NEW MYSTERY SHIP.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 220, 8 February 1917, Page 3

NEW MYSTERY SHIP.

AUSTRALIAN’S TRIBUTE. MELBOURNE, Feb 1. “I saw some of the new mystery ships that have been built for the Admiralty,” writes a lieutenant from a battle-cruiser in the Grand Fleet, who left Australia with the Australian Imperial Forces. “They are huge, beautiful things, and are credited with won derful speed. I wonder what the Finns will think when they see them. I know what I thought.” The lieutepant explains that the Admiralty allows one military officer aboard certain ships which have accommodation, and after leaving hospital for a fortnight’s furlough he was fortunate enough to obtain a permit to spend ten days with the fleet. “I’ve had every opportunity of viewing the various squadrons at work and at play,” he writes. “It is just ripping to see the way everyting is carried out Though there has been no actual fighting, there is a lot taking place. We have had it very cold and rough, with occasional gales and snow blizzards, including fogs. The captain never leaves the bridge while the vesesl is steaming. The navy is carrying out dangerous and remarkable operations, for which it seldom receives the praise due to it. We are now quite close to Willy’s headquarters. “One day I had the opportunity of witnessing part of the fleet at battle practice. The ships fired all their heavy guns at towed targets. The noise was deafening, and I was glad to stuff cotton wool in my ears to deaden the sound. The Hun fleet is keeping well within the minefields, and has seldom left its base since the last action. Prom incidents related aboard the Germans must have suffered badly in the Jut- . land fight. Much worse than reported.