TNA ADM 199 790

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2.
......and as there were
only 4 Officers for the three ships only two of the ships
sailed. I consider that this was a proper decision having
regard to the circumstances. The inexperience of the crew
and the strangeness of the ships and also the locality made
a passage an extremely arduous affair.
The close proximity of the German army made it
imperative to return to England as soon as possible.
Accordingly I was put on board H.M.S. "Calcutta" early to-day
en route for Chatham Hospital.
4.
During the time ashore at La Panne I was
beseiged with requests for a passage to England or France
from French and Belgian Officers. These Officers all
stated that their desire was to reform and fight again.
I informed them all sympathetically that I
could not give them a passage without the approval of
General Adam. As this was not forthcoming in the majority
of cases, about 20 of them got & Diesel engined boat from
the beach and requested that they might come across to
England in company with me. I readily acceded to this
request and was prepared to tow them if necessary.
5.
I understand that the Admiralty were informed
by the Military that my 1st Lieutenant and myself had
become casualties.
6.
I regret that I am unable to inform you
of the present whereabouts of the three ships.
from 7. Dover I considered it proper that this report should
As routeing and instructions were received
be submitted to you. If this is not correct it is requested
that this report may be forwarded to the proper authority.
VIOE ADMI
ADMIR
7.5.8.a.
A
Lieutenant-Commander, R.N.
DOV