Great Grandad Thomas Baskerville (1864-1934) travelled back to England with his daughter Phoebe Stretton nee Baskerville (1892-1967). He was 49 years old and Phoebe was 21 years old. Tom was returning to his birth place where his widowed mother Mary Sarah Baskerville nee Brimacombe (1841-1918) still lived as an elderly lady. Tom was to also meet his brothers and sisters, Selina Hallet nee Baskerville (1862-1917), Samuel Baskerville (1867-1943), Bessie Fishleigh nee Baskerville (1872-), William Baskerville (1876-1968).

This is his daily entries from 27 March 1913 (leaving Townsville, Australia) to 17 October 1913 (arrived back to Townsville, Australia)

Left Townsville on S.S. Suva, Cape Cleveland

1913 Thursday 27 March

It was with no pleasant feeling that we left home in Townsville on our trip to England. When we came to parting with loved ones and kind friends there was a chooking sensation and we both realized it to the full extent when the S.S. Suva raised her anchor and swung from the jetty Warf at 10.50p.m. She rounded cape Cleveland in the moonlight and with a steady breeze so ended our day.

Whitsunday Islands

1913 Friday 28 March

The morning was bright and clear with a steady head wind blowing just the thing to sharpen the appetitie and we enjoyed our breakfast and also the coast scenery. Soon we were among the Islands of Whit Sunday and the beauty spots of the Queensland coast. We saw a Dutch Steamer coming through the narrow passage and if there is a thing I would treasure it would be that scene painted as it really was.

Sandy Cape, Moreton Bay, Brisbane River

1913 Saturday 29 March

The wind was blowing strong and a heavy sea running and the Suva plunged heavily, we were both very sick. About 6p.m. we rounded Sandy Cape and the Chief Engineer said he had never known her to pitch so since she had been on the route. All night the vibration we felt badly and not until we got into the bay at 7a.m. did she behave decently and we appeared at the table to take our first meal since Friday mroning. The scenery is very pretty up the river. We spent the day in the Botanical Gardens and in wandering about the city.

Brisbane, People’s Palace Electric Lift

1913 Monday 31 March

We spent most of the morning in the Gardens. In the evening we went into the Electric lift and spent the evening on top of the Peoples Palace with friends who came all the way from Blackall Ranges to see us off.

Left Brisbane on Orama at Pinkenba

1913 Tuesday 1 April

Our friends Mr. and Mrs. Yeo stopped at the Palace with us for the night. We spent the day by visiting the Art Gallery and the Museum and at 3.30 we all left Brisbane to join our boat the Orama at Pinkenba. There was about 30 minutes bustle and another farewell amid waving of handkerchiefs and we glided down the river into the darkness.

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Phoebe sick

1913 Wednesday 2 April

Poor little Phoebe soon became very sick and continued so, and I felt very miserable and began to wish we were home again. We had fair weather but there was a gentle measured pitch all the way to Sydney. There was land to be seen nearly all the way down the coast but obscured by mist and nothing of much interest except the eternal restless sea.

Sydney Heads

1913 Thursday 3 April

6a.m. we picked up the Pilot and soon we were rounding Sydney Heads. That place has never been exaggerated neither in painting nor praise, neither can the beautiful Harbour and Gardens be. How happy I felt to have dear Phoebe walking by my side again. The Art Gallery has some magnificent pictures. They are too numerous to mention here but I have some names elsewhere. Mr. Doig shares our walks.

Sydney, Art Gallery

1913 Friday 4 April

Went to the pictures, seen Earl of Essex. Feeling well and strong with that trouble that I have felt in the throat gone. We were fit for a good walk to the Museum where we spent all the morning. But like the Art Gallery it requires 6 months instead of a few hours for inspection and explanation. . In the afternoon we took Tram to Annadale to see Mr. Goman but we were disappointed there being no one at home. Phoebe will remember the catalogue story on the way home

Sydney, spent most of the day aboard

1913 Saturday 5 April

The weather dull and things uninteresting, spent most of the day aboard. Went through the Orama and inspected it. It is simply wonderful and I wondered what the Sailors of 50 years ago would think of it. I think they would think sea life a wonderful luxury.

Sydney, Annadale, Mr and Mrs Golman

1913 Sunday 6 April

Sunday morning it was raining heavily. In the evening we went to Annadale and found Mr. and Mrs. Golman at home and I think they are about the nicest people I ever met. They seemed to be planted in the middle of luxury and we were made to feel at home and they would not hear of us going back to the boat again while we were in Sydney.

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Sydney, tram to Aquarium & zoo

1913 Monday 7 April

Still raining but we still started by tram to Cogee but only got as far as Hide Park and the zoo and Aquarium and after that we took the tram to South Heads and had a look at the place where the Dunbar was wrecked. The sight was one never to be forgotten. O Lord how manifold are thy works in wisdom, has thou made them all.

Sydney, ferry to Circular Quay

1913 Tuesday 8 April

The morning was very wet but that dear little soul Mrs. Golman wished us to get all the pleasure possible so we started for Abbotsford by tram and there took a ferry boat down the Paramatta River to Circular Quay. The beauty baffles description.  I have a severe attack of billiousness and it spoilt our pleasure for the rest of the day. We left to join the Orama at 9.30p.m. Mr. and Mrs Golman came to the tram to see us off.

Left Sydney on Orama

1913 Wednesday 9 April

The morning was all bustle and excitement, a continual stream of passengers were flocking in all the morning until with passengers and friends the wharf became a grand site. Mr. Golman Junior. came to see us off. The city was obscured by mist and I thought how unfortunate we were in getting rain nearly all the time we were in Sydney. At noon the anchors were raised and we were soon gliding out of the harbour amid great cheering and waving of handkerchiefs and ribbons that had parted when we left.

Orama in cyclonic weather

1913 Thursday 10 April

Soon as we got out of the harbour the Orama pitched and rolled terribly. The cyclonic weather had caused emmense swells and with the vast number on board and nearly every one sick the deck soon presented a terrible spectacle and there was plenty of work for the deck hands. Poor little Phoebe was early amongst the crowd and in trying to help her I was soon as bad and began to wonder if the pleasure was worth what we had suffered from sickness. All day the Orama rolled lazily.

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Hobart, people are very slow

1913. Friday 11 April

The weather hazy 7 a.m. we were close to land. We soon rounded into the river and were amongst the most beautiful scenery on either side, sloping mountains partly cultivated and I think the Harbour very beautiful. The atmosphere decidedly chilly. 11 a.m. we anchored at the Kings Pier and we went ashore. I was struck by the marked contrast between the busy centres of Brisbane and Sydney compared with Hobart. The people are very slow and the township resembles an old English garden.

Left Hobart, rolling heavily

1913. Saturday 12 April

Went to Cascade. The morning was clear but wind blowing with almost cyclonic force. We went in search of a place more quiet if possible then the town itself and a walk of forty minutes we found it in the cemetary. Came back to town by tram, had lunch. In the afternoon we went through the Aurora and Ionic. At 4 p.m. we left Hobart after two hours the Orama was rooling heavily. Phoebe was sick again. The rooling continued nearly all night.

Bass Strait

1913. Sunday 13 April

The weather clear and bright with a bitter cold wind blowing. Sand on either side going through Bass Straight. 1 p.m. no land in sight. Good roll on. Phoebe sick again and write home. Evening sacred concert.

Melbourne, tram to Botanical Gardens

1913. Monday 14 April

4 a.m. At the rift, have on Pilot. 8 a.m. at Melbourne land covered with fog. 9.30 took tram from Port Melbourne to Swanson St. visited Touris Bureau on to Saint Pauls after inspecting it took tram for Botanical Gardens were we spent the morning. 1 p.m. Have lunch in Elizabether Street and took tram for the zoo. Spent 2 hours plesantly in the gardens. See monument erected in honour of Burke & Wills University and cetra.

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on route. Returned to Port Melbourne by train from Flinders Central at 4.40 after enjoyable day. Weather warm and plesant.

Melbourne, shallow colour of people

1913. Tuesday 15 April

Weather decidely chilly, got bad cold, stay on board all the morning. In evening go to visit Mrs. Clealand Port Melbourne, find them well. Then took train for St. Kilda and found it a delightfull place Melbourne is a beautiful place. Its wide streets is a great contrass to Sydney. One thing struck me that is the sallow colour of the people as against Sydney and Brisbane. I don’t think they compare with the people of Sydney in physical proportions.

Left Melbourne, visited Museum & Art Gallery

1913. Wednesday 16 April

After breakfast take train at Port Melbourne for the Central walk about the main Streets through the Museum & the Art Gallery. There are some very striking specimens there and beautifull paintings amongst others is that of Burke Wills and King when they came into camp and found their mates gone and the tree marked dig 9 feet. Returned to Orama about 1 p.m.. At 3.10 p.m. the Persic left the warf and at 3.30 the Orama. There was a great crowd to see the departure of the two boats and as the sound of Auld Lang Syne died away as we drifted out into the bay overtook and passed Persic.

Few Socialists onboard

1913. Thursday 17 April

The weather a little warmer but still chilly. Orama rolling all day but neither of uss sea sick. In sight of land most of the day. Sports for children in the afternoon and a concert at night. I have had a bad cold but feel a little better than yesterday. An a little exciting political contraversy, we evidently have a few Socialists on board, men who think they have brains enough to rule the universe but find it difficult matter to rule themselves.

Adelaide, in & out, two passengers left behind

1913. Friday 18 April

Arrive outer Harbour Fort Adelaide 6 a.m. Left again 1 p.m.. Did not go up to the City which is 14 miles. Was not ready for the first train. Did not run any chance of missing the boat. Two of the Passengers missed it. Passed Cape Borda about 9.30 p.m.. Water smooth and nice moonlight night very plesant. Making great progress. Retire 10 p.m..

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Socialists will not be heard again

1913. Saturday 19 April

Sea just like a pond no land in sight. 12 noon  364 miles from Adelaide. We found a good kind of amusement in listening to two Socialist who claim to be orators. They got a very warm reception and I don’t think they will be heard any more on this voyage.

Attend service on deck at night

1913. Sunday 20 April

Still no land in sight. Attend service in music room in the morning. 12 noon 390 miles for the 24 hours. Attend service on deck at night. Light rain and rather cold.

Passed Break Sea Island

1913. Monday 21 April

About 7 a.m. pas Break Sea Island. Land in sight all day. Appears very rough looks like rugged Rocks and Sand Hills. 12 noon distance for 24 hours 364. 4 p.m. passed Cape. Changed our course to about due north. Weather warm sea smooth. Sun set and moon rise very pretty.

Fremantle, monument of soldiers in South Africa.

1913. Tuesday 22 April

Arrived Freemantle 6 a.m. had breakfast and at 8.10 took train for Perth 12 miles from Freemantle. Arrived in Perth 9 a.m. Went to Post Office, Botanical Gardens, Supreme Court, Governor’s house, Saint Joseph’s Cathradel. Flower garden roof of Boan’s building. Then took tram for Harveys Terrace. Then walked passed observatory Legislative Council, and on to King’s Park. Saw statue of Queen Victoria also monument raised in memory of the soldiers who fell in South Africa. Saw the guns taken.

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Left Fremantle, movements of people rather slow

The Park is nicely situated and from there is beautifull commanding view of nearly the whole of Perth as well as South Perth and the Swan River. Perth and Freemantle has very narrow Streets and I should say will ever be a source of inconvenience. Climate very silimar to Townsville. Movements of people rather slow. Splendid ward and very buisy. 8 large vessels at warf. Left Freemantle 5 p.m..

Sociable and agreeable crowd on board

1913. Wednesday 23 April

12 noon 290 miles from Freemantle. Very good. Concert at night. I should say that a more sociable and agreeable crowd never meet on board any ship.

Cap knocked overboard to-night

1913. Thursday 24 April

Water boundless water. Sea seems to be running after us to-day, and closing the furrow almost as soon as made. Making fair progress 374 miles for the 24 hours. Weather getting very warm and cloudy. Had a bun competation for boys and girls this evening, very amuseing. Been thinking of home all day wondering how you are getting on. Four weeks to night since we left and only 664 miles of the Australian coast at noon to-day. Cap knocked overboard to-night.

Horrible head hake all day

1913. Friday 25 April

Weather very warm with light clouds, nothing to be seen but water. 12 noon distance for 24 hours 368 miles. Dance at night. Horrible head hake all day. Couldn’t enjoy anything. Thoughts not on surroundings but back in Queensland and at home.

Tug of war this morning

1913. Saturday 26 April

Head hake little better, but had a bad night, vibration from propeller is no improvement to a bad head. Weather very hot. Tug of war this morning. Latitude 52.2 S. Long. 97-50 E, distance 375 miles for 24 hours. Night delightfull just a long gentle roll. Dance at night and enjoyed by a happy crowd.

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Mass by Rev. Tregia

1913. Sunday 27 April

Weather overcast and evening cool. Mass 7 a.m. Service for children 3 p.m. conducted by Rev. Tregia, also service 7 p.m.. Distance for 24 hours ending noon 372 miles 4 hours behind Queensland time. My thoughts were there.

Few flying fish for six days

1913. Monday 28 April

Heavy showers all the morning. Sea smooth. Orama very steady all day. 12 noon distance for 24 hours 366. Seen nothing but water outside Orama but water, one bird and a few flying fish for six days. Tug of war this morning and a dance tonight. We realize that we are nearly 400 miles from Home every day and we are longing for news.

Baby the ghost man

1913. Tuesday 22 April

Weather cloudy and showry, very warm but not unbearable. 12 noon distance 335. About 3 p.m. Father & Mother Neptune came on board & Baby the ghost man and Fanson Father & mother Gundy Billy his gin and Picciny a lone widow Australian cow boy and number of representatives. They got a great reception on Second class deck and some a great ducking on the third. The second class returned the visit at night and those who took part in 3rd C procession were invited to their ball.

Second Class Procession getting Photos

1913. Wednesday 30 April

Weather beautifull and cool no sun visible for some days. Distance 12 noon 347 miles that leaves 298 to reach Colomba. Second Class Procession getting their Photoes taken. Pos letter home giving news to date. Concert at 7 p.m. Program very good. Very strong head wind for a time but going at a great speed. Young Saunders slightly better, going to be put ashore to-morrow.

Colomba, rickshaws thru Native quarters

1913. Thursday 1 May

Arrive at Colomba 7 a.m. after breakfast about 40 or 50 go to the Globe Hotel after staying a short time get into cabs and rickshaws go through the principable parts of the city through the Crimmen & Tea gardens through the British and Buda Temples the Museum. Through the Native quarters & fruit market back to the Hotel. Had lunch then went shopping returning to the boat again at 4 p.m. After a hot but pleasant day (Five weeks since we left home) (Young Saunders put ashore).

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Left Colomba, tea Party, Eight of us

1913. Friday 2 May

About 1 a.m. left Colomba. 3 a.m. very severe thunder storm but not much rain but sufficient to cool the atmosphere and make it quite chilly. 7.30 a.m. passed two steamers. 12 noon distance 162 miles. About 5 p.m. meet steamer but it was a long way off. 6 p.m. passed steamer. 7 p.m. Whist competition. Had tea Party Mrs. Barrets cabin. Eight of us in the afternoon.

North star to be seen tonight

1913. Saturday 3 May

Weather beautiful. Sea smooth. Orama been steady as a rock ginger beer bottle stand on table neck downward. Distance 377 miles. Sports tug of war, pillow fight, Potato race for children. Whisteling competition, Boot jumble race & cetra. North star to be seen tonight.

A lovely zephyr all day

1913. Sunday 4 May

One of those days that it is impossible to describe, a lovely zephyr all day, church service 3 times, distance 385 miles. Lat 9-17 N L 64-37 E. Sun set indescriable.

I refused to sign petition

1913. Monday 5 May

Weather warm. Sea like glass. Orama like a rock. Sighted a steamer away on the horizon at 6 a.m. going the same way as we are. Various sports for the afternoon, distance 12 noon 369 miles Lat. 1-33 N Lon. 58-20 E. 4 p.m. abrest of steamer sighted this morning. 6 p.m. Testing compass and stearing gear. Petition going round on behalf of deck hand who for some cause had been reduced in rank. I refused to sign it not knowing why he was reduced and not caring to interfear with the Captain’s business.

Cape Guardafin, barren rocks and sand hills

1913. Tuesday 6 May

Beautifull fresh breeze just ideal wheather. 10 a.m. Passed I. of St. Cotora. Hat trimming competation for men. 3 p.m. Passing Cape Guardafin. No sign of vegitation barren rocks and sand hills. Meet four mass steamer. Several more steamers met during the afternoon. Sea lovely. Land in sight all evening.

Sunset most lovely I have ever seen

1913. Wednesday 7 May

Weather very warm, people complaining of heat. I think it just nice and feel splendid, spent most of the morning writing. Land sighted since 10 a.m. 12 noon Lat. 11-42 N. Lon. 52-4 E distance 375 miles. 3 p.m. Of Aden met about 6 steamers to-day. Tug of war this evening, concert tonight. Land in sight all the afternoon. 9 p.m. Entered the Perim Straights. The sun set was the most lovely I have ever seen. That golden never be painted or described. It was worth going a thousand miles to see.

Jabel Tier, one passenger dead

1913. Thursday 8 May

The morning bright & clear but the distance showed a dry burning haze and it is very hot no brieeze. Passed Jabel Tier during the morning also met quite a number of steamers and passed some. 12 noon Lat. 16-17 N Long. 41-12 E. 398 miles. 3 p.m. a nice breeze and very pleasant. 5 p.m. one of the passengers brought to the Hospital dead. I cannot place him.

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He was an old man I hear over 70 years of age. It is to old to undertake a journey like this. Red sea very trying even for the strong.

Body is committed to the deep

1913. Friday 9 May

7 a.m. The clouds that had gathered during the night and made it plesant to sleep are dispersing before a glowing sun. The ships bell tolling the warning note come, reminding us our turn is comming, a line cleared through the deck, the old man’s body passes through and is committed to the deep. 12 noon Lat. 21-23 N Long. 87-17 E. 348 miles. Afternoon strong head wind good swells. Orama like a rock and simply brushing the waves aside as she ploughed through on her course leaving a great furrow behind. Sports and wist drive.

Phoebe dressed as Boo peep

1913. Saturday 10 May

The morning fresh and breezy. The sea choppy but seems only surface. 5 a.m. passed Light House. 11.30 passed the Brothers. Fose broke fire bell rang. 12 noon Lat. 26-22 N. Long. 34-50 E. 354 miles. passed Shadwan Light House. Scene very pretty. Fance dress ball at night. Phoebe dressed as Boo peep. Prize won by representative of of Sprats Miss Chambers. 6 a.m.

Suez, besieged by natives

1913. Sunday 11 May

Arrived at Suez 6 a.m. Soon beseiged by natives. Left at 9 a.m. and were soon in the Canal. The improvements have been many since I passed through 25 years ago.

Port Said, old lady died at 11 p.m.

1913. Monday 12 May

12.30 a.m. Arrived Port Said and left again 9.30 a.m.. An old lady died at 11 p.m. last night and her remains were sent a shore early this morning for burial. We hear also that the young man we left at Colomba is dead. 12 noon Lat. 31-38 N Long. 32-0 E, 31 miles. Quite a change in the weather feels cold, put on more clothing. Saw several boats. Have a good appitate and feeling splendid.

3 p.m. off Crete

1913. Tuesday 13 May

Felt like stopping in bed longer than usual this morning. 7 a.m. passed passenger boat very close. Weather fresh and nice. 12. Lat. 34-8 N Long. 25-12 E. 374 miles. 3 p.m. off Crete.

Mount Etna, Straights of Meesina, Strom-Boli

1913. Wednesday 14 May

The morning clear and chilly. land in sight. Sea like glass scarcely a ripple. No land in sight. Spent the morning in writing to my both homes. 12 noon Lat. 36-57 N. Long. 17-59 E distance 388 miles for the 24 hours. 6 p.m. Mount Etna in sight. 8 p.m. going through the straights of Meesina. Scene very pretty; beautifully light up. The sea smooth and a dance going merrily. 9.30 go to bed with great expectations for tomorrow in Naples. Midnight passed Strom-Boli. I did not get up to see it but a number did.

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Naples, Pompeii, fish markets

1913. Thursday 15 May

8 a.m. arrived in Naples and was soon ready to go a shore. Had breakfast 7.30, about 9 a.m. went of in. Tender 2/- each return. Took No. 20 guide and went to Pompeii and had a real impressive time going through the ruins, came back to Hotell had dinner and at 2-12 caught the train for Naples. Arrived about 3 p.m. took cabs to the Arcade then through the fish market up the cable tram to Mt. Martino and Bomers. Then back to Kings Palace and Kings Church but had not time to go through them, got back to boat 5.30 p.m. and sailed 6.15 p.m.

Left Naples, light rain

1913. Friday 16 May

Felt rather tired lay in bed until 7 a.m. Orama rolling very gently, the first time for nearly 3 weeks. Weather nice and warm. 9.30 land in sight on Starboard and appears to be light rain there. 11 a.m. meet Otranto outward bound, large number of passengers on board. 12 noon Lat. 42-38 N Long. 10-12 E. Light rain rather chilly. Meet some steamers and passed one.

Toulon, very nice snails for sale

1913, Saturday 17 May

About 6.30 arrived at Toulon, had breakfast then went ashore. I am very much impressed with Toulon. The streets are narrow but clean. The people are also clean and nice. The Harbour very good and the general surroundings pretty. 12 noon left Toulon. View somewhat spoilt by mist. 14 large gunboats in Harbour and a great number of smaller ones, also submarine. /Market street very novel. Very nice snails for sale.

Cape Antonio, Cape Phase

1913. Sunday 18 May

One of those beautifull English summer days so hard to describe. 12 noon passed Capt Antonio. Lat. 38-41 N Long. 0-46 E. 359 miles. 6 p.m. passed Cape Phase. Two services. Meet lot of boats and passed several.

Rock of Gibraltar, queer mixture of races

1913. Monday 19 May

The morning quite chilly. The coast of Spain on one side, and the count of Africa on our left and the Rock of Gibraltar ahead. We watched the approach with a feeling of delight and surprise. 11 a.m. we arrived at Gibraltar and went ashore. There seems to be a queer mixture of races, British, Spanish, moors & cetra. The Streets are very narrow. Buildings indifferent. Old Moorish Castle very prominent. Had refreshments at Universal, took cab, had a drive around and over to the Spanish City, in doing so passed the Victoria gardens and the Neutral Territory.

Cape St. Vincent, funeral of dead man

1913. Tuesday 20 May

3.30 a.m. Passed Cape St. Vincent. The weather beautiful. Sea smooth. 9.45 a line cleared along the deck make room for the body of a dead man to be taken to the Morgue or Hospital. 12 noon Lat. 37-49 N Long. 9-7 W, distance 244. 4 p.m. funeral of the man who died this morning. 5 p.m. passing Burling Island. Meet quite a number of steamers and passed some. But none has passed us since we left. Tonight rather chilly.

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Cape Finisterre, Bay of Bisky

1913. Wednesday 21 May

The morning a little foggy and decidely chilly. 12 noon Lat. 42-56N Long. 9-30 W, distance 311. 2 p.m. passed Cape Finisterre. We are in the Bay of Bisky and the swells are rooling in from the great Atlantic. The Orama is rising gracefully to them and behaving splendidly. It is not rough but a few are sick. 6 p.m. It is quite cold and we are glad to rap ourselves up in rugs. I go to bed early. There was a dance after that.

Ushant, generally uninteresting

1913. Thursday 22 May

The morning cold with light rain and things generally uninteresting. 12 noon Lat. 47-31 N Long. 6-19 W, distance 307. Afternoon cold and dismal with a nasty fog setting in. 6.30 p.m. taking soundings. We should be of Ushant but I think it was dificult to pick up and we felt a little anxious. The speed seemed to be slackened a good deal. Make preparations for landing tomorrow morning.

Anchored, disappointed not recognising Sam

1913. Friday 23 May

2.45 a.m. Got on deck to look for lighthouse. Saw Edystone Light in the distance. Just before 4 a.m. we anchored in plymouth Sound. 6 a.m. had breakfast. Feel a little disappointed at not recognising Sam on tender. However he recognised me and taken unawares I felt to full of emotion for words. 8 a.m. we left for Plymouth & the Orama for Tilbury, passed the customs then went to Aunt Harriets, back to North Road & on to Whitstone. I cannot describe the scenery nor can it be comprehended if not seen. Arrived home about 5.30 p.m..

I cannot tell my feelings were on meeting mother

1913. Saturday 24 May

We had a quiet day. Phoebe, Sam and myself went for a walk up on Brisky-down. The scene is so pretty and familiar I thought there was one thing to make it perfect to me. That was my wife’s presence to witness it. I cannot tell what my feelings were like on meeting mother. Meet quite a number of friends. Went to Station to see Sam of to London. Got, letter and paper from home, delighted to get news.

Went for a walk to Parsonage path to church yard

1913. Sunday 25 May,

Morning very beautifull, birds singing, lovely where I awoke. Went for a walk through the Parsonage path to the church yard and Whitstone Head. Meet a number of friends. Phoebe went to chaple with Mrs. Stanbury Pethick. M. Stanbury & John Martin called to see me.

Tempted to have a game of marbles

1913. Monday 26 May

Weather still fine, real hot summer weather. 4 a.m. birds singing cheerily. After breakfast we turned out our boxes and prepared for a big washing the accumulation of eight weeks. Mother & Phoebe got through it allright. In the evening went for a walk up to Mr. Horrell’s, was glad to find them well, he is 84 years of age and looks realy well. Meet Harry & Martin Stanbury, Dan & J. Parsons, T Goodman and a number of others at Bute corner and we were very nearly tempted to have a game of marbles as we used to do and some sugested that we have a game there before I leave again just to be like old times once more.

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Meet my dear little neice Violet Hallett

1913. Tuesday 27 May

Weather delightfull, the first thing I heard on waking was the birds singing in fact I think that woke me for at the break of day the air was full of song and balmy breeze. Got letter from F. Stenner. After breakfast got bycle and went over to Launceston after wiring F. Stenner & Thos. Cook & Sons re return passage. About 3 p.m. got home from Launceston wired £20 to Thos. Cook & Sons. Meet my dear little neice Violet Hallett and up on brisky down over Tinkers Hill through the woods and up short wood road.

Halsworthy by train, to Mrs. Oaks, Mr. May, Mrs. Gro

1913. Wednesday 28 May

The weather rather chilly, the morning quiet. Went over to Halsworthy by 2 p.m. train, went to Mrs. Oaks and inquired for Mr. May. I heard Mrs. Gro was living with them. He kindly sent one of the girls to show us the house. We found Mrs. Gro looking better than I had expected according to reports I had heard. Mrs. May is looking well not altered much and has three nice children two girls and one boy. Also meet Mr. & Mrs. Tom Gro at Mrs. Mays & Harold Jones. We had tea there and a very plesant talk on things past and things present. I also meet Mr. & Mrs. Martin and Mr. T. Avery on the train. Mr. T. Martin I meet in Halsworthy & got invitation to his place. Arrived home about 8 p.m. The two girls and myself.

Looked at number of graves where old friends lie

1913. Thursday 29 May

The weather still chilly and foggy in the distance, the birds not so cheerfull, the place quiet and I felt a sence of dullness. We stayed in the house nearly all the morning. In the evening we went for a walk over to green end Road up that way to Whitstone Head, down through the Church yard way. Had a look at a number of graves were old friends lie causing a mingled feeling of respect & sadness. Mrs. Parsons was waiting to see us on our return. She is the same kind hearted soul. We went up as far as the cross with her and returned 10 p.m..

Mother cant stop working

1913 Friday 30 May

Letter from Sam also Thos. Cook & Sons. Went for a walk in the afternoon on brisky down, very strong wind, almost hurricane force, glad to return home early, rather cold & like rain. Had a talk with Arch Stanbury & J. Pethick, they were planting cabbage in the field. Stayed in at night, a few showers of rain. Meet John Pridham, him & mother doing some gardening. Mother cant stop working.

Parsonage, Head, Hanniford’s Mill, Frockstone Rd

1913. Saturday 31 May

Birds singing, very early sunshine & clouds alturnately with showers of rain during the morning. In the evening Violet Phoebe and myself went for a long walk through Parsonage on to Whitstone Head down to Hanniford’s Mill & up Frockstone Road, way home a most delightfull walk in perfect.. Arrived home 8 p.m. Went out to Mrs. Goodman’s and spent an hour after.

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We attended chaple

1913. Sunday 1 June

Weather perfect. Violet and Phoebe went to Church of England. We attended chaple afternoon and evening it being the childrens anniversary. Went up to the cross with Mr. & Mrs. Parsons. Meet a number of old friends, Norm. Jones, S. Parsons & Mr. and others.

Wood fire on the earth

1913. Monday 2 June

Weather just ideal, did not get up until nearly nine o’clock. Girls washing. I’ve been doing little in Gran’s garden. In the evening we went up on Briskydown sat down by the sunney side of the edge and watched the boats on the sea. Saw Miss Pethick & Mr. went back with them to his home & there saw the wood fire on the earth and it was quite novel to Phoebe, so fimiliar to me. We had our second tea for that day. I felt quite at home with them. Arrived home about 10 p.m..

Mr. Hallet now a minister

1913. Tuesday 3 June

Got up about 9 a.m.. Weather misty, Birds were singing, lovely very early in the morning and I listened to them with intense joy. In the evening we went to the Sunday School Aniversary. There I meet some dear old friends and the days of childhood seemed to come back with all its force and power. One of those friends was Mr. Hallet now a minister, and at the evening service he said he wished to break away from the ordinary and indulge in personalities and to welcome back to England his old playmate School mate, work Mate, in fact mates in boy’s indulgencies. T. Baskerville from Queensland. He said everything seemed to come back to him that day. We had a long talk together and thoroughly enjoyed it and the day.

Morning reading Queensland paper

1913. Wednesday 4 June

Clouds and sunshine morning, very plesant. Spent most of the morning reading Queensland papre. In the evening went to North More. Mother, Phoebe, Violet and myself. I cannot but help but feeing a deep impression with the kindness and hospality on every hand. This struck me as a happy home. In the window are the words 0 Lord keep me from Sin just this day. What a beautifull morning prayer.

Halsworthy Exhibition, cattle lacking variety

1913. Thursday 5 June

The morning wet and appearances indicated a rainy day. However it cleared after and we caught the 2 p.m. train and went to Halsworthy Exhibition. There I met a number of old friends also two of our Shipmates. I thought the cattle very good but lacking in variety it seemed all of the Devon breed. There was very good horses but the jumping was poor. There was not much display of impliments. The evening was winterly and we got a wet journey home. That will be something helping us to remember it.

Dillon, tea with Mrs. & Mr. Parsons

1913. Friday 6 June

The morning fairly plesant, got up about 7 a.m. Stayed in with Mother in the morning, after going to the station with Violet. She went to Bow. After dinner we went to Dillon and had tea with Mrs. & Mr. Parsons.

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and afterwards went and had a look over the farm. We spent a very plesant afternoon. About 7.30 Mr. Pethick came for us and Mother quite enjoyed it although it was rather cold.

Put in kidney bean sticks for Mother

1913. Saturday 7 June

The weather much warmer in morning. Got 8 letters and paper from Queensland. Spent most of the morning writing Phoebe and I. Evening rather chilly again. Put in some kidney bean sticks for Mother and packed our things in readiness for Monday morning.

Miss Parsons & Laura Pethick & Ettie came to tea

1913. Sunday 8 June

I went to the Chaple afternoon and evening. Phoebe went once only. Miss Parsons and Miss Laura Pethick and Ettie came over to tea and Mr. Pethick after Chaple.

London, better than April, 1888

1913. Monday 9 June

Weather plesant. About 6 a.m. head breakfast, left Whitstone for London. Left Whitstone Station by L. & S.W.R.. 9.38 a.m. arrived Exeter. 12 noon Waterloo. 3.15 p.m.  met by Mrs. Sam Baskerville. Took taxi Bruton Place arriving there about 4 p.m.. After tea we went to Hyde Park and listened to the band which was very nice and we enjoyed it very much, although it was rather cold and windy. Arrived back about 10.30, had supper, went to bed, slept more comfortable than I did on the night of the 3rd and 4th of April, 1888, my previous visit being under less favourable circumstances.

London, Hyde Park, Marble Arch, Dog Cemetery

1913. Tuesday 10 June

Got up between 9 and 10 a.m. had good breakfast and spent most of the morning with Mrs. Baskerville at Bruton. After dinner we went to Hyde Park, Marble Arch, Dog Cemetery, Serpentine, Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park Corner, Piccadily. After 9 p.m. took bus at Oxford Circus, Oxford Street, Holborn, Bank of England, Gathbury, Throgmorton Avenue, Cornhill, King William Street, London Bridge, Cannon Street, St. Paul’s Churchyard, Ludgate Circus, Fleet Street, Leicester Square to Bruton Street. Arrived Bruton about midnight.

Miss Taylor & I to a Dentist

1913. Wednesday 11 June

Weather very nice, just plesant. Stopped at Bruton untill dinner 2.30 p.m., went with Miss Taylor to a Dentist off Oxford Street. Took bus for Shepherd’s Bush (White City), Bayswater and Notting Hill, returned same route. Arrived Bruton 6 p.m. About 9 p.m. left Bruton for Waterloo per tube. Returned on foot by Hungerford Bridge. Temple Gardens to board Charing Cross, Pall Mall East and P.M.W. and St. James Street, Bruton Street 11 p.m. Had a very hearty supper. Went to bed and slept in perfect peace.

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My cousin Mrs. Emery

1913. Thursday 12 June

The weather a little dull but nevertheless plesant. Had breakfast 9 a.m. went with Phoebe to Mr. Twoomey’s the Dentist. I stayed at home until after tea. Mrs. Baskerville and Phoebe went shopping, about 9 p.m. we left Bruton for the Fourth Avenue Harrow Road to see my cousin Mrs. Emery. Spent an hour plesantly there went by motor bus via Oxford Street, Edgware Road, returned about midnight. Very good day, but London is so vast that I feel somewhat in a maze and cannot fairly grasp it.

Sam had to go out with car 11.30 p.m.

1913. Friday 13 June

Got up about 9 a.m. had breakfast. Phoebe and myself went to dentist returned about 11 a.m. Wrote to Harry also to Mother. After dinner Phoebe and me went to Fernhead Road No. 33 to see some friends. Returned to Marble Arch had a walk in Hyde Park arrived home at about 5.30 p.m.. Remained in for the rest of the night. Sam had to go out with car 11.30 p.m. Stopped up until his return at 12.20.

Funeral procession of Miss Davis Suffragette

1913. Saturday 14 June

Got up 9 a.m. Weather all that can be desired. Had breakfast then went to Mr. Toomey’s 2.30 p.m. and went to Piccadilly to watch funeral procession of Miss Davis Suffragette whose mad act at Derby cost her life. Went through Green Park, to Pall Mall, Buckingham Palace, on to Bird Cage Walk, saw Wellington Barracks, Queen Ann’s Gates, went to Downing Street, Colonial Foreign and Indian Office, Palace of Whitehall, saw Horse Guards, War Office, the Admiralty, via Waterloo Place, here stands a number of Monuments, the Duke of York’s amongst them. Finished up at Hippadrome about 11.15 p.m..

Reading via G.W. R. took 55 train

1913. Sunday 15 June

Got up 9.a.m. Perfect weather. Mrs. B. Phoebe Sam and myself started for Reading via G.W. R. Paddington 10.30 took 55 train arrived at Reading 12.45. In evening went to Cemetery and after tea for a long walk by the Thames with the Fishley family. Returned to Paddington about 11 p.m… Reading is a lovely little place and weather perfect.

Cleaned car, Tattersall’s Horse Mart

1913. Monday 16 June

Got up 7.45. Helped clean car before breakfast. 10 a.m. went to Mr. Toomey’s. After dinner Sam Phoebe and I went to Tattersall’s Horse Mart, Brompton Oratory, Victoria & Albert Museum, Royal College of Science, after tea we went from Marble Arch to Hendon via Edgware Road and returned via Golder’s Green, Finchley Road, Wellington Park Road, and after a hearty supper went to bed feeling quite content with the day’s outing. Very warm day.

Went to the British Museum

1913. Tuesday 17 June

Got up about 9 a.m. had breakfast then went to Mr. Toomey’s dentist. 10 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. then went to the British Museum until 4 p.m. when we returned again to the dentist and arrived back to Bruton 5.30 p.m. Had tea. Sam and me went for a bus ride to Richmond Park via Knightsbridge, Kensington, Hammersmith to East Sheen through park to Star & Garter. Returned by Kew Road, Chiswick, Fulham, Chelsea, King’s Road

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to Victoria Station. Walked home from there 11.30 p.m. Weather lovely.

Doctored Phoebe with eucalyptus

1913. Wednesday 18 June

Weather still lovely, bird next door seems lovely. Got up 8 a.m. had breakfast. Phoebe got a very bad cold, also bad head, I think caused partly through filling teeth yesterday, I stopped in and wrote letters this morning and doctored Phoebe with eucalyptus. This evening we went by tube to Waterloo with George Fishley. Returned to Bruton 6 p.m.

Ascot Cup Day

1913. Thursday 19 June

Got up at 8 a.m. had breakfast and then got ready for Ascot it being Cup Day. Weather warm and delightful, I left Dover Street by tube 2.35 a.m. arrived Waterloo 10 minutes later, met G. Fishley and proceeded to Ascot. The scene going down was lovely, virginal gardens, fruit gardens and flower, also wheat and oats all the way. I got a lovely place on the ring nearly opposite Royal Pavilion. I was within 20 yards of the Royal Procession coming and going, and also near the Judge’s Box and had a commanding view of every race. It eclipses anything I have ever seen, it cannot describe it here. Returned Bruton about 7 p.m..

Agent General for Qld. Sir Thomas Robertson

1913. Friday 20 June

Got up at 8 a.m.. Heavy rain during early morning. After breakfast helped to clean car with Sam. Phoebe not at all well, we stayed in all the morning. After dinner we went into the City to the Bank of England and returned via the Strand, went through St. Paul’s then called 419 and 410 Strand, that is Agent General for Queensland. Sir Thomas Robertson. I cannot speak too highly of their kindness. We were made to feel at home and they were anxious to assist us in any way and to give us tickets to anywhere we would like to go.

Protest of disestablishment of Welsh Church.

1913. Saturday 21 June

Got up at 9 a.m. and weather lovely. Phoebe better. In the afternoon went for a motor drive out Edgware Road and around Regent’s Park with Mrs. Baskerville, Sam and Phoebe. After tea we went to see the girl in the Texie. While out for our motor drive we saw a number of processions and the immense crowd in Hyde Park assembled as a protest against the disestablishment of the Welsh Church.

Train to Leatherhead in Surrey

1913. Sunday 22 June

Went from Victoria Rail Station to Leatherhead in Surrey. We went for a walk through Morbury Park one of the prettiest scenes I have ever witnessed. Returned about midnight.

House of Commons, heard debate on Home Rule

1913. Monday 23 June

Got up 3 a.m. Had breakfast, with Phoebe went to St. Pancreas by motor, came back by bus to the Ritz after seeing Phoebe safe off to Burton at 10.5 a.m. At 11.30 raining, 4 p.m. went to House of Commons, heard debate on Home Rule. 7.30 went on bus, Sam and I, to Liverpool

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Street via Oxford Circus, Bishopsgate and walked back via Victoria. Street, and Embankment, Blackfriars Bridge, Wotell, Cecil, Metropole and Victoria Hotels. Passed through miles of streets with flag decoration. To-day Prince of Wales’ birthday and to-morrow the French President arrives.

French President arrives

1913. Tuesday 24 June

Got up 8.30, the weather very good but slightly chilly for me. 10 a.m.set out for Wesminster Abbey via Berkeley Street, Green Park and Buckingham Palace, by Victoria’s Memorial and listened to the band and saw Guards march out for the procession. Then went through St. James Park and through the Abbey. Returned about 1 p.m. 3 p.m. started to watch the semi-State procession. I took my stand by the Berkly Hotel opposite Ritz. The sight was very good, and imposing, music lovely, detail in programme.

Aviation flights as accurate as a bird

1913. Wednesday 25 June

Weather cloudy, got up 7.45 a.m. had breakfast then started for the Tower of London, 8.30 a.m., via Regent Street and Piccadilly Circus and there saw the procession again on its way to visit the French Hospital. Took No. 30 bus for London Bridge and walked over the Tower of London, presented my ticket and was escorted through, thanks to the Agent General for Queensland. Had lunch there and at 2 p.m. left by No. 13 bus for Hendon to witness the fete of Flowers and Aviation. Details in programme. Cannot explain here. The flights were simply marvellous and as accurate as a bird. One was in the air 25 minutes and went up out of sight. Returned to Bruton 6.30 p.m..

Crystal Palace great building of glass

1913. Thursday 26 June

Up at 8 a.m., 9 a.m. started for Crystal Palace alone Phoebe being at Burton. Sam or Eddie meeting her to-day on her return. I took No. 3A bus from Piccadilly Circus to Crystal Palace, 9.30 a.m., arrived there 10.30 a.m.. I got in to that great building of glass on the right the great wooden hands on the dial pointed out 10.33 a.m. An hour later, 11.30 a.m., I am on the tower and I am filled with wonder and amazement at the vastness of London and at 12 noon take tram for Croydon Road and from there bus to Woolwich. Arrived there 1 p.m. had lunch, 2 p.m. went through Arsenal until 4.35, returned by No. 53 bus to Conduct Street about 6.30 p.m..

Lily Fishleigh

1913. Friday 27 June

Weather still fine. Got up 8 a.m., after breakfast Phoebe and me went and done some shopping. Bought Mam a little present also a port for the boys, got back to Bruton 12 noon. 2 p.m. took bus from Oxford Street to Mansion house, went through the State Apartments, returned via Strand, called at Agent General’s, took bus to Piccadily Circus. 5 p.m. I went by tube to Waterloo from Dover Street to meet

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Lily Fishleigh. I returned 7 p.m. and was disappointed to find Sam had been called to drive to Windsor at once and was gone when I came back. I had no chance to say goodbye.

Mother had walked to Halsworthy to-day

1913. Saturday 28 June

Got up as usual 8.a.m. had breakfast then packed up for Woodstone. 10 a.m. got Texy and left for Waterloo. Left there by the express 11 a.m. I arrived down at Woodstone 5 p.m. Very sociable company coming down. Weather very pleasant, harvesting in full swing, everywhere on the way. Country looking rather dry between London and Salisbury. All well at home. Mother had walked to Walsworthy to-day and back from Whitstone Station.

Went to chaple in the afternoon

1913. Sunday 29 June

Weather delightful. When I awoke the birds were singing lovely and I could not help thinking what a delightful place. Went to chaple in the afternoon and Phoebe, Lily and self went to Pethicks to tea and chaple after.

Cycled to Bude

1913. Monday 30 June

5 a.m. birds singing lovely, delightful to lie in bed and listen to them. 9 a.m. got up had breakfast and cycled to Bude. Returned to Marom Church 12.40 p.m. Called to see Mr. & Mrs. Jones, had dinner there and a plesant chat on old times. 2.45 left for Eal Bridge to see Mrs. Shepheard formerly Miss Laura Yeo. Was pleased to find her well and comfortable situated for the time. Returned to Whitstone 4.40 p.m. Sent wire to Harry. The weather hot & beautiful just suits me. Some are complaining of it, some who complain of it think it too hot. Go to bed 10.30 p.m..

Got Queensland paper this morning

1913. Tuesday 1 July

Weather still glorious, perfume of hay and flowers delightful one continual song with the bird, in fact the earth seems a real Paradise. But the boom of the big guns on Dartmoor remind me that we are not in Paradise after all. I have been doing a little gardening. Got Queensland paper this morning. Spent most of the evening reading. Miss Steer called in the evening about 6 p.m.. Phoebe and Lily went for a walk with Miss Bener. I went to bed in daylight at 9.20 p.m..

Writing and was writing all day

1913. Wednesday 2 July

Got up about 9 .m. Weather beautiful. The birds in their best element. Had breakfast at 9.30 then settled down to writing and was writing all day. After tea went for a walk up on Brisky down. Mother Phoebe Lily and me got letter from Harry to say that they could not come down

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They have dear sweet” voices

1913. Thursday 3 July

How beautiful to lie in bed and listen to the singing of the birds, what a wonderful bower Woodstone is of the feathered tribe. The thrush, the blackbird, the lark, the robin, the yellow hammer and the pincher may not have gay plumage but they have dear sweet” voices, I have been enjoying these to-day. Stopped in with Mam all day.

Met Harry and family with Mrs. Pethick

1913. Friday 4 July

8a.m.Got up and had breakfast and spent a pretty idle day until 4.30 p.m. when we went over to the station with Mrs. Pethick to meet Harry and family. They arrived safely 5.10 p.m.. Harry and me walked home from station. After tea Harry and me went up on Baisley down then made a bee line for Whitstone Head across country. Had our cocoa, went to bed. Got back 9.30.

Saw J. Pethick, J. Pridham and J. Piper

1913. Saturday 5 July

Got up about 8 a.m.. After breakfast Harry and I went for a walk up on Brisky down. Saw J. Pethick, J. Pridham and J. Piper. After dinner we went up on the down again with Phoebe and the children. After tea we all went for a walk, Mother included. We called in and saw Mr. & Mrs. Harrell. Returned home 9 p.m. rather cold.

Harry and me went to Frogpit

1913. Sunday 6 July

In the morning Harry and me went to Frogpit and returned via Uncle Stephen’s Corner. Phoebe went to chaple in the evening, Mother Pop and children to Church. and me stayed home and nursed Filis.

Strolled in woods where I had been as a lad

1913. Monday 7 July

Glorious weather. 8.30 a.m. Phoebe Pop Harry and me got up and went for a morning walk. We strolled into the woods where I had spent many a morning when a lad. We gathered about 4 quarts of berries and we have had some nice tarts since. Returned home via Higher and Lower Wadfast. After tea we, Phoebe Pop Harry and I went for a walk down to Crawford and over River Tamar. Returned home 10.30 p.m..

Arch Stanbury hay harvesting

1913. Tuesday 8 July

Weather still delightful. Harry and I went up on Brisky down in the morning. In the afternoon we gave Arch Stanbury a hand with his hay harvesting. Pop Phoebe Miss Pethick and the children came up to the field and the children had a good romp amongst the hay. Returned home 9.30 feeling a little sore.

Walk up to Netheracott, my birthplace

1913. Wednesday 9 July

We got up about 8.30 a.m. Weather wet and a little cold. Harry and I went for a walk up to Netheracott, my birthplace. Had a sleep after dinner. 7 p.m. Phoebe Pop Harry and me went up to Whitstone Head down to Trawsa across to lower Lucombe then on to Hanniford’s Mill. On this journey we gathered some lovely flowers and heather. We returned by Frockstone Road commonly called Faston Road. We went a distance of

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about four miles, a lovely walk, got home about 10 p.m..

Left for Peters Fair

1913. Thursday 10 July

Weather cloudy but fine. We got up 9 a.m. had breakfast, Harry and me went for our morning walk on the down. Had dinner 12.45 then left for Peters Fair, Phoebe, Miss Pethick, Harry and me. I was rather interested not so much at what was to be seen as the idea of the gigantic concern it is thought by the people to be. However we emerged from it safely and returned home 8 p.m..

Jack Stanbury, J. Pethick and J. Pridham hoeing turnips

1913. Friday 11 July

Weather very delightful, Harry and me went for our morning walk. Saw Jack Stanbury, J. Pethick and J. Pridham hoeing turnips and had a talk with them. After dinner we had an hour’s sleep, after tea we went to Wadfast, got a gun and went shooting. Harry and me had two shots each and killed one rabbit each. Pop and Phoebe came to meet us at 8.30 p.m. and we arrived home 9.30 p.m..

Walked by the cliffs to Travola and Tintagel

1913. Saturday 12 July

Up 6.30, had breakfast, weather misty. Harry and me went to Bute hired two cycles then started for Bescastle. Cycled to Whens Corner and there met Brendon Coachman and he asked us to leave our bikes and go with him on the Coach. Arrived there at noon, had a look around and then walked by the cliffs to Travola and Tintagel. Arrived home about 7 p.m.. after doing about 50 miles.

Cycled to Maxworthy where I dropped my specs

1913. Sunday 13 July

Got up 8.a.m. weather good. Harry and me cycled to near Maxworthy where I thought I might have dropped my specs. In the evening Phoebe went to Chapel, Mother the children Harry and me went to Church. Pop stayed at home.

Bute, figurehead Bencola, 13 sailors buried, mutinous ship

1913. Monday 14 July

Weather clear and fresh. After breakfast Harry and me cycled to Bute and had a look around. We went into the Church yard which is nicely kept and there saw the figurehead of the Bencola, placed there in memory of the 13 sailors buried there from that mutinous ship. We also went over the breakwater and over the Downs and arrived back to the Elms where we all had tea at Mrs. Stanbury’s, also a supper and returned 11 p.m. after an enjoyable day.

Cycled out to Widemouth. Had a paddle

1913. Tuesday 15 July

Weather delightful, did not get up until 9 a.m., had breakfast and then got ready for Widemouth. 12.45 Mr. Pethick came for Mother Phoebe Pop and the children. Harry and me cycled out, arrived about 2 p.m.. Had a paddle and a splendid evening on the beach. Violet came down for half an hour with us and Harry and me went back with her. We arrived home about 9.15 p.m. after a pleasant day, and a good ride.

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Runaway charabanc saved by us, passengers thanks

1913. Wednesday 16 July

Got up 6.30, had breakfast and at 8.30 left for Clovelly. Phoebe Pop and Laura Pethick went by train to Bude and from there by charabanc. Harry and me cycled there, via Red Post, Kilhampton and West County Inn. We all went through the Hobby Drive and had a lovely time in Clovelly. Harry and me left at 3.30 p.m. and waited for the charabanc a couple of miles out and very fortunate we did so. What might have to have been a very serious accident happened. Two horses drawing the charabanc came down going up a very long and steep hill about half way up, and not one of them had the slightest idea how to proceed and there were fourteen passengers. The driver seemed to lose his head, even to putting on the brake. However Harry and me got to it in time. I held the wheel, Harry the horses’ head up, the driver jammed home the brake. Then I got the passengers off and then we set to work to free the horses. The passengers thanked us and better to think what might have happened if we had not been there.

Cousin, her son & daughter came to Bude

1913. Thursday 17 July

Did not get up until after 8 a.m.. Had breakfast and then got ready for Bude, Mother Pop Phoebe and the children went by train, Harry and me cycled there via Stratton. We called to see our cousin on the way and she and her son and daughter came to Bude also Violet and the Halletts. The day was somewhat disappointing, it came on misty rain, however we made the best of it and arrived home about 9.15 p.m. rather tired.

Went to Bude, returned our cycle

1913. Friday 18 July

Weather still pleasant. Had breakfast about 9.30. Harry and me went out to Bude and returned our cycle. Then went up to say goodbye to Laura Pethick then we came home, had some lunch and went to the station to catch 12.57 train. We had about 10 minutes there, that seemed to fly quickly. We had to part again after an enjoyable fortnight. In the evening I wandered up on the Downs and felt rather lonely.

Wrote home to-day

1913. Saturday 19 July

Got up about 9 a.m., a thick fog covered the earth and it appeared like rain but cleared up beautifully in the afternoon. Phoebe went with Laura Pethick out near Callington. I went up on the Down for a while and out to Bude in the night. Returned rather cold, was very quiet. Had supper and went to bed. 11.p.m. Wrote home to-day.

Took children up on the Down

1913. Sunday 20 July

Got up 7 a.m. had breakfast and then took the children up on the Down. Weather clear and bright. I had another walk there on my own after dinner. Went to Chapel in the evening, Mother and Pop went for a walk with the children,

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Six shots and killed four rabbits

1913. Monday 21 July

Got up late, rainy looking in the morning. Wrote to Sam, got a letter and paper from home. Went out to Bute in the afternoon and got a dozen cartridges and a loan of a gun for the night. Afternoon rather cold but clear and dry. After tea went down to Wadfast to Mr. Arch Stanbury’s and done a little shooting. Had six shots and killed four rabbits. Returned home 9 p.m. had supper and went to bed.

I like him more every time I meet Arch

1913. Tuesday 22 July

Got up at 8.30 a.m. had breakfast, rained through the night but fine in the morning. Went for my walk on the Down and into Mr. Stanbury’s green crop field, got some fine turnips from Arch. He is such a pleasant fellow. I like him more every time I meet him. Mrs., Harry the children and myself went for a walk in the evening down to Tinkers Hills. Phoebe came home just after we got back. She had been to Stoke since Saturday.

Ground the chopper and Mam’s paring hook

1913. Wednesday 23 July

Got up 9 a.m., after breakfast I went up on the Down and into the green crop field. Came home and put a handle on the wood chopper and ground the chopper and Mam’s paring hook. Went to see Mr. & Mrs. Pridham, also hoed one row of potatoes for Mr. Pethick. Weather all that can be desired, really like Australia, and we are enjoying it.

New Park, the place where my Father died

1913. Thursday 24 July

Weather still delightful. Got up late as usual, spent the morning in doing up the flower garden. After tea Phoebe Pop and me went for a walk out as far as Foxhole and home and Foxhole Moor, Higher and Lower Wescott, New Park, the place where I had many a joyous time when we were children and all home together. Also some pain, because it was here that my Father died and we were left to the battles of life and hard ones too for many years. Supper and bed. Arrived home 9.30 p.m. bed

Whitley with Mr. W. Pethick

1913. Friday 25 July

Got up 8.30 a.m. weather still glorious. Went for my walk on the Down alone. Spent rather a idle day, done a little gardening. After tea I went over to Whitley with Mr. W. Pethick and enjoyed it very much. All hands expecting a good day to-morrow it being the Sunday School children’s picnic, and we all have an invitation to go.

Sunday School children’s picnic

1913. Saturday 26 July

Got up 7 a.m. Weather lovely, we are all busy getting ready for picnic, going to the seaside about 7 miles distance. About 100 all going in carriages. 9.30 we are off are at least the first batch. Our party arrived there shortly after 11 a.m. and are soon joined around a beautiful spread laid on the grass. Another at 3 p.m. and Public Tea 5 p.m.. Arrived home again 7.30 p.m. after a good day.

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Went to Chapel

1913. Sunday 27 July

Rather tired, lay in bed until nearly 10 a.m., went for a walk in the morning. 2.30 I went to Chapel and Phoebe and me at 6.30. The weather lovely and the birds have been singing beautifully.

Phoebe and me went up as far as the Elms

1913. Monday 28 July

Did not go to sleep until very late last night or perhaps early this morning. Got up late, a letter from home, spent most of day writing. Laura Pethick and Ettie came over at night. Phoebe and me went up as far as the Elms with them. The weather very hot and dry but looks like rain. Had some lightening, went to bed about 11 p.m..

Phoebe Pop & me walk to Trebarrah

1913. Tuesday 29 July

The weather clear and bright, the clouds that threatened rain had disappeared and it is very hot for here. It very pleasant. Phoebe Pop and me went for a walk after tea up as far as Trebarrah. We got home 9.30 p.m. had supper and went to bed.

Foxhole, fell out of tree as six yr old

1913. Wednesday 30 July

There had been lightening through the night, the morning blows quite cold. I have worked in Mother’s garden all the morning. We fully expected a heavy downpour of rain but it has passed off again. After dinner we went out to the Foxhole to Mr. & Mrs. Symons and had tea there. I don’t remember visiting the old place for over 40 years, but it was associated with my earliest recollections. I remember climbing a tree there and falling off when I was about six years old. We returned home about 10.15 p.m..

Game of wall quoits

1913. Thursday 31 July

The morning warm, the hills and Dartmoor covered with a blue haze. Did some chook cleaning this morning. The day seemed to drag rather wearily after tea. Phoebe Pop and me went up to Mr. Pethick’s, we had a game of wall quoits for a hundred up. I won the first and Mr. Pethick the second. We had a cup of tea and left for home about 10 p.m.. It was raining lightly. Mother waited for us as usual, and wanting us to have more supper.

Went for walk to Derricot Mill

1913. Friday 1 August

The weather hot and hazy, all the signs of rain gone. 11 a.m. I went out with Mr. Pethick to Derricot Mill, came home about 3 p.m.. and finished the clock that I started on yesterday. It is going well since a spell of ten or twelve years. Did not go out tonight.

Walk down to Tintern Hills

1913. Saturday 2 August

Got up about 7.30 a.m. weather still bright and warm. Wilfred Hallett came down from Swindon. We stopped in all the morning and in the evening we went for a walk down to Tintern Hills. Phoebe and Wilfred went for the milk and Wilfred drank it and had to go for more. Went to bed 11 p.m..

Walk to Cherry Cross, Nethercott and Bradburrah

1913. Sunday 3 August

Got up about 8 a.m., after breakfast Wilfred and I went for a

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walk on the Down and down to Wadfast. Mr. & Miss Symons came over to tea, we went to Chapel and for a walk after to Cherry Cross, Nethercott and Bradburrah.

Walk to the Downs and Tinker’s Hills

1913. Monday 4 August

Weather still bright and clear. We stopped in all the morning. After dinner we went for a walk to the Downs and down to Tinker’s Hills, Mother Pop Wilfred Phoebe the children and me. Laura and Ettie Pethick came over after tea and we had a very good evening. We went up as far as the Elms with them when they went home, we arrived home again about 11 p.m..

Went to Tamerton in the old Canal tow Path

1913. Tuesday 5 August

Got up at 8 p.m., weather bright and clear. Sun very warm but a beautiful breeze blowing. 10.15 a.m. Wilfred went away, Phoebe and me went as far as Foston Cross with him. We had arranged to go to Mr. Hallett’s so we could go all the way to the station. We arrived at Allison about 12.20 p.m. and spent a very plesant evening. Mr. Hallett and me went in to Tamerton in the old Canal taw Path. We called to Mr. Tom Hallett’s place and had supper. Arrived home 11 p.m..

Walk in as far as Bolsdon

1913. Wednesday 6 August

Got up 8.30 a.m..

Weather looks like rain, big thunder clouds. I went up on the Down but it started to rain, it was only a few drops. After dinner Phoebe and me went to Walsworthy by 2.4 train and returned by 4.45. Cout not get the teeth done. After tea we went for a walk in as far as Bolsdon, Phoebe Pop and I. Called on Miss Penivarden on the way home and spent an hour got home 10 p.m. had supper and to bed 10.30.

Walk up on the Down

1913. Thursday 7 August

Got up 8 a… Weather beautifull and clear. I stayed in all the morning. In the evening we went for a walk up on the Down and took the children Mother Pop and me. Phoebe had gone up to Laura’s place after dinner and they came up about 8.30 p.m. had supper and retired to bed after a little talk.

Hired a cycle went to Bude

1913. Friday 8 August

The weather still fine. I went to Boot after breakfast hired a cycle went to Bude. Called at Barclay’s and then went up on the Down for a while. Called on Mr. Webb about 2 p.m. and spent the evening there, and had a long talk untill 8 p.m.. Arrived home in Whitstone about 9.30 p.m.. Phoebe & Pop had gone to Boot to make arrangements for the morning.

Train to Exeter, Dulverton & met Sam

1913. Saturday 9 August

Got up 6.30 a.m. got ready for Dulverton & Pop and the children for Surrey. The weather has changed & it is raining. 9 a.m. we leave

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Whitstone, and at 12 noon arrived at Exeter. Here we have to say good bye to Pop & the children, and change for the G.W. Railway line to Dulverton. Sam was at the Station to meet us & we arrived at Pixton Park at 3 p.m.. tea. Found all well. Had a walk in the Park after

Pixton Park walk to Tarr Steps

1913. Sunday 10 August

Got up 8 a.m. After breakfast we had a walk in the Park and a look at the Deer and after tea we had a walk down to Berry or the Holy City. Returned about 9.30. Saw Bridge 800 years old.

Walked into Dulverton

1913. Monday 11 August

Weather fine. I spend most of the morning with Sam. I went down to the Station to meet him in the morning and rode up in the car. In the afternoon I walked into Dulverton on the foot path. It is a very quaint little tom. Sam & me went for a walk after tea along one of the Park Drives & return about 9.30 p.m.. well pleased with the beauty of the place.

Barrel river, Haddon Moore, Berry & Harford

1913. Tuesday 12 August

Got up 8 a.m.. After breakfast went down to meet Sam as far as the Barrel river. In the evening we went for a drive to Haddon Moore vi Pixton drive through Berry & Harford. Sam Mrs. Baskerville Phoebe and me arrived Pixton 8.30 p.m..

Sports, jumping, Pillow fight, Tug of War & Aunt Sally

1913. Wednesday 13 August

Got up 8 a.m.. raining heavily. After breakfast I settle down to read the paper and it has rained all the morning. 2 p.m. There are sports to be held here to-day and people have began to arrive. 3 p.m. stopped raining. We go and have a look at the sports. They were running, jumping, Pillow fight, Tug of War & other things  such as Aunt Sally. Then Speeches by Mr. Herbert Miss Philips & Cornal Bowles and the final a dance to finish at midnight. Did not go to dance.

Tea, Miss Sultzer Mr/s Williams Mrs. Allen & Miss Taylor

1913. Thursday 14 August

Weather cloudy but dry, we intended going to Ilfracombe & Purlock to-day but could not hire a car in Dulverton. We stayed at Pixton Park until after tea then Sam Addie Phoebe and me went into Dulverton to see Mr. & Mrs. Holaway. 9 p.m. we were at Pixton to supper by invitation and spent a pleasant hour, Miss Sultzer Mr. & Mrs. Williams Mrs. Allen and Miss Taylor.

Train, Exminster to see Selina then home Whitstone

1913. Friday 15 August

Got up 7 a.m. and got ready for Exeter. We left Pixton Park 8.30 & Dulverton 9 a.m. arrived St. David’s 10.30 & at 11.10 a.m. proceeded to Exminster to see Selina. Returned to Exeter by the 2.30 train. Phoebe & me went up to Exeter and had a look at the city. We caught the 5.19 train down and arrived at Whitstone 7.40 and was met by Mr. Pethick.

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Walk to Boot

1913. Saturday 16 August

7 a.m. the birds are singing so sweetly. I think it so delightfull. There is no place I like much better than Whitstone England that I have seen, and no place where the birds sing more sweetly. Spent most of the day at home wrote to Cook and to Sam. Went out to Boot in the evening after tea to Mr. Pethick and Miss Penwardens.

Ate something disagreeable

1913. Sunday 17 August

6 a.m. beautifull weather but I do not feel very well have ate something disagreeable. 2.30 Phoebe and Lilly gone to Chappl. Miss Penwardens come over to tea and we went to chapple after.

Mending Mams chairs and shifting bacon rack

1913. Monday 18 August

8 a.m. Got up and have breakfast. Weather warm & dry. I went up on the Down in the morning and into the green crop. Stanbury J. Pethick & Frank Piper. Saw Arch I got some nice turnips. This afternoon have been mending Mams chairs and shifting bacon rack and generally improved things. Did not go out at night. Went to bed about 10.30. Letter frome.. to-day.

Had six shots and killed five rabbits

1913. Tuesday 19 August

8 a.m. Weather lovely. Got a letter from Mr. Doig stating that he had been eight weeks in Hospital and could not go back on S.S. “Olway” with us. I replied to it. Phoebe & me have been down to Mr. Arch Stanbury’s to tea. I went out with the gun and had six shots and killed five rabbits. Got home 10.30 p.m..

Train to Halsworthy

1913. Wednesday 20 August

Got up 6.30. Weather beautiful. I have spent the morning writing. 2 p.m. I went by train to Halsworthy. Saw T. Yeo and after some time meet Milley & Etty. Tom drove me out to his place and back to Halsworthy again. Then we went down to Mrs. Mays to see Mrs. Yeo. I found her in a dying state and feel sorry to have such a sad message to take pack to John. I done some shopping. Saw G. Carthew and returned home by the 8 p.m. train.

Went to Widemouth

1913. Thursday 21 August

Got up about & a.m. weather dull looking but not raining wrote to Harry & Pop. Tom Cowling from Africa came in to see me and we had a good talk about old times. 2.30 p.m. we went to Widemouth, Mother Laura Pethick & Phoebe & the children in the Gings. I cycled. We meet  Violet there also Miss Morrison and spent a pleasent Afternoon. Got home 9.45 p.m.

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Had rabbit pie & felt alright

1913. Friday 22 August

8.30 got up. Had breakfast then got ready & cycled into Bude. Called at Barclays then to Mrs. Webbs but did not see anyone there. Called & saw Mrs. & Miss Jones at Marham Church. Also Mrs. & the Miss Canns at Fuges. Got home 2 p.m. had some rabbit pie & felt alright. Stopped in all the evening looked over old letters and cetra. Phoebe up to Laura’s.

Went to Station with William to meet Sam

1913. Saturday 23 August

Got up 8 a.m. Weather beautifull birds singing lovely. 11 a.m. went over to Station with William to meet Sam, waited for 1.17 p.m. train. Sam did not come. I felt disappointed. When I got home there was a telegram waiting saying he could not come but would meet us at Taunton on Tuesday. Tom Yeo came in the evening.

Went up on the Down & Tinkers Hills

1913. Sunday 24 August

Went up on the Down & Tinkers Hills in the morning, Lilly & me. Phoebe I went to chapple in the evening. Mr. H. Stanbury & Laura Pethick came in for tea. Phoebe went to chaple with Laura. I stopped with mother, Mrs. Stanbury came in.

Mother came into my room with a shawl for Kate

1913. Monday 25 August

Weather beautifull. Went with John & H. Stanbury around Bennits farm in the morning. Violet came home from Widemouth to see us. We went around and said good bye. Mr. & Mrs. Parsons, J. Pethick Mrs. Goodman Miss Elliot & Laura came over after. Poor little …. cried bitterly. I felt sad to say goodbye to them. Dear old mother came into my room with a shall for Kate and said she should feel hurt if I did not take it.

Farewells, Phoebe cried bitterly

1913. Tuesday, 26 August

Got up 6.a.m. had breakfast, then prepared to leave 9 a.m. We left home Mother Violet & Lilly came to the Station to see us off. 9.30 we had to say farewell and our train moved off. Arrived at Exeter 11.45 a.m. changed there for the Great Western and left 12.20 p.m. vi Taunton, Western Super Mayon, Bristol. Sam joined us here and we went on through. Bath, Chippenham, Swindon & Reading, arrived at Paddington. Then went to Mrs. Emery’s.

Phoebe got her tooth fix

1913. Wednesday 27 August

Weather still fine, got up 8 a.m. had breakfast then Sam Phoebe and me went to Mr. Toomey’s Dentist. Then on to Fleet Street, Strand and Trafalgar Square into the National Art Gallery. Then to Arrow Road. to dinner and back to Mr. Toomey’s, Phoebe got her tooth fixed then we went to Lucas the Lamp makers but could not get what I wanted. Mrs. Emery, Reginald, Sam, Phoebe and me went to the Prince of Wales Pictures. Mr. Emery Sam and me went for a walk after.

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Went into Edgeware Rd & Oxford St

1913. Thursday 28 August

We got up 7 a.m. Weather lovely after breakfast Sam Phoebe and me went into Edgeware Road & Oxford Street to do some shopping returning 12.30 p.m. had dinner then Mr. & Mrs. Emery went with us to Golders Green Hamstead Heath Garden City. We arrived back again 5 p.m. & stopped in for the rest of the evening. Mr. Emery Sam and me just went out for a little walk before going to bed.

Leaving England, say goodbye perhaps forever

1913. Friday 29 August

I got up 5.30 a.m. Weather cloudy. Had a good breakfast 7.30 and at 8 a.m. Sam Reginald Phoebe & me left for St. Pancras. 9 a.m. we left by train for Tilbury. Heavy rain going down arrived at Tilbury 10.30 went to Otway by tender. Harry & Pop joined us at Tilbury 12.30 p.m. we had to say good bye again & perhaps for ever. 1.15 p.m. we left Tilbury. 6 p.m. off Dover, 7 p.m. off Goodwin & 8 p.m. off Folkstone.

Otway, can’t see land

1913, Saturday 31 August,

I got up at 6:00 a.m. Weather cloudy and rather cold. Can’t see land.  Spent the morning on deck and in music room. Had dinner 12:30 and then had a sleep. 8:30 I can hear the phonograph on one side and someone retching in their cabin on the other side. Lat 45° 35”W Long. 4° 15” at noon. 322 miles from Tilbury. Evening rather cold. Phoebe sick.

Thick fog. Horn blowing every minute. Cape Verde

1913, Sunday 31 August,

Got up at 7.15 a.m. Felt a little giddy but not sick. Bay of Biscay very smooth. Lat. 44°20″ N, Long 8°27″ W. 360miles. noon. 4.30 ran into thick fog. Horn blowing every minute. 6 p.m. passed Cape Verde, 8.30 p.m. Passed Cape Verde 4.30 p.m.

Burling Island, Lisbon, Cape St. Vincent

1913, Monday 1 September

The weather looks misty 8.30 a.m. passing Burling Island. Spent morning on deck reading. Noon Lat 38°37 N. Long 9°31″ W. Miles 355 noon off Lisbon. Weather perfect now. Otway very steady. 7 p.m. passing Cape St. Vincent. Meeting and passing boats all day. Fire drill this afternoon. Every body seemed in a jolly mood. There are eight Oramaites at our table and a most sociable lot. We have morning and afternoon tea independent of Otway.

Gibralter. Salute of guns are booming

1913, Tuesday 2 September

Got up 7.15 a.m. anchored off Gibralter. Going up the Straits of Gibralter. 8.00 a.m. A new Governor arrives here this morning and a salute of guns are booming at 10.00 p.m. P. & 0. boat Egypt in port and 47 others. 11.45 a.m. Egypt leaves. 12.30 Otway leaves. I did not go ashore. Weather very warm and the scene nice.

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Wrote letter to mother, one postcard to Sam

1913. Wednesday 3 September

Got up 7. a.m, after breakfast bell rang. Weather fine, sea like glass. Not much to note. Noon Lat. 39° oo” N. Long. 0°57 East. Wrote letter to mother, one postcard to Sam, A. Stanbury, W. Pe Pethick and Harry. Everything going merrily on board.

Suez, Concert at night

1913, Thursday 11 September

Got up about 4.45 a.m. We were than passing through one of the Lakes. I stayed on deck and watched until we arrived at Suez at 8 a.m. They anchored for about 30 minutes, changed the rudder and left again at noon. We went 47 miles from Suez in Lat. 29°11″ N. Long. 32°35″ I settled down to read “The Eternal City” and spent the day at it. Concert at night.

Slept on deck through the night

1913, Friday 12 September

Slept on deck through the night. We got up at about 5.30 a.m. wet with perspiration. Had a bad ear for some days; it has been very painful. Met some boats and signalled them. Noon Lat 31°37 N. Long. 32°01″ S. Miles 386. All day the heat has been crule. Nearly every body complaining.

Ear very painful. Sea smooth, heat intense

1913, Saturday 13 September

Got up 6 a.m. feeling very unwell. Ear very painful. Sea smooth, heat intense. Noon distance for 24 hours 403 miles. 4 p.m. meet Opher. 6 p.m. went to doctor and got something put into my ear. Passed several islands during the night. Not feeling well enough to take much interest in anything.

Got my ear syringed. Feel much better

1913, Sunday 14 September

Got up 5.30. 9.30 got my ear syringed. Feel much better. 10.30 passing Pedrim Straits. 11 a.m. church service. Noon Lat 12° 34 N. Long 43°39 E. Distance 387 miles.

Passing Guardafui. Quite a number sick

19 Monday 15 September,

Got up 6 a.m. Had coffee in cabin. Weather warm, sea like glass. Land in sight. Noon Lat 12°17 N. Long 50°11″ E. Distance 386 miles. 2 p.m. reported we will strike monsoon 6 p.m.. 4 p.m. passing Guardafui. Wind rising, sea getting very choppy. 5 p.m. quite a number sick. Very few have an inclination for tea. Phoebe is sick. I am not but I am not venturing down to tea. 7 p.m. heavy swells. We all have great sympathy for one another tonight.

Everybody very quiet and sad looking

1913, Tuesday 16 September

Got down to my cabin 6.30 to dress and felt sick for the first time comming out. Had a cup of tea and felt better. 11 a.m. everybody very quiet and sad looking. Noon Lat 11°16″N. Long 56°19 E. Distance 366 miles. 8.15 p.m. heavy swells. I am

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feeling good. The athletic club are giving a concert tonight. Concert very good. 11 p.m. go to bed.

Big crowds marching round the deck with the bagpipes

1913, Wednesday 17 September

Got up this morning 5.50 a.m. Went down to the cabin but felt too unwell to stay there. So I went on deck and had a good walk. Still heavy swells all the morning. Noon Lat. 9° 58 N. Long 62° 58 E. Distance 400 miles. Sports this afternoon. Stripping, scak races. cock fighting and a wheelbarrow race. It afforded good sport and caused any amount of laughter. 8.15 p.m. big crowds marching round the deck with the bagpipes in the lead. 10.30 p.m. swing up my hammock and go to bed.

Did some writing this morning

1913, Thursday 18 September

Got up 6. a.m. Some rain through the night. Very heavy swells but not a rough feeling. Feeling fairly good. Did some writing this morning. Noon 8° 51″ N. Long 69° 14 E. Distance 376 miles. 2 p.m. cleaning the deck for sports. 4.30 sports over. They consisted of cock fighting, pillow fighting, sack races, a wheelbarrow and a tug of war for the ladies. It was very amusing and caused a lot of laughter. Prizes were given after. 10.30 p.m. have a shower bath and go to bed.

Passed the Orsova about 2 p.m. homeward bound

1913, Friday 19 September

Got up 6.45 a.m. Had a cup of tea down in the cabin, then went on deck. Fairly heavy swells but nice weather. Noon Lat 7° 46 N. Long 75° 33″ E. Distance 381 miles. Spent the day in writing, reading and sleeping. 8.15 p.m. a concert on the poop deck. Passed the Orsova about 2 p.m. homeward bound.

Colombo, Phoebe, Miss Bennet went for rickshaw

1913, Saturday 20 September

6 a.m. at Colombo. Went ashore about 9.00 a.m. Had a walk round for a while, then took trams and went to their terminuses. drive. Phoebe, Miss bennet and party went for rickshaw Mr. Bennet and me went for a walk round the gardens. and on the beach. Returned to boat 6.30 p.m. Sailed 9.30 p.m.

Everybody sleepy and tired

1913, Sunday 21 September

Got up 7 a.m. Had a good breakfast and then went on deck and had a sleep. Everybody sleepy and tired today. Service 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. Swells fairly heavy but weather beautiful and cool. Shower of rain 8 p.m.

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No land in sight

1913, Monday 22 September

Weather bright and clear. Fairly heavy swells. No land in sight. Noon Lat 0° 1 S. Long 85° 45 E. Tug of war in afternoon.

Otway pitching heavily

1913, Tuesday 23 September

Got up 6.30 a.m. Weather fine. Swells heavy. Otway pitching heavily. Spent the day reading.  Noon distance 333 miles

Passing through rain squalls. Sea running high

1913, Wednesday 24 September

2 a.m. heavy rain. People clearing off the deck. Swells very heavy. 6.30 a.m. I go down to cabin. Feel sick. Not able to go down to breakfast. 1 a.m. have a cup of tea and feel rather better. Noon Lat 8° 31 S. Long 92° 59″ E. Distance 333 miles. 2 p.m. passing through rain squalls. Sea running high. Otway pitching badly. No one feeling very well. 7 p.m. night very dark. Rough through the night.

One hand boxing for men blindfolded

1913, Thursday 25 September

Got up 6.30 a.m. Had a good nights sleep. Sea running very heavy and Otway diving into it. Noon Lat. 12° 30″ S. Long  96° 27 E. Distance 336 miles. 2 p.m. preparing for sports. 3.30 sports in full swing. Racing for children, cock fighting etc. One hand boxing for men blindfolded. Putting the eye in the pig for ladies blindfolded. Tug of war won this morning by Irish team.

Got vaccinated Phoebe and me

1913, Saturday 27 September

Sea a little calmer. Weather fresh and clear. sports. 10 a.m. sports. 11 a.m. got vaccinated Phoebe and me. Noon Lat 20° 42” S. Long 104° 08” E. 335 miles. 3 p.m. Obstacle race, cock fighting. One hand boxing blindfolded. Tug of war etc. Service men against all corners. The pull lasted 16 minutes. Won by all corners.

Slept in cabin last night

1913, Sunday 28 September

Slept in cabin last night. Weather bright and clear but decidedly chilly. Noon Lat 25° 00 S. Long 108° 19” E. 346 miles. Services during the day. Went to bed 8.30 p.m.

Did not have a good night. Arm very tichy

1913, Monday 29 September

Got up 7.15 a.m. Did not have a good night. Arm very tichy. Weather fresh and clear. Sea moderate. Wrote a letter to mother. Noon Lat 29° 15” S. Long 112° 42″ E. 346 miles. 3 p.m. sports. Finishing the pillow fight and distributing prizes.

Freemantle, Phoebe, Ms Bennett snapshot asleep on beach

1913, Tuesday 30 September

Got up 5 a.m. Got ready to pass inspection. 6 a.m. at Freemantle. 9 a.m. Went Ashore. 9 – 10 a.m. Sent a telegram home to Townsville. Had a walk round Freemantle. Went to the park. 12 noon went to cabin dining rooms and had dinner. Then

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went in tram to South Beach. Phoebe and Miss Bennett got snap shot when they were asleep on the beach. Weather lovely. Left Freemantle 4.30 p.m. Weather lovely.

Cup of hot tea, polishing off a Cronish pasty & feeling A 1

1913, Wednesday 1 October

Got up 7 a.m. Weather bright but chilly. We are really close to land. 10 a.m. we are passing where the Pericles struck the rock. I am glad to get on the sunny side of the boat. Noon Lat 35° 12″ S. Long 117° 18” E. 300 miles from Freemantle. 4 p.m. Another hour and we will be out of sight of any land and in the Great Australian Bight. I am just after drinking a cup of hot tea and polishing off a Cronish pasty and feeling A 1.

Some fine albatrosses following the boat

1913, Thursday 2 October

Otway been rolling heavily through the night. Got up 7.30 breakfast bell ringing. Very cold on deck. Fairly strong wind blowing. 11 a.m. glad to go in cabin and roll up in blanket. Noon Lat 35° 33” S. Long 124° 38” E. 359 miles. Some fine albetrosses following the boat. 3 p.m. Otway getting steadier. 6 p.m. Fairly calm but cold. I stopped in cabin. 8.15 p.m. Went to bed.

Went to Dr. to see about vaccination

1913, Friday 3 October

Got up 7.30 a.m. Cleaned up and went to doctor to see about the vaccination. Phoebe’s was not satisfactory. Mine alright. 11 a.m. general muster and inspection. Noon Lat 35°36″ S. Long 132° 12″ E. 369 miles. 2.30 p.m. Sports for children. 5.30 p.m. have a good walk around the deck. Have caught a slight cold and feel out of sorts. Go to bed early.

Adelaide, got a letter from home and sent telegram

1913, Saturday 4 October

Got up 7 a.m. Going slowly into Adelaide. Mr. and Miss Bennet, Miss Anderson, Mr. Condy, Mr. David and Duncan Coatts, Phoebe and myself went up to Adelaide. Had a good day. Returned by the 4. 5 p.m. tram and sailed again 5.30 p.m. Got a letter from home and sent telegram.

Church service 11 a.m.

1913, Sunday 5 October

Got up 7 a.m. Church service 11 a.m. Noon Lat 38° 12″ S. Long 140° 50” E. 259 miles from Adelaide. 2.15 p.m. Got vaccination certificate. Land in sight all day. Rather cold.

Melbourne, big crowds but all seem decently dressed

1913, Monday 6 October

Did not sleep well through the night and slept in the morning. When I awoke in the morning we were in Melbourne. Phoebe and me took the tram and went up to the city. Done some shopping. Wnet into the Art Gallery, then had lunch in Swanston Street and returned to the Otway 2 p.m. Weather rather cold but not wet. Big crowds about the stteets but all seem decently dressed.

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Phoebe and me went along the Beach, left Melbourne

1913, Tuesday 7 October

Got up 7 a.m. Weather bright and clear but rather chilly. Phoebe and me went along the Beach also Alf & Will Stenner. Returned to the boat again 11.00 a.m.. 3 p.m. we left Melbourne and passed the Rip. 6 p.m. the Pilot got off here. Sunset very beautiful. Otway rolled a good deal through the night.

Last night together at sea, had a sing song

1913, Wednesday 8 October

Weather still bright. Land in sight and we were all delighted with the coast and with the prospects of meeting on shore tomorrow. Being the last night we would be together at sea we decided to have a sing song together. Alf Stenner was the life of the party and all went merrily.

Sydney, illuminations of town & warships magnificent

1913, Thursday 9 October

Got up 5 a.m. and got ready to go ashore at Sydney. We were at the Heads about 6 a.m. 9 a.m. we went ashore and proceeded at once to pass inspection with our vaccination certificates. Then we want and done some shopping at Antony Hordens. Had lunch at Brays. In the afternoon we went to Cogee and to the pictures at night. The illuminations of the town and the warships were magnificent.

Went to Paddy’s Market

1913, Friday 10 October

Got up 7 a.m. About 9 a.m. we took tram for Annandale to see the Gomans. We found that Mrs. Goman had been to the boat three times to look for us. We spent the morning with her at her place. In the afternoon we went with her to Paddy’s Market and after tea she brought us to the House of Parliament to see Mr. Goman. Then came on to Coogee with us.

Left Sydney, goodbye to friends from the boat

1913, Saturday 11 October

Got up my usual time and got ready for shore. Miss Anderson, Phoebe, three Stenner brothers, two Mr. Cootts, Mr. Anderson, Mr. Condy, Mr. MacDonnell and myself, we all had dinner together and they came to the wharf to see us off, also Mr. & Mrs. Goman. I could scarcely keep water tanks closed. We left Sydney 2 p.m.

Last day together on Otway

1913, Sunday 12 October

Weather fine. Land in sight all day. This being our last day together on Otway we felt a certain amount of sadness and yet were glad of it.

Pass the doctor, train to Beerwah

1913, Monday 13 October

We were all marshalled up in the dining room in order to pass the doctor. 8 a.m. were alongside the wharf. Mrs. Yeo and Gordon were waiting for us. We passed the Customs, then got our luggage to the central. Booked our passage after sending a telegram home. Took the 12 train for Beerwah. Arrived there 5p.m.

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Rockhampton Mail train at midnight

1913, Tuesday 14 October

Weather very hot. We spent the day at Mr. Simpssons with Mr. & Mrs. Yeo and it was procliamed a general holiday on account of our arrival and Ivy’s going away. We left there 3 p.m. and arrived at Cooching 5.p.m. and stayed at Mrs. Clarks until 10.30 p.m. Then we drove into Beerwah and caught the Rockhampton Mail train at midnight.

Special train to Port Alma, boarded Cooma

1913, Wednesday 15 October

12.30 a.m. We are on our way to Bajool. Phoebe and Ivy manage to get some sleep. I could not, I was not well. We got to Bunderberg for breakfast and Gladstone for dinner. Arrived at Bajool 3.15 p.m. and waited there for the special train leaving Port Alma 5 p.m. Arrived there 6 p.m. Had supper and awaited the arrival of Cooma. On her arrival 8 30 we got aboard and after getting our luggage retired.

Left Port Alma, weather good and sea smooth

1913, Thursday 16 October

Left Port Alma 4 a.m. Weather good and sea smooth. Have good cabin and good food. After dinner the Cooma seemed a bit unsteady until we arrived at flat Pop 6 p.m. I retired to bed about 8 p.m. There was a good deal of noise through the night with the unloading of cargo.

Arrived in Townsville, delighted to see Mam and the boys

1913, Friday 17 October

Weather beautiful and clear with a fresh breeze blowing. We were passing through the Whit Sunday Passage in the morning. About 6.30 p.m. we arrived in Townsville. We were delighted to see Mam and the boys on the wharf and other friends. We got home about 7.30 p.m. but had to go back to the wharf again having left Ivy Yeo’s basket behind.