FROM THE MAHENO.

Taranaki Daily News, 15 November 1915, Page 2

FROM THE MAHENO.

LETTER FROM THE MATRON. In a letter which was received by the Mayoress of Wellington (Mrs. Luke), from Sister E. G. Brooke, Matron of the Hospital Ship Maheno, dated August 24, the writer says: "We have had as you would probably have heard by cablegram quite a busy time, and we arc fortunate in being almost quite at the firing line. This is our fourth trip—twice to Malta and the others to Lemnos, four hours' run from Anzae. Most of the men that we have carried the last three trips required medjcal treatment, although there have been a few wounded. Most of the boys so far have been Australians; others Tommies, and they are all very brave. We thought when we were going through the linen, etc., that it would last for ever, but we find that we are just comfortably supplied. The only thing we require is more shirts, and I believe that the colonel has already written to his Excellency regarding the matter. Some of the poor things have not one at all. They get so dirty and water is so scarce over there. Of course, when IVy get to (he base they are given a new kit, which some of them sorely need, especially after wearing the same things for four months and more, officers and all, so you may imagine how they do appreciate our baths, and those that cannot have that are sponged. They say it is heaven. The bread and butter is much sought after also. Everyone thinks our ship is a wonderful ship, and our speed is so good, exceeding most of the others. The only fault is lack of room. We hear rumours of another hospital ship leaving New Zealand. I wonder if that is so? So far we have bad no mail since our departure—l suppose it is in England. There are only two trained New Zealand nurses in Malta, and some probationers who were in England. The rest are • English and Canadians. Our boys are all so pleased to see us, they feel it is a little bit of home," *