Embedded Files
15 NOV 1911 - 28 MAR 1912
DEPART SYDNEY
15 November - Wednesday
At Sea.
Consulted Dr Herbert Marks about my nose, as I thought there might be a growth there. Nothing very much, to my relief.
Embarked Olga and Madge and Maid and sailed at 4.30 pm for Auckland. Fairly smooth.
16 November - Thursday
At sea to Auckland. Knocking about a good deal. The family down from the motion. Very muggy and damp.
17 November - Friday
Weather much better.
18 November - Saturday
Rolling somewhat, but fine. Had some Officers to lunch.
19 November - Sunday
Fine day, rounded the North Cape of New Zealand at noon, having passed the 3 King Islands. Had some Warrant Officers into tea, which they much enjoyed. Talking of matrimony with Olga, Mr Marsden, Art. Eng. was very comical remarking “I wonder if the Captain will be caught, he seemed very busy at the races. He was in close attendance to Miss Quick. We all think some arrangement has been come to between them.”
Had a helpful talk with dear Olga on spiritual matters. We both seem to be drawing very near to each other and filled with the same ideas. Essentially spiritual beings, dwelling for a time in an earthly tabernacle. At times, I get weary, but the thought of God’s grace and purpose in putting me here, strengthens and encourages me to go forward.
ARRIVE AUCKLAND
20 November - Monday
Arrived at Auckland, early this morning, fine cold and bracing weather. It is now 44½ years since I left the same place in the Esk for home, very hard up and my wardrobe most scanty. Now I return as His Excellency the Naval Commander in Chief, free passes sent me for myself and my beloved wife. What a change!
Received call from Colonel Wolfe, Commandant, an old Marine Officer and Major Braithwaite of Welsh Fusiliers, lent by Home Govt. I landed and inspected Calliope Dock and Admiralty Reserve.
21 November - Tuesday
Left with Olga at 10 am in Reserved Comp’t for Rotorua where we arrived at 5.50 pm. It was most interesting seeing the Country; exactly like England, the fields of Leicestershire, moors of Yorkshire, bracken of Highlands, walls of Galway and the varied green and brown and purple hues. Most refreshing after the sombre colouring of Australia.
Several people called in on our Compartment, amongst them Mr Marion, lecturer and organiser of the Temperance Alliance, who is going over the country with others, endeavouring to carry prohibition either National or in Districts. The general election comes off on Dec 7th and this question is taken at the same time.
He told us many interesting things about the Maoris and astonished us by telling the result of prohibition in reducing crime and drunkenness. A farmer is offered £10 by Brewers as a bonus, if Prohibition is not carried, and he is working for Brewers. The wife is working the other way for prohibition and has a vote also. At one of Mr Marion’s meetings, she came 10 miles, bringing her six children with her, she riding with one child in front and one behind, and the other 4 children on 3 ponies. She is most energetic and says as for the bonus of £10 her husband was to receive; if prohibition was carried, she would save a great deal more than the £10, for her husband got through more than that in the year.
Raining heavily on the way up. Geyser Hotel like the Swiss mountain ones, quite comfortable.
22 November - Wednesday
Heavy squalls of rain, the early part of the day prevented us going out. Eventually it cleared up, and under the guidance of Georgina, a pretty Maori guide, who spoke English with a very soft tone, we went to the geysers. She told us she had three children, but her husband had left her, and was living with another woman, but she added in a tone of satisfaction, she had no children.
To describe the geysers - the hundreds of boiling pools of water and mud would take pages. It is simply wonderful, extending over such a huge area and such a vast extent of country. Here at Wakarewarewa, a large Maori village is built right over the steaming earth and the cooking done at the front door or close by over the steam issuing from the earth.
A cold stream of water runs down through the valley, in which are trout, whilst at the side and on the banks, the earth is hot and water boiling, so that you can catch a trout and boil it practically in the same stream. The geysers were not playing high close to the Hotel, steam was rising within a few yards. It is necessary to keep on the paths in the Reserve, that are cut through the scrub, else you would soon fall into boiling mud or water. Very good food and cooking at the Hotel Geyser. Talked to a young German, Dr Schonn, sent out by the Govt. to study social and economic questions in Australia.
Olga thoroughly enjoyed the change, and the weirdness and dreariness of this strange scene of sulphurous emanations and geysers working.
23 November - Thursday
A long and tedious railway journey 8 hours doing 176 miles. Got on board at 5.30 pm. Dined at the Northern Club, about 50 members present to do me honours. Made a good speech in reply to my health being drunk.
24 November - Friday
Inspected the forts with Major General Godsell, tramped over mud and fields. Raining most of the time.
Mails from home and from dear Lou.
25 November - Saturday
Various callers including the Mayor, Mr Parr, which I returned.
A lunch party, Col and Mrs Wolfe. Major and Mrs Braithwaite, Major Whitney and his son, Mr and Mrs Parr. Major Whitney a fine old chap, was once the first shot in England. Very deaf and full of anecdotes, he and his son own most of the shares in the small arm manufactury here and at Melbourne, employing 160 hands here and 460 at Melbourne.
After lunch the Whitneys took me out in their motor to the Agricultural Show and I saw some jumping. Mr O’Rouke the President, knows Dick and David Ker very well. He runs the hounds out here, but is shortly going to England for good, for the hunting.
26 November - Sunday
The Whitneys took me out to the Veterans Home, about 91 there. A short service, and after inspecting the Home, I inspected the veterans, one, 93 years of age, was in the Revenge at the siege of Acre, where my father was in the Benbow. I gave them a short address, which they appreciated and gave me three cheers.
Com. Archer, who is in charge of the Home, was with me in the Excellent when we were going through gunnery as Sub Lieuts together in 1870. He was also at North Grove House, Southsea, same school. How different our positions, he ‘Excellencing’ me all the time. We had a very pleasant chat together over old times.
Major Whitney came off to lunch, full of stories and speaks very loud, being deaf. He said I would rather entertain 6 Admirals than one maid, referring to the trouble Lady Fawkes’ maid gave. Mellings, Olga’s maid, was the other side of the screen and I could not get him off the maid question for some time.
His place is near Kawau Island, some 20 miles from here.
After lunch Olga and I to the Opera House where there was a Brotherhood Meeting, Temperance Sunday, my visit was rather unexpected. I gave a 10 min. address.
Then Olga and I to the Public Library, where the librarian, Mr Shellington, a retired Sergt Major of the RE some 35 years ago, had got all the rare manuscripts and folios for us to see, going back as far as 1200 AD. Also shewed us the original manuscript of the Watch on the Rhine, given by Arndt to Sir George Grey when he was 90 years old. The old Emperor William was most anxious to get it, but Sir G. G. would not part with it. He left a very fine collection of every kind to the Auckland museum and Library, which has also a very good collection of pictures.
DEPART AUCKLAND
27 November - Monday
Sailed this morning from Auckland, and at 5 pm were off White Island, an active volcanic geyser, blowing off steam. We opened out the crater, shewing the boiling lake and mud, through a great rent in the side. I last visited and landed on this Island in 1867 when a Mid in the Challenger, now C-in-C with my wife and child on board.
ARRIVE WELLINGTON
29 November - Wednesday
At Wellington, came to the anchorage in a storm of wind and rain. It cleared up eventually and turned out a lovely summer day. The harbour is very pretty, a large Bay, surrounded by hills, and the town end covered with villas and houses, red tiled roofs, in the midst of trees.
30 November - Thursday
Fine day to some extent. Showers of rain. Took Olga up to Mrs Godley, wife of General G. to tea, where Madge had spent the day. Mrs Godley knew all the County Down people and Quinton and the Kers. I dined there last night with Seton.
This evening dined with my Staff and Officers at the Wellington Club. As a Mid, I was a guest at a dance given by the same Club some 44 years ago, where I remember Pat O’Connor, Mid of the boat, who came in for us all, led his boat’s crew up to the supper room and made a raid on the eatables. The room being on the ground floor, they were passed out of the windows.
In replying to the toast of my health, I alluded to this circumstance which made them laugh very much. I spoke for some time with great ease and received great plaudits at the end. I heard my Officers were very struck with the way I alluded to different topics of Imperial interest.
2 December - Saturday
Attended with Olga, at the Town Hall, the annual rally of the Navy League, several thousand present, many young people. Cinematograph pictures and odd events by men of the Powerful. Olga gave away prizes to boys and girls. Mr Harcourt, Vice Chairman of League, made a speech to which I responded. The Military officers told Bruen they were much struck with my speech. Olga and I had a warm welcome from the audience.
We were received by a guard of honour composed of scouts, and the Veterans lined up in the Hall. One of them a farmer up country, Walton, was with my father in the Exmouth and the Calcutta, in the Russian and China wars.
3 December - Sunday
Olga and I to the Brotherhood Meeting at Her Majesty’s Theatre. Quite full, mostly men. I spoke on the Empire, pointing out God’s purpose in raising it up and blessing our race and that it would continue as we fulfilled His purpose, which was to carry the Gospel to the furthest ends of the Earth.
The Veterans came off to tea with us and had it in the Fore Cabin and were much pleased. Olga and I landed and went out to the Botanical Gardens which are placed on a hill. Most of the walks being through fir trees and bush, very pretty and natural.
4 December - Monday
Papers had very full accounts of my speech at the Town Hall on Saturday and at Her Majesty’s Theatre yesterday afternoon. Olga and I took a long walk this morning.
Last Friday the Godleys and Johnstones dined with us, I having dined with Godleys on Thursday.
Mail came off. Francie and Bertie are giving £2.2 each and Mrs Dyer, making up the rest of the £20 a week.
Nini wrote giving an account of Walter’s illness, tuberculosis and mind unhinged. How terrible all this is and how sad.
Troubridge writes that it was a minute put on by Bertie, that stopped Drake relieving Powerful at Sydney.
DEPART WELLINGTON
AT PORT LYTTELTON
5 December - Tuesday
Arrived at Port Lyttelton this morning, the range of inland mountains all covered with snow on their peaks. Country very like parts of Kerry. Went up in Governor’s Car with Staff to Garden Party given in my honour. About 600 there. Cold rather. Found Miss Staple Cotton still staying with the Islingtons. Lord Islington and I had a talk about Governors and came to the conclusion that a G. General was sufficient for Australia.
Olga and Madge went up to Christchurch, the former being in deep mourning, did not attend Garden Party.
6 December - Wednesday
Blowing a cyclone, first from East right into the anchorage, sending rollers in and as there was only 4 feet under our keel, soft mud, and ship most unsteady, I got steam up ready to move out. Weather too bad for Governor and party coming to lunch or my going to dinner so I cleared out at 7 pm. Wind after a lull blowing most fiercely from the westward.
Yesterday, I went all over the Terra Nova, about to sail for the Antarctic, to meet Scott. Very deep in the water. Takes about 8 days to get to the pack ice. Very interesting looking over the Charts, etc. Lent Lt Pennel, a Leading Seaman, and exchanged an ERA.
7 December - Thursday
Knocking about a good deal. Olga feeling it and I think most of us aft do, the vibration is so great.
10 December - Sunday
A fine day, steaming 14 knots. Yesterday and day before, ran through outer edge of cyclonic storm. Heavy swell from the SW.
Madge very well. Talks from morning to night. Very merry and a great favourite with everyone.
Olga all right and looking very well.
ARRIVE SYDNEY
11 December - Monday
Arrived at Sydney 7 am. A very hot day - 100° in the shade. The hottest day for two years. Found dear Lou well, and Mlle had run the house very well during our absence.
Two mails from England. News of Walter’s death. He died very rapidly from consumption in a London Home. Very patient and gentle. Poor fellow.
12 December - Tuesday
Weather still warm.
13 December - Wednesday
Olga and I paid visit to the Chelmsfords. He the same, she a bland type of her mother, Lady Wimborne. Olga not been very well the last fortnight. Prickly heat, rashes, etc.
14 December - Thursday
Robbie’s birthday, born in 1856. God bless him.
15 December - Friday
Bought Olga present for Xmas and for children. Went to Test Cricket match, England v. Australia. Very good play. Then drove with Olga to visit Warner, the Captain of the Team, in private Hospital. Mrs Warner there. Great friends of the Jellicoes. Admiral J. wrote to me about him. He will not be able to play out here, a great loss to the team.
Bills very heavy.
16 December - Saturday
Mrs Thornett and Dr, Miss Thornett (sister in law of preceding) and Dr Isbister lunched with us.
Busy packing up papers. Telegram from Prometheus saying she had put into Port Darwin, evaporators broken down. A month since we left Sydney. She is unfortunate and has a most pessimistic couple in Comd. Warleigh and Eng. Comd. Little.
Steamed up to Ryde in Barge and landed with Olga. Walked up to the Incurables’ Home, found everyone as bright and cheery as ever. An hour going up and 50 min coming down in the Barge.
17 December - Sunday
A lot of people to tea, some stayed an hour, great bores.
Mr Allen called, bringing Mrs Everard Maxwell, widow of Capt. Maxwell, whose son a Lt in the Sealark marries his cousin Miss Leper on Saturday next. Mrs Maxwell has been very pretty.
Mr Allen motored us out to call on old Miss Brownrigg, an old age pensioner, quite a grande dame, a Xtian woman, boarding with some working people. She is one of the Brownrigg family, her cousin being Sir Douglas B. - Naval Attaché.
DEPART SYDNEY
19 December - Tuesday
Last night embarked 7 of the gentler sex, and all my establishment, which numbered 36 including Boats crews and Signalmen, 2 horses and carriages and an enormous amount of luggage, and all the Office Records.
Left 9.30 am this morning and as ship was turning round Fort Denison, the Steering Engine jammed, and it was only by going full speed astern, that the ship did not ram two steamers. For ½ an hour we had the ‘Not under control’ Balls up. It was then found that some one had put a thick iron bar under the crank of steering engine and of course crank broke. I fear it was done purposely.
We got out of sight of the ships, who had cheered us, by using screws, but of course could not attempt the Bar until all was right. During the day, a strong wind. Party not unwell yet.
20 December - Wednesday
At 3.30 am on clearing Cape Gabo, a half gale from the Westward, bringing up a nasty sea. I was up looking after some of the party, all prostrated with sea sickness and Olga not well besides. This evening the weather improving. It is a business moving such a large establishment and having to think so constantly of finances. I long for the time when I shall be free of mind regarding money matters.
ARRIVE HOBART
21 December - Thursday
Arrived at Hobart 11.30 am. The night we had a fairly quiet passage. During the afternoon we all disembarked and found our way out to Mr Gant’s house, some 2½ miles from the landing in Newtown near the Railway Station. About 6 loads of luggage, which the R.A. Artillery brought out for me.
The house is about 70 - 80 years old. One of the most ancient in Hobart and been built on, very like an old fashioned Rectory in England. Lean-to Rooms had been built in all kinds of places in the Stable yard, as there were ten men servants to accommodate. The sanitary arrangements being the weakest, all earth closets and I had to get them to build two more.
The ground is an orchard of 12 acres of fruit trees, peaches, etc. Not very well kept, and we are about half a mile from the River Derwent and practically in the country. Two cows, which give us about 8 gallons of milk a day, but with my Establishment of 19 people another gallon has had to be taken in. I hope to keep the bills down by having them sent in weekly. Weather cold and showery.
22 December - Friday
Busy arranging all my papers. An arduous task. Official calls as usual. I went and had a long talk to Sir Harry Barron, the Governor. He is by no means well. [one line inked over] and pain, that he has not had two consecutive hours sleep during the last six weeks as he can never be sure of himself [one line inked over] poor fellow and can never leave the house. I cheered him up as he gets very depressed at times and no wonder. I hear that there is a danger of diabetes setting in which he does not know about. I have offered him the Encounter in case he wishes to go to Melbourne for an operation.
23 December - Saturday
Struck my flag in Powerful last night and transferred it to the Encounter; Capt. Hickley. Went on board at 10 am, shook hands with all the officers and said good bye to the men, making them a short speech. They cheered me very heartily and on their leaving, I made a signal to cheer ship and at 11 am off they went.
It is delightful being here with the family so quiet.
24 December - Sunday
Went to the Congregational Church, morning and evening.
25 December - Monday
X.mas Day.
Attended with Flag Lt the morning service in the parish Church, a very nerveless sermon. It came on to rain hard during the afternoon. We spent a quiet but pleasant Xmas with the children.
26 December - Tuesday
Weather cold, but bracing. This afternoon Olga and I called at Government House, and had tea there, meeting Colonel Hanning-Lee, late of the Life Guards and a great friend of the German Emperor’s. We both agreed as to the unwise policy the British Nation are carrying out in thwarting the Germans wherever and whenever we can, and agreed that no self respecting nation or individual would stand it for ever.
Capt. Hickley was telling me of two of his men, one lately a Sick Berth Attendant who had left the service and married a girl with £500 - £600 a year, and one of his Ship’s Corporals who has asked to be allowed to remain out, as he is engaged to a girl worth £450 a year, and his future father in law intends building him a house.
29 December - Friday
Lady Barron, Col Hanning-Lee and others came to tea yesterday. Lady Barron very pleasant, takes her position very seriously, perhaps rightly so.
A long extract from Lady Poore’s letter to Mrs Wesche (I suppose) is in the Sydney Bulletin. At the end of it, a quiet hit at me. She is certainly very lacking in dignity the way she writes and most indiscreet.
Destroyers put under my orders by Navy Board. Heard from Pearce, the Minister of Defence.
31 December - Sunday
Last night dined with Governor, 24 at dinner, and then a small dance. Lady Barron told me Lady Poore said to her “I do not know how you will get on with the new Admiral. He won’t have anything to do with dancing or go in for anything and only gives lemonade”, in fact ran me down, as much as she could.
After dancing a turn or two with Lady Lewis. I went up to the Barrons and we had a great laugh over it all. Lady Barron said no real lady would go on as Lady Poore does, writing about the successor to her husband. I am afraid that she cannot get over the fact of the RAN making such a good beginning.
The end of the year. I humbly and reverently thank God for His Wonderful grace and love to me and mine, giving me this influential and important Appointment. May I ever remember it is held in trust for my Master and my King.
1912
1 January - Monday
A New year. May it be fruitful in much blessing to us all, especially in the spiritual sphere. I commence it, with a grateful heart and a desire to glorify God in the position He has brought me into and I trust by this time next year I shall be free of debt. I must allot £100 a month for the next 15 months to free myself. The passage money is so very heavy and the Doctors and Dentists.
3 January - Wednesday
Telegram. “Edwell, Steleft, Satcape Herbert.” At first I thought it was a cypher message, but Office could not make it out. I then saw it meant Edie well, Stevie left, Saturday for the Cape, so he must have started for the Hermes, Flagship on the Cape Station.
On Tuesday I inspected the Protector, RAN Drill ship, and gave them a few words of advice and as I intended it for the Australians generally, sent it to the papers. Leading articles on it were written. My chief aim is to weld the RN and RAN together, and get the Australians to see that unless it is one service, it will be of little use, and I also am always keeping them in remembrance of the necessity of immigration if they wish to keep a White Australia and that the first line of defence in carrying out this policy is a strong and efficient Navy.
7 January - Sunday
Attended the Congregational Chapel with Olga and Lou. Mr Slack has in it in him, but requires more verve and fire in his preaching. A regular flood of naval people, wives and fiancées came to tea. The Encounter is a very married ship and engaged ship. Three of the latter; one Lt Mortimer to the daughter of the cattle King, Mr Kidman; Peshall, Chaplain, to Miss McArthur, a clever little girl, daughter of McA. late Liberal Whip, neither any money.
8 January - Monday
T.B. Destroyers arrived.
9 January - Tuesday
Mr Fisher, Premier of the Commonwealth, lunched en famille with us and afterwards we had a long talk together on every conceivable subject. He thought W. Churchill lacked principle and would not be Premier later on, but that Sir Edward Grey would be the man, or Lloyd George.
I discussed the North Australia problem in view of the position 10 to 15 years hence and suggested my plan of placing Indians there and forming a Sepoy Army, but he said no Australian would listen to this or anything but a white Australia. He said, the Govt intended to spend a lot of money there, but I replied. “That will not bring people when they have vast areas in the South West and East to settle in.”
I said this policy demands a strong Australian Navy, and he quite agreed and is ready to spend £10,000,000 if necessary on it. He will talk to Mr Pearce, the Minister of Defence as to giving £60,000 to £70,000 to the Australian Squadron for extra pay, if Ad. refuse their schemes which I think they may do, judging from Graham Greene’s letter to me, which I shewed Fisher.
We agreed about the necessity of developing the authority of the Central Government and fostering the spirit of Australian Nationality and also that Governors should go, States divided up, and this would increase the prestige and dignity of the Governor General, the King’s representative.
He mentioned the moderation of the Labour Party in keeping their mouths shut in face of Lord Dudley’s conduct, who he said had done much harm. He said “More was the pity, as he was a very able man.” Regarding Govt House, being taken away at Sydney from the G.G., he is much put out about it, said “It was a petty thing to do” and that Mr McGowen the Premier was against it. He warned me against Mr Holman, the Attorney General of N.S.W. Govt. Curiously Mr Donkin who befriended him in early life, has a distrust of him. Mr Fisher hoped before the six months were up, that something might be arranged about the Govt House at Sydney.
He told me that they highly approved of Capt. Booth’s appt to Commonwealth Office in London. On my saying that Capt. Grant was very disappointed and wrote me that the Australians were annoyed at his not being app’d, being an Australian, and said “It is only a temporary appt, it had to be done.” I agreed and said I thought it was quite right. He had worked so hard in the past, and that I was arranging for proper calls and visits to be made.
Mr Fisher said to me what a large statesmanlike view I took of the whole situation and enjoyed so much talking to me, and on going away said “If you do nothing more, than you have done already, you will have done a great work.”
Olga, Seton and I to the Governor’s garden party, a fine afternoon. I met my old shipmate Tom de Hoghton, he was a Sub Lieut in the old Narcissus and I had not seen him since 1866 when I left her at Rio, to join the Challenger and came on to Australia. We were delighted to meet again. He reminded me how I was call Little Jacko. A Miss Mandeville there, great niece of my old friend Henry Mandeville. A pleasant party.
10 January - Wednesday
My dear sister E.D’s birthday. Am most thankful to say she is under God’s blessing well, and gone to Plassy, near Paris, with a nurse for a change.
This afternoon Olga, children and myself went to the xxx Gardens, where I opened An old English Fair. Received by the Curate in old English attire as town crier, who went before me, calling “Oyez, Oyez” and passed through rows of girls dressed in fancy dress etc. A Maypole dance was danced very well by about a dozen girls, who did a lot of dances. I opened the Fair with a speech, which was received with cheers, etc. etc. The inevitable photographer there. After some purchases, went to the Cricket Match, and saw the Navy get a good licking from the Army.
11 January - Thursday
Had tea and a yarn with Governor. Our luncheon party of Hickleys, Stopfords, Nares and Mrs Carr and Capt. Cottrell-Dormer. Went off well.
16 January - Tuesday
Inspected the Pioneer, Com. Stopford. In good order.
Dined at the Tasmanian Club, dinner given in my honour. Governor present. After dinner I made a speech on Navy and High Policy which I am glad to say was much appreciated. Governor got up afterwards and said “I think it right to let you know that the successful issue of the Naval policy, the White Ensign being flown by the RAN is due to the C-in-Chief” and said a lot of other things in my praise, which almost, as I told him, made me blush.
I had a long talk with Sir Thomas Ewing, Minister of Defence in the Deakin Govt and other members.
Last Sunday, a furnace and hot blast blowing. Great bush fires, all round visible from our house.
17 January - Wednesday
Olga went over the Salvation Army Rescue Home. One young girl of 20, with her illegitimate child. The matron told her, that this same young mother was brought to the House when a girl of 15 by the girl’s mother, and gave birth to a child, and she knew nothing about it. The girl’s g.mother pays for its keep on condition that the young girl mother should not be informed. She was not, and curious to state, this first illegitimate child, now 5 years old, is still in the home and does not know its mother, though they are often together. Neither does the mother know it’s her girl. Olga saw them together. The young girl’s mother, when 15, was playing with the children, just before the birth of child.
Matron also told Olga the history of a nice young girl, who had been seduced by a man, after three interviews with her, in the Domain, giving her some liquor and finally gave her 1/6. When she endeavoured to get a paternity order, the father brought three other men into court, who swore that they all had connection with the girl, which was false. The Matron said this was often done and that many girls fell through lack of knowledge.
I think sexual relations should be taught at schools and many a young girl would be saved.
19 January - Friday
A lunch party of 14. Sir Wm and Lady Cullen, Verneys and Officers and wives from Encounter.
Last night went with Olga and Lou and Mlle to ‘Sing Song’ given by the Encounter. Very good.
20 January - Saturday
Took Lou and Madge for a drive up the Kangaroo Valley. Very pretty.
Heard yesterday, by telegraph-post from Capt. in charge that Prometheus had only reached Amboina on the 5th Jan and did not expect to leave until the 20th. Engine defects, and was then preceding to Mandano, 400 miles further on, where there was a telegraph station.
I strongly suspect foul play on the part of some of the E.R.As, a drunken lot. Warleigh wired from Port Darwin, he had placed Art. Engineer under open arrest for writing to papers.
21 January - Sunday
Our dear son is now 19 years old and should be on board the Hermes by now at Simons Town. Lou and I to the General Hospital. Comd. Carver wired to me, he wished to see me personally, and have written telling him he can write confidentially.
23 January - Tuesday
We all went to witness the Regatta and were taken to the Special Box where we were joined by the Kirkpatricks. A great crowd witnessed the regatta, about 30,000 I am told. Hundreds of small tents and a lot of merry-go-rounds and side shows. It appears an M-G- R makes £100 after clearing expenses etc. The General and I took our children and after some difficulty got them on a horse, there being such a crowd anxious to get on. It is a regular carnival for Hobart and Tasmania generally and a general holiday.
24 January - Wednesday
Olga and I with children drove up to the Ferns and had lunch with the Cullens. It is some 1600 feet above the sea. Very fine scenery and walks. We spent the afternoon there. Cullen told me he had seen my speech in several papers, and Bertie tells me the Morning Post had my Melbourne speech in.
26 January - Friday
Yesterday [?], Olga with the children and self drove up to the Fern Tree, and had lunch with the Cullens. It is some 1500 feet up Mount Wellington, and very pretty walks everywhere.
To day, the Cullens lunched with us and we all went to see the Cricket Match. England versus Tasmania, a very one sided affair.
Took Lou to see the final played in the Royal Tennis, a very interesting game and a very old one. Mr Butler (junior) beat Capt. Awdry (ADC to Fuller, Governor of Vic.). Went on with Lou to Cricket Match. England 3 wickets down for 500 odd and giving catches. At last Foster was caught and they went out for nearly 600 against Tasmania 124. xxx alone made over 300.
30 January - Tuesday
Last night received letters from Warleigh from Port Darwin, evidently all the Warrant Officers in league and the Artificers to keep Prometheus from getting to Hong Kong, but I must get her there, even if I have to send the Cambrian up to escort or tow her there.
A luncheon party today. Dean and Mrs Kite, Gen. and Mrs Kirkpatrick and others. Miss McArthur staying with us, engaged to Revd. Peshall of Encounter who comes up here all day.
31 January - Wednesday
This evening a Telegram from Warleigh, who had sent an Officer to Macassar with it, that the Prometheus had hopelessly broken down and he was overhauling the main engines at Amboina.
1 February - Thursday
Yesterday, lodged £75 in the States Saving Bank, which will pay Lou’s dentist.
Sending Cambrian up to Amboina with some extra E.R.As and Stokers, and orders to Drummond to take Prometheus under his orders and endeavour to get her to Hong Kong, for I strongly suspect foul play in the Engine Room.
Mr Tudor formerly in the hat trade, now Minister of Customs, lunched with me and we had confidential talk about the arriving of the German merchant steamers and searching them. He is sending the Controller of Customs over to see me from Melbourne. Six out of the 10 ministers in the Federal Govt are T. Abstainers.
Mr Tudor an intelligent practical man. He agreed with me, that the Northern Territory was a problem, most difficult to solve and that it was not likely that a white man would go there to settle when there were vast areas in the south, SE, and SW fit for occupation and ready for people.
We had a very interesting talk on social matters.
Lady Barron told Olga that she had invited all the principal people to meet the Poores at tea, and that afterwards Lady Poore said before every one “You will find such a difference when the King-Halls come, they preach in the streets, hate dancing, etc, etc, etc. and are quite unfit for the post” and said other things, which Lady Barron said she could not repeat and went so far that Lady Barron said to Lady Poore “I do not think you should speak of the new Admiral in this way, as he has been sent by the Authorities.”
Sir Richard went up to Lady P. and tried to stop her in the abuse she poured out on us, and next day, actually wrote a letter apologising to Lady Barron for it all. The latter says she was very jealous of our coming out. I can only think the poor woman was not herself for she professed to be a great friend of Olga’s.
2 February - Friday
Sent Cambrian to Amboina to rescue Prometheus, quite broken down. It will take three weeks to get there.
Mrs Drummond, wife of Captain Drummond lunched with us, a very charming woman. Had a very interesting talk with her on the religious outlook of the present day.
3 February - Saturday
A scorching day, no wind, sun blood red, owing to great mist, due to smoke from bush fires.
Comd. Brewis saw me this morning. He is working for the Commonwealth Government regarding the position of Light Houses, etc. and will be two years over it. He told me that the pearlers up north are a bad lot. They rape all the women of the natives, and that every birth of late up north in Queensland has been half-caste. When the blacks see the pearlers they go back in the bush.
Olga and Lou were taken out for a Motor drive by Captain Cottrell-Dormer.
4 February - Sunday
Very hot. Challenger arrived.
5 February - Monday
Drake arrived at 2.30 pm. Captain Gaunt of Challenger said that the smoke from the bush fires was so bad that he could not see the land, and a 30 mile light looked like a red spot and only became visible at 4 miles. He had to feel his way into the anchorage, then made a bad shot.
6 February - Tuesday
Chaplain of Challenger came to see me on confidential business. Gave him cheering words and advice.
Wrote “Comd. Carver, no necessity for him to retire, as I should consider him for recommendation to promotion with others.”
7 February - Wednesday
Went out with Flag Capt. and Comd. to the Races, being the Cup Day. Raining miserably, but many people there. Met a lot. Was received by the Clerk of the Course, who preceded my carriage and we drove up the Course. I was met and escorted to the Reserved Box.
9 February - Friday
Mrs Nicholas gave a motor picnic to the Plenty River, where the trout and salmon hatching waters are placed, some 7 miles beyond New Norfolk, twenty seven miles from here. I went with Mrs Nicholas and returned with Capt. and Mrs Laudale. He has a station in the Reverina [?] district and married quite recently Miss Clarke, d. of Lady Clarke of Melbourne. Quite young people, he lately left the 3rd Hussars. They seemed very nice people.
Premier Sir E. Lewis and many others there, and some officers of the Drake. S. and L. both brooding.
10 February - Saturday
Took the children and Kirkpatrick children, with Olga and the two Governors up to New Norfolk, some 25 miles by water from Hobart, in my new Barge. We left at 1 pm, and returned by 6.30 pm. Had tea on board the boat. Two Mids. also went up with us, Bethell, son of my friend Adm. Bethell, a smart young fellow and Bowyer-Smyth, a young Australian.
11 February - Sunday
Went to Congregational Church with Lou. Mr Slack very droney.
In the afternoon went with Olga to the Salvation Army to hear Commissioner Hay give an address on “The Salvation Army in the making of Australia.” Sir Elliott Lewis, the Premier, in the Chair. He spoke extremely well for nearly an hour and a quarter. Touched with great tact on everything connected with the making of Australia, chivalry, courtesy, work, education, morality and immorality, betting and other topics and gave us at the end some striking figures, regarding the number of illegitimate children they take in, 5 - 600 every year, and the girls seduced by young men. I fear this is a terrible matter out here. Young girls of 12 and upwards.
At the end of the lecture I went up to the platform and thanked Com. Hay for the address and also spoke a few words on the necessity of the nation honouring God, if it was not to be set to one side.
At 4.30 I drove up to Govt House and sat with Sir Harry, for two hours. He leaves 8 am Wednesday. Lady Barron came in later and we had a very interesting and helpful conversation together.
The Dean wanted him to have the Holy Communion before he left, but neither of them wished it, and I quite agreed with them that under the circumstances, - the thought that lay behind the offering of it, it was not necessary to take it.
Lady Barron told me that she felt no help in the constant repetitions of the Church Service and told the Dean so. She has received hundreds of letters from people in the Country, saying they were praying for them both, which she has answered. I told her, I was praying for them, and endeavoured by God’s grace to cheer them up. Lady Barron had tears in her eyes and walked to the entrance of the ground with me. She spoke so eulogistically of my beloved Olga, and found her so restful and peaceful and sympathetic.
I felt much touched and could not resist drawing her out. She said Olga was lost in a crowd, as she did not talk to amuse people, but alone, she was one whom you could rest and confide in. She was so sweet. So say I.
Sir Harry finds he cannot manage the expenses and is hoping to go to West Australia if the Stricklands go.
12 February - Monday
Inspected Encounter. Very clean. Capt. and Mrs Powlett to lunch.
13 February - Tuesday
Finished inspection. Walked down to Newtown Station and saw Barrons pass through.
A large lunch party of 14.
This evening Olga and I attended the Matron’s Ball at the Town Hall. Quite embarrassing, the way every one rose and stood, when we entered, also went out of supper room. Olga looked very dignified and pretty.
14 February - Wednesday
A large lunch party of 14 then we went on to the Drake At Home. I talked to many people.
15 February - Thursday
This afternoon, a Drawing Room Meeting of about 50 for the Girls Industrial Home. I took the Chair. The meeting was very successful, and £12 given. All stayed to tea. I spoke and the Dean of Hobart, Mrs Maxwell and Mrs Barclay.
Finished the Inspection of Challenger.
Telegram from Lindsell, ADC, that Sir Harry was going on very well after the operation which took place yesterday at 10 am by Dr Ramsay, the removal of the prostate gland.
Capt. and Mrs De Hoghton lunched with us. Tom De H was my senior Mid of the Watch in Narcissus in 1865 and 1866. Many times I made him cocoa.
16 February - Friday
Attended this evening a meeting at St Andrew’s School Room to welcome the Revd Mr and Mrs Frater from Paema Island of the New Hebrides. The former of whom I had met last year when up there. I spoke for about half an hour on mission work. Mr Frater thanked me for my beautiful speech. Well that line of Frances R Havergal’s Hymn needs to be constantly prayed “None of self, but all of Thee.”
17 February - Saturday
Mr Frater and Mrs Frater came to lunch.
Visited Museum and Public Library. Joined by Olga and the children. Olga having previously opened a Fair, on behalf of the Y.M.C.A. and spoke well, as she always does.
18 February - Sunday
Went on board the Encounter to Church. Chaplain a nice fellow, but no depth of spirituality in his preaching.
Received our first letter from Stevie from the Hermes, Simons Town. Very pleased with ship, etc.
19 February - Monday
Rev George Grubb, Evangelist, lunched with us. 6 ft 4 ins in height, a fine face. Well known everywhere. A true Catholic in his sympathies. Worked some years in Russia. Great friend of Bullinger’s and Radstock’s. Was baptised 16 years ago, so Bishop of C of E will not let him preach in Churches, but he told me, though this was the case, the Archbishop of Sydney and he had private prayer together.
Went to Cricket Match. Navy v. S. Tasmania.
20 February - Tuesday
A luncheon party of 12. Madge temperature of 103° to 104°. Dr Patterson of the Challenger came up to see her, as I could not get several shore doctors. Trust it is only a gastric attack.
I went to Town Hall and heard Rev G. Grubb speak, 3 to 4 pm. A most helpful address on the four certainties in 1 John IV. He spoke very intensely and emphatically on Certainty.
21 February - Wednesday
Madge comparatively well. Letters from Home, including Winston Churchill, Adm. Egerton. Bertie, who says Micky is engaged to a Canadian girl and that Francie’s money is put in trust to herself, Ted, Eddy and Rosebud, leaving Micky out. He has told his mother that he has sent in his papers.
22 February - Thursday
Our dear child’s 15th birthday. God bless her. We gave her 15/- as a birthday present.
Had a luncheon party.
Olga and I drove into Town Hall and heard a most interesting address by Revd G. Grubb who is holding a Convention here in conjunction with Mr Jackson.
We were very interested at meeting one another again, Mr Jackson and I, as it is now nearly 5 years since I took the Chair for him at Chaddesley Corbett in the Little Mission Hall there, belonging to Miss Raymond. He was then staying with Miss Harward at Winterfold, a dear old saint now gone home. Lou went out fishing with the Kirkpatricks in Barge, and caught five fish. Much pleased.
23 February - Friday
This morning on examination by the Fleet Surgeon, it was found that what I had thought (and he also) was a strain of the muscle in my right leg was really an inflamed vein, so that what I had been doing for a strained muscle was not good for a vein. I had the carriage sent down to Newtown Pier, and on arrival got my leg horizontal at once.
This afternoon 14 damsels and 14 young Officers came to play tennis and dance, and 12 matrons to tea. Band from the ship. Everything to the fore. Flag Captain also. I could not appear.
24 February - Saturday
Leg better, but have to be careful.
25 February - Sunday
Been in horizontal position a good part of the time, since coming on shore Friday forenoon. Legs all the time up.
February - Monday
Prometheus and Cambrian at Manila.
Long telegram from Admiralty, do not approve of Commonwealth proposals. Suggest Encounter and Challenger going home and using Drake and Cambrian and 2 P class to drill RAN. An impossible solution for an Ord. Seamen RAN, would be getting 3/4d a day alongside a PO of the RN getting less.
Have wired to Com.th and Admiralty, the former told me privately they would plonk down £70,000 if necessary.
Leg slowly improving. Still on sofa all day.
27 February - Tuesday
Mail with news of Mickey having sent in his papers, leaving the Rifle Brigade. Engaged to a Canadian girl, pretty and nice, Micky going out to Canada.
Legs getting on slowly, but feel my veins and fear it is the beginning of an old age trouble.
Olga loving and ever the same watchful thoughtful wife, though poor dear not well herself.
1 March - Friday
Practically convalescent, and I hope to-morrow to start walking.
Hear from Stevie today, an amusing letter. Family gone off to the Drake to witness the Regatta.
2 March - Saturday
Challenger sailed. Capt. Gaunt came to say goodbye. We had a talk together. He thought he would have been the person to be Commodore of the Australian Unit. I told him that I did not think so, etc. He being an Australian was too much in with the politicians and people and that an Admiral was required ready to stand up against them, especially in the incipient stages of the RAN and he would have found it very difficult to do this.
3 March - Sunday
Remained quietly at home. Read the Atonement, a very clear booklet on this subject by the late Reader Harris L.C, most helpful.
Cambrian and Prometheus arrived at Hong Kong, which news delighted me.
Several up to tea from Encounter and Drake.
6 March - Wednesday
Olga and Lou embarked with me on board Drake, at 8.30 am and we left soon after for Port Arthur some 43 miles off, arriving at 12.30. I had not been here since 1867, when the convict system was in full swing.
We landed and went all over the place now in ruins, except a few houses. One, the Commandant’s House, now occupied by Mr Reynolds, an old man, who owns most of the property. A bush fire some 20 years ago burnt the inside of Church and roof, and another 14 years ago burnt all the convict buildings, so only the walls remain.
What brutality and cruelty and devilment went on at this spot, principally due to the constables and overseers who were convicts.
We had a guide to shew us round. In the Penitentiary lived 1200 prisoners 5 to 12 years penal servitude. Lifers went to the model prison, where never a word was heard, all done by signs. I remember going over it as a Mid, and looking through the peep hole, seeing a man sitting on a bench, his head buried in his hands. The walls only, are now standing.
In those days the corridor was matted, the warders wore felt slippers, loaded rifles and the food was put into the cell by a revolving shutter. The prisoners had an hour’s airing morning and evening and came out of their cell at a signal, wearing a mask of linen, only eyes shewing, and were directed to the small yard for an airing. Facing a mark they then could take off the masks. When the hour was up, on signal being made, out they came, mask on and went to their cell.
There were four yards in a fan shape, about 20 feet long and 5 to 8 feet wide. The small Chapel in ruins, walls only standing, used by RCs and Protestants had single enclosures so arranged that convicts could not see each other and they also wore masks.
One lifer by name Bright was sent out for house breaking, he constantly broke out of the model prison and one occasion got over the wall of the small yard, so when he was caught, he was put into a yard caged over. There was room for 60 in this model prison, devised by inhuman beings. He was in all his life, until this place was closed up in 1877 and he was then an old man. Fancy spending all one’s life in silence. He was removed to Launceston jail.
The dark cell which is intact, had four thick doors to it, so no sound could be heard. 24 hours to 30 was the maximum that could be given without sending a man insane (many went to the Lunatic Asylum) from this model prison.
The wall where the prisoners were lashed to rings and flogged we saw, close by the large hospital.
Mr Reynolds told Capt. Bruen, he is 80, that under Comd.t Camp, the place was a perfect sight to behold for beauty (except the wretched prisoners in chains). We visited the Church, walls only remaining. It was never consecrated, as a man was killed in building it. The Architect got his freedom.
Point Puer, where boys of from 12 to 15 were sent, close by the ship, was abolished by Queen Victoria, who ordered every stone to be levelled. If a lad stole a handkerchief, he was sent out.
I remember my grandfather telling me of a boy in the Strand who took his handk. He caught him but did not prosecute, for fear of the boy being transported.
We also visited the Isle of the Dead where lie some 1600 convicts and officials, the soldiers etc, one end of the Island. No sign of the convict graves, the Island being overgrown with ferns, etc.
A very pretty harbour.
140 warders and constables were the guard, besides soldiers in convict times.
7 March - Thursday
Waited this morning for two POs who ought to have returned last night. They were brought off by a Mr Target who said he found them bushed, but it is strongly suspected they went into the bush to sleep off a drink.
Steamed round to Norfolk Bay, 46 miles. Landed with Olga and Lou, paid a visit to Mr and Mrs Turner the settlers. He has done a good deal since my last visit 12 months ago. Is building himself a boat 35 feet long. Has built a pier and planted 10 acres of fruit trees. They are a most extraordinary handy resourceful couple. Mrs T’s sister has married a Mr Cameron and her niece, who has £900 a year, has married Revd Fargus late Chap. of the Challenger.
Turner hauled up a 9" shell that he found 200 yards from the shore in shallow water.
We walked to the mines and had a look at the ruined building where the convicts etc. lived. In one place 6 rows of 8 cells each had been built of stone and brick, and then covered on the top with earth. They were dark cells about 10 feet long and 5 feet wide.
The passage in front of the cells covered over with the arch of brickwork. Entrance to the cells from the passage which had an entrance each end in the mound of earth. There were many other ruined buildings about. About 600 worked the mines which was much dreaded.
8 March - Friday
Landed this morning at Tarana, saw remains of the old tramway to Port Arthur, behind Mr Leesons’s store. He is son of Dr Leeson, he told us, of Bagshot in England, who came out to Australia, lost all his money in the 1893 crash, wanted to make him a doctor, then a clergyman. Is doing very well, makes £800 a year profit. £600 passes thro’ his hands every month. His mother was lady in waiting to Queen Victoria. He has had an University Education. Intends selling out and going home where he has friends. His Uncle is claimant to the Earldom of Milltown.
Told me that the son of Mr John Evenders (that one reads of so much in Martin Cash, as the one who instituted the signalling system and headed the Constables when searching for escaped convicts) had been convicted for embezzlement in N.S.W. and got 10 years p.s., but on account of influential friends was made a constable at Port Arthur. His son lately died at Hobart, where he had lived for the last 40 years.
This afternoon Olga, Lou, Flag Lt and self landed at Eagle Hawk’s Neck and visited the Tessellated Pavement on the Beach. A fine Bay and miles of sand. We then got into a Buggy driven by Mr Nooro [?] of the Lufra Hotel. He looks an Eurasian. He is a very nice fellow and has most capable children, the eldest Leah who accompanied us on horseback, 13 years old, broke her own pony in and can do anything in the cooking line and as he says is worth her weight in gold. He drove us out to Tasman’s Arch and the Seething Bowl and then to the Blow Hole.
It must be a wonderful sight in a heavy easterly gale to see the sea rushing in, and dashing through the narrow tunnel some 150 yards long and filling the great cavity at the end. I have never seen such curious formations any where else, on such a grand scale. My beloved Olga a little nervous at first, on account of the buggy dashing up and down on the bad roads. Lou in the seventh heaven of delight during the afternoon outing.
We finished up with tea at the Lufra. The carriage cost 2/6d a head, not expensive.
Getting through a certain number of Officers at the different meals.
9 March - Saturday
Arrived at Hobart from a very pleasant three days trip to Port Arthur and Norfolk Bay.
So ends this Journal.
11 March - Monday
My dear father born this day in the year 1816.
A lot of correspondence by telegraph going on between Admiralty and Commonwealth regarding naval plans this year. Admiralty do not agree to our suggestions, propose counter ones to Com. who have replied by further proposals.
Captain Amundsen arrived in Fram last week. He reached the South Pole. I hope Scott has succeeded.
Dined this evening with Mr MacFarline of Newlands, meeting Capt. Amundsen and Capt. Neilsen. The former a modest looking determined man, quite a gentleman, the latter a young Lieut in the Norwegian Navy. A number of notabilities there also.
Amundsen health was proposed. I then made a few complimentary remarks closing by saying that “All Officers of the RN will appreciate the generous remarks that Capt. A. has made publickly with reference to Captain Scott, a brother officer of mine. As Capt. A. will understand, we still hope that Captain Scott will share with him the honour of reaching the South Pole, but whether this be so, or not, we shall ungrudgingly and in the true spirit of comradeship, offer Capt. A. our warmest congratulations on his splendid performance, a fit coping stone to his long career of exploration in the Arctic and Antarctic Seas, etc., etc.”
Capt. A. replied and again repeated his wish that Scott would have reached the Pole and that he may have done so before him. Talking to Amundsen and Neilsen I was much struck with the very complete and well thought out manner in which every thing was arranged.
Lots of strong powerful dogs, the best ski runners in Norway. The Champion Ski runner, went before the dogs, and averaged four miles an hour on the level, and of course more on the slope, the dogs racing after him.
The depots laid out, and transverse cairns laid out each side several miles with numbers, so that on their return, they could not miss the line of march.
Lots of food, and fine weather, with splendid equipment, skis and men all accustomed to snow and ice and long experience in the Arctic, spelt success.
I much fear Scott has not succeeded. The ponies, as Capt. Neilsen said to me, sunk down in the snow with their heavy bodies, and not run on the surface like the dogs. Also sleighs would not run on the surface. I much fear Scott has made a mistake, and not using skis will handicap him very much. I gathered from what Capt. N. said, he did not think Scott would manage it.
One feels that the fly in the ointment is the fact that Amundsen, on leaving Norway, was not supposed to be going to the Antarctic and there is just a shade of unsportsmanlike behaviour in his having decided to cut Scott out. It also means that the risks taken by Scott will be much greater, knowing as he did, that Amundsen was trying to cut him out.
12 March - Tuesday
Took Olga to visit Fram, where Amundsen shewed us all over the ship and also the very interesting Charts of his track. He had depots at every degree of latitude, and cairns thrown out five miles each side and about 20 cairns between each depot.
At the Pole, he took observations 10 miles all round and stayed there nearly three days.
The dogs are fine looking and sturdy. About 27 left.
Every man had a cabin aft. Altogether she is very well fitted out. The dogs had a lb of pemmican every day, powdered beef and grease and also salt fish.
The Champion ski runner and jumper of Norway, was presented to me, a smallish wiry man. The crew regular Scandinavian type.
The Fram strongly sheathed and ironed bow and stern.
13 March - Wednesday
Olga, Madge and self sent down by Barge to Brown’s River, a small watering place. Madge romped about on the fine sandy beach.
We paid a visit to an old sailor (Williamson), who in an old shanty had a most extraordinary good collection of curiosities of every description dating from years back, but his prints and old letters and newspapers interested me very much, especially to those relating to the 20, 30 and 40’s of the last century. 7 years transportation was given for the lightest offences, for stealing 24 tarts value 2/-. Another for 2 silk handkerchiefs, and another the same term for stealing an empty bottle worth two pence.
The arrival of a ship with 300 convicts on board, half of whom were between 8 and 11 years of age. 18 men hung in one day. If a convict was found at large, he was hung in the early days. One man who had half a loaf more in his possession, than his ration received 100 lashes and so on. He also shewed us a butcher’s bill endorsed by Clarke who was a butcher here.
His son was made a Baronet and the grandson is now Sir Rupert, who has tried to buy this bill without success.
Many of the leading people here, are sons and grandsons of those sent out. Sir G....e D....s father was sentenced for trying to kill some one in India, so Mr Turner told me. However it is the more honour to his son, for being what he is.
In the evening, I took the chair for Miss Anderson Hughes, lecturer of the W.C.T.U. We had an audience of about 200. She spoke very well for an hour and a half. The last time I presided at a meeting of this Society (which numbers 1,000,000) was on board the Penguin at Tamative, Madagascar in 1888 or 1889 when Mrs Leavitt spoke.
14 March - Thursday
A large luncheon party of 15 in honour of Captain Amundsen. Went off very well. Mademoiselle Cessant painted the menu cards. Polar Scenes; compliment to Capt. Amundsen.
Rather disappointed to see my remarks of 10 mins last night, fully reported, whilst Miss Hughes had not ten lines.
15 March - Friday
Dear Bertie’s 50th birthday. May god bless him. Captain and Mrs De Hoghton to lunch.
16 March - Saturday
Attended the St Patrick’s Day Sports on the cricket ground. Senator Long received us.
In the evening took the Chair for the W.N. Health Society. Kept the Meeting going satisfactorily. Seton returned from Sydney. Visited St George’s Church, Mrs Branice [?] who was lunching with us the other day, told Olga that the women up in the Bush had terrible times in their confinement. Her sister-in-law’s sister, was confined miles and miles from a doctor, and whilst the husband rode away for a doctor and did not return for 24 hours, the child the whole of that time was half out, legs foremost, and of course was dead on arrival of the doctor.
17 March - Sunday
Attended Congregational church. Heard a good sermon from Mr Slack, but his elocution is poor.
18 March - Monday
Visited Aurora. Shewn all the Antarctic charts by Capt. Davis.
This afternoon visited Homeopathic Hospital. Dr Gibson shewed us over, very clean, texts on all walls. He said Dr Burford [?] was very good for cancer. Had never had a recurrence after an operation, through the treatment he gave.
Attended meeting of the Royal Society, room well filled. Dr Butler in the Chair. Mr Beattie, a member and photo. exhibited by lime light some beautiful views of Tasmanian scenery. Speeches were made by Dr Butler and the Bishop (Mercer) in honour of Amundsen who was present. I thanked the lecturer on behalf of the guests.
19 March - Tuesday
Visited the Deaf, Dumb and Blind Institute. Beautifully clean, spent a good hour there, and then drove to the Consumptive Sanatorium, Matron, Miss MacQueen, and spent an hour there.
20 March - Wednesday
Left by 8.17 am train arrived at Launceston 2.35 pm. Met by Mayor and Town Clerk who welcomed me. Went off with Mayor Cadell to house where the Governor is staying and Lady Barron sat with him for a long time. He had a very (near) escape, for during the operation for the prostate gland, the tongue got spasm and nearly choked him and had to be pulled back with forceps. It was 10 days before he was out of danger. Met Dr Ramsay who operated, a wonderful surgeon. A private hospital is being built for him.
A woman was under an anaesthetic for an operation. The two doctors with Ramsay said the heart had stopped and she was dead. Ramsay promptly made an incision over the heart and pressed it with his hands and brought back the circulation.
The country through which the railway runs is very pretty half way to Launceston and about 40 miles up, reminds one very much of the Black Forest in Baden - undulating hills covered with trees and great expanses of pasture land. Dined quietly with Lady Barron.
21 March - Thursday
Mayor called for me in a motor, at Launceston Hotel and motored me to their fine Power Station where turbines are run by water, tapped from a river, through a tunnel half a mile long. It supplies all the electricity for Launceston lighting, factories, etc.
Left by the 11.40 am train, and arrived home 5.30 pm.
Olga better and Madge’s throat troubling her and also anaemic.
Long letter from Troubridge re Home Naval and Australian Naval Affairs.
22 March - Friday
Olga took the Chair for the Nurses at the Town Hall.
24 March - Sunday
Went to Presbyterian Church with Lou. A soulless sermon. A good many visitors to tea.
26 March - Tuesday
Sent off everything to Drake by Military Wagon with a team of 6 horses and sergeant mounted. Made four trips.
27 March - Wednesday
Last lot of luggage went off. Olga and I had tea with Lady Barron and having embarked all our Establishment, 19 people, Horses and Carriages. Left at 8.30 pm for Sydney.
DEPART HOBART
28 March - Thursday
Left 4 am. Running full speed trial, vibrating very much, a beam sea. Touched 21 knots. Newcastle coal not so good as Welsh, otherwise would have gone 24.
All the ladies and female servants down. Olga’s Cabin, where she is with Madge, very bad.
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