ious results ensued. One
bugler contracted pneumonia, but was well on the way towards
convalescence before Suez was reached. A single mental case came under
notice, necessitating the placing of the subject under close observation
until he could be handed over to the care of the authorities at the port
of disembarkation. All ranks were inoculated against smallpox and
typhoid. Many of them developed "arms" and temperatures as a result and
were decidedly unwell for a few days.

In the tropics 50 per cent. of the troops were provided with deck
accommodation for sleeping purposes. The heat when nearing Aden, and
during the passage of the Red Sea, was intense, but all ranks bore it
well. As far as was possible the dress was adapted to the climatic
conditions--special precautions being taken to guard against sunstroke.
Unfortunately, one of the ship's crew succumbed. He was buried at sea,
the ship laying-to whilst the burial service was read by the chaplain. A
collection afterwards taken up on behalf of the widow was generously
contributed to and realised over L50.

One chaplain only had been allotted to the troops on the transport. This
was the Rev. J. H. Neild, of the Methodist denomination. He conducted
service twice daily on Sundays and spent many hours on the decks at
other times. He was particularly earnest in his endeavours to help, and
his efforts were universally appreciated. Very great regret was
expressed by all who had come in contact with him when, shortly after
reaching Egypt, his health became so impaired as to necessitate his
return to Australia.

[Illustration: H.M's AUSTRALIAN TRANSPORT A11 ("ASCANIUS.")
_Photo. lent by Mr. E. L. Mitchell, Perth._]

On so crowded a transport it was difficult to arrange satisfactorily for
amusements. However, the best possible was done under the circumstances.
Sports meetings were held once or twice a week. In most of the
competitions the Western Australians showed up well. The keenest
interest was displayed in the inter-unit tug-of-war, the final of
which was won, after an exciting struggle, by the team from "D" Company.
In boxing, the honours went to the Queenslanders of the 17th A.A.S.C.,
who produced several very good performers of medium and heavy weights.
Much laughter was engendered when, after the tea hour, the tyros donned
the gloves with one another. Several concerts were arranged and held on
or near the well-decks. Perhaps the most popular singer was the youthfu