Thursday 1st April, 1915

Was on duty in hospital all night till 9.30 a.m. this morning.  We had 28 patients, none serious only one who needed watching.  He was raving mad from drink and we had to tie him down and inject morphia to keep him quiet.  He was right again this morning and was sent back to his lines.  We played some 1st April jokes on some of our comrades during the early hours of this morning.  One sergeant we woke and pitched a yarn to, got up and saddled his horse and was galloping off before he found out  the joke.  Another one got up to take the dying depositions of a man who did not exist.  Altogether we had about 20 N.C.O's and men out on fool's errands between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m.  The picket assisted in the joke.  I turned in after breakfast and slept till 2.30 p.m. when I got up shaved, had a shower and made myself respectable.  Did not go out of camp this evening.  Very hot and depressing again today. 

Friday 2nd April, 1915

Reveille was not till 6.30 a.m. this morning and we paraded at 7 a.m. when we were informed that as it was "Good Friday" we were to have a holiday and the day was to be as a Sunday.  At 10.15 a.m. our corps played a soccer match against the 16th Battalion Infantry.  I was playing centre half for our corps and after a hard game and an element of luck on our side we won by 3 goals to 2.  I had the good fortune to score the second goal for our side.  We played on the Heliopolis sporting Club's ground so I returned to camp straight away  and had a good shower before dinner.  I lay in the tent reading till after tea when three of us and my cousin who had come to see me took a walk into Heliopolis.  During the evening we heard there was a serious riot raging in Cairo and that shots had been freely exchanged,

Saturday 3rd April, 1915

Reveille at 6 a.m. this morning.  Our (A) Section's day on at the hospital so did not have to parade.  During this morning we had a thorough kit inspection and were told to reduce the weight of our kits to 20lbs as we are to leave this camp about Wednesday next.  I stayed in camp all afternoon until after tea, had all my hair cut off in case of disease.  Orders were issued for everyone to have their hair cut short, all those who did not have it done by 6.30 p.m. we carried to the transport Sergeant's tent and he ran the clipper right through the centre of their hair so that they had to have it all off.  This evening four of us went to Luna Park, a fair number of soldiers were there as Cairo leave was stopped.  A native who insulted an English lady had a bad time of it, he was thrown into the water chute lake and hauled out and thrown in again about ½ dozen times.  Was back at camp 10 p.m.  On duty at hospital at 11.30 p.m.

Sunday 4th April, 1915

On duty at hospital all night till 7.30 a.m. this morning.  We had eight patients.  After breakfast I put the whole morning till dinner time in at sewing another part onto my haversack so that I can carry more in it.  We had to hand our Red Cross brassards in to be stamped by the Brigadier as they are not recognised as genuine without his stamp.  I had a sleep after dinner till tea time which I needed and after tea I wrote another letter then went to the Heliopolis post office and posted it.  Heliopois was very quiet tonight, most of the soldiers not being allowed to leave camp on account of going away this week.  Back in camp 9 p.m.  On at hospital at 11.30 p.m.

Monday 5th April, 1915

Came off duty at hospital at 7.30 a.m. this morning, we had three patients in overnight.  It has been a very windy night and all day it has been blowing a hurricane and the flying sand has been like a thick fog, it has been a terrible day, one not to be forgotten.  Our boys struck camp and marched off on an embarkation inspection about 11 a.m. and returned about 1 p.m.  I stayed behind as I had been on duty all night.  We could not get any water to drink or to wash ourselves till about 6.30 p.m. tonight so with the heat, which was intense, perspiration, flying sand, we have been in a dirty and miserable condition all day.  Cannot get the true strength of the riot in Cairo on Friday night.  Heard from good authority 8 deaths had occured.  All our leave is stopped from today.  Cannot get out of camp.  On at hospital at 11.30 p.m. tonight.

Tuesday 6th April 6th, 1915

Was on duty all night in the hospital till 7.30 a.m. this morning.  After breakfast we all had to finally pack our kit bags and then each one was weighed to see that they did not go more than 20lbs.  All those that had them overweight were ordered to take something out and reduce the weight to the allowance.  My kit was 19lbs, but I have some things rolled in my overcoat and in my blanket.  We were then issued with our emergency rations, which we carry with us always, we must not touch them unless specially ordered, consist of tinned beef, biscuits and tea and sugar to last 48 hours.  We were paid this afternoon.  I drew £1-0-4d.  One of the B Section fellows of our corps died last night at the base hospital from Pneumonia, he was taken to the Base from the "Berrima" when we landed.  I received a letter from my brother Harold and one from my young lady (Daisy) tonight.  I posted some letters tonight at the camp post office.  On at hospital at 11.30 p.m. tonight.

Wednesday 7th April, 1915

Finished duty at hospital at 7.30 a.m. this morning and after breakfast I had a sleep till dinner time.  After dinner our full corps paraded to attend the funeral of our comrade (Parker) of B Section.  A firing party and the 16th Battalion band were with us.  We marched to the hospital (Palace Hotel) where the coffin was placed on a New Zealand gun carriage and we went to the church yard the other side of Cairo.  On the way we passed four ambulance vans with wounded Turks in them being conveyed from the hospital to barracks.  The churchyard in which our pal was buried, was a military one and was kept in splendid order.  Three volleys were fired and the "Last Post" blown and we returned to camp.  After tea I went for a hot bath at the military baths and went to bed at 9.30 p.m.  Up to date 130 of the A.I.E.F are buried in this churchyard.  On at hospital at 11.30 p.m. tonight.

Thursday 8th April, 1915

Came off duty at hospital at 7.30 a.m. this morning, only two patients.  At 9.30 a.m. our corps marched off along the Suez road and fixed up a dressing station for practice.  I turned in myself after being on all night and slept till dinner time.  After dinner I read for a little while and then did some writing.  The boys landed back at camp from their march about 3 p.m. and at 4 p.m. an auction sale was held of all the belongings of Parker our comrade who died.  This is the Military regulation and the money is forwarded to his relatives.  Money was pretty scarce, still there was some lively bidding for some of the articles.  I took a walk this evening with two Pals into Heliopolis and returned to camp at 8.30 p.m.  On at hospital at 11.30 p.m.

Friday 9th April, 1915

Finished duty at hospital at 7.30 a.m. this morning.  I did not feel too well so saw Captain Dawson who examined me, nothing much wrong just a touch of Gastritis probably caused by some of the tough beef we have been getting lately.  He told me to take things easy for a couple of days and to only have light food, milk etc. to give my stomach a chance.  I have done nothing at all today only lie down, am not ill only a little pain in the stomach.  The boys had another march and fixed up a dressing station again today, returning to camp about 4 p.m.  We expect to clear out of here on Sunday next and everyone is looking forward to that time.  I did not go out tonight, did a little more writing.  On hospital at 11.30 p.m.

Sunday 10th April, 1915

Off duty at hospital at 7.30 a.m. this morning and then turned in and slept till dinner time.  I got a pass to go to Cairo this afternoon as it will be our last chance of having a look round so four of us out of our tent went together.  We had a general look at all that was to be seen of the city and visited the part where the riot took place a week ago.  Things were fairly quiet as a lot of the troops have gone away and others going tonight could not get leave.  After dinner we visited the "Kursal" Music Hall and enjoyed a rather good programme.  Returned to camp about 9.30 p.m..  I have felt pretty well alright today, but have not eaten anything solid.

Sunday 11th April, 1915

Should have been on duty overnight but only had one patient and as we are looking forward to being up all night tonight, I slept on the bed next to the patient who is a fellow out of our tent.  He only took bad yesterday evening and we have had to leave him behind as appendicitis is feared.  We struck camp and cleared everything up today, packed wagons and got everything ready to leave.  At 6.15 p.m. we paraded for inspection by the Colonel and at 7 p.m. we marched from our camp at Heliopolis to Cairo station which we reached about 9.30 p.m.  We loaded our wagons on trucks and then entrained ourselves.  Train moved out about 12 p.m.  I feel quite well again today.

Monday 12th April, 1915

Travelled all night, crowded I snatched about an hour and half of broken sleep.  Arrived at Alexandria at 6 a.m. and went straight on board the troopship "Californian" A32.  Put our equipment in the places where we are going to sleep and then set to work to load our horses, wagons and stores.  We worked hard all day, the loading taking us till 6.30 p.m. and we moved from the wharf at 6.45 p.m.  The accomodation on this boat is very bad, we have 500 horses and 500 troops on board.  Our sleeping quarters are on the third deck and we have to sleep on the floor in the horse stalls.  We have our meals anywhere on the deck.  The horses are on the deck above us and are kicking and stamping in great style.  Alexandria is very busy with shipping.  Hundreds of boats are here, mostly troopships British and French.  We anchored off the town at about 9 p.m.  It has been a very hot day.  "Californian" is a horse boat and is only supposed to have accomodation for 70 men and we have 500 on board.

Tuesday 13th April, 1915

Reveille at 5.30 a.m. this morning and we paraded about 6.30 a.m.  Orders read out and then dismissed till 9 a.m.  At 9 a.m. we had life belt inspection and various fatigue duties till dinner time.  At 2 p.m. we paraded again and issued with large clasp knives and those who needed boots got them too, I got a pair.  We were dismissed about 3 p.m. but still had to do any fatigue duty if wanted.  I was assisting to get provisions on deck out of the hold till tea time.  We weighed anchor and steamed away from Alexandria about 5 p.m.  Saw the French hospital ship "Garcon" had lot of Indians on.  Turned in about 8 p.m.  The food not up to much today and not too much of it.  Everything is pretty rough on this ship.

Wednesday 14th April, 1915

Reveille at 5.30 a.m. and parade on starboard saloon deck at 6 a.m.  We had physical drill for about an hour, then dismissed till after breakfast.  Paraded again at 9.30 and were paid at 10 a.m.  I received 14/-, we were given the rest of the morning  to sew brassards and red crosses on our overcoats.  At 2 p.m. we paraded in full marching order for inspection by the Colonel, this lasted about an hour, when we were dismissed for the rest of the day.  Of course we had to do any fatigue duty if called on.  The food is a little better today but by no means brilliant.  The ship has rolled and dipped a little today and a lot of the troops are suffering  from sea-sickness, 20 men out of our section were unable to parade for inspection this afternoon through sea-sickness.  It has not troubled me yet.  

Thursday 15th April, 1915

Went to bed very early last night and was up at 5 a.m. this morning.  Reveille at 5.30 a.m.  Parade and physical drill at 6 a.m.  Inspection in full marching order by the Colonel at 9 a.m.  We have seen islands on both sides of us all day, we are somewhere in the Greek Archipelago or think so.  I had a narrow escape of being killed or badly hurt this morning about 8.30 a.m., was working four decks below and a fellow knocked one of the hatch planks weighing 4 or 5 cwt down, it fell about 25 or 30 feet to the deck on which I was standing, knocking off my hat and taking the the skin off my hand.  This afternoon we were divided into echelons or sections for disembarkation, I am in the 3rd echelon, the last of our corps to leave the ship.  Tucker been fairly good today.  Issued with 1/4 lb Captain tobacco and 2 boxes of matches this afternoon.

Friday 16th April, 1915

Up again at 5 a.m. this morning.  Sighted island of Limnos about 6 a.m.  Parade and physical drill at 6 a.m.  Parade and inspection by the Colonel in full marching order at 9.30 a.m.  Dropped anchor in a splendid harbour at Limnos about 9.45 a.m.  Outside the harbour we met 2 Auxilliary Cruiser and Destroyers and 2 Submarines.  Inside the harbour is a fleet of our war vessels and of our allies also a number of transports and a hospital ship.  They cannot be seen from outside.  One of the war vessels has been pointed out to me as the "Queen Elizabeth" and quite close to us is the "Agamemnon".  One of her funnels has been badly hit and her fore-top mast is gone, otherwise she looks alright.  We had a lecture today by Captain Welch and a parade in our echelons for disembarking.  

Saturday 17th April, 1915

Reveille at 5.30 a.m. and physical drill, at 9.30 a.m. we paraded and most of our fellows went ashore in the ship's boats for practice at disembarking.  At 2 p.m. the rest of us, consisting of two boats, went ashore.  Before landing we rowed over to the Queen Elizabeth and round about her.  She is a magnificent fighting machine.  We rowed round a small island in the harbour and eventually landed on the island of Limnos and had a look round.  Some of us went in for a swim.  There are only a few farm houses about but the land is very rich and some good crops are growing.  The harbour is a very fine one and is full of small inlets in each of which were ships.  There must be about 150 transports and warships here.  One of the light cruisers, "Dublin" went out last night after a Turkish destroyer which had got out, ran the enemy ashore and was back this morning.

Sunday 18th April, 1915

Reveille 5.30 Parade 6 a.m.  Paraded again at 9.30 a.m. in full marching order and with blankets and waterproofs and we went ashore in the ship's boats taking stretchers with us and midday rations.  We had a swim after landing and a look round then had dinner.  After dinner we had a couple of hours stretcher drill and then went back to our ships.  I picked a few forget-me-nots while ashore to send home.  About 10 more transports arrived today, it is a fine sight all these vessels, and the island is so peaceful, it is a lovely little place, wild looking hills and beautiful green valleys with their crops.  One of our hydroplanes was flying about for nearly an hour this evening.  Have met a number of sailors who were on our warships in the Dardenelles, some of them off the Ocean which was sunk.

Monday 19th April, 1915

Reveille at 5.30 a.m.  Physical drill at 6 a.m.  Paraded again at 9.30 a.m. in full marching order and had more practice at disembarking in the ship's boats.  The New Zealand artillery which we have on board lowered the pontoons which we have on board and had some practice at disembarking their guns and ammunition wagons.  After dinner we had a lecture by Captain Finn who is a dentist on our teeth and mouth and the necessity for keeping same clean.  About eight or nine more transports arrived today, also three or four more British Cruisers.  A ship arrived today and is anchored about a mile from us, she is like a cruiser to the naked eye but through the glasses appears to be a dummy cruiser, that is a merchant ship done up to resemble a cruiser.  Turned in at 7.30 this evening, have been to bed early every night since I have been on board.

Tuesday 20th April, 1915

Reveille at 5.30 a.m.  Physical drill at 6 a.m.  At 9.30 a.m. we had a parade in full marching order for inspection, were dismissed and had to parade again at 11 a.m., on this parade we had to wear our pouches and belts only and every man had to be shaved and have his boots dubbin'd.  This was to see all our boots were in good order and that we had our full equipment of bandages in our pouches.  At 2 p.m. we had a lecture by Captain Finn and at 4 p.m. we had a medical inspection.  We had a wireless message today that 24 men of the transport "Manitou" (B10) had been drowned through a couple of boats upsetting when she was attacked by a Turkish destroyer, this boat arrived here 5 hours after us so that we only missed the enemy by a little.  It is very windy today, sea rough.

Wednesday 21st April, 1915

Reveille at 5.30 a.m. very windy and rough.  Physical drill at 6 a.m.  We had no further parades today as it has been so rough and rained very hard all day.   During the morning three of our pontoons broke adrift and went ashore, very lucky, missed the rocks and went up on the sandy beach, towed off undamaged and hoisted on board this evening.  During the afternoon I was down the hold packing and loading, ready for disembarkation, medical comforts and stores.  Another large transport arrived today also two or three more cruisers.  The harbour is just a mass of vessels and is a sight rarely seen and never forgotten, must be about 200 vessels here now.  Weather moderated a great deal tonight.  Rumours about that we leave tomorrow.

Thursday 22nd April, 1915

Reveille at 5.30 a.m. and physical drill at 6 a.m.  Did not fall in on parade at 9.30 a.m. as a party of us had to work in the hold to get ready for disembarking the wagons and stores.  We were told on parade at 6 a.m. that we would be leaving here tonight sometime for the Gallipoli Peninsular, don't know what time we will be moving.  Worked in the hold all morning and the best part of this afternoon.  A mail came on board just before tea and I received two letters, expect more mail to come later tonight.  It was fairly rough again this morning but has been very nice this afternoon and evening.  Wondering if we will still be here when I wake in the morning.  

Friday 23rd April, 1915

Reveille at 5.30 a.m.  Parade at 6 a.m.  We did not have physical drill this morning.  Orders had been countermanded and we had not moved as we expected during the night.  Paraded again at 9.30 a.m. and we had some first aid work for practice.  I was told off to get ready to go ashore (where there is a base hospital) with a patient who has pnemounia.  I was ready all day, but the man was not sent off.  I received five more letters today, they buck a fellow up.  We had an echelon parade this afternoon.  Just after tea a party (about 20) of British troops came on board also some sailors, navy men to work our pontoons when disembarking.  Some off the "Ocean" and "Irresistible" which were sunk.  A few transports moved out of the harbour this evening.

Saturday 24th April, 1915

Reveille at 5.30 a.m.  Parade at 6 a.m.  Transports were moving out of the harbour also Cruisers from early this morning.  We left about 8 a.m. and about 9.30 a.m. a New Zealand man who had been in hospital for four days was found to have small-pox so we returned to Lemnos reaching there about 11.30 a.m.  Sent the man ashore into hospital and left Lemnos again about 6 p.m.  While in harbour we saw the "Queen Elizabeth", 6 other cruisers and 7 destroyers steam out together.  They were a magnificent sight and I was greatly pleased at witnessing the scene.  Expect to reach Gallipoli early in the morning and disembark.  Very lucky not to be all quarantined through the case of small-pox.  Been a lovely day, turning in early, expect work to begin in reality from tomorrow.  

Sunday 25th April, 1915

Was awakened this morning about 4.30 a.m. by the sound of heavy firing.  We were at the entrance to the Dardenelles and our fleet was bombarding the enemies forts and batteries, we were right in among our cruisers.  The first of the landing party went ashore about 7 a.m. and some hot fighting ensued.  The "Lizzie" (Queen Elizabeth) put some of her big shells in and it was a magnificent sight, though awful.  Our fleet made the hills a hell of fire, a wonderful scene, none of our ships seemed to be hit.  We steamed about 12 miles up the outside of the "Gallipoli" Peninsula about 10 a.m. and we expect to land here soon.  Fleet is bombarding the coast all along.  Some Australian troops landed at this point this morning and have been fighting all day.  The sound of rifles has not ceased, same with ships guns till about 8 p.m.  Hydroplanes and an observation balloon have been up all day.  No firing going on at present.  The sight of a lifetime.

Monday 26th April, 1915

Still anchored about 1 mile from beach.  Was called out at 2 a.m. this morning as a report had arrived that our troops had suffered rather heavily and some of the wounded had to be brought on our ship.  This report proved to be untrue (we were informed about 8 a.m.) and our troops were in a very good position.  8 of our men (stretcher bearers) went ashore when the 2 a.m. report came and we arranged a temporary hospital, operating and dressing rooms on our ship.  I have been watching the fighting all the day.  The "Lizzie" opened up at 6 a.m. and with about 9 other Cruisers raked the hills with shell, a lot more of our troops landed, also some field artillery which have now got a good position on top of one of the hills.  I can see them flashing as they fire and they are going a treat.  Incessant rifle and machine gun firing all day.  Sea aeroplane and balloon have been up.  The "Lizzie's" shells are awful.  Beautiful weather.

Tuesday 27th April, 1915

Reveille at 5.30 a.m.  Parade at 6 a.m.  Firing had been going on all night.  I watched our ships shelling the hills  all morning and could also see two of our batteries of Field Artillery in the hills shelling the Turks.  Rumours that the enemy is retreating are about, we are all anxious to get ashore.  The Turks have put a lot of shrapnel along the beach today.  Was watching the firing this afternoon when eight shells dropped in quick succession not far from our ship.  Two dropped in the water about 100 yards from us and on each side of the transport next to us, but none of them hit any ships.  Our ship immediately steamed out about another mile from the shore also the other transports, out of range.  Wind blowing up tonight.  Our bearers went ashore about 8 p.m.

Wednesday 28th April, 1915

Reveille 5.30 a.m. no parade until 9 a.m.  The firing on shore did not sound so severe this morning and our ships were not bombarding so much.  At 9 a.m. we paraded and the Colonel addressed us, told us might possibly use our transport as a field hospital for a few days, dismissed us and told us to rest all day as they might bring wounded on board tonight and we might have to work all night.  This afternoon our fleet bombarded the coast a little further up and we heard that our troops had advanced and got a good position.  Wrote four letters this afternoon.  It is just after 6 p.m. now and we have just received orders to prepare to land tonight.  Left S.S. "California" about 7.30 p.m. and went on board a trawler (mine sweeper) which is to land us.  

Thursday 29th April, 1915

On the trawler all night, rained hard, was very cold, snatched a little sleep in a barge moored alongside our trawler.  Landed about 8 a.m. and very glad indeed.  Several shells fell in the water while we were waiting to land and a few rifle bullets hit the trawler, but no one was injured.  Unloaded our stores and took up position in first range of hills.  The beach is crowded with soldiers and stores and is a strange sight.  The fleet is shelling the next range over our heads, and Turks bullets have been whistling over our heads all day, feel quite used to them tonight.  Saw several of our troops wounded.  Took a walk to top of hill and watched some of our Ghurka batteries shelling enemy, bullets all over place.  One of our bearers slight wound in thigh.  Rifles and all kinds of equipment are lying all over hills.  Have only been getting position fixed today.

Friday 30th April, 1915

Was looking after patient with pnemounia all night, so got no sleep.  A very cold night, bullets were whistling over us all night and about 3 a.m. some Turkish guns fired shells over us for about half an hour, they all fell in the sea about 200 yards behind us.  Took our patient down to clearing hospital  at 10 a.m.  Bullets been humming over us all day and occasional shells burst over our position.  Our fleet continue shelling the enemy over our heads.  One patient in this evening, young Englishman, shell burst in trench and buried him, was got out and found to be uninjured by shell but stone deaf and found to be suffering greatly from shock.  Saw several bad wounds today.  Had three good meals, plenty bacon and bully beef.  Want sleep, pretty tired.

Saturday 1st May, 1915

Was awakened by heavy shell fire about 4.15 a.m.  The Turks were putting shrapnel over us, most of it going in the sea, one spent bullet dropped on the fellow lying alongside me, but did no harm.  Had to go on at our dressing station at 5.15 a.m., 17 wounded men had come in during night, none serious.  Sent them all to clearing hospital at 10 a.m.  Was assisting at dressing station on beach for a couple of hours before I had dinner.  Not many casualties this morning such as were, were mostly serious.  Several died, two were shot while working on beach.  Shot and shell being over and all round us all day.  Barricaded our dugouts against shell splinters.  Heard that C. Howlett had been wounded.

Sunday 2nd May, 1915

Pretty quiet all night, only a few shells from the enemy and not so much rifle fire, our boys have driven them back.  Up at 6 a.m.  Have been at fatigue work all day, pick and shovel work.  Eleven Turks were captured not far from our dug out this morning.  Have got about 18 patients in our hospital, most of them pure exhaustion, 3 or 4 slightly wounded.  Some of our troops have been horribly mutilated by shrapnel.  Three more of our corps have been wounded today.  Am in fine health myself.  Reinforcements arrived last night.  Heard rumour that "Goeben" had been sunk by submarine AE2.  At 8 p.m. four of us volunteered to go to trenches and help stretcher bearers, was out till 2 a.m., brought one of our own corps in shot through arm and chest.  Was a perfect hell.  Bearer work most dangerous of all.  Everyone praising bearers for brave work.

Monday 3rd May, 1915

Got in 2 a.m. this morning from doing bearer work, wonder we have any bearers left, have to go through and carry patients through a valley and along a creek bed where bullets are falling like rain and where the enemies snipers are concealed.  One of our bearers was shot dead during night.  About 7 a.m. shrapnel fell all round our dugout and 2 fellows sleeping next to me were both hit on the feet with shrapnel bullets, fortunately spent, only bruised.  At 9 a.m. went on hospital, lot patients, mostly dysentry and exhaustion.  Was busy till 5 p.m.  Shrapnel fell all round our camp during afternoon, 12 men were wounded round us and 1 killed.   Our troops took a hill early this morning but lost a terrible lot of men, they are having a hard and nerve-racking time.  Things pretty quiet tonight.  Feel fine myself.

Tuesday 4th May, 1915

Up at 6 a.m.  Cooked bacon and fried biscuits for breakfast.  After breakfast went down to the dressing station on beach but practically no wounded were coming in so tried to find some pals in other regiments but could get no news of them.  Nothing doing after dinner so had a sleep till 5 p.m.  Had tea and went out for a look round.  The British marines on our left flank were busily trenching and barricading in expectation of a night attack by the Turks.  It was a very poor attack and was easily beaten off.  Had it been much another fellow and myself had arranged to go and help repel it.  Paid visit to battery of New Zealand artillery, the crew of which we have made friends with but nothing was doing.  Three more of our corps were badly wounded.

Wednesday 5th May, 1915

Got up at 7 a.m. had breakfast, our day for fatigue duty.  Were shifted out of our dugout and had to dig another further up the gully.  Firing not so severe again today, enemy seem quietened. Had an issue of cigarettes and tobacco. Two more of our corps were severely wounded today, also Captain Jeffries of B. Section.  More reinforcements arrived today for some of the Australian battalions. Not so many wounded brought in today. Our boys are doing splendid but are having to fight fiercely.  It seems awful when one walks along the beach and sees the number of graves of our boys and one is thankful to be alive.  The Australian 2nd Brigade and about 5000 New Zealanders were taken in boats tonight and I believe are going to land about 4 miles further along the coast.  

Thursday 6th May, 1915

Up at 6 a.m. had breakfast then as nothing was doing with us took a walk along the beach.  Saw a Turkish major come in on horseback and surrender.  While on beach Turks opened enfilading fire with shrapnel on it.  The shells passed over me and about 17 mules and a dozen men were wounded within 100 yards of me.  The mules and men left had to clear from beach till our batteries silenced the enemies.  Had a rest this afternoon.  Our troops are advancing and doing splendid.  The troops taken a few miles up the coast last night have landed and from reports are also doing well.  The Turks gave us a taste of their shrapnel in the gully  where we are camped this evening, but did no damage.  On duty at hospital at 5 p.m.  A very lively rifle fire is going on tonight.

Friday 7th May, 1915

Finished at hospital at 1 a.m. and turned in about 1.30 a.m.  Had about 20 patients, slight wounds and influenza.  Got up about 9 a.m.  Turks shelled us pretty heavily this morning but no one injured before dinner.  After dinner they continued shelling us, they had a good range, shells falling all round us.  One shell (shrapnel) fell within a yard of our hospital tent, luckily only one man was injured.  One of our bearers was severely wounded in both legs.  Had to keep under cover till 4 p.m. when the shelling ceased.  About 4.30 p.m. went down to beach and had a swim, was wanting a bath pretty badly, also could do with a change of underclothes.  We have to wash ourselves in sea water.  All fresh water has to be bought from Malta in boats.  Fairly quiet tonight.

Saturday 8th May, 1915

Up at 6 a.m. and cooked my breakfast, a couple of rashers of ham and some biscuits (pretty hard).  After breakfast had a walk round to see if I could hear any news.  Could hear nothing except that our troops are doing well.  After dinner went down for a swim and enjoyed it thoroughly except that I had to cut it short as the Turks started shelling the beach with shrapnel and some fell in the water.  Two men were killed on the beach and a few wounded.  One of our fellows was wounded this evening while shaving, the cap of a shell drove into his dugout and hit him on the thigh.  On at hospital at 5 p.m., have 21 patients.  A lively rifle fire started about 10 p.m. and is still continuing.

Sunday 9th May, 1915

Off duty from hospital at 1 a.m. and turned in, things were quiet about this time.  Was up again at 9 a.m., a few shells passed over us this morning but fell in the sea.  The Turks shelled our camp all afternoon and we had to keep under cover.  One shell hit one of our corps killing him instantly and wounding another, this shell failed to burst.  Had it not been so tragic, an amusing incident occurred.  The shell buried itself in the earth unexploded and one of our men ran and picked it up, carrying it to where a crowd were taking cover.  They all ran away shouting for him to bury it, he put it down at his feet and looked amazed evidently wondering where the danger lay.  It was taken to headquarters and unloaded.  Three more of our corps were wounded this evening.

Monday 10th May, 1915

Hard fighting took place during the night and our bearers were called out at 3 a.m. to bring the wounded in.  I got up at 6 a.m., things had quietened down by this time.  I believe the Turks casualties were very heavy and our own are by no means light.  Three more of our corps were wounded this morning, two of them severly and one slightly.  Not much doing today, had a swim in the sea this morning, also heard of the sinking of the "Lusitania".  Not been shelled so much today.  Was on picket this evening for about an hour, looking after some stuff on the beach, had to take cover as some shrapnel started to burst all round us for about half an hour, our boats soon silenced them.  While an Australian was being buried this evening a shell fell right in his grave without exploding.

Tuesday 11th May, 1915

Have had nothing at all to do today.  Got up at 7 a.m. and had breakfast.  Had a walk round this morning to see what was doing.  Very few casualties came in today.  After dinner the Turks shelled our camp again but did very little damage and did not injure anyone in our camp.  They also shelled the beach and four men were slightly wounded, our batteries and fleet replied and succeeded in silencing the enemy.  Wrote a few short letters this afternoon as there is a mail leaving on Friday.  Had news of seven German destroyers being sunk in the North Sea.  General Sir Ian Hamilton's letter of congratulations to our troops was posted up today.  A brisk rifle fire is going on tonight.

Wednesday 12th May, 1915

On duty at hospital at 1 a.m. this morning, 25 patients, none serious.  Came off duty at 9 a.m.  Rained hard all night, up to knees in mud and most of our boys flooded out of their dugouts.  Heaviest firing of big guns been going on all night since we have been here.  Our ships and batteries must have been creating an inferno somewhere amongst the enemy.  Turned in after 9 a.m. and had a sleep, been a miserable day raining on and off all time and up to knees in mud.  Made a shelter out of our waterproof sheets, kept us dry.  Few shrapnel fell round us at intervals.  Heard that the British troops that landed at entrance to Dardanelles are nearing us and hemming the enemy between our forces.

Thursday 13th May, 1915

Was on picket from 12 midnight till 3 a.m. looking after medical panniers on beach.  Turned in at 3.30 a.m. and slept till 6 a.m.  A few shells dropped round our camp today, no one injured.  Commenced to fix up a dressing station on beach at 10 a.m., had it ready for treating patients by 2.30 p.m. when I was told off to rest till 6 p.m.  At 6 p.m. I went on duty at dressing station, 2 doctors (Captains) and 4 of us in attendance, have treated 23 wounds up to 9 p.m.  Heard British battleship "Goliath" has been sunk in Dardenelles.  Australian light horse arrived today to reinforce our troops as infantry.  A few spy's are being caught amongst our troops I believe.  All ships off coast have all lights out tonight, talk of two German submarines.  Rifle firing all night.

Friday 14th May, 1915

Came off duty at dressing station at 6 a.m.  Treated 35 patients, all kinds of wounds, hand grenade, shrapnel and rifle bullet.  Two that were brought in proved fatal, one shot through the brain and one through the spine.  Had breakfast and turned in about 7 a.m.  Slept till 1 p.m.  A battery is mounted on the right just above us and has been troubling the enemy considerably, they tried to dislodge it this afternoon as the gully where we are camped was full of bursting shrapnel for about three hours, however no one was injured and our battery remains intact.  Went and had a swim about 5 p.m., we are having lovely weather.  Have not heard how the boys in trenches are getting on today.  Turned in at 9 p.m., roused out 5 minutes later to go to dressing station.

Saturday 15th May, 1915

Was at dressing station all night, nothing doing till 3 a.m. when 27 wounded were brought in.  Our boys had charged another hill during night.  Redressed the wounds and sent men on board hospital ship, all pretty bad cases, some will have to have amputation.  Were relieved at 6.30 a.m.  Turned in at 7.30 a.m., could not sleep as Turks shelled our camp consistently.  One shell burst by the hospital wounding two patients and one of our stretcher bearers.  Went for swim this afternoon, had to cut it short as shells started to fall in water.  Heard this evening that Italy has joined the Allies.  Went on duty at 6 p.m..  Nothing doing till 10 p.m. when about 20 wounded were brought in, mostly wounded by hand grenades which cause terrible wounds.

Sunday 16th May, 1915

Not much doing after rush last night till 4.30 a.m. this morning when about a dozen more were brought in.  We redress wounds and send men on hospital ship.  Most of the men take their injuries in good spirit and bear the pain wonderfully.  One man was brought in with thigh shattered by grenade, unconscious, eventually died, a terrible wound, extracted bullet from another mans thigh, right through ½ inch from other side, never made a sound.  Turks shelling beach at 7 a.m.  Turned in 8 a.m.  Went for swim 5 p.m.  Turks shelled beach and our camp about 5.30 p.m.  Two shells hit a mine-sweeper but did not sink it, another shell fell about 6 yards from our dugout blowing a stone about 30lb weight into our dugout.  The stone grazed leg of one of our boys.  On duty at dressing station 7.30 p.m.

 Monday 17th May, 1915

Twenty-nine wounded brought in during night.  Rifle fire was going on incessantly.  Four 6 inch Howitzers were landed during night and are being put in position today, off duty 8 a.m.  Turks put about 20 shells over us about 8.30 a.m.  Turned in, slept till 2.30 p.m.  A lot of Indians of the mule transport corps with their mules have camped in the gully where we are today, they are fine chaps and make great friends, with those who are friendly towards them.  Our ships bombarded the Turks on our left flank today.  Turks replied for a short time without effect, can't touch our Cruisers.  On duty 8 p.m.  Had word today two of our bearers who were wounded had died on hospital ship.  Only couple of wounded brought to us up to 12 midnight.

Tuesday 18th May, 1915

Came off duty at 8 a.m.  Had about a dozen wounded during night.  Turks put about 20 shells on beach about 5.30 a.m.  Turned in at 9 a.m.  At 5.30 a.m. Turks started shelling  the beach and the gully where our camp is, keeping the bombardment up for about and hour and half.  Pieces of shrapnel fell in our dugout and one shell just cleared our hospital.  Heaviest bombardment we have had since landing, yet very few were injured.  Noticeable that Turks are using black powder today in their shells, what few wounded have been brought in have looked worse than really were, nearly all had their faces burned and skin blackened by black powder in enemy's shells.  On duty 8 p.m. Very quiet up to 12 midnight.

Wednesday 19th May, 1915

Fairly quiet till 4 a.m. when Turks made charge on our trenches.  Our boys inflicted severe losses on the enemy and drove them back.  About 30 wounded brought in at 4.30 a.m., kept very busy.  Enemy subjected us to terrific bombardment about 4.30 a.m.  Thought we were done for when large shell burst 15 yards from dressing station.  Off duty 8 a.m.  Turks kept bombardment up all day, heaviest gun fire we have been under, but we have beaten them off with heavy losses.  Had a good number of wounded in today.  Two more of our chaps were wounded today by shrapnel, while working in camps, one in same tent as myself while in Egypt, shot through eye.  He was a fine fellow.  Another camp mate, Andy Khiel who has been attached to headquarters was shot dead today.  Shrapnel and rifle bullets dropped in the dugout where I was sleeping  today.  On duty 7.30 p.m. tonight.

Thursday 20th May, 1915

Everything very quiet during night, only one case came in after 12 midnight.  Received mail from home this morning.  Off duty at 7.30 a.m.  Some Japanese bomb throwing guns were landed this morning, they are very small but are supposed to be very effective.  The Turks kept up a desultory fire during the day from their guns, most shells falling in sea.  Turks asked for armistice this afternoon to bury dead, were found to be massing their men and bringing up reinforcements so we opened fire.  Enemy aeroplane flew over us today, dropped a bomb, driven off by gun fire.  A number of prisoners were taken this evening, some wounded.  On duty at 7.30 p.m.

 Friday 21st May, 1915

Our Squadron and Batteries bombarded enemy all night.  Only about half dozen wounded brought in, light reply from enemies guns.  Off duty 7.30 a.m.  A Turkish General was brought in under a white flag of truce and caused a little excitement.  Understand he came for an interview with our Commander regarding and armistice to bury their dead, don't know what the result was.  Was returned from our lines at 8 p.m.  The quietest day we have had since landing.  Firing was a bit more lively tonight between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.  Went on duty at 7.30 p.m.  About a dozen wounded brought in up to midnight.  Raining tonight and sea rather rough.

Saturday 22nd May, 1915

Only a couple of wounded brought between midnight at 7.30 a.m. when I came off duty.  Raining nearly all night, was pretty uncomfortable turning in, about 9 a.m. on sodden ground and with damp blankets.  Had fairly quiet day, our troops are only holding their position without trying to advance until the British troops (Tommies) who landed at Sed-el-bahr get up this far.  Rifle and shell fire was intermittent.  Rain ceased about 11 a.m. and it was very fine afternoon afterwards.  Went on duty at 7.30 p.m.  Only 3 wounded till midnight.  Had to keep wounded all night, through hospital ship moving off as enemy submarine had been sighted off the coast 4 times during day.

Sunday 23rd May, 1915

Couple of wounded brought in after midnight last night.  One died in half hour, shot through brain.  Got our patients away to hospital ship at 5 a.m.  One of our battleships, HMS "Albion" ran ashore last night.  Steamed off all serene at 9 a.m.  Two of our hydroplanes were up this morning watching enemy and our ships put some heavy shells in.  Turks fired shells at our hydroplanes, but did not hit them.  Heard two enemy aeroplanes had been captured down south near Sed-el-bahr.  Very quiet this afternoon.  Turks negotiating for armistice.  Few more of our reinforcements arrived today.  On duty at 7.30 p.m.  Recieved 3 letters from home this evening.  No wounded at all brought in during night.

Monday 24th May, 1915

Armistice to bury dead today from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., so when I came off duty at 7.30 a.m. took a walk up to trenches.  Our trenches in parts are only about dozen yards from Turk trenches and hundreds of dead were lying between, mostly by far are Turks, they had over 3000 casualties 3 or 4 nights ago, some of dead been lying couple of weeks.  The smell was awful and after having good look round was glad to get away.  Saw plenty of Turks busily collecting their dead only a few yards away.  Turks made half hearted charge about 8.30 p.m., easily repulsed with loss.  On duty 7.30 p.m.  Only five wounded brought in all night.  I believe all our batteries have been shifted since 4 p.m. when the armistice ceased.

Tuesday 25th May, 1915

Off duty at 7 a.m. after a very light night.  Spent this morning in making our dugout rainproof.  Shortly after 12 noon was watching our battleships and destroyers, had only turned away about 3 minutes when my attention was directed to HMS "Triumph" which was listing badly.  An enemy submarine had torpedoed her while I was turned away.  Took from 10 to 15 minutes before she turned over and sank, our destroyers stood all round her.  Great sight but awful.  A destroyer shot 6 shots at submarine, don't know if hit her.  Very few men lost.  I hear there were 3 submarines.  Destroyers and aeroplane searched all day, heard one sub sunk, but not sure.  HMS Triumph remained with hull visible for 3/4 of an hour before going right under.  On duty at 7.30 p.m.  Things quiet tonight.  Rained hard today.

Wednesday 26th May, 1915

No patients all night till 5.30 a.m. this morning when 11 wounded were brought in, they were not from the trenches but had been sniped while moving about in the gully leading to the trenches.  During the day about 50 others have been wounded the same way, evidently a party of Turks have got a position covering a portion of this gully.  Off duty at 7.30 a.m.  Has been a very quiet day except for the snipers.  Our destroyers seem to be very much on the alert for submarines, patrolling increasingly.  About a dozen shells were fired over us and fell in the sea this afternoon.  About 2000 or 3000 reinforcements arrived today and were landed safely.  On duty 7.30 p.m.  Fine day.

Thursday 27th May, 1915

Not a single man brought in all night, so had a good sleep.  Turks fired a few shells about 5 a.m. into the sea, did not hit anything at all.  Off duty at 7.30 a.m.  Wrote a few letters after breakfast.  Heard HMS Majestic had been sunk in the Dardenelles, don't know if it is true.  Has been very quiet with us, we keep wondering when we are going to make a general advance.  About 7 p.m. another chap and myself had a very narrow escape, a shrapnel shell from the enemy burst just above our dugout where we were sitting talking, the bullets out of shell fell all round us, riddled our canvas roof and overcoat hanging inside, but missed us both.  2 mules were killed, Indian wounded within 5 yards of us.

Friday 28th May, 1915

Only 5 wounded brought in up to midnight last night and none at all from midnight to 7.30 a.m. when I went off duty.  Things are very quiet in trenches, occasional bursts of rifle fire during night, apparently very little damage done to our fellows.  Has been just as quiet all day, our guns firing at intervals and the enemy replying in a very uncertain manner.  Wrote some letters and posted them this morning, also received some tonight.  On duty 7.30 p.m. only one wounded man up to 10 p.m. and about half a dozen sick.  Some of our boys, fortunately only a few, are feeling strain and breaking up, couple of days fixes some of them up.  Did little washing today.

Saturday 29th May, 1915

Very quiet up to 3.30 a.m. when enemy made an attack on our trenches.  They started by blowing up portion of our trenches which they had sapped, followed up with a charge and actually got into our trenches where fierce fighting took place, our boys eventually drove them back with heavy loss and also took and held one of their trenches.  Our losses fairly severe, but enemy's very severe.  Was kept very busy dealing with the wounded until 7.30 a.m. when I came off duty.  Turks shell fire very heavy on the beach for part of morning, but very little damage done.  Party bearers brought in wounded man, started off for more, one killed 20 yards from us, shot through heart.  Say 16 Turkish prisoners brought in, one wounded.  Had swim this afternoon.  Went on duty at 7.30 p.m.

Sunday 30th May, 1915

Very quiet night again, about six wounded brought in during the whole night.  Off duty 7.30 a.m.  Heard from one of his pals that Stan Cohen is reported missing.  He was with 5th Battalion when they left this part to go round and attack "Gape-tepe", not seen afterwards.  Received news 2 of our submarines got through Dardanelles and did great deal of damage to enemy shipping, returning safely.  On duty 7.30 p.m. very quiet up to midnight.  Had swim this afternoon.  Our destroyers bombarded enemy's trenches very heavily.  New Zealand outpost cut off by the enemy all day, I believe our troops got through to them this evening and relieved  them.  No battleships about here now, only destroyers.  Blew up a bit rough this evening.

Monday 31st May, 1915

About 8 wounded brought in between midnight and 7.30 a.m., all badly wounded.  Went for swim at 7 a.m.  Off duty at 7.30 a.m.  About 1000 reinforcements landed this morning.  About 9 a.m. had pleasant surprise, had visit from W. Hill, went for walk with him to the extreme line we hold on right flank and saw A. Milne.  Had long chat and had look at enemy's trenches, about 1000 yards away, through glasses.  Our aeroplane sighted enemy submarine and dropped bomb, don't know if took effect, also destroyers raced up, looked out for submarine coming up, don't know if successful.  On duty at 7.30 p.m.  Had swim this afternoon.  No patients up to 12 midnight.

Tuesday 1st June, 1915

Quiet all night not a single patient brought in, off duty at 7.30 a.m.  About 400 more reinforcements landed this morning.  Our destroyers bombarded enemy's trenches at intervals all day, very feeble reply from Turks.  It is getting very hot here now in the daytime, the nights being lovely and mild.  Had swim this afternoon.  Trousers are all worn out at knees, so have had to cut them off and make them into shorts and wear puttees with bare knees.  Fairly heavy rifle fire going on tonight.  On duty 7.30 p.m.  Couple of patients brought in before 12 midnight, both wounded by hand grenades, one died, both New Zealanders.  Heard an explosion about 11 p.m. don't know what it is.

Wednesday 2nd June, 1915

Nine patients brought in before 7.30 a.m.  Another one died, nearly all grenade wounds.  The explosion I heard last night was one of the Turks trenches being being blown up by our troops who had sapped under them, inflicted  heavy losses on enemy.  Off duty 7.30 a.m.  Had visit from R. Pulford of the 5th Battery Artillery who used to work with me at Newport, also received visit from W. Hill, stayed to dinner with us and had long yarn, went for swim together this afternoon.  Can't hear any firing today, hardly know we were at war.  On duty 7.30 p.m., heavy rifle fire tonight.  Blew up one of Turks trenches.  No wounded brought in up to 12 midnight.

Thursday 3rd June, 1915

King's birthday.  Intermittent rifle fire all night, but evident that not many of our fellows are being hit.  Only one brought from trenches up to 7.30 a.m. when I came off duty, he died.  About 7 a.m. I was sitting at our dressing station, when Sergeant of Indian A.M.C. came along, walking past us about 5 yards away, he went down with bullet in abdomen.  He was one of two whites in the corps and it was splendid to see the devotion of the Indians.  Practically whole corps came to see him.  Fairly quiet up to 4 p.m. when H.M.S. Talbot opened guns on left.  Must have fired at least 100 shells.  On duty 7.30 p.m.  About dozen casualties owing to premature burst of one of our shells about 10 p.m., 3 deaths most others severly injured.  Quiet afterwards up to 12 midnight.   Had swim this afternoon.

Friday 4th June, 1915

About 1 a.m. heard several big explosions, believe it was parts of enemy's trenches being blown up.  Smart rifle fire for about an hour.  No patients brought in between midnight and 7.30 a.m. when I came off duty.  Enemy put few shells over us this morning, seriously wounding two A.M.C men in hospital next to our dressing station.  Another of our bearers badly wounded today.  Our corps must have had from 50 to 60 men killed and wounded to date, mostly wounded, pretty short handed, no reinforcements having arrived for us.  Our ships heavily bombarded a hill to the south of us which is stongly fortified, known as Achi-Baba.  On duty 7.30 p.m.  Rifle fire going on pretty heavily.  About a dozen wounded treated by us to midnight.

Saturday 5th June, 1915

Our troops charged the enemy's trenches about 1 a.m. succeeded in putting some machine guns out of action.  Captured about 30 Turks, 7 of which were brought to us wounded.  Immediately after charge our own injured started to come in and kept us very busy till 7.30 a.m. when I came off duty, fixed up our wounded at our dressing station.  Heard 120 more Turks and a German officer have also been captured.  Fighting was going on all morning with heavy rifle fire, our destroyers also put in a few shells, eased off considerably this afternoon and was fairly quiet.  On duty 7.30 p.m.  Nothing doing up to 12 midnight.  Had swim this afternoon.  Not so many bathing today, weather fine, water rather cold.

Sunday 6th June, 1915

About eight wounded brought in after midnight.  Few troops wounded on first day here came back today.  Turks put about half dozen shells over early this morning.  Off duty 7.30 a.m.  Brisk rifle fire going on all morning.  Received news that British submarine had been in the sea of Marmora and sunk large German Transport.  Went for swim this afternoon, beach looked like a big sea-side resort, hundreds of troops in bathing, weather and water beautiful.  Went on duty 7.30 p.m.  Half dozen patients up till midnight.  Heard news Italians progressing against Austrians.  Got a clean shirt today, first since left Egypt, wanted it badly.  Various rumours about our progress.

Monday 7th June, 1915

Three patients after midnight and up to 7.30 a.m. when I came off duty.   About 500 New Zealand reinforcements landed at 2 a.m. and went up to Shrapnel Gully.  Had an issue of cigarettes today, four packets per man.  Turks put half dozen shrapnel shells over us this morning also a couple of their big shells, which we call Jack Johnsons, did no damage.  Had visit this afternoon from W. Hill and went for swim together.  Received news of rapid advance of Allies in France, also Zepellin raid on London and sinking of German Transport in Dardenelles by submarine E11.  On duty 7.30 p.m.  Expecting plenty of work tonight, had news our boys are making charge on hill known as Quin's Post.

Tuesday 8th June, 1915

Our troops made charge on Quin's Post about 1 a.m. their obect was to blow up a trench from which the Turks have been troubling us.  Succeeded in blowing half of it up.  Our casualties were not so many as expected, so we were not busy at all, as dressing station next to us was able to cope with them without our assistance.  Desultory rifle fire all night.  More reinforcements arrived early this morning.  Off duty 7.30 a.m.  Occasional shells put in during day by our destroyers.  A British monitor arrived today, should help us considerably.  Had swim this afternoon.  On duty 7.30 p.m.  About four wounded up to midnight, very slack rifle fire going on.  Been very hot day, hard to sleep in day time.

Wednesday 9th June, 1915

Had about three more patients after midnight, got them away to hospital ship about 2 a.m.  Nothing further up to 7.30 a.m. when finished duty.  Met another friend from Melbourne this morning, J. Roberts, he has been here a week today.  Have not had any letters delivered yet although the mail has bee