Altogether there are about twenty battalions of 20,000 men, and since the outbreak of war the Maharajah has practically forced every able-bodied man to enlist. They are good soldiers, but absolutely lost without their white officers, for they are just like children.
July 23rd, 9.30 a.m.
Sea rough and ship rolling. Ugh! I do feel ill.
10.30 a.m.
Four blasts on the hooter call us all to boat drill, with life-belts.
July 24th, 8 a.m.
We are passing Rhodes on our starboard, and are, therefore, entering the danger zone for submarines. It is reported that there are two about. No destroyer to escort us, so I suppose we are safe.
Feel much better now.
Captain Koebel, of the Queen’s, on board; friend of Parnell. Since outbreak of war he has been with Egyptian Army, now going unattached to Gallipoli for his two months’ leave. Taking his holiday by going into battle.