winter’s snow and villas of all kinds, thickly clustered on the slopes, down to the water’s edge. The gardens of those on the shore, edged with beautiful weeping willows, the branches of which kissed and bathed their tips in the waters.
Dear Olga met us and has had a very trying time getting a servant.
AT MONTREUX
2 October - Sunday
To the Presbyterian Church morning and evening. Olga accompanied me in the evening. The Rev. Mr Adams a devout spiritual minded pastor, about my age.
3 October - Monday
No servants, however by going down to our dinner at a confectioner, we have rubbed along. Yesterday very hot. Today raining nearly all day. Went out with Mr Adams to see French Pastor, Eglise Libre, about his daughter coming as Governess for Lou. Very much like Pastor Ramette in appearance, intellectually, spiritually and charm of manners.
6 October - Thursday
Still the most lovely weather and in the morning the sun’s rays lighting up the mountains, some streaked with snow and everything so clear cut, the air being so pure. The effect is delightful and it is hard to come in from the balcony to dress, though one can see it all lying in bed, if wished.
7 October - Friday
Madge laid up with cold. Been coming on for a day or two through nose and throat getting congested. Temperature last night 100.8. Today 100.4 at noon and this evening 100.4.
8 October - Saturday
Madge’s evening temp 100.2. Endeavoured to get hold of Dr Carrard. Finding him out, tried Dr Tidey, but he had gone to Aigle.
9 October - Sunday
Madge most restless at night, grinding teeth. Walked out to Dr Carrard near Montreux Palace Hotel. Found him already out, so left a card and returned home. At 10 am he called, examined Madge, said nothing wrong with bronchial tubes, cold only in head, but he said she would never thrive or be well and might get deaf, unless the obstruction at the back of her nose was removed and it ought to be done as soon as possible. It is exactly what Olga thought was the matter. One rather dreads having an operation on the dear child.
Went to the Presbyterian Church with Lou, and I took the Communion, acting as one of the Elders. I much enjoyed the simplicity of it, having not only a retrospective, but a prospective aspect and realised in some slight measure, the spiritual presence of the Lord Jesus Christ.
11 October - Tuesday
Dr Carrard called. Madge better but still bronchial. He strongly advised calling in a specialist, Dr Frey, so called and he is coming to see her this evening with a view to removing adenoids, when well enough for the operation.
13 October - Thursday
Dr Frey said Madge had a mass of adenoids so she will be operated on next week, D.V. Dr Carrard saw her today and said she was nearly well. A splendid letter from Stevie this evening from Golfe Juan, written Tuesday evening.
15 October - Saturday
Olga and I went to hear the afternoon music at the Kursaal. It was very good.
16 October - Sunday
Went to the Presbytarian Church morning and afternoon. Mr Adams spiritual, I wish he had a little more energy in his delivery.
17 October - Monday
Heard from Bertie this morning. He tells me that Fisher, Lord Fisher’s brother is a candidate for Greenwich, so I have all Jack Fisher’s influence against me. I feel at times very low and long for the uncertainty to be over and to know the worst and the financial pressure and difficulties press on me very much.
However by God’s help, I endeavour to keep a good heart, not only for my own sake, but for that of my dear wife’s and the children and I also feel that any murmuring would do harm to those around. “Trust in God and do the right” was the end line of a Hymn last night. I may act upon it.
Madge not to go out, until she has been operated on. I shall be thankful when it is over, for the dear child’s sake and dear Olga’s, who dreads it. I trust it will not be expensive.
19 October - Wednesday
To-morrow morning our dear child goes to the Clinique to have the operation. Shall be glad when it is over.
20 October - Thursday
My dear child was taken up to the Clinique by Olga and myself at 9 am. Mellings coming up also. She was taken up to the operating room by Mellings and left with the Doctor and Hospital Nurse, and in ten minutes everything was over, and she was in bed. She was most plucky and never uttered a sound.
Both the Doctor and the Nurse said they had had many children but never one like Madge. They thought her an extraordinary child. The adenoid taken away (which we saw) was about the size of a large hazel nut, and large for a child of Madge’s age. No wonder she did not thrive and especially as Frey took out of her ear a piece of cotton wool that had been in her ear for over five months.
This was taken out last week. The dear child looked so pale in bed, but still had her humorous smile on, and whispered to me “I found a hot water bottle in my bed.”
23 October - Sunday
Brought Madge back from the Clinique yesterday morning and this forenoon took her out for an hour in the warm sun. The Hospital nurse said Madge marched in and said to the Doctor, “I suppose that you are going to brush my throat”, and he said “Yes” and she quietly got on to the nurse’s knee and opened her mouth and had the operation performed, never uttering a sound.
But some two hours afterwards, Mellings saw her weeping quietly in bed and spoke to her, upon which she said “one ought not to cry, if there is nothing to cry about.”
I arranged with Madame only to come for French lessons on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as I found every day rather a tax.
26 October - Wednesday
Took Olga to see Dr Frey about her ear, nothing serious, but requires treatment.
Sold out £300 much to my regret and shall owe another £100 the end of next April. This year quite £120 has gone on Doctors and Dentists and Mrs Graham, and Stevie and Lou’s education and clothes for the family run into another £2 to 300.
I feel at times very disturbed and told Madame today I shall stop my French lessons. I do not know what to do. I am so anxious to live well inside my income, but Doctors, Dentists, and Dress seem our evil genius.
28 October - Friday
Took my last French lesson today. Poor Mme Duproix will feel my not going to her, as she has at present only one other pupil. Took Madge out to see Dr Carrard this afternoon. She is so anaemic. This morning the dear child commenced her school life at a small Kindergarten, close by, conducted by Miss Herring. Olga and I took her to school.
Weather lately varying between very sunny days and misty mornings followed by sun. The colouring of the mountains round and behind us most beautiful.
30 October - Sunday
Presbyterian Church, morning and evening. Mr Adams, good, well thought out address, but delivered so lacking in energy, etc. Olga accompanied me to the afternoon service. Lou to the Initet [?] C of E which I do not like, but it is so difficult to know how to influence children.
31 October - Monday
Commenced moving down to the 3rd Etage.
General McCausland called, whom I last met at Aden in 1884 A very earnest X.tian and I remembered we foregathered together when I was First Lieut of the Euryalus and he commanded the RA at Aden. He is 74. Very cheery and bright. The last 18 years he has presided at the weekly Bible Meeting at Clarens.
1 November - Tuesday
Attended Bible Meeting (See pamphlet) and spoke a few words 1 Thess. v.18. I made this my prayer. At times feel the pressure of finance and deeply regret another sum of money, viz. £300 has to be sold out. This makes £700 altogether.
RETURN TO ENGLAND
4 November - Friday
30 Belgrave Road, SW. To relate why I am here. Last Wednesday at 6 pm I was writing in my room when Olga opened the door and read a telegram from the Private Secretary brought in by Lou, that the First Lord wished to see me at my convenience.
I decided to start that night so out Olga and I went and found Cooks just closing. I had no money, so as I could not get any from them, I went over to my friend Mr Max the Agent, and got the Bank, Mr Guedon, to cash me a cheque.
Went to the barbers. Dear Olga went back in the rain and got my scarf and we returned to the flat at 7 pm and soon packed up, off we both went at 9 pm and I left at 9.45 pm, being convinced that I was to be offered Greenwich, vacant in March.
I did not get much rest in the train, my through carriage to Calais being at the end of train. However we had a good passage and eventually arrived at Charing X half an hour late, 6 pm.
I should mention that from Montreux I had telegraphed to Troubridge that I would be at the Admiralty 6.30 pm and also to Bertie to meet me. A wire from him also arrived, having crossed mine, saying he would put me up.
Well at the station his messenger came with a letter from the dear old chap saying he congratulated me etc., but of course could not say anything. I still felt it was Greenwich. I had changed in the train and so turning my luggage over to the messenger, I went off to the Admiralty and found my dear old friend Troubridge beaming.
Very soon I was shewn into Mr McKenna and he apologised for smoking, saying I know you do not smoke and then said he did not know I was in Switzerland and he would not have wired. Troubridge said to me he did not tell McKenna on purpose, as he knew that I would like to come.
Mr McK. then, to my utter surprise, offered me Australia for two years. He could not offer it for longer, as by the end of 1912 all our ships come home and the ships built for Australia will be out there and in commission, and of course he could not say what the Commonwealth Gov. would do. But he thought that they would like me to stay on, as they will have no one to turn to for advice but to me.
I accepted the appointment and then he told me that but for being under the King and flying the White ensign, we should have nothing to do with them. They would be managed by our people and their own Reserve men. Our people would be under their rules and reg. Troubridge gave me a long letter from Poore for his successor and in it he said that with care, the income nearly met expenses. This made me low and I returned to 30 B R and being very tired, was not in good spirits, as I foresaw getting further into debt. Mabel was most cheering and practical.
To-day I called on Wilson and he congratulated me. Last night I telegraphed to my beloved wife.
Until the King gives his sanction, it is private, so cannot make much preparation, but I have lots to do for I must leave on the 13th January and reach Sydney on the 24th February. Poore talked about my having a Motor Car built. He had sold his horses and carriages. I feel it will be hard to keep the position up after following men like Fawkes and Poore who have money and had no children to educate.
Now let me close with a prayer of praise and thanksgiving to God for his goodness to me. Dear Olga, Lou and I knelt together before I left and this morning I was much encouraged by reading God’s commands to Joshua in the 1st Chap. Wrote to my dear boy. I shall miss not seeing him for 2 years. Olga and the girls will follow me in May.
How wonderful God has overruled everything. I see now that the climate of Greenwich would have been bad for all of us. God will give me the wisdom and strength for the difficult position I am about to occupy.
15 November - Tuesday
Since last writing in my Journal I have been very busy getting my Staff and Suite together. Today Bremner, my Secretary, lunched with me and I saw Bruen, Flag Captain. Abbott and Savage are coming out with me and Tissot the French chef remains out and goes on with me.
How shall I meet expenses I do not know, but must do it. Darling Olga, writing much to each other about plans, etc. Yesterday Nini went with me and I bought a cloak for Olga to wear in the cold weather.
Bertie has been urging me to insure my life for £1,000 so I spoke to Nini about it and said it would cost me £60 a year and I asked her what she was prepared to do for the little girls, in case of my death and reminded her that expecting Olga would get £100 a year at her mother’s death, I had not insured my life.
Nini said, “I will promise to share anything I have with the children and am ready to work for them and you can tell Bertie this” and said the small amount they would get from any insurance would not make such a difference.
I left Bertie and Mabel’s hospitable roof and came to 60 Eaton Place.
Francie been to the War Office and has a promise of Micky being sent to Sierra Leone at once from the Rifle Brigade. He is now at Cairo and been running for a long time past a most extravagant life, culminating this summer in gambling debts to the tune of £1500, which poor Francie has met and raised and even pawned her jewels and on his return to Cairo, ran up another £150 last month.
The worst of it all is that Ted knows nothing of all this, although F. has been urged by Bertie and myself to tell him.
18 November - Friday
To-day Parliament heard Prime Minister’s Statement. My own opinion is that the Lords brought it all on themselves. Chamberlain and Balfour got a large majority in 1900 to finish the War and declared it was for that purpose only and instead of which they passed most controversial measures such as the Education and Licensing Bills and when the country in 1906 returned a huge majority to undo this work, the Lords have wrecked every measure, and practically Mr Balfour has ruled the country through a few irresponsible peers which of course the country will not stand.
The Lords should have reformed themselves 30 years ago, and they would have been in a strong position today. Go they must now, and the sooner we have local Parliaments, under an Imperial Parliament, the better it will be. The Liberals have the Colonies and the Irish race behind them and all the progressive forces in England.
Been busy to-day, at Imperial Defence Office and Admiralty, about Colonial papers, etc. Many letters to write.
20 November - Sunday
A most helpful address from Dr Campbell Morgan this morning. Ted threatened with that trying disease Antrum. Lord Winchelsea has had three operations for it. Prince Francis of Teck really died from the after effects of it. Matter forms in the cavities of the nose and eyes and has to be drawn away. If not done and kept cleaned out by syringing, it gets down into the lungs, which it did in Teck’s case and formed an abscess of the liver.
Mickie is appointed to the West African Rifles and goes to Sierra Leone at once. Francie been interviewing the War Office people, who were so touched by her pleading that they are doing all they can for her.
Mickie has been under the thraldom of Mrs Atherton the last two years. A very beautiful woman divorced from her husband and has £5,000 a year of her own. Mickie has wired back, so he ought to be leaving Cairo and Mrs Atherton very soon. Francie told me why she had not told Ted, on account of his not being well and that he could not stand worry at present.
21 November - Monday
Ella lunched with me at Stores. I paid visit to Sir George Reid, High Commissioner for Commonwealth of Australia and we had a discussion together. Dined with Francie and Ted.
22 November - Tuesday
Bought a second hand Landau, double harness. Packed and delivered at Docks for £60 from the Auxiliary Stores.
24 November - Thursday
Today ED and I lunched together at Kardomahs. Both doing well. Lel at Agency for writers. ED with her Books. Two come out this month.
Been very busy writing and arranging everything. King sees me on the 14th about.
26 November - Saturday
Met Edward Leigh-White last night in Piccadilly. We ran up against each other. He and Arethusa are over here for a short time.
Letters from my dear Olga daily, much looked forward to. Very cheerless and cold in lodgings. Have had a slight chill on liver. Went to Dentist yesterday. Lunched afterwards with Stewarts, 43 Ennismore Gardens. Friday I lunched at Francie and met my old friend Lady Winchelsea.
10 December - Saturday
I have been very busy the last fortnight, arranging things, seeing people, buying Landau and Victoria and despatching them to Australia. The two, together with 3 sets of harness, will cost me about £105 by the time that they are landed at Sydney.
On Monday the 28 November, I came back to the hospitable roof of Bertie and Mabel’s and have been here ever since. Last Thursday I went down to see Aunt Fanny and my cousins Lily Gilbard and Ethel Douglas who lives about six miles from Aylesbury, where Aunt Fanny is (Byron House). She is looking very well.
Yesterday afternoon I wrote to Sir Arthur Bigge, and conveyed to him that I was anxious to get back to Switzerland, so the result was a letter last night saying that the King would see me to-day at 11.45. So off I went at 9 am and got brushed up and hair cut at A & N Stores and then after getting into frock coat, went off to Buckingham Palace and was taken in tow by Sir Walter Campbell. After waiting a bit, I was ushered into King’s presence, who rose up holding out his hand. I took it and bent down as if to kiss it but did not actually do so. He then asked me to sit down and we had a talk together on naval matters. He said “I know your brother very well and always call him Kinger, and I used to flip his eye glass out of his eye when he was making a stroke at billiards, which made him angry.” He was very cheery and looking extremely well.
I thanked him for permitting his health to be drunk in water. He said “Of course, why not, my father also approved of it. Let any one drink it in anything he likes.” I said it had done good amongst young Officers who came to sea as TA. We, or rather he, talked most, about the weather in Australia and said what a rough sea you got there and needed large vessels. He asked how Bertie liked the Admiralty and said he supposed he would rather be at sea. I said “Yes” and he then said Bridgeman told me the same and I do not wonder. He talked just like one brother officer would to another.
He then rose up and said he was so glad to have seen me and make my acquaintance and shook hands, I bending down as before. He also said “You have been a TA all your life.” I said “Yes, I am the President of the RNTS.”
During the last fortnight I have been much blessed and strengthened going to the Westminster Chapel and hearing Dr Campbell Morgan on Sundays and Fridays.
Every day my dear Olga and I write to each other morning and evening.
RETURN TO MONTREUX
17 December - Saturday
Villa Miguel, Territet.
To go back, last Sunday I was at the Club, when Lord Aberdeen telephoned to me that he would like to call on me at the Club, so I asked him to tea and he arrived at 5 o’c and we had a long talk together on the many difficulties there were in the matter of attending race meetings.
I asked him to come with me and hear my friend Dr Campbell Morgan which he said he would like to do, so went on ahead and secured a place in my friend Dr Robinson’s pew (Seymour Street) and he came in and we had a most helpful address. He was much struck with everything, the building packed about 2,500 and the singing and especially the very fine address from C. Morgan who is speaking on Genesis.
Afterwards I took him into the Vestry and introduced him to my friend and they had a talk together. Lord A saying my friend here, etc., etc. Dr C.M. saying he was coming to stay with me at Admiralty House, Sydney. I had supper with the Robinsons.
On Tuesday Evening Stevie arrived form Dartmouth having left the Cumberland. I had to attend a Dinner at the Colonial Society at the Hotel Metropole and sat next Lady Reid, the wife of High Commissioner. Very pleasant. My friend Captain Rasm [?] there. I had a talk to Sir Gilbert Parker the Chairman who I last saw at Ad. House Q.town when he came down to lunch. He quite agreed with me that some form of Home Rule must come, but said it might break up his party (Tory), but he thought that the extreme men of both sides would be shed and a good thing too.
I drove to Eaton Place and saw my dear boy, looking very well. He has gained a prize in exam. and several in the Regattas.
Thursday. 15th December. Stevie and I started via Calais for Territet. I had hoped to have met Robbie in Paris en route whose birthday it was yesterday (55).
We arrived at Montreux, 9 am, and my beloved Olga and dear Lou met us, both looking very well.
The last four weeks have been almost incessant rain, but mild.
Sir Frederick Fisher told me a curious story. This summer, he had been staying with the Curzon-Howes at Portsmouth. On leaving by train, a smartly dressed woman with her young son got in, and on Fisher offering to move to allow her to put her feet up, as she had got out a pillow, they got into conversation. She said “You are a sailor?” - “Yes,” - “and a Naval Officer?” - “Yes,” and then she said how civil every one was in England, and especially sailors and then told him she was the wife of a Moscow merchant who had a very large business (this after Fisher had hazarded a guess that she was French) and that she was a Russian Govt. spy, getting a large salary and was at that time, following two Russian female anarchists who were in the train at that moment.
They had been down at Cowes, where the King of Spain had been staying. She said 40 foreign and our detectives had been watching over his safety. She did not know where she was going to put up, and on arrival at Victoria Fisher saw the two Russian anarchists, well dressed women about 30 years of age, the spy about the same age and heard the spy tell the Taxi Cab to follow the other women.
A few days afterwards, Fisher was in the Tottenham Court Road and saw his acquaintance staring into a shop window. He spoke to her, and she said “Yes they are both in this shop and do not know I am watching them.” Curious.
20 December - Tuesday
Stevie, Lou and Olga went up to Les Avant and the two former did some tobogganing and much enjoyed themselves.
21 December - Wednesday
Stevie and I went up to Les Avant. Glorious day, very warm there and beautiful scenery.
The new view from our flat most lovely, full sun, and Alps about 3 miles across the lake. Tops covered with snow and streaked with the same down the sides.
Heard to my surprise from Elise this evening who is at the Grand Hotel, Caux.
Attended the meeting (prayer) at Clarens yesterday, held every week under the presidency of my old friend General McCausland now 74 years of age. He had two sisters massacred in the Indian Mutiny, one of whom was thrown into the well at Cawnpore.
23 December - Friday
Heard from Elise King-Hall who is staying at Caux, on Wednesday. She came down and lunched with us today and we had a long talk over old times and the tears came into my eyes as she mentioned how devoted my mother had been to me. All the old scenes were vividly portrayed to my mind.
I fear from what she said that Lizzie is a incorrigible gambler and that they owe money all round, though the tea shop is doing very well in Place Vendôme. Elise said to me, she thought Olga so pretty, with such beautiful eyes.
24 December - Saturday
Olga and I went by funicular railway to Glyon and back, walking towards Caux and very fine full sun and beautiful views.
X.Mas Day - Sunday
Villa Miguel, Territet, Switzerland
Spent quietly with all the children. Stevie having returned from Lausanne, where he had spent the night at his old school. Dr Auckenthaler, who gave him a great reception at the breaking-up dinner, about 40 to 50 being present.
Stevie in his uniform made a speech. The telegram which Gieve sent us was forwarded on by Olga and arrived just as they were sitting down, stating that he was 13 out of the term 80. Very good and I am much pleased.
Dr Auckenthaler came over and had tea with us today.
28 December - Wednesday Evening
I left Montreux last night by 9.10 train and arrived at Charing Cross 5 pm this afternoon and came on to 116 Cambridge Street, Warwick Square. Most comfortable lodgings. Mrs Allamann.
Edith turned up to supper and spent the evening with me. Dear Rob met me this morning at the Gare de Lyon and we spent a couple of hours together. I had to sit up most of the night, but had a very smooth passage over.
31 December - Saturday
116 Cambridge Street, SW.
Looking back over the past year and what I wrote in my journal this time last year. What a change.
Here today my flag hoisted in HMS President this morning, as Vice Ad. C-in-C on the Australian Station, a fine finish up to my service career. How wonderful and gracious God, my Father has led me and I pray I may always remember this and endeavour by His Grace to fulfil the purpose, which He has in view, in sending me out to this command.
Dear Olga and Stevie arrived this evening. I met them at Charing Cross. Stevie staying at 30 Belgrave Road.
E.D. been staying with me, here, until today and it has been very pleasant having her companionship. Last night we went and heard Dr C. Morgan at West’r Chapel. Very full and we were very struck with the helpful way he opened out the scriptures.
Replied to Poore’s wire by letter, offering £80, instead of the £120 for pair of horses, he asked.
1911
1 January - Sunday
Today, morning and evening, Olga, Stevie and I attended Westminster Chapel and heard most helpful and powerful addresses from my friend Dr Campbell Morgan. I had the inexpressible delight this morning of Stevie, who came this morning with us, stopping to the Communion Service. Afterwards we went to the Vestry and Olga asked Dr C.M. to stay with us, if he came to Sydney in 1912.
My text this morning “Choose ye whom ye will serve.” By God’s grace I reply in the words of Joshua “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
Saw Francie this afternoon and Olga and I had tea at 30 B. Road.
10 January - Tuesday
Edith’s birthday.
11 January - Wednesday
Been very busy as has Olga in getting things together, and heavy work it has been and needless to say most heavy expense. Stevie going out a good deal and a general favourite with every one old and young. I went to a children’s dance at Francie’s a few evenings ago. Stevie dances very well indeed and Francie made me take a turn with her and at one time Bertie and I and Stevie were all on the floor at the same time.
Met Sir Gerard Noel this afternoon at the Stores, who congratulated me most heartily and said all kinds of nice things to Olga about me.
It has been one of the most pleasant circumstances in the app’t that nearly all the senior Officers and many others have been so pleased at seeing me app’d to this command.
12 January - Thursday
Dear Olga and I getting the few odds and ends required. This afternoon we went to 60 Eaton Place and met there Ella, Nini, Baldie, Bertie, Mabel, Francie and Ted being there of course and Eddy and Rosebud with Stevie.
Quite a gathering of the Clans and there I said good-bye to my dear sisters Francie and Lel and also to Nini. Dear Francie and Lel, I could see felt our parting as I did also. In the evening ED came in and spent some time with us.
This morning, I called at 14 Regent Street and saw St John who was installed in a fine Art Gallery and has some new appointment as Secretary. What it is I do not know. It is called the Art Gallery, and has to do with Ducros the Motor owner. He owns the whole house and has the lower part filled with Motors.
I fancy people are to be attracted in to the Art Gallery and look at the pictures, and probably some may buy motors which stand invitingly near them as they pass by.
13 January - Friday
A cold NE day, a terrific gale blowing all yesterday morning and during the day. Many wrecks.
Last night our dear boy, Olga and myself knelt down and asked God to bless us and that we might all be spared to unite again, at the end of my command. This morning my precious Olga and I asked God to guide us and overrule all that we did to His Glory in the responsible post we are going out to fill.
My dear boy Stevie came round and at 10 am we drove off in a bus for L.pool Street. ED being with my beloved Olga, whose sweet face I last saw at the door of the lodgings. Picking up Bertie and saying good-bye to Mabel who affectionately waved her hand. We arrived at the Station and there found my dear brother Baldie as were all my Staff, etc. and down we went to Tilbury Docks and off in a tender to the P & O India.
A bleak cold day and Bertie and I thought how very backward the Authorities were in the comfort of passengers, as regards their embarkation.
Soon the time came for the parting and after clasping my only and dear son to me, we separated. Poor Stevie quite broken down and my heart very full and just managed to control my feelings. May God bless and guide him in his new life.
The tender left and I felt I was now alone. It was most cheering having Bertie and Baldie with me.