They worked wonders with the dilapidated machines

TCD MS 3414 folio 58 recto

TCD MS 3414 folio 58 recto

[November 1915]

ically nothing in the way of repair outfit, he was obliged to collect men from different infantry regiments who had a slight knowledge of mechanics, two men from the Oxfordshires joined him. Together with Warrant officer Nelson, he worked wonders with the dilapidated machines and scanty material at hand. Rumours began to circulate to the effect that an advance on Baghdad was anticipated shortly, greatly to my surprise Major General Kembell, maj general general Staff, was continually making flights with the RNAS to Azizieh evidently to interview General Townshend on that subject. One day Major Hopwood, Army Staff, came to Major Gordon saying that General Kembell wished to fly to Azizieh in a seaplane, evidently not realising that when a sea plane had had its floats removed it became a land machine, or aeroplane.

A sea plane was accordingly ready & Major Gordon & the General started off – when near Baghalat the machine broke down, & there they were stranded. Rescue launches were sent up & the news wired on to Azizieh. Capt White RFC was sent in a Morris Farman to pick up the General. After successfully landing near the seaplane, he walked a mile or so to fetch the Gen shadowed by Arabs, & was of course obliged to leave his machine