Charles E W Bean, Diaries, AWM38 3DRL 606/267/1 - 1914 - 1915 - Part 4

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piecemeal reduction of forts as the Germans did at Antwerp. We propose
to entrust this operation to you. Adml. de Robeck will be your second
in command. The sooner we can begin the better. You will shortly
receive the official instructions of the Board. Continue to perfect your
plans."
On 15.1.15 V/Z Carden sent the following message
"First Lord. Secret and personal. Submit two howitzers or Naval Guns
adopted high angle fire of from 4 to 6 inches calibre be fitted in each
of three old type battleships for use inside the straits against
concealed guns. A total of 6 howitzers.
MOVEMENTS OF VESSELS.
16. 1. 15 reported that submarine CIRCLE (French)
left for Malta in tow of supply ship No. 13.
GRAMPUS rejoined squadron.
17. 1. 15 MOSQUITO sailed for Malta to refit.
HUSSAR, WELLAND, CHELMER, KENNET joined squadron.
Indefatigable reported that on 15.1.15 a light
Gun concealed near Gheijikle fired on destroyer patrol south east of
Tenedos.
On 16.1.15 DUBLIN shelled position result uncertain.
No casualties or damage to allies' ships.
LOSS OF FRENCH SUBMARINE "SAPHIR"
On 15.1. 15 French Submarine SAPHIR proceeded up
Dardanelles. By German Press telegram she appears to have struck mine
and sunk, some of crew saved. It was the first morning that submarine had
been on patrol and commander was evidently too keen to emulate the feats
of the British Boat. All submarines had been given orders not to enter
Dardanelles without permission unless enemy was sighted.
REQUEST FOR FRENCH MINE SWEEPERS.
On 19.1.15 the French Naval attache, telegraphed
MARINE Paris, asking if they would assist British Admiralty with some two
French sweepers, if crews would be sufficiently trained in about 3 weeks
time when operation for which they are requested, should take place.
APPOINTMENT OF ADML. de ROBECK AS 2nd IN COMMAND.
On 22.1. 15 Rear Adml. de Robeck was telegraphed as
follows:- Your services will be required temporarily in the Mediterranean
during some operations which will shortly take place. You will act as
second in command to Vice Adml. Carden.
Transfer your present command to Senior Captain and
transfer your flag to"Vengeance" at Gibraltar when she arrives there about
31st Jany. "Vengence" will convey you to Malta when your flag can/be
shifted to such other ship as Adml. Carden may direct. Acknowledge."
On 24.1.1.15 "Indefatigable" was advised as follows:-
"When "Inflexible" arrives transfer your flag to her and send "Indefatigable"
to refit. If you require to be at Malta to make preparations, you
must wait until relieved by de Robeck who will have temporary rank of
Vice Adml. It is imperative that British retain command of Dardanelles
and continually retain a battle cruiser and a Vice Adml."
 

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On same day a request was made by "Indefatigable"
for two gas buoys flash or occulting with different intervals ready
charged with gas, as when Turkish searchlights at entrance to
Dardanelles were destroyed, there would be nothing to keep vessels
clear of shoals to North of Rabbit Island.
MOVEMENTS OF VESSELS.
24. 1. 15 "Inflexible" arrived Medit. detached
Squadron "Hussar" left for Malta.
EQUIPPING VESSELS FOR OPERATION.
On 25.1.15 First Lord telegraphed V/A Carden repeating 
the necessity for a V/A and a cruiser being continually at
Dardanelles. He also advised that he expected V/A "to formulate all
requests for minesweepers, mine bumpers and all special appliances in
the greatest possible detail, Malta must execute them if possible but
we will/supplement her resources from England. This is a great opportunity
and you must concentrate absolutely upon it. Sir H.B. Jackson, who
examined for the Board, all Naval questions connected with the East, is
in general greement with your plans. You should telegraph fully for
everything you want that cannot be supplied locally. Every effort is
being made to accelerate the departure of "Queen Elizabeth". Official
orders will reach you in due course."
MOVEMENTS OF FLAGSHIP AND ADML.
26. 1.15 from V/A "Indefatigable." "Have shifted
flag to Inflexible. "Indefatigable" leaving for Malta. Due there day-
light 27th."
MINE SWEEPERS.
26.1.15 Following from "Inflexible." "Request I
may be informed what officers will be sent out in charge of mine sweepers
and that the senior may arrive at Malta as soon as possible. In
addition to those carried by minesweepers 100 Dan buoys and 50 Munro
buoys are required, fitted with meorings suitable for buoying channel
between the Sea and Nagara Point to be sent out in supply ship. Can we
use Mudros Bay. It would be a great advantage, specially for small
craft.
COMMANDERS OF MINESWEEPERS
On 27.1.15 following Message was sent to V/A
"Inflexible" Officers in charge of minesweepers will be:-
Commander      Mellor R.N.
Lieut.                    Pitts R.N.R.
   "                          Whitehouse R.N.R.
Boatswain           Lee R.N.
Dan & Munro Buoys will be sent.
Reply about Mudros later.
EQUIPMENT OF SEAPLANES
On 28/1/15 By W/T from "Inflexable" Request
seaplanes bring out fullsupply of appliances for dropping messages and
indicating position of guns. Also moderate supply of Bombs.
MOVEMENTS
28.1. 15 "Ribble" joined squadron.
 

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Admlty  ordered "Indefatigable" will be permanently
relieved by "Inflexible" and should proceed to England on completion
of refit.
29.1. 15 Following message was sent "Inflexible."
"The following ships will be sent to Mediterranean.
"Queen Elizabeth"   from England.
Triumph                      from Egypt.
Swiftsure                         "           "
Cornwallis                       "      Bay of Biscay.
Irrestible                          "      England.
Ocean                              "      Egypt.
Albion                           On passage to Medtn.
Canopies                                    do
Vengeance                                do
Majestic                        from England.
Prince George                           do
Doris                                  "      Egypt.
Amethyst                      On passage.
Sapphire                                      do
Ark Royal                       Seaplane carrier.
Wear                               from Gibraltar
2 B Class                        Submarines from Gibraltar
Submarine A.E.2.
21 Mine sweeping Trawlers
Nimrod Yacht/in charge of Trawlers.
SUBMARINERS.
29.1.15 By W/T from "Inflexible" "Request that submarine 
A.E.2 may be sent to Dardanelles due to loss of SAPHIR B1O. and
CIRCLE being away for long refit my submarines now reduced to 4 - 2
French, 2 British, - of these B11. now has defects to Hydroplanes which
make diving uncertain. Needs six days refit in dock at once. I am now
asking C in C for one in place of B1l but I believe he is short. Anyhow
presence of A.E.2. may open up opportunity of attacking in the
Marmora."
1.2.15 By W/T from "Inflexible" " B11. left for Malta
Submarine boats here now reduced to 3. One on patrol at a time. C in C
informs me he cannot spare any.'
HOSPITAL SHIP.
2. 2. 15 Admlty. to "Inflexible." "The Hospital ship
"Soudan" will be sent to Mediterannean. Sailing about 7th inst.
DELAY TO OPERATIONS.
3. 2. 15 From "Inflexible" by W/T. "Weather conditions
at present render operations certainly in the first phases impracticable.
All January with the exception of three days, it blew from S.W. now
heavy N.E. gale with snow and rain, expect more favorable weather towards
the end of February.
MOVEMENTS.
5.2.15 From "Inflexible" by W/T. "Hussar" "Mosquito."
"Usk" and Submarine AE2 arrived.
OPERATION.
6.2.15. First Lord sent following message to Adml.
Supt. Malta. "Pass following to "Inflexible for Adml. Carden. (begins)
Secret and personal from First Lord. I am proposing to send out
Commodere Keyes as your C.O.S.
 

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Will this be agreeable to you. Telegraph reply.
Secondly. I wish you to keep me closely informed
of the daily progress of these operations. Do not hesitate to
send full reports by telegraph and let me know all your difficulties.
Thirdly. Are you getting all you want, and is everything 
progressing satisfactorily. I attach great importance to
fire being opened punctually on the 15th by which time "Queen
Elizabeth" should have arrived.
7. 2. 15 Following by W/T from "Inflexible."
"First Lord. Secret and personal from V/A Carden.Your 33, fully
concur with appointment of Commodre Keyes. Should like Commonder
Escombe attached to my staff.
Messenger just arrived from C in C,-indicates French
battleships are taking part. It is necessary that they should have
their own soldiers and fresh water supply, they are unable to
donderrse condense sufficient..
I have been getting from Malta weekly in our colliers,
600 tons of water for them. They are slow coaling .Fourteen French
minesweepers are also coming. Request information which of our
ships are being fitted with mine bumpers.
PROGRESS OF PREPARATIONS FOR OPERATIONS.
7. 2.15. Following by W/T from "Inflexible.'
For First Lord. Everything progressing well to make beginning on
Feby. 15th."
TEMPORARY CHANGE IN COMMAND OF SQUADRON.
7.2.15. By W/T from "Inflexible." "Turned over
toV/A de Robeck and left for Malta in "Racoon" which will have
short refit.
V/A de Robeck shifted flag to "Inflexible."
"Vengeance" will relieve "Blenheim" at Tenedos Island.
Captain D. remains in charge of Flotilla. "Blenheim" will dock, make
good important defects Malta, can be back by the time she is
required.
7. 2. 15 At the request of C in C Egypt. "MINERVA"
was substituted for " DORIS".
FRENCH PREPARATIONS
7. 2.15 Marine Paris; advised Admiralty thro' F.N.A.
(1) Two minesweepers left Bizerta yesterday to Malta.
(2) One is leaving Toulton today.
(3) Ten will leave Toulton tomorrow and one will leave
Bizerta on the 10th.
All have the Ronarch sweep and draw less than 10 ft.
of water.
(4) A transport is at present loading ammunition for
the ships that will take, part in the operations.
She will probably leave in three days time. Another
transport will start loading on the 9th.
MOVEMENTS.
9.2.15 "Vengeance" left Squadron for Tenedos.
ANTICIPATED DELAY TO OPERATIONS.
9.2. 15 From V/A Carden. "First Lord of the
Admiralty. 

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Secret and personal.
We shall not be prepared to begin before 19th
as minesweepers cannot be made ready sooner. For moral effect, to
make real progress, and reduce expenditure of ammunition it is
essential that operations should be continuous. The presence of
mine sweepers is necessary for this. Seaplanes will be available by
same date but not before."
MOVEMENTS.
10.2.15. BY W/T from "Inflexible."
"Cornwallis" arrived. Have left in "Inflexible" for
Tenedos.
10.2.15 To First Lord from V/A Carden.
Secret and personal.
"I have arranged that "Queen Elizabeth" now
carrying out gunnery practive at Gibraltar, shall pick me up at a
rendezvous South of Malta on 15th Feby. I shall arrive Tenedos A.M.
17th and commence operations 19th."
10.2.15 From Admlty. to V/A Carden. "Commander
Douglas a surveyor of great experience is being sent out to assist in
any surveying work required.' He will be of assistance to you in
calculating the positions of uncharted objects, which it is desired to
place accurately on the charts and also in calculations and observations
required for indirect fire."
PROPOSED OPERATIONS.
12.2.15 C.O.S. sent following to V/A Carden.
"Re proposed bombardment of Dardanelles. From N.I.D. 838 it appears
some of the ports with heavy guns are open to long range bombardment
from dead water in which ships could anchor with little danger from
return fire and carry out deliberate bombardment on flank or rear of
forts. Every advantage should be taken of this point in arranging
plan of attack. Before commencing it should be ascertained if any
additional defences fixed or moveable have been prepared by enemy,
using aircraft and any other means at your disposal."
MOVEMENTS.
13.2.15 By W/T from "Inflexible."
"Cornwallis" has left for Tenedos relieving
"Vengeance" "Inflexible" in harbour. "Charlomagne" @has relieved
"Dublin" until tomorrow. "Trident" sailedøfor Malta 2.0 p.m.
@ French destroyer. o French Battleship.
15.2. 15 From V/A "Inflexible."
"Owing to late arrival of "Queen Elizabeth,"
I propose to leave in "Albion" and Commence operations with ships
available retaining "Inflexible" until arrival of "Queen Elizabeth".
15.2.15. By W/T from "Vengeance" "Triumph" 
"Vengeance" arrived. V/A 2nd in command shifted
flag to "Vengeance."
CO OPERATION OF ARMY IN PROPOSED NAVAL OPERATIONS.
Under date 13.2.15 Sir H.B. Jackson, adviser to
C.O.S. in some "Notes on attack of Dardanelles Forts" places the
following opinion on record:-  "The provision of the necessary
Military Forces to enable the fruits of this heavy naval undertaking
to be gathered, must never be lost sight of; the transports carrying
them should be in readiness to enter the straits as soon as it is
seen the Forts at the Narrows will be silenced.
 

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To complete their destruction, strong military landing
parties with strong covering forces, will be necessary. It is considered,
however, that the full advantage of the undertaking would only be
obtained by the occupation of the Peninsula by a MilitaryForce, acting in
conjunction with the Naval operations; as the pressure of a strong field
army of the enemy on the peninsula, would not only greatly harass the
operations, but would render the passage of the straits impracticable by
any but powerfully armed vessels - even tho all the permanent defences
had been silenced.
The Naval Bombardment is not recommended as a sound
military operation, unless a strong military force is ready to assist in
the operation, or, at least, follow it up immediately the Forts are
silenced."
PERMISSION TO USE LEMNOS AS BASE.
16.2.15. Admlty to Adml. Carden begins." Secret. Greek
Govt have agreed to use of Lemnos Island as a base for Allied fleets and
are arranging to withdraw their ships and men from Mudros Bay with
exception of a few men left in charge of Stores.
The Batteries will be left all standing and Mr. Venezelo
requests that they may be looked after by the British.
Communicate with Sir F. Elliott Athens and arrange the
earliest possible date on which to take over Lemnos Island from the Greeks.
The Marine Brigade should be landed there on that date and the place taken
over.
You should be careful to meet the wishes of the Greek
Authorities in every way possible and treat them with due consideration.
R/A Wemyss will be sent out as Governor and S.N.O. at the
Base and Brigadier Genl. Trotman will command the troops.
You should telegraph if any additional officers are
required for administrative duties and should communicate with the High
Commissioner Cyprus and obtain loan of an official from him to be attached
to the Staff of R/A Wemyss in an advisory capacity.
Proper arrangements should be made for the administration  " Ends.
and policing of the island.
16.2.15 Following from First Lord to Adml. Carden. begins.
Personal and secret. Sir John French has expressed a wish that Captn.
Frederick Guest M.P. on of his aide-de-camps should be present unofficially
to witness the operations. I shall be glad if you will attach him to your
staff. I trust nothing will prevent fire being opened on 19th. The
political situation in the Balkans and in Turkey will be immediately
influenced by the beginning of this attack. I hope you will report fully."
Ends.
MOVEMENTS
16.2.15 Ham from Malta. "Albion" for Dardanelles with
V/a Carden.
MOVEMENTS
17.2. 15. "Racoon" joined squadron.
17.2.15. V/A Cmdg. Eastn. Meditn. Squadron by W/T begins.
"In view of serious reduction in speed of "Queen Elizabeth" I consider
it essential that "Inflexible" should remain until "Goeben" has been dealt
with, as reliable information indicates that her efficiency is unimpaired
except for the loss of one 6 inch gun and a small reduction of speed."
ends.
CABLES CUT.
18.2.15. Intelligence officer Malta advised that
 

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Tenedos - Scis and Tenedos - Lemnos cables both cut apparently close
to Tendos. Cable ship being sent from Piraeus as soon as possible.
On 18.2.15 V/A Carden asked that Mr. Palmer late 
Consul at Dardanelles should be sent to him for attachment to his staff.
The attack on the forts as outlined in the
Memorandum submitted y Adml. Sturdie and referred by 1st Lord to War
Cabinet Committee, was commended on 19.2.15. Following is Adml. Carden's
report on same, and his covering letter to the Secretary, The Admiralty
dated 17.3.15.
ADML. CARDEN'S REPORT ON OPERATIONS.
Covering letter.
H.M.S. "Queen Elizabeth"
17.3. 15.
Sir,
I have the honor to submit for the consideration of their
Lordships the narrative of events during the operations of the Allied
British and French Squadrons against the defences of the Dardanelles
from 19th Feb. to 16th March. 1915, also the reports from the flag
officers and commanding officers of the various ships which/took part,
together with the following remarks.
There was a marked difference in the tactics/of the enemy
manning the forts at the entrance when attacked on this occasion to.
that whichthey followed on 3rd Nov. 1914; on that day when a short
bombardment was carried out by "Indefatigable" "Indomitable" "Suffren"
and "Verite" by a run past in close order, range 13,000 yards they
replied to our fire almost at once and maintained if from forts Nos.1.
3, 4 and 6 till our Squadron completed their run. The only projectiles
however which fell close were those from the 9.4" guns in Forts Nos.1
and 4. Good practice was made by the Allied Squadron on Forts Nos. 3.
and 6, in the former of which there was a large magazine explosion.
Information was received later that the casualties to personnel were
high amongst the enemy, some accounts putting it at 600.
That it was considerable, is, I think, shewn by the fact that
on 19 Feby, when the present operations began and a deleberate 
bombardment by our ships took place, no Turkish fort attempted to reply until
late in the afternoon when the old battleships were sent close in.
They apparently kept their men in shelters until the desired moment.
Bad weather prevented a renewal until 25th Feb. and then there
was this difference. Fort No.1. opened fire on "Agamemnon" at 10,000
yards as soon as that ship was in position and hit her several times.
This fort maintained its fire with great perseverence against "Queen
Elizabeth" "Agamemnon", and "Gaulois" until the former ship by
hitting with two consecutive 15" projectiles dismounted one gun and put
the other out of action, and effectually silenced the fort; the
surviving personnel quickly made their way down to the neighbouring
village.
On the same day the accurate fire of "Irrestible" on Fort
No. 4. prevented its two 9.4" guns taking any part in the proceedings.
When the ships closed in, Forts Nos.3 and 6 fired a few ineffective
rounds. Although a heavy and prolonged fire at short range was poured
into these forts, 70% of the heavy guns were found to be in a
serviceable condition when the demolition parties landed.
 

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(letter contd).
The destruction of the guns in Fort No. 3 by "Irrestible
and in Nos. 4 and 6 "Vengeance" was most smartly and effectively
carried out,on 26th Feb. and 1 March by demolition parties from
those ships which were ably supported by their detachments of
Royal Marines.
In this service the following officers are specially and
strongly recommended.
"Vengeance)
Major G.M.                Heriot D.S.O. R.M.L.I. "Vengeance"
                                     (afterwards mentioned).
Lieut. Commr. (T)     E.G. Robinson "Vengeance" (V.C.)
Lieut. (T)                     F.H. Sandford. "Irrestible" (D.S.O.)
( In brackets is indicated awards granted later).
The two latter officers are further very strongly
recommended for their conduct in the sweeping operations.
I was present in "Inflexible" close off Kum Kale on 4th
March and witnessed the landing operations which were under the
immediate direction of Rear Admeral de Robeck and Brig. Genl.
Trotman, both of whom were on board "Irrestible" in the entrance
of the straits. I consider the operations were correctly conducted
and that everything possible under the circumstances was done.
The skilful manner in which "Wolverine" (Commr. O.J.
Prentice) and "Scorpion" (Lieut. Commr A.B. Cunningham) ran close
inshore after dark and sent whalers ashore to bring off the
remaining officers and men, is highly commended.
I desire specially to endorse the recommendations of the
Rear Adml. and Brig.Genl on the conduct of Lieut Col. G.E. Matthews.
R.M.L.I. and also Major H.E. Bewes. R.M.L.I.
The recovery of the maxim guns by volunteers from
"Agememnon" was a smart and plucky piece of work.
The sweeping operations by night between 12 and 15th
March were conducted with great gallantry under heavy fire and
although not completely successful, I consider the officers and men
are deserving of great praise for their efforts.
It is regretted that a complete list of those who
volunteered for this dangerous duty was lost in "Ocean" but a
further list is being prepared and will be sumitted as soon as
possible. The attempt made on the night 13-14th March was most
determined and I desire to bring particularly to the notice of
Their Lordships the following names.
Commr. W. Mellor      In charge of minesweepers.     (D.S.O.)
Lt.Commr.                    J.B. Waterlow   "Blenheim"         (  do   )
"            "                         J.R. Middleton   "Albion"              (   do   )
"            "                         E.G. Robinson    "Vengeance"      (V.C.   )
"            "                         G.B. Palmes D.S.O. "Egmont"   (mentioned)
Lieut                              F.H. Sandford"   "Irrestible"           (D.S.O.)
     "                                 B.T. Cox R.W.R. "Prince George"   (   do   )
Aotg. Bosum               R.G. Young   "Cornwallis"            (mentioned)
Midshipman                J.C.W. Price "Ocean"                        (D.S.O.)
Captain of Trawler 318.
The six officers first mentioned carried out these
duties on several nights and I desire to submit that they maybe
awarded the highest decoration suitable for their rank and
seniority, and that Commr. Mellor and Lt.Commr. Waterlow be
promoted now.
 

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(letter contd).
In connection with the operation of the night 13 - 14th
March, I desire to bring to Thier Lordships notice, the name of Commr.
G.J. Todd "Amethyst".
"Amethyst" was hit several times by large projectiles and
had her steering gear and engine room telegraphs put out of action.
Arrangements were quickly made to man the hand steering wheel and improvise
engine room communications. Both during and after the action Commr. Todd
was very ably assisted by Lt. James C.J. Soutter Senior Lieut of "Amethyst"
who was indefatigable in his efforts.
The service rendered by the Destroyer Flotilla during all this
period have fully maintained the high traditions of that Branch of the
Service, their boldness in action and untiring devotion and duty are
worthy of the highest praise.
I beg to callspecial attention to the excellent work done
by the French Squadron on every occasion that they have been called upon,
and also to the cordial good feeling which prevails in the allied fleet
due so much to the personality of that dashing and courteous officer Contre
Admiral E.P.A. Guepratte.
I consider it a special duty to call attention to the
excellent work done by Malta Dock yard, under Under Vice Adml. A.H.
Limpus C.B. in supplying every need of the large force off the Dardanelles
in addition to the main French Fleet. Commanding officers speak most
highly of the great assistance rendered to them on all occasions at Malta,
and the rapidity whith which the work is done, and which shows that the
principle, that the Dock Yard exists for the benefit of ships, is fully
understood and acted upon.
The conduct and ability of Commanding Officers has been of
a high order.
The behavior of officers and men on all occasions has been
most admirable, and in every way as would be expected.
In/closing the report on this stage, I wish to bring to the
notice of their Lordships the splendid work done by Rear Adml J.M. de
Robeck, and the great assistance I have received from him, together with
the valuable services of Commodore R.J.B. Keyes C.B. M.V.O.. Flag
Commdr Hon A.R.M. Ramsay and Capt. W.W. Godfrey R.M.L.I. Flag Staff.
(Sgd). L.H. Carden. Vice Adml.
NARRATIVE OF EVENTS
BOMBARDMENT OF DEFENCES OF DARDANELLES.
COMMENCES  19.2.15.
"The attack on the defences of the Dardanelles
commenced on 19th Feb. 1915.
AirReconnaissance on 17th and 18th and a.m. 19th
confirmed information in our possession, with regard to Forts Nos.
3, 4 and 6 except that an additional gun was shown in Eastn. bastion of
Fort No. 6.
Seaplanes also reported that some Minor Earth
works and trenches appeared and have been extensively prepared for the
defence of possible landing places.
 

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The attack was commenced as laid down in Phase 1, part 1,
memo. No. 49. "Orders for the forcing of the Dardanelles by the Allied
Squadron" a copy of which is attached (See Page   ).
The following ships took part in the operation of 19th
Feb, being detailed for the Various duties as follows:-
Duty of ship A.   "Suffren"      Flag of Contre Adml. Guepratte
            "           B    "Bouvet"
            "           C     "Triumph"
            "           D    "Cornwallis"
            "           E     "Inflexible."
            "           F       "Albion"
The "Gaulois acted as the second cruiser supporting
ship"A"while "Amethyst"supported ship "F".
Seven British mine sweepers were employed with ship "F"
The "Vengeance"IFlag of Rear Adml. de Robeck) was ordered
to take station as convenient to observe the fire of her division.
4.30.p.m. "Queen Elizabeth" arrived with "Agamemnon" the
latter taking part at the end of the day.
a. m.
9.51    "Cornwallis" fired first shot on Fort No. 4.
10.00 "Triumph" opened fire on Fort No.1.
10.32  "Suffren" opened fire on Fort No. 6.
10.38   ships were ordered to anchor with a view to improving
            the practice.
11.00   The "Vengeance" and"Cornwallis" were ordered to
exchange positions: "Cornwallis" owing to a
defective Capstan, being unable to anchor in deep
water.
11.25    "Cornwallis" was ordered to spot for "Triumph" and
for "Inflexible" if required.
11. 45    "Inflexible" opened on Fort No.1. which was hard to
distinguish, but practice appeared good.
p.m.
O.14    "Vengeance" opened fire on Fort No.4. Practice was
very good - her third shot appeared to hit close to
Northern embrasure.
O.30   "Triumph" was ordered to cease fire as she was
unable to hit fort No. 1.
"Suffren" at this time was making excellent practice
against Fort No.6, firing by indirect laying with
"Bouvet" spotting.
O.52    Triumph was ordered to open fire, with light guns
on men showing signs of activity in a field work two
miles north of Cape Tekeh.
O.55. A seaplane was ordered up to spot for "Vengeance'
but owing to Wireless trouble in seaplane, no results
were obtained.
1900  "Inflexible" opened fire on Fort No.3. making good
practice.
1.56.   The signal was made to prepare for Phase 1. part2.
it being considered that the effect produced by the
bombardment at long range was great enough to allow of
ships approaching nearer to the forts.
2. 12 "Suffren" and "Triumph" (ships A. &.C.) were ordered
to commence their operations of Phase 1. part 2.
The "Triumph" being ordered to engage the position of
the new battery of Cape Tekeh only.