BEING SOME ACCOUNT OF THE DOINGS OF C, H AND J COMPANIES AND DETAILS, 22nd REINFORCEMENTS

N. Z. I. F.

F E E R U A R Y - M A E C H , 19 1 7 .

V o l . 1 . N o . I .

P R I C E T H R E E P E N C E .

Gbe Havuan fiautilus.V o l . I .— N o . 1. FEBRUARY-—MARCH, 1917. P r i c e 3 d .

“ THE NAYUAN NAUTILUS.”

The Journal of “ C, ” “ H ” and “ J ” Companies, 22nd Reinforcements, N.Z. E.F., aboard H.M.N.Z.T 78 (S.S. ‘ Navua”).

[ P r o d u c e d b y O f f ic e r s a n d M e n .]

Editorial Comm ittee : Sergts. L. E. Johnson and M. S. Edwards, and Mr. Strack, Y.M.C.A.

At Sea,March, 1917.

T h e “ N a u t i l u s / '

In launching “ The Navuan N au tilu s” on the seas of literary endeavours, the edi­tors do so with considerable gratifi­cation — due, not to any particular merits of the publication itself, but arising from an appreciation of the ready assis­tance given by all members of the rein­forcements, comprising the ship’s ' comple­ment, to make the issue a success. From the moment the project was first mooted there have not been lacking willing hel­pers. The mass of material submitted was a revelation. It was not the easiest of tasks to make a selection, so much was suitable for publication. To have provided space for all would have necessitated in­creasing the issue to approximately twice its present size. This could not be done. The hurdle of expense governed the weight to be carried. This weight, with the funds available, was limited to 24 pages. Everything had to be made subservient to that governing factor. Such being the case, the gratification of the editors at a work undertaken and brought to fruition

is tempered with regret at having left on their hands so much material which, in every respect, merited the light of day.

The object in publishing “ The Navuan Nautilus ” is to enable those who have been left behind to gain an idea of life as lived on Transport No. 78. No restrictions were imposed as to the scope or nature of contributions. This was left to the con­tributors. By so doing it was held that an opportunity would be given them “ to show their initiative,” and give to the journal characteristics of its own—repre­sentative of the members of “ C,” “ H ,” and “ J ” Companies of the 22nd Rein­forcement, who are “ going forward ” (per S.S. N avua) to take their places by the side of comrades already there. All realise that in this they are engaged upon a serious business, but thoughts in this connection they keep to themselves. While sensible to the nature of their present call­ing, they do not let the fact damp, in any way, their spirits or prevent them from giving full play to their natural desire for fun, and to make the best of existing con­ditions. If, in the pages of the journal, there is a reflection of this spirit—the true spirit of the “ Tommy ”—then the object of its publication has been achieved. It is with the hope that this is the case that “ The Navuan Nautilus ” has been issued.

W a n t e d — By soldier suffering from •three-da>ys’ C.B., agile young man, willing to answer bugle calls and help generally with fatigues.—Apply, W eary Tim, c/o Provost-Sergeant.

2 THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

“ THE NAYUAN HEADS.’’

By A F e l l o w O f f i c e r .

Williams is our skipper bold,A merry soul is he;

Cuddon’s worked right off his feet,He dearly loves the sea;

MacDonald’s frae the land o’ cakes,, A braw an’ canny Scot;Spence, the lord of physical drill,

Is always on the spot.

Luke with secret knowledge crammed,Is bound to earn his pay;

Forrest knows his way about Although he is a “ J.”

W hite will put you on your pins His O.C. drops and pills;

Some doctor, too, is Padre Neale,He cures the spirit’s ills.

Sisters James and Culforth, too,Have many a-soldier’s blessing;

I t’s quite a pleasure to get hurt If they apply the dressing.

Then Dempster is the one • who helps To spoil our letter writing;

And Pearce would spoil our features, too, H e’s very fond of fighting.

Elliott’s drills relieve our pain And sometimes cause a fe w ;

While Buddie sells lollie-pops And deals in Pakapoo.

O ’Connor, M arryatt, Hardy, Stubbs Are wrapped in slumber deep,

Dreaming of splendid “ auction” hands On deck in the ■“ House of Sleep.”

Feaver may tell you to go to “ H ”------And McLeod may go to “ C ” ;

Collins, the night-bird, is 011 the bridge, . “ All’s w ell” with our company.

Wiil the gentleman who lifted a Cain chair from the sergeant’s mess return same to prevent unpleasant steps being taken.

LAND IN SIGHT.

. An Exciting Episode.

Come up on the Bridgeman3 there’s an Ireland in sight. This was said by a ship’s officer with gold Ribbands on his arm, and from the deck of this old Whaler (she W ooster be a liner, but she is Vaughan out since the 22nds came aboard) we. could see the Green coast.

Every Persen came on deck, even the boys who were g-Hamblyn down below left their game, as they were eager to see land again.

We were allowed ashore on this Little island, and some of us were invited to the Vicarage to tea, where we made the ac­quaintance of Gracey, an A-M errick-an girl; she was Rutherford and very Maske- lyne, but Coldi-cutt a great figure with her, I thought they would a-Grierson as I saw them together.

Very soon we were having tea in one of the Schofields near the house, and we all sat around on a Mathezvs-ed for that pur­pose, as the grass was damp owing to a W inters rain which had fallen the previous day. We had a nice tea, and we all en­joyed the New Zea Lanham, but I became very Harrised when old Conroy wiped his fingers on a Doyle-y and b-Lezvis nose violently on a scarlet handkerchief; Shirley he should have known better, Fahey is old enough.

A fter tea we left there and went to the town • M cRae-sed the price of some re­freshment, and said he would shout, but when McLean-ed over to speak to the bar­maid somebody drank his beer. That put an end to our day’s enjovment, so we re­turned to the ship. On the way home we M etcalfe-s and other live stock, but no lambs who were kind enough to shout.

W right’s coal tar soap brings Rossy, complexions.

TH E NAVUAN NAUTILUS. 3

By Sergt. M. S. E. (H. Coy.).

One long blast, and several short ones, from the ship’s siren, gives the signal for boat drill, and immediately there is a rush below for life-belts, and then a scramble to one’s appointed boat station. Even in pre-war times, and 011 peaceful 'passenger boats, this same practice was carried out, for one never knows what emergency might arise. But a new significance is attached to boat drill on a transport, for beside the usual perils of the sea, we have to bear in mind that the Kaiser’s “tin fish,” could they bag us, would secure a dainty dish. One hears daily what might happen when we reach “ the danger zone.” Some say we will wear our life-belts When we sleep; others are of opinion that we won’t sleep at all, while optimists take the view that if half of us get away safe in the event of our being torpedoed, we will be lucky. On the other hand, it must be remembered that we on the Navua are by no means the first soldiers to sail these seas from the Dominions, and none have yet suffered. True, the K aiser' promises more ruthless­ness just about this time—but he also pro­mised to be in Paris in three weeks.

So, what’s the use of worrying. The words of an American humorist are appli­cable at p resen t:—<l Suppose that this ’ere vessel,”

Says the skipper, with a groan,“ Should lose ’er bearings, run away, and

bump upon a stone?Suppose she’d shiver and go down, when

save ourselves we couldn’t?”The m ate replies:“ Oh, blow my eyes!

Suppose, ag’in, she shouldn’t ! ”* * *

The scene was the aft mess-room—or, for that matter, the forward one—and the Company was being assembled for break­

fast. A group of soldiers proverbially con­tains some chronic grumblers, and a large number who grumble chronically for the want of something better to do, so it was not strange that on this particular morning complaints began to mingle with the odours of chicory that pervaded the air.

The breakfast was of the usual appetising kind—soldiers know it. There was stew ; there was glutinous porridge; no m ilk ; and bread and butter and jam. Someone opined that “ the stew was full of lumps of--------- fat, and he wasn’t going to eat the--------- stuff.” Nevertheless, he accepteda . large platterful. Then somebody else damned the coffee for dishwater, and threatened to demand that the officer of the day should taste it. Every viand came in for maledictions—some meant, some not.

Suddenly the din was arrested by two toots of the Orderly Sergeant’s whistle, and the Orderly Officer appeared.

In the hush that followed, the Orderly Officer put his question: “ Any complaints, men ?”

There was a moment’s hesitation, and then two or three voices meekly piped— “ No, S i r !”

* * *Two hours sentry go on a transport may

at times be a light duty, and, then again, it may not. I happened to be Sergeant of the Guard before we were twenty-four hours out from Wellington. The weather was fine, but the unpleasant effects of an un­stable ocean had made themselves manifest in no uncertain manner. W ith an effort the guard mustered about six short at* 10 a.m. for inspection. W ith some discrimina­tion the twelve fittest men were posted for the first relief. To get the second relief was not so difficult as might have been ex­pected; but when just before 2 p.m. the roll

Vignettes of the Voyage.

4 THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

was called for the third relief, the trouble began. All this time the ship had con­tinued a monotonous undulation, and the men’s interiors were not accustomed to it. So the third relief was short. The would- be sentries were willing, but the flesh was weak. They did their best to oblige. Two of them stood side by side near the forward rails, and with soldierly spirit demonstrated the weakness of their stomachs over the side, and then gamely marched off . to their posts. The Corporal of the guard reported that one man was in his bunk, and said he was absolutely done for. As he was the last man wanted to complete the comple­ment, I went below to reason with him that a man could not be sea-sick and wanted for guard at the same time. All the reply I got was a grunt. It seemed futile to assert any authority, and order the man up, so I had recourse to cajolery, and pointed out that all the guards were sick, and the one due to be relieved would have to remain on his. post another two hours if his mate did not arise. He bravely decided to “ give it a go ” when this side of the argu­ment leaked in, and hobbled to his post, where for two hours he lay beside a sack of potatoes rivalling it for inertness, and fight­ing the nausea of mal-de-mer. Of course, it was natural that in their state of mind the sentries could not all remember their duties word for word. They knew, what they had to do, but were weak in the recounting of it. So I told one sentry his duty was to prevent smoking below decks, keep an eye out for fire, etc., “ and see that the w ater from that tap was not taken except for drinking purposes.” The officer of the guard asked him his duties a few minutes later, and he replied that “he was guarding the tap to see that the water wasn’t taken for drinking purposes.” Still, that first guard did very well.

The “ Bishop ”■ will deliver an address on Sunday, entitled •“ Should we Toast the Ship in the Sergeant’s Mess ?”

AOTEA ROA

The Long White Cloud.

There’s a land far away— far away,— The land of the Long W hite C loud;

W here the tui sings on the rata spray,And the bell-bird peals aloud.

And the Maori name all fitness seems,For the Long W hite Cloud is the realm of

dreams,W here home, sweet memory, brightly

gleams,Through the veil of - the Long W hite

Cloud.

W ay out yonder is the Long W hite Cloud, The land fo r which we yearn;

Where the zvind breathes balm by the nikau palm}

A nd the bell-bird chimes in the fern.Oh, the bell-bird is calling us homeward,

W ith this tender appeal clear and lo u d :“ Always keep to the trail where your

thoughts set sail—Home to, the Long W hite C loud”

There’s a land near at hand—near at hand— The land of the Long W hite Cloud ;

By ties of love is the distance spann’d, And the out-bound seas we ploughed.

So conjure up the fairy scene,O f the dear old Bush of emerald sheen, Which lives, like.memory, evergreen,

In our thoughts of the Long W hite Cloud.

(The above are the words of the song specially written and composed by H. S. B. Ribbands and C. L. James, for the 22nd Refs., N .Z.E .F .).

Some doubt is expressed as to the nationality of our doctor. Some say he belongs to the Vaccination, which has shown signs of Germination on some arms.

We must be near water, as Herb says he saw Snowden.

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS. 5

“ LIFE ON THE BRINY.”

B y a S o l d ie r o n t h e S e a .

. Although with some previous drafts, life on a troopship was considered in many ways undesirable, far from such is the case with the 22nd boys aboard the Navud. Indeed, up to the present, comfort and enjoyment have been the order of the day. (? —The Editors.) One of the out­standing characteristics of the soldier is that he easily adapts himself to varying circumstances, be they what they may, so that when put aboard a troopship he very quickly becomes accustomed to the life of the sailor, and settles comfortably to what­ever may come his way.

There can be 110 doubt, however, that in the present case we must consider as one primary factor making to our comfort the glorious weather enjoyed throughout. P ro ­vidence has been kind to us. The whole trip so far has been made amid calm seas and sunny skies. Not less important, per­haps a factor towards the same end, is the fact that our inward wants have been sup­plied in a most excellent manner. Camp fare was regarded as good, but never was it expected that such meals as have been supplied aboard ship would be our portion. W ith all truth it may be said that for vari­ety and quality they would be hard to beat. But these two factors alone would not spell comfort. There must be, in addition, bodily exercise. Deck space, as one may imagine, is somewhat limited for anything elaborate; but, by means of a good deal of “ physical ” in addition to the usual military drill, we have managed to keep somewhat in form. Part of the day is given to exhi­bitions by some budding pugilists, and many and willing have been the bouts by expon­ents of the noble art. I11 fact, not a few have unearthed latent skill in this direction, so that, all said and done, if their showing with the gloves may be taken as an indica­tion of their showing in the more serious fight to which they are going, their future augurs well.

Of late an occupation of a rather seden­tary nature has come largely into vogue, namely the study of French. Good pro­gress seems to have been made by all con­cerned; while to speak a few sentences in that tongue has become quite a common •accomplishment. The advantages of this study will be great when the opportunity comes to make use of it, and it is well that the great majority of the men are availing themselves of the classes.

As one would naturally suppose, a great deal of our spare time is devoted to reading. Books, magazines and papers innumerable have been placed on board for our use by various kind donors in New Zealand. For these we are deeply grateful. W ithout literature at hand, half our enjoyment would be lost.

Mention must also be made of the various amusements indulged in. A glance at the different concert programmes published elsewhere will convince the reader that musical talent is by no means lacking, and quite a number have appeared upon the platform in the role of humourous enter­tainers. A troopship concert is, as one may imagine, a very lively affair in many cases. But still more of one’s time is taken up in playing the many varied games provided, notably cards, draughts, chess, dominoes, quoits, etc. One evening was devoted to a euchre tournament, while one company has now in progress a games tournament on a elaborate scale. This should keep com­petitors well occupied for at least a week. Quite a host of prizes are open for com­petition, and interest is keen in the various contests for the championship.

W ith such varied forms of occupation, can it be wondered that everyone is enjoy­ing himself to the full? In the words of the well-known song, each of us has “ pack­ed all his troubles in his old kit bag,” and is smiling hard. The heart of the soldier is undaunted, his ardour can- never be damped. Ever to the oft-repeated question, “ Are we dow nhearted?” will come a roar in answer “ No.”

L.-Corp. C. N. S u t h e r l a n d , “ J ” Coy.

Boxing on Shipboard.The Coming Tournament.

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

A fter the first two days at sea almost every evening has seen an interested ring in a corner of the forward deck. In the centre two pairs of eight ounce gloves striking and guarding with varying success, according to the skill of the men behind them. Upon the pair in the centre, from the solid human ring round about, come scraps of advice and shafts of wit. They deign no reply. The pair of gloves and eyes opposite have a fascination which en­grosses their whole attention. In short, boxing has been a popular pastime on board H.M.N.Z.T. No. — . To heighten the in­terest a tournament was to be held before the second port of call, but unfortunately vaccination crippled many a striking arm in­tended for the first round, and the contests have had to be held over till later in the voyage. Allowing the usual two days for the adjustment of a land roll to a sea roll, the date will probably be two days after leaving the last port of call.

As scales are scarce, it is proposed to introduce a novelty by making the classes according to height instead of weight. They will be as follow s:—“ Pony,” under 5 ft. 8-J- in .; “ Medium,” between 5 ft. 8^ in. and 5 ft. 10 in .; “ Long,” over q ft. 10 in. An alternate classification was proposed, name-

An elegant Sergeant named Bishop,S a id : “ I ’d like to see all the sea you

could wishop,”W hen up blew half a gale,Bang down went his tail,

And he threw all his ration of fishop!

“ J ” Dormitory Sergeant, Ross Baxter P., Is now that fat he can just about see,

If you miss a boat or a raft,W hy just hook on to this craft,

And he’ll float you for weeks in the sea.

ly, by cubic capacity, to be judged at the port of call, but as we understand it is a “ dry ” port as far as soldiers are con­cerned, this method has had to be aban­doned.

A prize will be given for the winner in each class in which there are ten entries or over, but what we want to see is not so much an exhibition by skilled men as a spirit of “ W e’ll give it a g o ” by every man who has enough sand in his make-up to stand up to anything for two rounds of two minutes each. Boxing is closely allied to bayonet fighting. The venturesome spirits who step into the ring to “ .give it a go,” even though gloves are a strange wea­pon to them are the men who will be wait­ing the chance to slip “ over the top ” on a dark night in France. If we get a total of one hundred entries we will be pleased; if we get four hundred we will be satisfied.

The boxing will be decided on points, and will consist of two rounds of two minutes each up to the finals, which will be decided in three rounds of three minutes each. The ship’s Commander, Captain Williams, has consented to act as judge, and to settle all grievances (not necessarily kindly).

F. K. PtiARCZ.

There’s our popular Luff—Robert Spence, W hen on duty he’s just quite immense;

But get him 011 shore,W here the breakers don’t roar,

And then—well, it’s damn the ex-Spence!

The beloved of C.B.’s, McMurray,Is hot after them, like Indian curry;

W hen they hear the familiar,The rush would nigh kill yer,

For to answer their name there’s s®me hurry.

6

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

The Navuan Concerts.As we left good old Wellington, the men

on the big transport tying at the wharf near by started to sing. They did sing well. An N.C.O. standing on the Navua re­marked somewhat dolefully: “ Gee, I wish our mob on this boat could sing. They haven’t a note in them—too quiet.” Only a month ago, this. Now that same N.C.O. is wanting to challenge any boat for sing­ing, playing, or anything at all.

Every week we have had a concert. H Company, with Chairman Lieut. Feaver, started the “ bawl.” Their programme below will show how well they planned the opening move in the musical cam paign:—

Opening Remarks, by the C hairm an; Song, Lance-Corpl. M. G eraghty; Song and Chorus, Pte. H. S. B. Ribbands; Reci­tation, Sergt. J. L. K innell; Song and Chorus, Q.M.S. C. B. L u sty ; Monologue, Pte. H. S B. Ribbands; Song, Pte. F. W. Highley ; Monologue, Lieut. R. Spence ; Song, Pte. Gardiner; Recitation, Sergt. J. L. K innell; Song, Corpl. E. W. E v an s; God Save the K in g ! Sergt. J. W hite 011 the piano was a real treasure.

* * *The next spasm came from “ C ” Com­

pany. This Company, marshalled by N.C.O.’s, and chairmanned by Lieut." McLeod, gave a fine display, and really did not deserve the comment at the head of the programme. Appended is the pro­gramme :—

“ An effort by members of “ C ” Com­pany to add further to the uncertainties of this existence.— Chairm an: M. K. Mac-

'leod, 2nd Lieut.—At the Piano: Corpl. Blyth. (H e deserves your sympathy.)— Corporal R. Allen will unburden himself in the shape of a song, as there was no charge for admission, try and bear it. Reg. Poore, with his mouth-organ (will someone kindly oblige as the monkey?— We are hard up!). Sergt. Swale will here

endeavour to save the situation with a song, “ Not a move.” Donald Sutherland insists on inflicting us with his cat music, so we’ll get it over. (Men are reminded that ship’s vegetables are ' for cook-house only.) Jim Hendrick, in the song that he has made famous, entitled “ The Tale of my Shirt.” Sergt. Ploldgate, for the sake of peace, is here permitted to render his favourite song, entitled: “ Put me amongst the girls.” Sergt. Bishop here occupies the soap-box, with an item that generally speaking is speaking generally. Sergt. Bill Spillane is here given an oppor­tunity to overcome his natural modesty with a song by the famous composer, “ An­gus Mackay,” entitled “ A nice clean Shentleman.” Tim: Harm er [anyone de­siring to leave during this item will first remove their boots]. Tack Searle, Reci­tation. Bill Kennedy, the Company’s Bar­ber, now insists on trying your pat’ence. It will be a close “ shave,” but keep still and you will “ scrape ”• through. Corpl. McIntyre draws the veil o’er your suffer­ings with that touching little ballad: “Tuck me in my little bed,” with variations. God Save the King!

* * * *Last of the Company Concerts, but by

no means least, came that given by “ J ” Company. The perpetrators of this effort went so far as to decorate the stage, hoping thus to satisfy our eyes, if not our ears. We enjoyed both the decorations and the singing—the treasure from “ H ” Co. was included as pianist. Fie is really invaluable. May we have him coming home for our concert work. Those who contributed to the evening’s enjoyment w ere :—

“ J ” C o m p a n y P r o g r a m m e .Song, Ship Sergt.-M ajor G. E. M urphy;

Humorous Stories, Sergt. P. B. R o ss; Song (selected), Ship Adjt. Lieut. K. L u k e ; Recitation, Pte. Gibson R oper; Song

7

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

Lieut. Forrest, O .C .; Sailors’ Hornpipe, Pte. T. A. Sm ith; Song, Pte. H. Conway; Recitation, Sergt. P. B. R o ss; Song, Pte. T. F. Sm ith; Recitation (hum orous), Lieut. R. Spence; Song, Sergt. W hite, H. Coy. God Save the King!

* * * *Our dramatic work is in embryo. The

Haka Party is coming to light soon with “ a real beaut.” Some are hoping to fix up a short play, but this, so far, hasn’t even cracked the shell, so the N a u t i l u s cannot publish anything drastic.

Further, it may be mentioned that sing­songs, impromptu, are held every night, and at these some surprising talent is being discovered. Just before F irst Post, there is a united singing of a few hymns, under the Chaplain or the Y.M.C.A. Secretary. That the men enjoy these good old tunes is seen by the increasing number attending them. We would like to warn other men who are going to come after us to lay in a few good quartettes, fairly low settings — for our voices are low, in inverse ratio to our .morals. There is no mistake, how­ever, that our music is increasing, and the trip is becoming more enjoyable as a result.

— T r i a n g l e .

TORPEDOED!

T w as the first day out; yet, despite the calmness of the sea, the surface of which was like unto the proverbial millpond, the Te Kuiti Don felt very queer, and was ob­served paying frequent visits to the vessel’s side. While gazing into the depths 011 one occasion, his behaviour became, to say the least of it, curious. His face assumed a horrified expression, his eyes almost started from his head, and a cry of terror burst from his lips. There was a hurried rush to the railing, but there seemed no apparent reason for Don’s abject terror. A fat por­poise was disporting itself close, by ; other­wise, nothing could be seen.

“ A porpoise is it?” said Don shakily. “ ’Struth ! I thought it was a torpedo!”

THE STARRY ENSIGN.

The flag of our dear New ZealandThat floats o’er the Long W hite Cloud,

We homage pay with our voice to-day, And a soul that is justly proud.

Though far from the old Home Country— The round of the rolling earth—

The Union Jack on our flag links back Our sons to their British birth.

Salute the Starry Ensign,The banner o f Neiv Zealand,

The banner o f the British born- In God’s own fairest free land;

Beneath the Southern Cross,So long as there shall be land,

The stars shall shine on the blue Ensign— The flag o f our dear Neiv Zealand.

The. flag of our dear New Zealand Is steeped in the ocean’s tide,

For our fathers knew that the deep, dark blue

W as the path to our Empire w ide:And the flag that trailed from the stern post

Of the emigrant ship of yore,We now emboss with the Southern Cross,

And hoist on our island shore.

The flag of our dear New Zealand Breathes youth from its virile fold,

For its crosses bright mark Britain’s might And the fighting faith of o ld :

For hope, and love, and freedom,And. justice the four stars stand ;

And the blue shall be for the guarding sea. And the whole for our glorious land.

IT.S.B.R.

N O TIC E TO SUBSCRIBERS.

Subscribers are notified that subscriptions may be paid either in advance or upon delivery, but 011 no account in kind. Bags of potatoes, or onions, tins of pineapple; or like offerings, will N O T be accepted.

8

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

FOR HONOUR AND FOR HER.

Somewhere a woman, thrusting fear away,

Faces the future bravely for your sake ;

Toils on from dawn till dark ; from day to day

F ights back her tears, nor heeds the b itte r ache.

She loves you, tru sts you, breathes in prayer your'nam e :

Soil not her faith in you by sin or shame.

Somewhere a woman—mother, sweetheart, wife—

W aits, betwixt hopes and fears, for your return.

H er kiss, her words, will cheer you in the strife,

When death itself confronts you, grim and stern ;

B ut let her image all your reverence claim

When base tem ptations scorch you with their flame.

Somewhere a woman w atches— thrilled with pride ;

Shrined in her heart, you share a place with none.

She toils, she waits, she prays, till side by side

You stand together when the b a ttle ’s done.

O keep for her dear sake a sta inless name,

Bring back to her a manhood free from shame I

9

10 TH E NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

WRITE HOME FIRST.

A Patlietic Communication.

Dear Mother, ' lv~jI am now in Flanders waiting to take

another Chance, against the Madsons of Germany. I know it is hard for a mother Anderson to part, but I am made of the W right material, and I am sure my Broad shoulders and Ironsides will help me through.

These Germans send out parties to raid onr tranches, but to find themselves trapped in a Lyons Dennison ought to make them turn W hiting the face and squeak like Gos­lings with fear.

Sometimes when the weather is Hayes- ey, our chaps creep out and Fisher round, but they often Seymour by lying Low be­hind a small Peake of earth. Very often to make quite Corrick-1 they t-Ry-an peep right into the German trenches; in fact, one fellow was bold enough to Marsh-all along a section of trenches, and he over­heard a German say: “ Vat Voss dat noise ? ” and directly he put up his head to look he was shot in the Gills by a well- aimed Le GWZ-imate shot.

One day a bomber threw a bomb into a German trench, and as it was Lee-v’mg his hand he sa id : “ I wonder how you will like this Pil-cher ami. (W e often hear W hit combe out even in the trenches.)

I was thinking a Boncher the other day during Churcfi p arade; we sang a Nimm, “ O, where is my wandering b o y ?” and the Chaplain read a few lines from St. Mathew.

This was a pretty little church until a German bounder Radburnd it down, and St. Clemens Church is now reduced to ruins. A Miller and his daughter Hazel-wood be pleased if you would write th em ; they live near here, so will you write, if only out of Curtis-y. (Address enclosed.)

God save the King.

A “ LITTLE” “ LOYE ” LETTER.

My Darling,I have a Little Moore Nezv-s for you t:>

Read, but as I am Owens-o many letters, must PJenderso.n as possible.

The weather is very bad here just now. The leaves are Russell-mg, B erry s falling', and the Heath is in Flood; in fact, last Sunday I had to Roe to the K irk in a boat, and coming home I dec-Laird the boat

• struck her Keiller-pon a mud bank, where I knew she W ood re-Maynard and fast. I tried to Fazvcett off, when at last I saw Mr. Johns-on his H unter riding through one of the Quinn-ce Groves, so I attracted his at­tention, and he came across. Although he seemed very Searle-y, after .getting several pieces of rope and Nottingham together, he threw one end to me, and let his Horspool me into deeper water. I very soon was able to continue on foot, but I thought the Hailzuood come on and Paterson on the good clothes I was Waring, which would have meant a new suit from the Taylor. However, I met Henry Seft-on the toad, and he invited me to stay the night at his place. W hen we arrived at his place he sa id : “ I W ilkin-die a fire, and Wilson have some bacon Han-nan eggs for you, and Thom-as gone for some milk from old Siggle(s) kozv. W e had a good tea, but there was M offatt on the bacon than I cared for, and I had a Buntain-ted with sour milk I should say.

Altogether we had a M errick-ind of an evening, and I left that night, but the Mad- son of a gun lent me a lamp whi-Chedzvick but little oil, so I had to Cullimore along the road.

I must conclude abruptly, as I am called out hurriedly, so I will S. M cBride-lz and saddle on my horse, and, by Cripps, I rec­kon I have Duncan-ny.

F i n a n c i a l . — Money to lend in an)' quantity from id. up to is., on good flea- hold security.—Apply, Keating’s Powder, c/o Canteen.

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS. 11

“ MY VACCINATED ARM.”

A Sufferer’s Lament.

I t’s fine 011 the top deck here to lie,In the declining hours of day,

And watch the water speeding by,In a smother of foam and spray.

Dreaming, one lies, a khaki blotch.His thoughts upon the farm,

Or perhaps upon his favourite “ Scotch,” Or—“ Mind my bally a rm !”

Our thoughts, too, turn to the things we’ll1 do,

W hen filling the gaps “ out there,”And in fancy we hear the shells whizz

through As the 22nds do their share.

The guns peal forth their “ hymn of hate,” And from the trench men swarm ;

They charge, and—“ For Heaven’s sake, mate,

Keep off my bally a rm !”

In our heart’s are stored sweet memories, That bring a tender smile,

T hat lift our thoughts from our miseries, And carry us many a mile.

W e’ve sworn strong oaths we mean to keep, And “ carry on ” 'with steadfast calm ;

But most of us swear long and deep Over—a vaccinated arm !

Comes then the policeman’s heavy tread.’Tis the Sergeant himself on duty;

And, knowing your dreams knocked 011 the head,

Quietly you curse “ the beauty.”Says he: “ To bed! You can’t lie here,”

And, though wishing him 110 harm.Deep down you hope he goes in fear

Of H IS vaccinated a rm !C. M. N i g h t i n g a l e ,

“ J ” Coy.

Wanted, the team who broke the rope at tug-of-war to pull spring onions.—Ap­ply to Wong Lee Shee, Markety Gardiner.

THE CHANCE OE A LIEE-TIME.

The chance of a life-time yours to-day, You lads of the British realm;

Your fortune’s ship has left the slip,’Tis you to take the helm.

So cast the holding hatiser loose,And let the vessel ride ;

If Nelson’s seed still blends the breed, You’ll face the fateful tide.

The chance of a life-tim e!— seize it, lads! Your good ship's trim and taut;

The anchor weigh, for the hour’s'to-day, And the life of the chance-time’s short.

The chance of a life-time, yours to scan,The storm-horizoned earth,

In stress and strife is the breath of life— The life that is only worth.

’Tis your ship now from stern to prow— ’Tis yours the tidal way—

And the Peter Blue it is time you flew,To the voice of T rafalgar Bay.

The chance of a life-time yours to heed, The moan of the mighty main,

And give reply to the vengeance cryFrom the throats of our thousands slain.

"So nail your colours to the mast—Your decks for action clear—

Your tactics take from the deeds of Drake-, For his is the course to steer.

* The chance of a life-time,’ flowing phrase, T hat glibly slips the tongue,

Yet it gains in force like a watercourse, From the crag of the mountain flung.

And the tide that bears iii men’s affairs,Is lost when the ebb is low ;

Let none hold back till the tide grows slack, Go, swing on the full flood’s flow.

The chance of a life-time, seize it lads, Your keel in the current caught;

The anchor weigh, for the hour’s to-day; And the life of the charice-time’s short.

II. S. B. R.

12 THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

SPORTS AT SEA.

A S u c c e s s f u l G a t h e r i n g .

A welcome break in the monotony of the voyage was afforded by a sports gathering, arranged by the officers of the ship and Captain Williams, the vessel’s commander, which was held 011 the foredeck on March 15th. Nor could a better day have been chosen. The sun shone from a sky of purest blue, unflecked by a single cloud, it’s heat tempered by a cool breeze, while the vessel rose and fell 011 the long, lazy swell of the ocean.

Intense interest was manifested by the men and the officers themselves took an active participation in the various events. Perhaps it was because it suggested a new form of amusement; perhaps it was an outlet for their superabundance of spirit; at any rate, all the events were liotly con­tested, and an immense amount of amuse­ment was derived therefrom.

There was a large number of entries in the first event—pillow fighting; seated astride a beam several feet from the deck and armed with pillows, the contestants belaboured each other until one was un­seated, depositing his form gracefully upon' the mass of bedding beneath, which acted in the nature of a shock absorber. This event was won by J. Gardiner, of 36 Platoon J Co., who successfully withstood a number of severe pummellings. In the final he met Detective-Sergeant McMurray, also of J Co., and there was loud acclama­tion when the administrator of law and order succumbed to a well-aimed blow and fell from his perch.

Cock-fighting proved a very popular popular event, and the honour fell to C Company. The final was hotly contested* but after a severe tussle Vaughan suc­ceeded in ousting H ’s man from the ring.

A fair number assembled to do battle with the treacly buns, which, dangling from pieces' of twine fastened to a rope strung across the deck, presented a comi­cal sight. Most of those engaged suc­

ceeded in liberally besmearing their per­sons with a sticky mass of bun and treacle, to say nothing of the snow-white deck.G. E. Wilkin, of 35 Platoon J Co., was the first to succeed in demolishing his bun, and was awarded first place.

The obstacle race, also attracted a large number of entrants, and provoked un­bounded amusement. The sight of a num­ber of vari-coloured objects diving head foremost into iron ventilators to the detri­ment of skin and hair, crawling through a canvas chute that bulged like a sea ser­pent, then through a mass of netting, and finally over a suspended net, was ludic­rous in the extreme. Ultimately the number was reduced to five— Cribb, Fahey, LI C o.; Gaskill, Johnson, J C o.; Price, C Co. Corpl. Johnson, 36 Platoon J Co. was successful in first overcoming the final obstacle, with Gaskill, of 34 Pla­toon, a close second.

Each Company entered a team of eight men in the crocodile race, and an exciting contest followed, FI Co. getting home first. The names of those comprising the winning team a re : Sergt. Robinson, Ptes. Boss, Sebley, Lee, Fahey, Ireland, Brad- burn, and Miller.

PLA TO O N Q U O IT CHA M PIO NS.

29. Clark.30. E. Shirley.31. FI. Geraghty.32. S. Roe.34. F. Brennan.35. H. E. Wilkin.9. P. Fenton.

11. J. Briggs.12. R. Poore. Signallers.—E. Thorpe. Medicals.— P. Lark.

W a n t e d . — Smart youth’ to assist in Orderly Room ‘‘ work.” M ust be able to play Euchre. — Apply, Orderly Room Clerk, J Co.

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS. 13

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Lance-Corpl. H-sp-1.— No. You are wrong. Orderly-Room Clerk, “ J ” Co., did not “ starve the rats.’’ He has never done so. He always asks someone else to do this.

S-t R-s.—Yes. It is so. The Provost Sergeant says his girl is the prettiest, and he ought to know.

C-t A. D. W-e.—'The origin of the song is not veiled in obscurity. The author is the well-known vocalist, Mr. J. Moffat, and the music is by Wagner. The refrain runs as follow s:

We are a happy lot of rafters, yes we a re ! W e are riding through the gale,And are going home to jail;

We are a happy lot of rafters, yes we a re !

Two energetic members of the Expedi­tionary Force on board the Navua are the New Zealand Postal Department’s repre­sentatives, vis., Sergt. H. C. Thomson and Pte. H. C. Bennett. They are going “ right through ” with the reinforcement —much to the satisfaction of the men. Their arduous duties on board ship are of such an exacting nature that work in the “ front line ” will be as child’s play com­pared to them! ^

There have been some changes in the ship’s personnel since the Navua’s . last trip Plome, vis.,. Commander H. H. W il­liams, late of the S.S. Tarawera, is master in place of Capt. G. S. Doorly, who is now in command of the S.S. Aparima. The present chief officer is Mr. D. Mc­Donald. He was previously on the S.S. Karori, and he has taken the place ’ of Mr. E. Webb, now of the S.S. M ar dm a. The Fourth and Fifth Engineers (Messrs. N. M. Clark, D.C.M., and R. Bramley), the Wireless operator and second W ireless .operator (Messrs. F. A. Cook and J. A. Moloney), and the Electrician (M r. F. J. T ilyard), are also making their first trip

with the Navua. Among former officers still with the vessel a re : Second Officer Mr. F.W . Collins; Third Officer, Mr. C. E. Young; Chief Engineer, Mr. T. Mel­ville ; Second Engineer, Mr. J. M offatt; Third Engineer, Mr. H. Knewstubbs; and the Chief Steward, Mr. F. Pearson.

“ J » COMPANY’S OFFICERS.

Our officers are all good men,And by us much esteemed,

W e hope we shall not lose them - A think not to be dreamed.

The first is Mr. Forrest,O.C. beyond compare,

And though he keeps us up to scratch, Our welfare is his care.

There’s Mr. Luke, the Adjutant,36 Platoon’s Commander,

W e’re jolly glad he has the job ,Though don’t desire to pander.

Next comes Mr. Buddie,The canteen is his care,

A right good fellow for the job,And we’re glad he’s there.

The fourth is Mr. Larsen,In charge of 33,

And though he isn’t with us now,No doubt he soon will be.

C. M. N i g h t i n g a l e ,“ J ” Coy.

Lost.— From off upper deck, several feet of hose. Will finder please take the ‘ doc­to r’s hint to soldiers, and get some nick girl friend to darn the hose before returning?

Lost.— From J. Company’s orchard, 22 tins of fruit, equal to one tin for every rein­forcement. As this is a. serious matter, IT Company, who were 011 guard at the time, are anxious to vindicate their good name. The company has therefore engaged Sher­lock- Holmes to solve the mystery.— No reward. (Luke iii, 14).

14 THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

THE LOST HOSE.

The hose brigade was hard at work,One bright and sunny day ;

When a strange accident befel,In a most peculiar way.

They’d just hosed down the top deck,And left it nice and bright,

And leaned awhile upon their brooms, Their fags and pipes to light.

“ I ’ll stay here,” said Anderson,“ And lower down the hose,

For you upon the bottom deck,To catch and pull in close.”

So they trooped down to the lower deck, W hile he stayed up on top,

And when everything seemed ready,The hose began to drop.

But instead of watching for the hose,As they’d agreed to do,

They embarked upon an argument, Connected with the stew.

Well, Anderson paid out the line,Thinking all was right,

While, down below, the argument W as nearly at it’s height.

The end fell in the water,Which then began to p u ll;

While from above a voice was heard A-roaring like a bu ll:

“ Don’t pull so hard, you silly apes,I cannot hold much longer,”

But not a sound from down below,Though the pull grew stronger.

And then, his patience all but gone,He shouted in despair:

“ I ’m coming down, so mind yourselves,” And bolted for the stair.

And when he came among them,A terrific row arose;

For he learnt to his consternation,They hadn’t seen the hose!

k . v

They laughed, of course, unfeeling brutes, While Anderson nearly wept.

But they never got the hose again—By the sea it has been kept.

C. M. N i g h t i n g a l e ,(“ J ” Coy.).

AN IMPERIAL TOAST.

H ere’s to all our British sons Who went to war afighting,

Married men and single ones To honour we’re delighting.

Here’s to first and last to go,Empire white and darki£,

All who helped to down the foe By donning service, khaki.

Here's to the lads zvho were first afield, Eager fo r fight and fu n ;

Here’s to the men zvho zvere szvift to yield

To the sense o f a duty done.Here’s to the youths zvho were rather slow ;

Here’s to the slackers “ se n t” :W e not a jo t care hozv they got there—

Here’s to the' lot that “ went.”

ITere’s to King, and private, too,In common cause united,

Levelled by the larger viewWhich, thanks to war, we’ve sighted.

ITere’s to those who won V.C/s,And those who made small showing,

For this our toast heeds not degrees, But glorifies the “ going.”

H.L.B.R.

Do you wake in the morning with a tired feeling that makes you late for roll call? If so, try a case of O.C.’s Orderly Room Reviver. Read our Unsolicited Testimonial: Sir, I woke at reveille one morning with a tired feeling. Realising that I was unable to rise in time for roll call our Ordefiy-Sergeant took me to our Officer, who made me a case o f ' Orderly Room Reviver. Since then I have been completely cured.

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS. 15

From Recruit to Soldier.

“ Why should other boys be risking their lives daily, and enduring all sorts of hard­ships, while I sit contentedly at home, en­joying the good things of life, and taking no risks whatever ?” Such was something like the question I put to myself one day some six months ago. The more I thought about it the less satisfactory answer could I give to it, and yet reckon, myself a man. In the end, I joined the Army, registering myself at the nearest Defence Office. My name duly appeared in the newspapers as one of another batch of Volunteers ready to start on the Great Adventure.. Accord­ingly I set to, and made everything ready for an early departure. The great day, in due course, came, when I was to make the plunge, and leave the ones who were all in all to me. A lot of well-meant speechifying from the Mayor and leading citizens of my township heralded our departure, and hav­ing said all good-byes, we marched away to our first troop train, and then there be­gan a new experience for most of us. W hat with singing, frolicing, etc., all the way down, we at last pulled up at our destina­tion, without having had one wink of sleep during the long train journey. “ So this is Trentham ,” the boys all said when we stepped out on the pldfform. It looked a dreary show, as we stood there in the drenching rain, each holding his little parcel, awaiting the word to march to the camp. A fter a roll call, wre were soon on the way and entering the camp gates we were greeted with the well-worn c ry :—“ Are we down-hearted ” To which we responded heartily : “ N o !” “ You soon will b e !” was the disconcerting reply. Arriving at Head­quarters, we were again ticked off by a smart-looking man of neat and shapely figure. A fter a feed and a wash, we were lined up again, and then began our first

issue. Soon one chap comes along the ranks slinging a tin plate at you, another a knife, fork and spoon, and so on. A fter that you made a dash for the clothing s to re ; went in one door, something was chucked at you, and you were told to pass on and on, until we were well loaded with all sorts of soldiers’ paraphernalia. Then a fierce-look- ing man read the rigmarole to you in a sing­song parrot fashion, finishing up with “ Sign here!” Next, out of the doors you were bundled before you knew where you were, carrying with you a bag and all the gear you had been supplied with, and which had to be stuffed into the bag. This done,lo and.behold! you were a full-rigged sol­dier. Another hasty meal, and a rush for straw for our mattresses. Then off to bed to dream what fools we were, that we did not become soldiers sooner. Thus ended a novel and never-to-be-forgotten day—our first day as Soldiers. Next day the Ser­geant showed us all over the camp, and gave us a good time generally. W e got to work that evening, and wrote letters to our dear ones, and told them what a great place we had struck, and how nice it all seemed. But, after a day or two of the goose-step and right and left turn, with the Sergeant-M ajor about every ten seconds telling us to “hold your head up,” we sort of climbed down, and thought of the nice homes we had left. In a few days, how­ever, we began to get used to the game, and in about a fortnight we thought we were quite smart. We got over the first month all right, and off we set. for Tauherenikau. It was a very early rise—3.30 a.m. We got away in due course, and it was a hungry train journey to Featherston. Here were more smart-looking chaps, who lined us up and inspected our chests to see if any of us had the measles. Some of the boys

The Great Adventure.

16 THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

thought they should have looked at our stomachs instead—we were ah' feeling very empty. It was not long before we were away again, “ Padding the hoof ” this time, for our new home at Tauherenikau. Arriving there, we had a good “ binder,” and we soon made ourselves at home. Then off we went for a swim to freshen us up a fte r the long journey. W e did not have a bad time at Tauherenikau, except for the wind, which blew continually, and blew strong. Another annoyance was the C.B. tank, which occasionally went dry, and it was hard work filling it. These were, how­ever, only minor incidents. The wind proved too much. It won, and drove us out after a week’s stay, and we doubled on our tracks back to Featherston. Soon we were under canvas again, and from then 011 settled down to solid work, all of us looking eagerly forward to final leave. That came at last, and what a happy lot we looked going home to spend Christmas with our families. A royal time for nearly three weeks followed, and then came the time to say good-bye. W hat a wrench was the parting. It was harder than most of us thought it would be. But, in this great war business, we have to put the best face we can on everything. It was in that spirit we departed. The work was solid after this, and we were kept hard at it until at last the time came to traverse the frowning Rimutaka Hills. We marched out of the camp amid the cheers of our fellow soldiers, headed by the two Camp Bands. To the nine of “ The Long, Long Trail,” we began our ascent of the now famous hills. We made good time on the • march over, and every man completed the task to the satis­faction of our officers. Into Trentham we swung in high spirits, and still as fit as ever. A fter a much-needed wash and a spruce up, we were all ready for a trip to town, which we all thoroughly deserved. At Trentham we went through our second course of snooting practices, trench work, and bayonet fighting, and, after a week at the Mother Camp, we were dismayed to hear that we had to march back agai^i over the Rimu-

takas to Featherston. Well, we accepted the inevitable as soldiers should, . and marched back again, putting up good time. From now on at Featherston it was prin­cipally preparing ready for our long trail over the ocean, getting as much leave as we could in the meantime. At last the day came when the reinforcement was to leave camp for foreign lands, and early that morning we could be seen packing kits and cleaning out hutments, and leaving every­thing in order for the next batch of recruits. W e had a rather tame journey to W elling­ton, where the lucky boys had relatives and friends awaiting them at the railway sta­tion. We boys who hadn’t just looked quietly on, and thought of our own loved Mies at home. It wasn’t long before we A ere marched on board the transport, and shown our new quarters—our home for the next two months or so. These were far ahead of what most of us expected. That done, we were all granted leave for the day. And what a time we had. I guess there were a few cartloads of ham and eggs and a few barrels of beer shifted that day; but although we were lively, we knew how to behave ourselves, and reported to time at night. Those of us without relatives or friends to see us off could sympathise with the sad and wistful faces we saw as we passed the barricade, for, you see, we had said our good-byes a month previous. The transport pulled out into- the stream the next morning with plenty of cheering and singing to lighteii|Our hearts heavy at part­ing. It was not long before we were on the move, and soon the land we love so well was lost to sight. It was not long be­fore we got used to the life on the trans­port, and now, after weeks of it, we claim to be pretty fair sailors. Such, briefly, is an outline of our part, so far, in this Great Adventure. We all hope that the end will soon come, and we will be able to complete this story on our way home again. We look into the future with confidence, happy to know we have been given this great chance to help prove to:' a boasting W ar Lord that might is not always right, and to

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS. 17

show the world that Britain did not call in vain to her children in this time of national stress and peril. In conclusion, we would like nothing better, after this titanic strug­gle is ended, to return to our beloved home­land in company with our present Officers and comrades on board the gallant Navua.

Pvte. P . H. O w e n s ,35th Platoon,

“ J ” Coy.

KUMBERSOME KOMMEN TS .

O ’Brien-y oceon with the W hite tipped waves Swale-ing 011 my W right, how I-Pine for the Forrests of New Zealand.

I was hot Kean to sail the Strack-less wastes., Being Hardy and Lusty, and not having

Feaver, my affection for thee is only Luke­warm. and I Cudden say, being a Clark, that I can ever love thee.

I have to Neale to thee when storms McLeod-y skies and heavy seas.

Can thou, stout ship, W ard off the W hit­ing waves which strike thee like the hammer of a Smith, or the shell of a Jack Johnson.

I wait in Harrison su-Spence Barlow. Kinn-eH compare with thee.

I cannot stand the . Pearce-ing winds which roar like Lyons.

Elli-ot it is. Would that I had the Price of a Cain-teen ticket wherewith to quench my thirst.

O ’Connor the beauteous Albatross. W ould that I could brave the storm like she.

I write this with a few Stubbs of pencil, eating a Murphy. Rather would I be rid­ing a Cam (m )ell in Egypt.

I wonder, if a Bishop were on board, would he be able to Holgate-rs on. Pro­bably yes, if his Ed-wards off the cold, as it has never S n o w d -e n this part of the world.

R o b in s o n C r u s o e .

There is an O C. of a boat More at home ashore than aflo a t;

W hen she pitches and tosses,The extent of his losses

W ould make old Jonah’s whale gloat.

THE EDITORS’ NOTES.

The limitations of space compelled the Editors to hold over a number of contribu­tions. Among them should be specially mentioned the following:—“ Social and Dramatic Notes,” by C. H. E. S . ; “ A Christmas Contrast ” ; “ A Scrape o’ the Pen,” and “ The Mess - Room,” by Corporal J. P a rk h u rst; “ Submarined,” by Sergt. P. B. R .; “ Bill the Soldier,” by L.-Corp. H. 0.; “ The Grumbler,” by “ The Onlooker ” ; “ The Sergeant,” by T. H . ; “ The Kaiser’s Latest Prayer,” by W. H . ; “ Morals Immortal,” by Basilisk; “ Next, Please,” by Pvte. H. B. Nelson; “ The Difference ” and “ A Fragm ent,” by C. V .; “ The Navua s Canteen,” by Pte. M cC.; “ J Company’s Sergeants,” by Pte. E. G. Armstrong.

THE NAYUAN WASH-UPS.

W'anted, at next port of call, a Domestic Instructress, who is capable of introduc­ing a most up»to-date system of washing- up dishes. A11 innovation is contemplated to take the place of the primitive method now in vogue for the use of steerage pas­sengers on board the Navua.—Apply, Luke iii, 14, Ship’s Motto.

Apropos of the above, H Company would point out, not in the nature of a grievance 01* complaint; nor would they attempt to claim it a privilege or a right, for we are “ 011 active service” now, not011 a pleasure trip, please note. We how­ever, would like to ask some pertinent ques­tions : Have those in authority heard we have had “ Feaver ” on board ever since we left Wellington? No insinuations, of course. W e don’t mind being vaccinated 01* inoculated, or any such-like tortures, but we hate small domestic worries such as the present Navuan wash-up.

Pine’s white pills W ard off Swaleings and make vaccinated soldiers Hardy and Lusty as a Smith.

18 THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

OUR CENSOR.“ THE CENSOR IS TO BLAME.”

The censorship’s a beastly sell At least, that’s our conviction;

There is so much you may not tell, Because of the restriction.

And, being just plain soldier men,By nature very backward ;

To write to those beloved of them,To some, comes very awkward.

The thought that other eyes will scan His words of adoration,

Can scarce be borne by any man—It seems a desecration.

T here’s nothing much to write about, Except our life on b oard ;

And that’s the same week in, week out— It is, upon my word.

But still it proves a good excuse,W hen writing to so many,

To sa y : “ Well, I ’ve run out of news,” (You really haven’t any).

“ I should like to write a better,”You apologise in shame;

“ But for such a rotten letter The censor is to blam e!”

C. M. N i g h t i n g a l e" J ” Coy.

A soldier was heard to remark,As he leaned o’er the rail, to a sh a rk :

“ They may growl this old ship Has a roll and a dip,

But the ‘ Bight is much worse than their barque.’ ”

Skipper Williams said: “ Take off the clothes yer

Now wearing, and bring me the hose ’ere.” But the officer’s photo,Regarded “ in toto,”

Showed just a bit too much exposure.

D a v id J o n e s .

The Censor has an evil mind,His black o’erhanging brows,

Proclaim a hatred of mankind—His heart no ruth allows.

In youth his best girl broke the vows That evermore should bind,

And since, his bitter pencil plows, Through all that he can find.

He nips our humour in the bud,He stultifies the them e;

It makes our fingers itch for blood,To think that love’s young dream

Should (how-so-ever we may scheme,Or chew the thoughtful cud)

Be altered, from a flowing stream Into a pool of mud.

He checks our language, cramps our style, Then scores us at a glance;

I wonder whether craft or wile Could lure him out to France?

He never leaves his burrow vile,He looks at all askance

Could we entice him out through guile,He might get lost—by chance.

OUR CAPTAIN.

H ere’s to the Man, whom we call The Skip, Who handles so well this gallant Troop­

ship,And though far away, in the 'battle of

Millions,W e’ll always remember, and wish well to

“ Williams.”

Since the Navua was last in these waters, Sergt. L. D. Ayson, Dispenser, Ship’s Per­manent Staff, has joined the great ma­jority—the Benedicts. The 22nds wish him all happiness in his married life, and earnestly hope his troubles in future will be only little ones!

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS. 19

“ J.” COMPANY’S SERGEANT-MAJOR.

We have a Sergeant-Major,Whose name Til shortly tell.

Best on the boat I ’ll wager,At keeping us fit and well.

At early morn he rises,And makes straight for our do rm :

Those who see him coming,Predict an early storm.

He says: “ Get up you slackers!Come on now, rise, and shine.

Reveille’s gone; it’s getting late;The morning’s bright and fine!”

At drill he keeps us going,Till we know our work off pat,

He knows everything worth knowing, About “ criming ” and “ the mat.”

So here’s to our Sergeant-M ajor;The boys all wish him well.

W e’ll beat the Huns, I ’ll wager,If we have our “ Cammell.”

E. G., H.“ J.” Coy., 22nd Rfs.

LEST WE FORGET.

To the Editors.Life gets very monotonous and tiring

on this good old shell, and when all seem down 011 their luck, you may depend there are two faces smiling, and hands ever willing to lend a hand

cheerfully, without any thought of their own feelings or ills, those of our noble Chaplain Neale and the Y.M.C.A. repre­sentative, Mr. Strack. Good work is being done by these two hard workers, who are ever willing to do anything for the men’s comforts. Divine Service is held on Sun­day m orning; Bible Class at 2,30 p .m .; and a voluntary service at 7 p.m., fills in our Sunday, as far as our spiritual welfare is concerned. A pleasant sing-song is held

every night to close the day. We should congratulate ourselves on having such worthy men with us, who have the men’s spiritual and moral welfare at heart.

I am, etc.,G r a t e f u l .

Mr. J. Moffat, the second engineer of the Navua, has been with the steamer during her career as a transport. The present is the Navu'a’s second trip to Eng­land ; but previous to this run she has made three trips to Suez. Mr. Moffat is a W estport boy, and is well known in shipping circles in New Zealand and inter-Colonial waters. His kindly nature has won for him hosts of friends, and his dry humour has been responsible for many a laugh in different ports. •

The Navua has on its engineering staff the possessor of a D.C.M. in the person of the Fourth Engineer, Mr. Norman ( “ N obby” ) M. Clark, who hails from Lyttleton. Mr. Clark was in England with his ship, the R.M.S. Ionic, when war broke out. H e enlisted in the artillery, and was with the British section which went to the near East. He was on Gallipoli from April to October, 1915, and while there re­ceived the ‘D.C.M. Subsequently Mr. Clark—then a Corporal—saw service in France, but owing to the wounds he re­ceived on the Peninsula giving further trouble, he was invalided to New Zealand. Obtaining his discharge some seven weeks ago he was appointed to the Navua.

W A N T ED K N O W N .— Private, re­spectable, desires to exchange positions with an O.C. for the remainder of the journey. Comfortable quarters in good locality. No references required. Full information on application to B u n ic 157.

For unwelcome visitors use Cooper’s dip. Often used 011 Cam (m ) ells with good effect.

20 TH E NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

Being an accurate list of ‘ C,” “ H ” and “ J ” Companies and details.

THE “ NAYUA’S ” ROLL.

Ship’s Staff.

M aster of the Ship,Commander H. H. Williams.

Chief Officer, Mr. D. McDonald 2nd Officer, Mr. F. W. Collins.3rd Officer, Mr. C. Young. ,Chief Engineer, Mr. T. Melville.2nd Engineer, Mr. J. Moffat.3rd Engineer, Mr. H. Knewstubb.4th Engineer, Mr. N. M. Clark, D.C.M.5th Engineer, Mr. R. Bramley.Electrician, Mr. F. J. Tilyard.Wireless Operator, Mr. F. A. Cook.2nd W ireless Operator, Mr. J. Maloney. Chief Steward, Mr. F. Pearson.

THE TROOPS.

Officer Commanding Troops,Captain E. W. Cuddon.

Ship’s Adjutant, Lieut. K. E. Luke. • Ship’s Sergeant-Major,

Sergt.-M ajor G. E. Murphy.

Specialists Company (Signal Section).Corp. Tuck, H. D. Pte. Bass, P. W.Pte. Bennett, L. P. ., Fisher, S. L.

„ Fitzgerald, J. P. „ Pearce, A. J.„ Nelson, C. H. „ Thorp, E. T.„ Perry, J. . Matthews, F. H.„ Williams, T. J.

New Zealand Medical Corps.

Capt. Whyte, A.D.S.L.-Cpl. Graham, A. C. Lt. Dempster, N. H. Pte. Cashmore, L. E. L.-Cpl. Hodgson, D.

„ Grant, N. M. Pte. Cashmore, R.„ Heekin, T. ,, Griffiths, G.„ McHallick, „ Lark, A. J.

H. V.

New Zealand Dental Corps.

Capt. Elliott, R. D. Sergt. Hooper, H. H.

New Zealand Army Nursing Service.

St.-Nurse Cutforth, St.-Nurse JamesC. E. D. P.

Chaplain.

Chaplain Captain Neale, L. B.

Y.M.C.A. Field Secretary.

Mr. C. H arry E. Strack.

Ship’s Permanent Staff.

Hon. Lieut. Barlow, A. G., Ship’s Q uarter­master.

Sergt. Mitchell, W., Ship’s Quartermaster- Sergeant.

Sergt. Liddon, R. H., Record Clerk.Sergt. Ayson, L. D., Dispenser.Private Hopkins, G. P., Medical Orderly. Private Osborne, W. J. E , Med. Orderly.

Pay Clerk.

Pay-Sergeant Clark, A., N.Z. Pay Corps.

N.Z. Postal Department,

Sergt. Thomson, H. C., Postal Sorter. P rivate Bennett, LI. C., Postal Sorter.

INFANTRY.

Officer Commanding, 2nd Lt Macleod, M. K.

No. 9 Platoon.2nd Lt. M arryatt, A. A.Sgt.-M. O’Brien, A. M.Q.M.'S. Stott. A. L. I-I.Sgt. Swale, W. M. Cpl. Allan, R. L.-Sgt. Spillane, W. ., Blyth, D. E.

THE NAVUA’S ROLL.

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS. 21

No. 11 Platoon.„ Jarman, H. N. „ Kelly, R. D.L.-Cpl. Love, W. H. „ Loubre, R. J.

„ McIntyre, F. „ Lake, H. A. W.„ Bond, W. J. „ McKinnon, W. J

L.-Cpl. Gunn, A. E. „ Milne, R.Pte Aitkin, R. „ McCausland, C.„ Anderson, J. „ Miller, W. A.„ Bowkett, H. J. „ McCleary, J. R.„ Benbow, P. J. „ Morgan, R.„ Buckly, A. V. „ Niven, W. J.„ Dunlea, T. „ Poison, J.

Dennis, J. C. „ Ramsay, F. E.„ Fenton, W. ,i Raff, J. H.

„ Griffen, J. „ Rea, C. F.„ Harm er, J. J. „ Turley, J. R.„ Hendrick, „ Thompson,

J. H. R. W.„ Hopkins, C. G. „ Weatherall,„ Harrison, G. E.

T. A. „ Wilson, J. J.„ Isle, G. „ W arren, J.„ Jenkins, E. M. Bugler Woolhouse,

Pte. Jorgensen, A. M. J.M.

2nd Lt. O’Connor, D. Sgt. Harrison, H. V. L.-Sgt. Saunders,

W. H. „ Cooper, J.

Cpl. Brown, W. L.„ Nolan, J.

L.-Cpl. Coppell, J. H. ,, McLaughlin, J. „ Seely, A. A.„ West, L. B.

Pte. Adamson, J. P.„ Barnett, F. J.„ Burney, L. H.

Bugler Brydon, C. C. Pte. Brown. F. W.

„ Burrough, J.,, Creedon, R. J.,, Day, P. D.„ Diedricks, W. M. „ Fraser, R.„ Ferguson, W.„ Flower, T. T.„ Graham, A. A.„ Gregory, G.

Grose, J. H. Harris, S. Harris, J.Herd, J. N. Kench, F. L. Lane, J. H. Mehany, H. P. McCluggage, W. M urray, W. O ’Halloran, T. Potter, W. Parsons, A. Reeves, N. C. Smith, Ed. Smith, E.Searle, J.Soper, A. S. Soper, W. H. Schoenauer, G. Thomason, L. J. Vercoe, A. J. Wainwright,

W. T.W eir, G.

Sgt. Bishop, R. F.„ Holdgate, R. A.„ Mitchell, A. A.

Cpl. Dalgleish, W.„ W right, P. C.

L.Cpl. Fitzpatrick,M. B.

„ Smyth, J. J. Pte. Amos, C. A.

„ Allan, W.„ Bennett, C. S.„ Britt, E. W.„ Briggs, J.„ Chambers, I.„ Church, C. H.„ Dutton, S. W.„ Eden, R.„ Fahey, M.„ Fletcher, R.„ Gibson, A. W. J.

Sgt. Cain, A.„ Price, H. I. C.

Cpl. Collett, P. F.„ Frew, A.„ Reed, S. H.,, Robinson, J. W.

L.-Cpl. Griffen, P. J. „ Jamieson,

A. J.„ Mills, S. C.

Pte. Anderson, A.„ Brosnahan, L.„ Darby, J. H.„ Double, C. A.„ Dobby, G. T.„ Dossett, F. J.„ Ferguson,

E. H. A., Fitzsimmons,

A. J.„ Hughan, T. L.„ Kennedy, W. M.

Handcock, F. A.. Hulton, R. Henderson,

G. P.Hurse, L. G. E. Jackson, H. H„ Kelly, M. A. Lynch, T. A. Milne, G.Molloy, R. Molloy, M. M. Me Cully, S. Phillips, H. Styles, A. L. Scott, R. J. R. Teffen, W. A. E. Thomas, F. J. Waugh, T. A. Warnock, W. Woodgate, P. H.

Lennon, G. E. Lane, T.Laverty, D. W. Lockhard, W. D. Lee, J.Lloyd, A. J. McCarthy, J. Murphy, A. M. Murphy, E. Price, A. D. Price, I. S. Poore, R. L. B. Stannard, H. E. Sheed, F. G. Sutherland, D. Shaw, F. Stewart, J. A. Smith, F. A. Sullivan, J. Trolove, F. L. A. Walsh, E. H.

No. 12 Platoon.

No. 10 Platoon.

22 THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

H. COMPANY.

Officer Commanding, Lieut. Feaver, R.

29th2nd Lt. Pearce, F. K,Sgt. Kinnell, J. L.L.-Sgt. White, J. P.Cpl. De Blois, W. J.

„ Evans, E. W.L.-Cpl. Jensen, A. P.

„ McKenzie,D. N.

Thompson,W. T.

„ Tilzey, R.Pte. Anderson, K.

„ Bolton, A.„ Chandler, J. W.„ Chapman, S.„ Clarke, J. R.,, Collett, G.

Condon, W.Cribb, W. F.

„ Critoph, C. R.„ Davidson, J.,, Devereaux,

W. J.„ Donnell, S.,, Doonan, P.„ Duggan, P. J.

30th Platoon.

Platoon.Engleman, M. Grant, W. H. Greener, A. A. Heffernan, T. Highley, F. W. Keeley, H. Leonard, J. M cArthur, J. McLennan, T. A McPherson, P.

Methven, W. Michie, P.Olsen, K. Pearson, W. J. Reid, F. C. Robertson, W. S.

H. M. Sutherland, Sutherland,

W. R. Sinclair, J. M. Thompson, E. Welsh, J. A. Williams, W. O. Wilson, G.

2nd Lt. Stubbs, T. E. „Sgt.-M. Kean, A. H. „Sgt. Snowden, ,,

J. T. V. „„ Williams, S. B. „

L.-Sgt. Robinson, ,.J. W. „

Cpl. Lewis, P. H.„ W inters, E. „„ Coldicutt, E. W. v

L.-Cpl. Lanham, „F. IT. „

„ McLean, F. „Coughlan, J. ,,

Pte. Bridgman, T.., Conroy, T.,, Doyle, J. ,. »'v Fahev. M,

Fraser, S. French, P. W. Gibson, J. R. Gracey, C. J. Green, J. Grierson, J. G. Halstead,

W. A. J. Hamblyn, A. S. Hamilton, D. H arris, E. C. Hitchcock F. T. Ireland, S. P. ‘ Jenkins, J. Kennard, T. P. Kyles, H.McRae, A. Mathews, W.

Maskelyne, ,W. W. ,

Merrick, A. S. J. .,Metcalf, E. ,Persen, V. ,Ribbands, ,

H. S. B. ,Ritchie, F. ,R utherford, J. , Schofield, D.

Sebley, A. L. Shirley, E. Smith, J. Vaughan, J. Vicary, E. W ebster, H. C. W haler, E. N. W ooster, S. H. W ooster, W . E.

31st Platoon.

Sgt. W hiting, A. F. „ Gosling, J. W.„ Lyons, J. Hays, E. J.„ W right, T. M. „ Heselwood, E.

Cpl. Pilcher, R. „ Ironside, A.„ Dennison, J. T. ,, King, L. M.

L.-Cpl. Geraghty, M. „ Lee, T. C.„ Gill, H. Le Geyt, W.„ Peake, H. J. „ Low, A. J.

Pte. Anderson, „ Madsen, V. H. C.T. A. H. „ Marshall, J. A.

„ Boucher, H. „ Matthews, W . J.,, Broad, A. F. „ Millar, j ; S.„ Corrick, J. „ Monson, L. W.„ Church, H. J. „ M cFarlan, D. W.„ Clemens, B. T. „ Nimmo,. D.„ Clouston, A. E. „ Print, S.„ Curtis, G. „ Radburnd, G. A.„ Cunningham, M. ,, . Ryan, T.„ Chance, J. „ Seymour, F.„ Fisher, D. C. ,, Whitcombe,„ Flanders, E. A. E.„ Gallagher, F. ,, Voss, T. W.

32nd Platoon.

2nd Lt. Spence, R. Pte. Anderson, L. W.Q.M.S. Lusty, C. B. . Bassett,. E.Sgt. Thompson, H. „ Brosnahan, J.„ Edwards, M. S. „ Byrne, W . H.

Cpl. McLachlan, ,, Cliffe, F.D. B. „ Coffey, T.

„ Park, J. W. Douglas, R.L.-Cpl. George, „ Dower, J. M.

H. W. „ Dyer, S. E.,, HennesSy ,, Ferguson, H.

T. J.. „ Friers, W. J.„ Persen, E. ,, Gardiner, R.

THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS. 23

35th Platoon.

J. COMPANY.

Officer Commanding, Lieut. Forrest. H. A.

34th Platoon.

36th Platoon.

2nd Lt. Luke, K. E. ,, Collins, S.Sgt. Gordon, W. M. Conway, H.

„ W ard, H. A. Craig, J.L.-Sgt. McMurray, Dunlay, D.

R. Edmondson, H.Cpl. Johnson, H. G. Flood, C. G.

„ King, J. H. Gardiner, J.„ Corder, M. C. Harding, C. M.

L.-Cpl Shilton, G. W. Housten, A. C.„ Crozier, W. Hutchins, F. G.„ Madden, J. F. Hickey, J.

Pte. Anderson, D. W. Kennev, L. T.„ Armstrong, E. A. Kerr, J. W.„ Armstrong, Langley, H. T.

E .G . Leigh, A. P.„ Baikie, R. S. Leighton, W. M,,, Bisset, A. . Lindsay, A. M.,, Carmichael, D. Macken, F. W.,, Church, G. P. , Mcllroy, H. F.

2nd Lt. Buddie, H. D. ,, Dodds, J. T. P.Sgt.-M. Cammell, , Fowler, A.

L. A. ,, Furness, G.O.M.S. Pine, W. , Gaskell, P. A.Sgt. Ross, P. B. ,,, Ploult, V. P. M.

, Smith, , Ha)^ward, PI.A. G. F. C. ,, Hewson, J.

Cpl. Parkhurst, J. , Kelsall, C. J.L.-Cpl. Jack, D. , Knox, A. D.

W. ,, Loft, J.% McGuinness, ,, Matthews, G. A.

,, Sutherland, , McBride, H. G.c. n . ;, McLauchlan,

„ Varnham. W.C. L. ,, Nesbitt, A.

„ Vernon, J. L. . ,, Nickerson, A.Pte. Barnes. R. ,, Payne, L. V.„ Barry, J. P. , Pacey, W.,, Brennan, M. J. ,, Reardon, J.,, Brennan, F. R. , Roper, G.„ Bromley, J. PI. , Smith, T. A.„ Bridgewater, A. , Smith, n\ F.

Connell, J. , Steenson, J.„ Dillon, O. PI. , Torr, A. C M.

Gibson, J. „ Norris, D.Hanes, H. C. „ O’Neill, E.I i ay hurst, T. „ Peryer, C. A.Higgins, W. H. „ Roe, S. J.Holliday, F. J. „ Russell, J.Hook, L. W. H. „ Rasmussen, J.Jenkins, L. J. F. „ Schofield, J; E.Kidson, H. L. „ Tait, E. F.Love, J. P. „ Tattersall, W. J.Leith, G. „ W adsworth,Mathiesen, 0 . F. C. c.M cIntyre, R. „ Wood, J.Morris, G. „ vVilson, A.

2nd Lt. Hardy, J. L. Little, T. A.Sgt. Johnson, L. E. Madsen, T.Cpl, Kirk, G. H. Maynard, G. W.

„ Darling, R. Merrick, J.„ Quinn, S. Moore, A. K.„ Woods, B. T. Groves, J. C.

L.-Cpl. Cripps, A. C. McBride, A. A.„ Horspool, W. New, W. R.

Pte. Berry, F. Nottingham, G.,, Buntain, J Owens, P. H.„ Chadwick, T. W. Moffett, W. J.,, Collins, C. A. Paterson, J.„ Cullimore, Read, A. H.

F. R. R. Roe, E. W.„ Duncan, C. W. Russell, T.,, Fawcett, E. Searle, W. T.„ Flood, J. P. Sefton, H.„ Flood, T. F. Sigglekcw, F. H„ Hannan, T. Taylor, R. W.,, Heath, H. Thomas, C. W.„ Henderson, W. Thomas, L.„ Hailwood, E. G. W aring, H. T.„ Hunter, S. B. Wilkin, G. H. E.„ Keiller, L.. W. Wilson, W. J.,, Laird, E.

24 THE NAVUAN NAUTILUS.

N ightingale,C.Mv

Ouinn, M. C. Richardson, - H.-

Richardson, J .A . Roach, J. Reardon, F. W. Snowden, B.

Spence, J. Taylor, T. E. Thompson, B. W. Underwood, J.

W arburton, F. G. W rathall, W. A.

S.

LAST SHOTS.The behaviour of one of the signallers

is rather extraordinary, as he was seen with “ Emma ” after he had taken a lot of “ ‘beer,” and was heard to m urmur “ A ch !” He may be suffering from the “ pip.’’ It is surmised that he is a German, as he used a word which sounded suspiciously like “ H o c k ” (or was it “ Sock?” ), when he was told that the British would be Victorious. But we will “ C ” later “ F ” that is so. “ E ” is no doubt suffering from a “ Y’s Z.” Can “ U ” tell me ?

Robinson Crusoe finds tracks on the decks ‘probably made by Lyons.

It is rumoured that Tiny Davidson found a Gosling on deck one morning. This is not a Fishy yarn, although told by a W haler.

Professor Huff von Lusky has vacan­cies for a few sporting sergeants desirous of studying the noble game of draughts. Terms, one draught de la Biere.

Will the members of H Co. who stole the numbers off I Co.’s bunks return same without delay.

Tenders are invited for the erection of bon mattresses and feather beds for tired sergeants. Tenders must be deposited in sealed envelopes, accompanied by one tin of pineapple, at sergeants’ mess, not later than 9 p.m. any day.

Those suffering from rats try a little Kean’s corn cure, procurable from ship’s dis-Spence-ry.

W anted to exchange daily at breakfast time one plate of stew for one plate of bacon, eggs and toast.—Apply, any P ri­vate, c/o H Co.’s Dining-room.

To Let.— Provost-Sergeant has fu r­nished apartments to let near forrard win­ches. Likely tenants must have O.C.’s recommendation. No rent charged.—Ap­ply to Adjutant.