Page:The North Carolina Historical Review - Volume 1, Number 1.pdf/43

Rh is by whistles. No drills, as it is necessary to have it as quiet as possible in order to hear the signals. I am still holding my own, although I have some unquiet feelings. I have been somewhat overcome tonight with the responsibility that I have. I am responsible for the welfare of nearly 1,300 men; and I am conscious of all the dangers we are encountering, of the difficulties of caring for the men in case of a storm, or in abandoning ship. I am trying not to worry and am hoping for the best.

We had to leave another man at Halifax. He came down with measles. We are watching the others carefully for any suspicious symptoms. Am feeling very well and still have a good appetite.

June 2, 1918, Sunday, on Transport Talthybius. First day and night of convoy passed safely. There is still a heavy fog. No high calls while in the fog. While not in the general submarine zone, this is still considered a danger zone. Fog all day. Very depressing. We are, however, making our time of little over 11 knots per hour. Total distance zigzag course 2,700 miles (10 day trip). B Company man ſell out of hammock this evening, broke collar-bone.

June 3, Monday. Still very foggy. Had a very good night's rest, regardless of the fog horn signals. Fog has not lifted at all today. At 5:30 p. m. we slowed down to 6 knots per hour for fear of icebergs. Temperature of water 38 degrees. At 9 p. m., inspected portion of ship, everything quiet. Three stars could be seen but fog still heavy low down. One of the convoys came within 500 feet of us and its "trailer" very much closer, some of the men thought it was a submarine and rushed for life belts. Goodnight, my Mazie.

June 4, Tuesday. Last night at 2:36 a. m. the ship picked up its speed again of 11 knots per hour. The fog is still very dense and there are no signs of its lifting The British Cruiser, Donegal, which is escorting us, has just reported engine trouble and has dropped behind us. Fog lifted at 1 p. m., and none balance of day. All ships present but one. The cruiser came up abreast our ship at 5 p. m. Passed Swedish ship about 5:45 p. m. bound west. We are now beyond the banks and headed almost directly for coast of Ireland. The lifting of the fog and