"This is Captain Estcourt, R.F.A., speaking. I've got——"
The orderly evidently went to fetch someone else. It turned out to be an adjutant, who listened to me most politely.
"No, we've got no A.S.C. here. I don't think there are any in Bristol. But you might ring up —— Barracks and see." Prrr.
"Hallo! Is that —— Barracks? I'm Captain——"
The orderly went to fetch someone. This time, after a long wait, it was evidently an irascible senior officer.
"No. No A.S.C. here. Try Avonmouth." Prrr.
This looked like bedding down in the station waiting-rooms. Still we would try Avonmouth.
Avonmouth Headquarters received me over the telephone most politely, considering the time of night.
"No, we've got no A.S.C. here; but you might ring up the Embarkation Office." Prrr.
"Hallo! Embarkation Office? I'm ——, etc."