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Armed Merchant Cruiser, mercantile conversion

Pendant No. M.74 (on coming into service). Built 1903, 21,040grt, 17kts, owned by White Star Line. Armament: 8-6in, 2-6pdr. Crew (7.15): 48 officers & 330 crew (bi). In service 17.11.14-20.1.16. Of over 60 commissioned AMC's employed on patrol and later convoy protection, 33 served with 10th CS on Northern Patrol. (British Warships 1914-1919)

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Chatham, Cromarty Firth, Devonport, Dover, Harwich, Haulbowline, Invergordon, Pembroke, Plymouth, Portland, Portsmouth, Rosyth, Scapa Flow, Sheerness

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Gibraltar, Malta, Aden, Colombo, Singapore, Hong Kong

Notes:

1. Latitude/longitude, including for days in port, show representative decimal positions for each day, as calculated by the Old Weather project's analysis program. As such, they differ by varying amounts from the positions recorded, usually at noon, in the log pages. In addition, some latitudes/longitudes have been amended in edited logs for errors in the logs, for errors in identifying locations by the analysis program, or simply for greater accuracy. In all cases, refer to the log-page scans for the positions as originally recorded. Not all log pages contain this information and the ships' positions have therefore often been estimated.

2. Full account of any day is available by clicking on the link above that day. Groups of links refer to log book covers and introductory information; some may be blank.

Editor’s notes:

Along with 8 other Armed Merchant Cruisers, HMS Cedric was ordered to Liverpool in December 1914 in order to be fitted with 6” guns. The fitting-out was delayed, mainly due to labour shortages and problems, but Cedric was ready for sea by December 11th, and was the first of the squadron to complete the re-fitting. Liverpool became the base for communicating with the squadron, as well as for coaling and repairs. Cedric was allocated to “A” Patrol and its first voyage in the log is from Liverpool to an area north of the Faroes. Here she joined Teutonic, Columbella, Mantua and Virginian. During this patrol she was transferred to “B” Patrol to cover the area north of the Shetlands, and throughout the year served in a number of different patrols. The weather on all patrols in the winters of 1914-15 and 1915-16 was bad, with gales, driving snow and hail, and ships were often required to lie to. Cedric was directed to return to Liverpool on January 14th 1915 for coaling. She resumed patrol on January 25th and returned to Liverpool on February 18th until February 27th. She was then a part of “C” Patrol south of the Faroes and again on active duty until March 30th, returning again to patrol on 10th April until 13th May. Cedric left Liverpool once more for patrol on 21st May, returning to Liverpool on 22nd June. She departed again for patrol on July 4th, returning again to Liverpool on August 4th and departing once more on August 14th. Cedric called in at Busta Voe in the Shetlands on 11th-14th September to supplement coal supplies, then returned to patrol and then to Liverpool on 25th September until 7th October. Returning to Liverpool on November 20th, 1915, Cedric ran aground in the Mersey, so stayed longer in Liverpool until 9th December, including a period in dry dock. After this, her last patrol, Cedric returned to Liverpool on 10th January 1916 and paid off on 20th January. She then became a troopship for the remainder of the war, and returned to civilian service until she was scrapped in 1932.

Note: the Captain of HMS Cedric 1914-1916 was Robert Edmund Ross Benson, CB, RN (1864-1927), Commodore 2nd Class in the 10th Cruiser Squadron and Captain of HMS Teutonic 1916. He retired as Rear-Admiral in 1918 and Vice-Admiral in 1923.

THE VOYAGES OF HMS CEDRIC 1914-1916

JP map overview

(Maps prepared using Journey Plotter, developed by Maikel. The Plots can only be approximate. They are made by joining-up positions on successive days, and sometimes positions are not given. There will therefore be occasions when the ship appears to have travelled overland)

LOGS FOR DECEMBER 1914


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9 December 1914

At Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind generally S and variable force 2-1; rain, mist and showers; air temperature 44°F

00.10am: liberty men returned

00.25am: marines returned

7.00am: liberty men returned

[am: hands employed cleaning ship and getting ready for sea]

10.40am: engines moved ahead and astern; tried steering gear and whistle; engines to standby and hands to stations; tugs in attendance Collingwood, Coburg, Trafalgar and Nelson

Draught of water leaving Canada Dock: forward: 31’2”; mean: 31’½”; aft: 30’11”; side: 18’3½”

12.03pm: left Canada Dock

12.16pm: slow ahead port and engines as required to undock ship

1.14pm: entering Sandon Basin

1.20pm: in Sandon Basin

1.30pm: alongside and made fast to Mauretania*

1.32pm: rung off engines; hands filed to dinner

2.27pm: hands to stations; ship remaining in Sandon Basin

5.15pm: watch employed getting in ammunition


*[Note: Mauretania was withdrawn from service in the early part of the war and laid up in Liverpool in preparation for future use as a troop transport and hospital ship. Her ill-fated sister ship, Lusitania, continued in service until her sinking in May 1915. Mauretania survived the war. See Diana Preston; Wilful Murder: The Sinking of the Lusitania, Doubleday, 2002 p 59]


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10 December 1914

At Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; some mist; air temperature 42°F

2.30am: called hands; engines to standby

3.21am: slow astern port, and engines as required to enter river

3.27am: entered Sandon Lock; let go tugs and full speed astern

3.35am: in river

3.57am: anchored in 13 fathoms of water, 35 fathoms of chain, port anchor

4.05am: brought to and finished with engines

5.15am: swung to ebb tide; misty weather so regulation lights and fog signals strictly attended to

9.10am-noon: tested warning systems and lights

11.20am: swinging to flood tide; engines used as required

12.15pm: ship swung to flood tide

12.15pm-5.10pm: exercised crew

5.00pm: ship swung to ebb tide

5.15pm: dredger Tulip struck port side after end of saloon deck; ship [ie dredger] heading all the time SSE, [our] anchor lights burning brightly and fog signals attended to

8.00pm: fog; anchor lights burning brightly and fog signals attended to

10.35pm: ships’ tender Magnetic alongside with officials

11.45pm: swinging to flood tide; weather clearing and fog lifting

Number on sick list: 3


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11 December 1914

At Liverpool and at sea [heading north towards “A” Patrol area north of the Faroes]

Lat 54.1, Long -4.1

Wind ESE force 7; broken cloud then overcast with rain; air temperature 40°F rising to 48°F through the day

2.35am: engines to standby ready for up anchor

2.56am: anchor aweigh; proceeded to sea

3.20am: Rock Light abeam; set course N26°W

3.55am: No. 5 buoy abeam; altered course to N33°W

4.28am: Bar Light Vessel abeam

5.26am: Northwest Light Vessel abeam

7.30am: 2 miles E of Great Orme; turned ship around to S77°E

10.11am: fired first round from forward gun

10.35am: ceased firing; completed gunnery practice

1.20pm: ships’ tender Magnetic left

1.32pm: course set at N47°W

7.15pm: Chicken Rock Lighthouse abeam; altered course to N48°W

9.50pm: South Rock Lighthouse abeam

10.35pm: abeam of Skulmartin Lighthouse

Distance run 68 miles


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Reverse of scan of comPass deviations below.

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List of compass deviations, dated 11 December, 1914.


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12 December 1914

At sea [towards patrol ground]

Lat 56.3, Long -8.3

Wind ESE force 7 rising to force 8; sea moderate to rough; overcast with rain and squalls; air temperature 45°F declining to 37°F

0.58am: Maidens Lighthouse abeam 4½ miles

7.10am: Oversay Lighthouse abeam 2 miles

11.30am: Skerryvore Lighthouse abeam 6 miles, course N10°W

1.12pm: changed course 3 points to intercept trawler; resumed course

3.30pm: closed and hailed Norwegian steamer Britannic of Haugesund bound from Archangel to “Cardiff” [sic]

4.00pm: Barra Head 6 miles; set course N13°E, revs 55 per minute

8.11pm: Shillay Lighthouse abeam 11 miles; altered course to N24°E

10.12pm: Flannan Islands bearing 25° on starboard bow

Distance run 224 miles


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13 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 59.2, Long -4.1

Wind ENE force 7 veering E force 7; sea rough; broken cloud with squalls; air temperature 38°F rising to 40°F

0.30am: Flannan Islands abeam 10 miles; altered course to N36°E

11.00am: sighted and closed Danish steamer Laura Maersk bound from Bergen to Barry Docks with ballast

Noon position: NW of Sule Skerry Lighthouse 16 miles

1.30pm: signalled Laura Maersk to proceed

Sule Skerry S52°30’E 16 miles

Distance run 261 miles


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14 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -2.4

Wind ESE force 6 backing to E force 6; sea rough becoming moderate; overcast with snow then rain; air temperature 40°F dropping to 38°F

7.00am: course S57°W; zigzag course

[am and pm: exercised crews]

1.10pm: altered course to N1°W

Distance run 208 miles


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15 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 63.1, Long -5.5

Wind variable N through to E force 3 reducing to force 1; sea slight; broken cloud with hail then snow; air temperature average 39°F; sea 43°F

3.48am: altered course to N23°E, zigzag course

[am and pm: exercised crew and washed decks]

11.00am: stations “abandon ship” and lowered port sea boat; engines to order

Noon position: Fugloy Island [Faroes] S15°W 46 miles

4.50pm: altered course to S22°W

Distance run 230 miles


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16 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 63.2, Long -5.6

Wind W force 2 then force 1; sea smooth; light broken cloud; air temperature average 39°F, sea 40°F

Noon position: Fugloy Island S8°W 68 miles

[am and pm: exercised crews and stood by the guns]

10.29am: closed watertight doors

10.32am: opened watertight doors

Distance run 224 miles


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17 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 63.2, Long -6.0

Wind W backing SSW force 2 rising to force 5; sea slight becoming moderate; overcast with showers, mist and rain; air temperature average 39°F rising to 44°F later

[Zigzag course; S23°W and N24°E]

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 204 miles


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18 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -5.5

Wind SSW force 6 reducing to force 4; sea moderate; overcast with rain and snow showers; air temperature average 41°F; sea 43°F

[am and pm: exercised crews]

9.44pm: sighted light 4 points on starboard bow

10.45pm: closed and hailed steam trawler Stoic of Grimsby: examined by searchlight

10.53pm: set course N22°E

Distance run 200 miles


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19 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 62.3, Long -6.0

Wind SSW force 4; sea moderate; broken cloud; air temperature 38°F rising to 43°F; sea 40-43°F

10.00am: sighted HMS Mantua; closed and signalled her

7.20pm: altered course to N13°E to close and signal HMS Mantua

Coal remaining: 5422 tons

Distance run 200 miles


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20 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 62.5, Long -6.9

Wind variable force 4 reducing to force 3; sea moderate becoming slight; overcast then broken cloud; air temperature average 41°F; sea 45°F

8.00am: met HMS Teutonic: sea boat sent over

8.00am: DR position 62°44’N, 6°57’W

10.35am: sea boat returned

12.50pm: stopped and boarded steam trawler Strathalladale of Aberdeen; made thorough search of vessel and examined official documents and found all correct; the vessel left Aberdeen for Lerwick on 15th December and left the latter port on 18th December for fishing grounds north of the Faroe Islands

Water expended: 25.2 tons: remaining: 1226.5 tons

Distance run 176 miles


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21 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 63.1, Long -6.4:

Wind N force 1 backing to SSW force 3; sea smooth/slight; broken cloud; air temperature 39°F rising to 42°F

Noon position: Fugloy Island S12°E 56 miles

Coal: expended 100 tons, remaining 5322 tons

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 166 miles


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22 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 64.1, Long -7.0

Wind variable SSW force 2 backing to ESE force 5; sea slight becoming moderate; broken cloud with showers; air temperature 42°F; sea average 42°F

6.20pm: altered course to N; increased to 50 revs; sighted light bearing N

6.38pm: full speed to close with trawler

7.30pm: boarded steam trawler Undaunted recently changed ownership and name to Vulcana, owned by the Captain, William Charles Smith, from Aberdeen. On 20th December she called at Lerwick, then proceeded to 63°5’N, 7°18’W where boarded; all papers were found to be correct

8.00pm: boarding officer left trawler

8.15pm: boarding officer returned to Cedric; resumed course N29°E, speed 26 revs

Number on sick list: 6

Distance run 200 miles


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23 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 64.1, Long -7.0

Wind ESE force 4; sea moderate; broken cloud and overcast; air temperature average 41°F; sea 42°F

am: aiming practice

8.00pm: position 62°55’N, 7°00’W

Coal expended: 104 tons: remaining: 5004 tons

Number on sick list: 6

Distance run 200 miles


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24 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 64.1, Long -7.0

Wind ESE veering to SSE force 4 to 5; sea moderate; broken cloud and some squalls; air temperature average 42°F; sea 39-46°F

Mykines Island S4°30’W 73 miles

Number on sick list: 6

Distance run 200 miles


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25 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 64.1, Long -7.0

Wind mainly SSE force 7; sea rough; cloudy then overcast with rain; air temperature 40°F rising to 44°F; sea 40°F rising to 44°F

10.00am: divisions and service with prayers

11.50pm: increased to 73 revs; sighted light bearing N48°W; altered course to head her off

Number on sick list: 8

Distance run 200 miles


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26 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 63.2, Long -7.0

Wind variable SSE force 6 veering to WSW force 7; sea rough; overcast with rain and squalls; air temperature average 41°F; sea 40-46°F

0.35am: boarded Swedish steamer Narvik of Stockholm. This ship left Sundsvall for New York on 16th December calling en route at Helsingborg for bunker coal. All documents were examined in the presence of its Swedish Master A Thooman [sic] and bills of lading showed the ship’s freight to consist of wood pulp and iron and steel bars.

1.30am: permission granted for the ship to proceed; boarding officer returned to Cedric

1.45am: resumed course N23°E, speed 30 revs; boarding took place in position 63°22’N, 6°50’W

5.00pm: altered course to S42°E

Distance run 200 miles


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27 December 1914


[Cedric has now been ordered to join “B” Patrol in the area north of the Shetlands up to Latitude 62°N]


At patrol

Lat 61.1, Long -1.1:

Wind SSE force 9 veering to SW force 6-7; sea very rough; overcast and cloudy with some squalls; air temperature average 43°F; sea 46°F

4.10pm: Muckle Flugga Lighthouse: S46°E 20 miles

Distance covered 200 miles


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28 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 60.5, Long -1.1

Wind am NW force 6-7: pm variable force 3-4; sea rough becoming moderate then slight; cloudy with some snow and hail; air temperature average 41°F rising to 44°F; sea 47°F

9.00am: signalled HMS Caribbean

9.30am: closed and boarded Danish steamer Rodfaxe of Copenhagen, sailing from Baltimore USA to Helsingeford [sic: most likely Helsingborg, Sweden or possibly Helsingfors/Helsinki Finland]. Boarding position 61°00’N, 0°35’W. Rodfaxe was allowed to proceed

12.32pm: anchored in Burra Sound [off West Burra]; anchor brought in with 45 fathoms of chain

1.00pm: captain of HMS Caribbean came on board

1.18pm: signalled Norwegian steamer Randulf Hansen of Arendal to proceed on voyage

1.45pm: captain of HMS Caribbean left Cedric: weighed anchor

2.00pm: cleared Burra Sound

2.20pm: Muckle Flugga Lighthouse abeam 2 miles

Distance run 184 miles


[On December 27th 1914 Rear Admiral de Chair, Commander of the 10th Cruiser Squadron, ordered HMS Cedric to work together with HMS Caribbean in the area just north of the Shetlands and up to 62°N. Presumably the visit of the captain of HMS Caribbean was connected with that order. Commander FH Walter, Captain of HMS Caribbean, reported to the Admiralty on 9th January 1915 that in dealing with SS Rodfaxe and SS Randulf Hansen, Cedric’s captain was the Senior Naval Officer, and that orders for HMS Caribbean to leave patrol were received via Cedric at 2.30pm on 6th January. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 77.]


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29 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 61.0, Long -1.5

Wind variable mainly NW force 4; sea fairly smooth/slight; broken cloud; air temperature average 43°F; sea average 47°F

6.00am: Muckle Flugga Lighthouse right ahead S20°W

10.12am: carried out 1" electric aiming practice at full speed

11.40am: completed practice

Number on sick list: 7

Distance run 183 miles


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30 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 60.8, Long -1.5

Wind NW force 2-4 backing to SW then S rising to force 8; sea smooth rising to rough; air temperature 38°F rising to 44°F; sea 44°F rising to 47°F

10.36am: closed with US Steamship Greenbrier sailing from “New Orleans” [sic] to “Bremen” [sic]

10.46am: boarding officer left Cedric

11.30am: prize crew* left Cedric

Noon: Greenbrier proceeded to Kirkwall**

12.10pm: boarding officer returned to Cedric

1.50pm: set course N11°E, revs 73; bearing of land S36°E

Distance run 203 miles


[On 2nd November, 1914, the Admiralty declared that from 5th November all ships passing a line from the northern point of the Hebrides, through the Faroes to Iceland, did so at their own peril, and they advised all ships trading with Scandinavia to use the Strait of Dover. The alternative was to voluntarily call in at Kirkwall in the Orkneys. Ships found in the area of the Northern Patrol who did not comply were boarded by a prize crew and taken into Kirkwall.]


*[a prize crew was usually made up of a Midshipman and 5 or 6 ratings]


**[There was a sequel to this action. E Keble Chatterton takes up the story. “The Greenbrier’s cargo was of a very suspicious nature (including contraband and 14 Germans) and she was sent into Kirkwall under an armed guard. There, however, she was presently released by order of the Foreign Office, much to the surprise of Greenbrier’s Captain and crew, who thought they would certainly be detained and the cargo put into the Prize Court: in fact, when the news reached America, there was a good deal of contempt and amusement at our leniency, and it only encouraged neutral merchants to try the game again.” See E K Chatterton, The Big Blockade, Hurst and Blackett, 1932, page 81. Midshipman Scrimgeour makes the comment that “the Yankees have been making all sorts of complaints about their ensign being hauled down when sent into Kirkwall for examination, and the Captain of the Cedric is going to get it in the neck.” See Scrimgeour’s Small Scribbling Diary 1914-1916, Alexander Scrimgeour, Conway, 2008, page 134. Clearly the key here is that this was a US ship and the British Government was wary of upsetting the USA. Admiral de Chair commented: “….the Foreign Office got cold feet; they were afraid of offending American feelings. Throughout the whole first two years of the blockade we had the greatest difficulty with the Foreign Office. They continually released ships with contraband on board that we had had so much danger and difficulty in catching. See Admiral Sir Dudley de Chair, The Sea is Strong, Harrap, 1961, page 200.]


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31 December 1914

At patrol

Lat 60.9, Long -1.5

Wind SSW force 5-7; sea rough becoming moderate; overcast with rain, squalls and showers; air temperature average 45°F; sea average 48°F

10.40am: sighted land on port bow; altered course to S11°E

Noon: Muckle Flugga Lighthouse S30°E 12 miles

pm: accident - 1 oilskin coat and trousers lost overboard by Thomas Groseford RNR 5B.36

Distance run 221 miles



LOGS FOR JANUARY 1915


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1 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -1.2

Wind SSW force 6 veering SW force 6; sea moderate to rough; air temperature 44°F; sea 47°F

10.30am: sighted HMS Viknor

10.50am: signalled to HMS Viknor and HMS Caribbean to follow Cedric into a position off Muckle Flugga in order that HMS Viknor could carry out repairs on board*

11.35: for instruction [sic] Commander of Caribbean on board:

11.40am: Commander of Viknor [Commander Ernest Orford Ballantyne] on board

11.45am: Commander of Caribbean left

12.25pm: Commander of Viknor left ship

12.45pm: set course N47°W

1.46pm: sighted barquentine Valkyrian of Goteborg bearing N30°E sailing from Liverpool to Goteborg with a cargo of salt. The sea was too rough to board the vessel. Permission was given to proceed on voyage

8.50pm: examined a vessel by searchlight and found her to be the steam trawler Regal number GY158. Met the ship in position 61°17’N, 3°05’W

Distance run 191 miles


*[Note: HMS Viknor had been ordered to join “B” Patrol, but had been damaged in the gale that was raging at this time. Cedric was asked to assist her and take her into Burra Sound for repairs.]


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2 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.5, Long -3.3

Wind SSE force 9: sea very rough; squalls and showers; air temperature 42-44°F; sea 44-47°F

0.00am: examined a steamer by searchlight, the Hans Jensen. Unable to board or communicate with signals because of the rough seas. Circled round her all night

8.00am: DR position 61°N, 3°17’W


9.00am: exchanged signals with SS Hans Jensen. She is bound from Baltimore USA to Copenhagen with a cargo of rye

9.30am: signal sent from Cedric: “Follow me”

11.35am: signal sent from Cedric to Hans Jensen: “Increase your speed”

10.00pm: leading SS Hans Jensen towards the Shetland Islands for boarding purposes

Distance run 101 miles


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3 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.5, Long -1.6

Wind SE force 7 easing to force 5: sea becoming calmer; broken cloud; air temperature 46°F dropping to 44°F; sea 46-48°F

4.00am: accompanying SS Hans Jensen

10.00am: divisions and divine service

Noon: sighted steamer bearing west

12.30pm: signalled steamer Madvig to come under our lee

12.56pm: prize crew left ship for SS Hans Jensen

1.00pm: closed SS Madvig, sailing from Lisbon to Korsør with barley

1.10pm: prize crew is on board SS Hans Jensen and the vessel is proceeding to Kirkwall

1.14pm: boarding officer proceeded to SS Madvig

2.05pm: boarding officer returned

3.22pm: written orders sent to SS Madvig to proceed to Kirkwall

8.00pm: DR. 60'37N 2'14W; exercised boats’ crews

Distance run 81 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce52: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-020_0.jpg)


4 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -2.8

Wind SSE force 5-6; sea moderate; overcast with squalls and showers; air temperature 44°F; sea 47°F

Noon: Muckle Flugga Lighthouse N73°E 58 miles

Coal: expended 138 tons: remaining 3535 tons

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 49 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce53: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-020_1.jpg)


5 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -2.7

Wind SSE force 6 rising to force 8; sea becoming rough; broken cloud with showers and squalls; air temperature average 43°F; sea 47°F

8.00am: sighted Blue Mull [between the islands of Unst and Yell] S11°E

Distance run 243 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce54: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-021_0.jpg)


6 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -3.3

Wind variable from SSE to SW and force 8 reducing to force 4; showers and squalls; sea fairly rough; air temperature average 43°F; sea 47°F

8.00am: course S76°W

2.14pm: sent boat to HMS Caribbean with mails [Caribbean had been ordered back to Liverpool for coaling]

[pm: exercised searchlight crews and gun crews]

6.00pm: set course N9°E

Distance run 243 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce55: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-021_1.jpg)


7 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.5, Long -3.1

Wind SSW force 6 reducing to SW force 2; sea moderate; mainly cloudy with some showers; air temperature average 43°F; sea 47°F

9.00am: closed with HMS Hilary [Hilary had been ordered to bring prize crews back from Kirkwall to return them to their own ships]

6.00pm: exercised sea boats’ crews and searchlight crews.

8.00pm: Stella obs. 60°48’N, 3°18’W

8.00pm: course S76°W

Number on sick list: 9*

Distance run 214 miles


*[Note: Admiral de Chair's report to the Admiralty – quoted in John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003 page 69– states that on 7th January 1915 Cedric reported that an accident had occurred which resulted in the total loss of one of her motor boats and injury to four seamen. This was not included in the log and may explain the increase in the number of men on the sick list.]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce56: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-022_0.jpg)


8 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -3.2

Wind SSE force 2-3 backing to ENE force 1; sea smooth; broken cloud with squalls; air temperature average 42°F; sea 47°F

11.15am: stopped engines to order

11.45am: boat from HMS Alsatian came alongside [this boat was carrying Rear Admiral de Chair who came to give specific orders to Cedric-see below]

11.50am: HMS Alsatian’s boat left

11.52am: resumed course and speed.

1.47am: closed with H.M.S. Alsatian and exchanged signals [presumably de Chair is here returning to HMS Alsatian]

2.20pm: resumed course and speed

8.00pm: DR position 60°09’N, 3°52’W

9.00pm: exercised sea boats crews and searchlight crews

Number on sick list: 10

Distance run 223 miles


[Admiral de Chair remained at sea in this period in order to prepare his ships to intercept the Norwegian steamship Bergensfjord. De Chair had been informed that a senior German intelligence agent, Baron von Wedel, was returning from New York to Germany on this ship. De Chair visited his ships to prepare interception of the Bergensfjord as he felt the W/T systems being used were not powerful enough and had too short a range. Midshipman Scrimgeour, serving on HMS Alsatian, noted that there were “urgent signals from C-in-C to say Bergensfjord must be caught at all costs.” These signals would have also been received by Cedric. Bergensfjord, with von Wedel and other Germans on board, was caught on January 11th by HMS Viknor and taken into Kirkwall. Viknor was dispatched to Liverpool with the prisoners, but on January 13th sunk with all hands off Tory Island, probably because of hitting a mine in a storm. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003 pages 69-74, The Sea is Strong, Admiral Sir Dudley de Chair, Harrap, 1961, pages 192-193.See Scrimgeour’s Small Scribbling Diary 1914-1916, Alexander Scrimgeour, Conway, 2008 page 128. On von Wedel, see The Secrets of the German War Office, Dr Armgaard Karl Graves, Aeterna, 2010]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce57: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-022_1.jpg)


9 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.7, Long -2.5

Wind ENE force 5 backing to NE force 4-6; sea slight; cloudy with some squalls and hail; air temperature average 43°F dropping to 38°F; sea 47°F

Noon: sighted ship, challenged, and received reply

12.38pm: half speed and engines to order, to close with HMS Orotava; [Orotava had been asked to join Cedric as part of the preparations to catch the Bergensfjord-see above]

1.34pm: Captain of Orotava boarded Cedric in position 60°47’N, 2°08’W

2.24pm: Captain of Orotava left Cedric

2.25pm: full speed ahead course N74°E

4.16pm: Muckle Flugga Lighthouse abeam 15½ miles

Number on sick list: 12

Distance run 247 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce58: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-023_0.jpg)


10 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -2.7

Wind variable, generally northerly force 3 reducing to force 2; broken cloud with some squalls and snow showers; air temperature average 39°F; sea 45°F

[am: exercised sea boats’ crews]

1.15pm: made rendezvous with HMS Patia in position 60°28’N, 3°00W

1.56pm: Captain of HMS Patia [Captain Gerald Vivian,CMG,RN] boarded: Teutonic examined SS Frisia

2.20pm: Captain of Patia left Cedric

2.21pm: full speed ahead course N20°W

3.18pm: engines slow and to order

3.40pm: boarding officer left Cedric to board SS Frisia in position 60°40’N, 2°42’W

4.15pm: captain of HMS Teutonic boarded Cedric

4.35pm: captain of Teutonic left Cedric

4.40pm: boarding officers returned

4.54pm: slow ahead followed by SS Frisia

5.00pm: various speeds to keep in touch with SS Frisia

11.30pm: SS Frisia proceeded on voyage

Coal expended: 125 tons: oil expended: 45 gallons

Number on sick list: 12

Distance run 245 miles


[It is likely that the meetings with the captains of HMS Patia and HMS Teutonic were also part of the preparation for catching the Bergensfjord – see above]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce59: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-023_1.jpg)


11 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -2.5

Wind SE force 6 backing to ESE force 3 then veering to S force 3; sea very rough; broken cloud and squalls; air temperature average 43°F; sea 46°F

2.27am: sighted steamer light bearing SW; engines to full speed and closed with SS Hafnia. Exercised general action stations

3.45am: examined steamer by searchlight as the sea was too rough to board; stood by SS Hafnia until daylight

8.00am: DR position 60°58’N, 1°42’W

8.45am: signalled to SS Hafnia and received various replies

9.15am: boarding officer left Cedric

10.04am: boarding officer returned

10.10am: SS Hafnia is on passage from “Torreviega” [sic: possibly Torrevieja]* to Alesund, and called in for bunker coal and clearance at Port Talbot on 11th January. Proceeded on voyage

8.00pm: DR position 60°18’N, 3°38’W

8.43pm: sighted steamer bearing ESE; engines to full speed, and closed Danish SS Borglum

9.33pm: boarding officer left Cedric

10.20pm: boarding officer returned as it was too rough for boarding; vessel was permitted to proceed

Number on sick list: 10

Distance run 104 miles


*[NB Torrevieja (Spain) was a major exporter of sea salt, and in the 19th and possibly early 20th century much of this trade was handled by Swedish ships. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torrevieja]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce5a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-024_0.jpg)


12 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.4, Long -1.6

Wind variable mainly N and E force 4 to force 1; sea moderate; cloudy with some hail squalls; air temperature 42°F; sea average 47°F

11.31am: sighted steamer bearing SSW; engines full ahead and closed with Norwegian SS Pollux

12.01pm: stopped

12.02pm: boarding officer left Cedric

12.32pm: boarding officer returned

12.54pm: half speed; resumed course and speed; SS Pollux proceeded

5.00pm: altered course to S and reduced to 56 revs; exercised guns crews, searchlight crews and sea boats’ crews

8.00pm: DR position 61°00’N, 1°20’W; altered course to N, reduced to 47 revs.

Number on sick list: 10

Coal expended: 138 tons: remaining: 2492 tons

Fresh water expended: 22.3 tons: remaining: 504.4 tons

Distance run 227 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce5b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-024_1.jpg)


13 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.4, Long -1.6

Wind variable mainly SSE rising from force 7 to force 9: sea becoming very rough; overcast with rain; air temperature average 43°F; sea 46°F

Muckle Flugga Lighthouse S35°E 39 miles

[am and pm: exercised sea boats’ crews, searchlight crews and gun crews]

Number on sick list: 9

Distance run 242 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce5c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-025_0.jpg)


14 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.4, Long -1.6

Wind variable mainly E reducing from force 7 to force 4; sea rough becoming moderate; air temperature average 43°F; sea 47°F

5.00am: Fireman Martin Sweeney died

5.00am DR position 61°28½’N, 1°44’W

1.55pm: stop; Captain read funeral service for Martin Sweeney: he was buried with naval honours

2.05pm: full speed 70 revs

2.36pm: Muckle Flugga Lighthouse bearing S20°W

Coal expended: 138 tons: remaining 2214 tons

Distance run 204 miles


[On January 14th 1915 HMS Cedric and HMS Otway were ordered to return to Liverpool for coaling, and HMS Patia and HMS Bayano took over “B” Patrol]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce5d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-025_1.jpg)


15 January 1915

At patrol [returning to Liverpool]

Lat 59.3, Long -6.0

Wind WSW force 8 veering through to N force 7; sea rough; overcast with rain showers then squalls; air temperature average 45°F; sea 48°F

12.20pm: North Rona Island abeam 9 miles

1.05pm: Sulisker Rock [Sula Sgeir] abeam 4 miles

6.11pm: Flannan Islands abeam 9 miles

8.10pm: DR position 58°08’N, 8°22’W

10.00pm: altered course to S21°W

Distance run 241 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce5e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-026_0.jpg)


16 January 1915

At sea [en route to Liverpool]

Lat 55.4, Long -7.6

Wind N and NNW force 8 reducing to force 7; sea rough reducing slightly; cloud with showers and squalls; air temperature 46°F reducing to 43°F; sea 50°F reducing to 46°F

8.00am: DR position 55°20’N, 9°00’W

[am exercised sea boats’ crews and searchlight crews: hands employed cleaning the ship.]

9.00am: hands employed as requisite

9.45am: altered course to S41°E

10.22am: Tory Island abeam 2 miles: altered course to S80°E

11.00am: Horn Head abeam 3.25 miles

11.40am: Fanad Point abeam

11.45am: altered course to N75°E*

1.10am: altered course to S60°E

1.20pm: Inishtrahull abeam

4.00pm: Rue Point, Rathlin Island abeam

4.29pm: Torr Point abeam

5.50pm: Maidens Light abeam 3½ miles

6.21pm: Blackhead Lighthouse abeam 7 miles

7.18pm: Skulmartin Lighthouse abeam 5 miles

8.10pm: DR position 54°28’N, 5°14’W

9.40pm: Chicken Rock Lighthouse abeam: altered course to S41°E

Distance run 339 miles and 239 miles [sic]


*[Note: the normal route for ships of the 10th Cruiser Squadron returning to Liverpool was to sail to the west and then south of Tory Island, in order to avoid the German minefield to the northeast of Tory Island. This minefield had already claimed the dreadnought HMS Audacious in October 1914, and only 3 days before, on 13th January 1915, HMS Viknor]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce5f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-026_1.jpg)


17 January 1915

At sea and at Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable, mainly N force 6-7; broken cloud; sea moderate; air temperature average 41°F; sea 47°F

0.55am: Northwestern Light Vessel abeam

01.22am: engines at half speed

01.23am: engines at stop to pick up pilot, Mr J W Pass

01.55am: slow ahead

02.00am: full speed and engines to order

02.09am: Bar Light Vessel abeam

02.26am: Formby Light Vessel abeam

02.43am: stopped for examination of vessel

03.05am: permission to proceed granted

03.25am: Rock Light abeam

04.30am: anchored in 11 fathoms of water with port anchor and 45 fathoms of cable

06.00am: rung off engines

07.30am: Magnetic [tug and ships’ tender] alongside

07.50am: ship swung to flood tide, veered cable to 60 fathoms

10.40am: engines to stand by

10.56am: weighed anchor, half speed ahead

11.24am: Magnetic alongside

11.33am: pilot, Mr Ankers, took charge

11.40am: tug Canning in attendance: draught of water forward 26'6", aft 28'0", mean 27’3’’, side 22’01’’

12.20pm: received signal to go to anchor; unable to dock owing to a shortage of tugs

12.30pm: full astern both engines

12.31pm: anchored in 13 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of cable; port anchor

12.38pm: brought up

12.40pm: rung off

1.00pm: ship swung to ebb tide

4.35pm: ships’ tender Skirmisher alongside

Number on sick list: 9

Coal expended: 75 tons: remaining: 1766 tons

Fresh water expended: 17.8 tons: remaining: 4019 tons

Distance run 214 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce60: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-027_0.jpg)


18 January 1915

At Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind N force 6 reducing to force 2; broken cloud; air temperature 40°F rising to 50°F

0.22am: received signal to enter dock

0.41am: alongside wall

0.43am: entering Sandon Locks

0.53am: entering Sandon Basin

1.02am: in Sandon Basin

1.45am: Huskisson Lock opened

1.55am: in Huskisson Lock

2.05am: entering Canada Dock

2.35am: alongside dock wall; made fast and rang off engines and discharged tugs

2.44am: in Canada Dock

7.30am: 1st and 2nd watch proceeded on 4 days’ leave

8.30am: hands employed as requisite

4.15pm: special leave for first part of watch; exercised duty part of watch at fire stations


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce61: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-027_1.jpg)


19 January 1915

At Liverpool, Alexandra Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly NW force 2; overcast; air temperature average 43°F

6.00am: hands employed in shifting coal lighters and securing the ship to the wharf

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.30am: hands employed as requisite; working party sorting ammunition

1.00pm: hands employed sorting ship’s stores, and as requisite

4.15pm: landed liberty men; exercised duty part to fire stations



4caf8527cadfd3419700ce62: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-028_0.jpg)


20 January 1915

At Liverpool, Alexandra Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly NW force 3; overcast with some rain; air temperature average 43°F

6.00am: hands employed as requisite

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.30am: working party employed at Alexandra Dock, sorting ammunition; remainder [of] the hands as requisite

1.15pm: working party at Alexandra Dock sorting ammunition; remainder [of] the hands working hawsers, and as requisite

4.30pm: evening quarters, exercised fire quarters

5.00pm: hands employed working hawsers

7.30pm: gave special leave to 1st part of watch

Coal expended: 15 tons: remaining: 4330 tons


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce63: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-028_1.jpg)


21 January 1915

At Liverpool, Alexandra Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 1 to force 4; mainly overcast with some rain; air temperature average 56°F

6.00am: hands employed as requisite

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.30am: working party to Alexandra Dock. Remainder of the hands employed unshipping and stowing away lower booms and fittings, and getting in boatswain’s stores

1.15pm: hands employed as requisite; discharged one fireman to hospital

4.30pm: gave special leave to part of the watch


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce64: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-029_0.jpg)


22 January 1915

At Liverpool, Alexandra Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind N and NW, force 2-3; mainly overcast; air temperature 57°F dropping to 54°F

6.00am: hands employed as requisite

7.00am: liberty men returned

7.30am: 1st and 2nd watches returned from leave

1.30pm: gave special leave to 3rd watch. The rest of the hands are employed taking in ammunition

3.45pm: hauled the ship clear of the dock wall

4.50pm: secured along dock wall; gave special leave to watch


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce65: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-029_1.jpg)


23 January 1915

At Liverpool, Alexandra Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NNW to N force 2-3; mist then some broken cloud; air temperature 47°F rising to 52°F

6.00am: hands employed as requisite

7.00am: liberty men returned

1.30pm: gave special leave to 3rd watch; rest of the hands are employed as requisite getting in stores

4.10pm: evening quarters; exercised fire quarters

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce66: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-030_0.jpg)


24 January 1915

At Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly NW force 1-0; overcast with mist later; air temperature 50°F dropping to 41°F later

6.00am: hands employed as requisite

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.30am: 1 marine private joined the ship from Plymouth headquarters

2.30pm: engines to standby; left Canada Dock, engines as required to undock ship

3.00pm: entered Huskisson Dock; tugs in attendance Coburg, Collingwood, Wallassey and Brocklebank

3.18pm: entered Sandon Basin and waited for dock gates to open

4.22pm: slow astern and engines to order

4.39pm: in river; discharged tugs

5.12pm: anchored in 15 fathoms of water with starboard anchor and 75 fathoms of cable

5.41pm: rung off

6.20pm: swung to ebbtide

10.40pm: tender arrived alongside


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce67: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-030_1.jpg)


[Admiral de Chair returned to Liverpool on January 25th, and met with Captain Benson of Cedric on that day in order to brief him on managing the patrols. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 86.]


25 January 1915

Liverpool and at sea towards Northern Patrol station [“B” Patrol, north of the Shetlands, patrolling along with HMS Caribbean]

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly SSW variable force 1-2; dense fog; air temperature average 41°F

1.50am: ship swung to flood tide; fog signals attended to

6.00am: hands employed cleaning ship

6.30am: ship swung to ebb tide

10.00am: thick fog; waiting for tide

12.15pm: boats arrived; fog clearing

1.45pm: ships’ tender Brunswick alongside

2.00pm: signalled HMS Oropesa

2.15pm: engines to standby

2.28pm: dead slow ahead starboard

2.29pm: stop

2.40pm: signalled HMS Alsatian

2.44pm: rung off

3.00pm: hoisted boats [this action was presumably the return of Captain Benson from his meeting with Admiral de Chair on HMS Alsatian-see above]

4.30pm: shortened in

4.45pm: weighed anchor

4,47pm: half speed ahead, and engines to order

4.50pm: Rock Light abeam; set course to N26°W

4.58pm: No.10 buoy abeam

5.09pm: No. 9 buoy abeam

5.23pm: No. 8 buoy abeam; set course to N10°W

5.53pm: No. 1 buoy abeam; altered course to N86°W

6.05pm: Formby Light Vessel abeam; altered course to N59°W

6.30pm: Bar Light Vessel abeam; engines stopped for repairs to starboard engine

6.48pm: discharged pilot

6.53pm: full ahead port side engine course N46°W

7.05pm: starboard engine repaired; full ahead both

11.15pm: Chicken Rock Lighthouse abeam 2 miles; altered course to N8°W; reduced engines to 70 revs; exercised guns’ crews, searchlight crews and sea boats’ crews

Coal remaining: 6089 tons


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce68: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-031_0.jpg)


26 January 1915

At sea, [en route to Northern Patrol station]

Lat 56.4, Long -7.5

Wind mainly SSW variable force 3-5; cloud then broken cloud; air temperature average 46°F

1.10am: South Rock Lighthouse abeam 5 miles

1.38am: Skulmartin Lighthouse abeam 4 miles

2.00am: exercised gun crews and searchlight crews

2.24am: Copeland Lighthouse abeam 47 miles

2.48am: Blackrock Lighthouse abeam 8 miles

3.20am: Maidens Lighthouse abeam 5 miles

5.43am: Rathlin Island abeam; altered course to N20°W

6.55am: swung ship around to await daylight

8.00am: DR position: 53°39’N, 6°33’W

8.15am: Oversay Lighthouse abeam 2 miles; altered course to N14°W

11.00am: sighted SS Monksgarth

10.11 [sic: presumably 11.10 am]: closed and signalled SS Monksgarth

11.25am: Skerryvore Lighthouse abeam; altered course to N7°W

1.57pm: Barra Head Lighthouse abeam 2¾ miles; altered course to N13°E

5.16pm: Shillay Lighthouse abeam; altered course to N24°E

8.00pm: DR position: 58°06’N, 7°54’W

8.30pm: altered course to N51°E

9.03pm: Flannan Islands abeam 9 miles

Distance run 239 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce69: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-031_1.jpg)


27 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.0, Long -4.2

Wind variable S and SE veering to W and force 2-4; sea am northerly swell, pm westerly swell; broken cloud; air temperature 41-44°F; sea 42-44°F

1.52am: altered course to N62°E

[am: exercised crews]

8am: DR position: 60°15’N, 5°04’W; bearing of Muckle Flugga Lighthouse N74°E 127 miles

[pm: exercised crews]

Number on sick list: 3

Distance run 322 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce6a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-032_0.jpg)


28 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.0, Long -7.0

Wind W force 2-1 backing NE force 2-5; sea smooth to slight; mainly overcast; air temperature 43-44°F; sea 47-48°F

6.00am: hands employed cleaning ship

7.15am: sighted steamer bearing NW; engines to full speed

7.30am: slow and stopped

7.45am: boarding officer left Cedric; boarded steam trawler Sapphire of Hull, number H.675, in position 61°00’N, 5°50’W

8.04am: boarding officer returned

8.14am: full speed ahead and resumed cruise

10.48am: sighted HMS Hilary to the SSW; altered course

10.53am: sighted HMS Otway bearing NNW

11.00am: engines to standby

11.06am: stop and engines to order

11.11am: sent boat to HMS Otway

11.34am: boat returned

11.48am: set course S10°E

1.15pm: sighted steamer bearing W; altered course to S22°W

1.22pm: engines slow and to order

2.00pm: stopped and hailed Norwegian steamer Corona of Christiania on passage from New York to Goteborg via Kirkwall; position 60°45’N, 6°34’W

2.03pm: boarding officer left Cedric

2.26pm: boarding officer returned

2.41pm: Corona proceeded on her voyage

2.42pm: full speed ahead to close sailing ship

3.09pm: half speed and engines to order to signal Norwegian sailing ship Songelv

3.24pm: engines at half speed; set course S40°E 66 revs

7pm: altered course to S20°E

8.00pm: DR position: 59°39’N, 5°05’W

Distance run 260 miles


[Note: it is possible that this may have been the last voyage of the Sapphire, as on 1st March 1915 she struck a mine off Filey (Yorkshire) and sank. This mine was laid by the German light cruiser Kolberg whilst the battle-cruisers Derfflinger and Von Der Tann were shelling Scarborough in December 1914]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce6b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-032_1.jpg)


29 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.4, Long -4.7

Wind variable mainly NE force 4-2; sea slight; mainly broken cloud; air temperature average 42°F; sea 47°F

10.17am: stop and engines to order while practising fire control and 1” electric aiming

10.56am: secured; engines to order to pick up target

11.15am: set course S4°E

[am and pm: exercised all crews] and hands employed as requisite

4.10pm: evening quarters; read Warrant No.1

7.00pm: sighted Sule Skerry Lighthouse bearing S6°E

Number on sick list: 5

Distance run 264 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce6c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-033_0.jpg)


30 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.3, Long -5.9

Wind variable N veering through to SW mainly force 3; sea slight; air temperature average 43°F; sea 47°F

9.25am: sighted ship bearing N70°W; engines to full speed; altered course to N5°W to close

10.35am: engines to slow and as ordered to signal SS Dansborg

10.38am: SS Dansborg proceeded

10.52am: closed and signalled sailing ship Edderside

11.03am: Edderside proceeded

11.28am: full speed to close steamer bearing N70°W

12.03pm: boarding officer left Cedric

12.08pm: boarding officer alongside SS Kotonia

12.34pm: boarding officer left Kotonia

12.40pm: boarding officer returned to Cedric

1.00pm: prize crew left Cedric

1.18pm: cutter returned

1.22pm: cutter hoisted aboard; full speed and set course S2°W

[pm: exercised crews]

11.30pm: altered course to N30°W

11.50pm: sighted steamer bearing WNW; engines full speed and to order

Number on sick list: 6

Distance run 271 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce6d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-033_1.jpg)


31 January 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -5.3

Wind variable mainly SSW mainly force 4; sea moderate; broken cloud with squalls; air temperature 41°F rising to 44°F; sea 48°F

0.30am: signalled SS Hero of Bergen [sic; but more likely Hera] with prize crew on board [i.e. prize crew from another AMC, possibly HMS Caribbean]; resumed course and speed

Observed Sumbo [i.e. Sumburgh] Lighthouse N25°W 22 miles

8.12pm: full speed ahead to close steamer bearing SE

8.15pm: slow and engines to order

8.19pm: closed and hailed Norwegian steamer Unita of Sandefjord

8.37pm: permission given to SS Unita to proceed; resumed course and speed at 48 revs; position 59°30’N, 4°50’W

Distance run 243 miles


LOGS FOR FEBRUARY 1915


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce6e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-034_0.jpg)


1 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.5, Long -3.5

Wind mainly WSW and SW mainly force 5-6; sea moderate; mainly broken cloud with showers; air temperature average 44°F; sea 47°F

[am: exercised crews]

1.41pm: [sic; should be 12.41pm] sighted ship bearing SE by S

12.59pm: stop; full astern; engines to order to close HMS Changuinola

1.15pm: cutter left for Changuinola

1.24pm: cutter arrived

1.36pm: cutter left Changuinola with prize crew [clearly Changuinola’s job was to bring back prize crews from Kirkwall]

1.45pm: cutter arrived alongside Cedric; sighted sailing vessel and altered course to close

1.49pm: cutter hoisted; course S88°W

3.13pm: signalled sailing ship Danzig [? Possibly Dantzic]*

3.19pm: proceeded [sic; presumably this means that the sailing-vessel proceeded]; altered course to close steamer

3.42pm: stopped and examined Norwegian steamer Perth

3.50pm: boarding officer left Cedric

4.28pm: boarding officer returned

4.30pm: hoisted cutter; resumed course and speed; position 59°38’N, 3°07’W

Number on sick list: 7

Distance run 270 miles


* [The officer’s log entry here is not conclusive, but it is most likely that this vessel was the Dantzic, a British sailing-ship. Evidence is that there is no mention of the ship’s nationality, something which is always entered for non-British vessels, and that Cedric only signals her and does not investigate further.]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce6f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-034_1.jpg)


2 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.5, Long -5.7

Wind variable but mainly SW rising from force 4 to force 9; sea moderate becoming rough; overcast becoming broken cloud with rain and squalls; air temperature average 45°F; sea 47°F

[am and pm: exercised gun crews, searchlight crews and sea boats’ crews]

Bearing: Sule Skerry Lighthouse S23½°E 96 miles

Distance run 250 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce70: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-035_0.jpg)


3 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.8, Long -5.7

Wind variable but mainly SW force 9 reducing later to force 8; sea very rough; mainly cloud and broken cloud with squalls; air temperature 43°F rising to 47°F; sea 47-48°F

[am and pm: exercised crews and hands employed cleaning the ship]

Number on sick list: 8

Distance run 144 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce71: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-035_1.jpg)


4 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.8, Long -8.4

Wind SSW and SW force 9-10; sea very rough; cloudy with squalls; air temperature 47°F rising to 50°F; sea 48°F

[am and pm: exercised crews and hands employed as requisite]

Distance run 69 miles*


*[Note that Cedric covered much less distance than was usual, and was probably riding out the storm. Admiral de Chair noted that “the heavy southwesterly gale on February 2nd was one of the worst the 10th Cruiser Squadron experienced during the whole war. It was in this gale that the Clan MacNaughton disappeared”. Dudley de Chair, The Sea is Strong, page 191]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce72: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-036_0.jpg


5 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.5, Long -5.8

Wind mainly S force 6-7; sea moderate to rough; broken cloud with showers and squalls; air temperature average 48°F; sea 47-48°F

Noon: sighted steamer bearing SSE; altered course to S20°E to close

12.20pm: slow and engines to order; closed and signalled HMS Mantua at 60°34’N, 5°44’W

12.54pm: resumed course and speed

1.00pm: hands employed as requisite; lost overboard 1 oilskin jacket and 1 pair of oilskin trousers

10.20pm: sighted steamer bearing S30°E; engines to full speed and as ordered

10.55pm: closed and examined steamer by searchlight; Swedish SS Ros of Stockholm on passage from Burntisland to Newport in ballast

11.30pm: permission to proceed granted

Distance run 190 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce73: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-036_1.jpg)


6 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -7.5

Wind mainly SSE mainly force 9; sea very rough; cloudy with rain squalls; air temperature 47-45°F; sea 47°F

Sumburgh Rock Lighthouse N21°E 68 miles

[am and pm: hands employed as requisite, including cleaning the ship, and all crews exercised]

Coal expended: 119 tons: remaining: 4556 tons

Fresh water expended: 22.8 tons: remaining: 1172.2 tons

Distance run 245 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce74: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-037_0.jpg)


7 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.6, Long -6.7

Wind SSE force 8-10; sea very rough; overcast and cloudy with squalls; air temperature 45°F dropping to 40°F; sea 47-46°F

[am: exercised crews and hands employed cleaning the ship]

11.15am: rounding Sulisker Rock [Sula Sgeir]; making an examination*

11.42am: set course S80°E

0.30pm: rounded North Rona rocks and made examination*

0.50pm: North Rona bearing W 2 miles; set course N12°E

Distance run 233 miles


*[clearly references to the appalling weather and possible damage to the ship which is finding shelter from the SE gale]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce75: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-037_1.jpg)


8 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -4.0

Wind SSE backing to ESE force 8 reducing to force 6; sea rough; overcast with rain; air temperature average 41°F; sea 47-46°F

[am and pm: exercised crews and hands employed as requisite]

Number on sick list: 3

Distance run 148 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce76: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-038_0.jpg)


9 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.1, Long -0.6

Wind ESE veering to SE force 8 reducing to force 6; sea rough moderating slightly; overcast with rain; air temperature 38-43°F; sea average 46°F

Muckle Flugga Lighthouse S25°W

Distance run 244 miles


[Note: On 9th February 1915 a new base line was ordered for “B” Patrol-360° from Lat 61°10’, Long 1°00’W ships (Cedric and Caribbean) 20 miles apart, base line to be crossed at 7.00am daily, steering to make good 250°, speed 13 knots, zigzag, altering course 16 points at 6.00pm daily. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 88]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce77: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-038_1.jpg)


10 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.2, Long -0.2

Wind mainly SSE force 7; sea moderate to rough; overcast with rain; air temperature average 43°F; sea 47°F

[am: exercised crews]

6.10pm: sighted steamer bearing SW; altered course to close with engines to full speed

6.30pm: closed Norwegian steamer F Heredia [also spelt Hereida] of Haugesund

6.55pm: boarding officer left Cedric

7.18pm: boarding officer returned to Cedric; permission given to F Heredia to proceed; resumed course and speed

Distance run 312 miles


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce78: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-039_0.jpg)


11 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.0, Long -2.2

Wind SSE force 5 reducing to SE force 4; sea moderate; mainly overcast and cloudy; air temperature 44-42°F; sea average 47°F

8.20am: sighted steamer bearing W

8.25: engines to full speed; course S80°W

9.20am: altered course to S89°W

9.24am: reduced to 64 revs*

Muckle Flugga Lighthouse by compass S15°W distance 26 miles

3.30pm: altered course to N55°E to close HMS Caribbean

3.40pm: altered course to N50°E and various

4.05pm: sent cutter to HMS Caribbean

4.10pm: cutter alongside HMS Caribbean in position 50°59’N, 3°27’W

4.15pm: cutter left HMS Caribbean

4.18pm: cutter returned to Cedric

4.20pm: cutter hoisted

4.21pm: resumed course and speed S48°W, 64 revs

Distance run 270 miles


*[There is no explanation in the log as to why Cedric abandoned the chase here. However, Midshipman Scrimgeour noted that “Cedric reported unsuccessfully chasing a big steamer at dawn, which drew away from her at sixteen and a half knots….She was intercepted in the afternoon and proved to be the Frederick VIII, a Danish liner, examined and allowed to proceed.” See Alexander Scrimgeour, Scrimgeour’s Small Scribbling Diary 1914-1916, Conway, 2008 page 147.]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce79: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-039_1.jpg)


12 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.7, Long -2.4

Wind mainly SE force 4 rising to force 8; sea slight becoming moderate; overcast with showers and squalls later; air temperature average 43°F; sea 47°F

[am: exercised crews and carried out aiming practice]

11.20am: exchanged signals with HMS Natal

4.22pm: sighted steamer bearing S70°W; engines full speed and to order to close Norwegian SS Hermes of Drammen on passage from Galveston to Kirkwall

4.48pm: SS Hermes proceeded

Distance run 261 miles


[Note: On 12th February 1915 a new base line was ordered for “B” Patrol-350° from Lat 61°00’, Long 1°15’W, (Lat 61.00, Long -1.25) ships (Cedric and Caribbean) 20 miles apart, base line to be crossed at 7.00am daily, steering to make good 240°, speed 13 knots, zigzag, altering course 16 points at 6pm daily. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 89]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce7a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-040_0.jpg)


13 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -2.5

Wind SSE force 7 backing to ESE force 4; sea moderate becoming slight; broken cloud with squalls and showers; air temperature average 41°F; sea average 47°F

7.10am: fired 2 rounds of 6” at a floating substance*

8.20am: engines at full speed to close SS Muirfield

8.55am: boarding officer left Cedric

9.20am: SS Muirfield proceeded

9.25am: boarding officer returned

9.28am: resumed course and speed at 60°54’N, 1°45’W

9.39am: signalled HMS Shannon

3.38pm: altered course to N85°W and various to close HMS Caesarea**

4.00pm: stopped

4.04pm: sent cutter to HMS Caesarea

4.24pm: cutter returned with prize crew for HMS Caribbean

4.28pm: full speed ahead; set course S70°E

4.40pm: signalled HMS Caribbean; altered course to S50°E

5.06pm: stop and engines to order

5.22pm: HMS Caribbean’s boat alongside Cedric

5.30pm: HMS Caribbean’s boat left with prize crew; set course S67°E

Distance run 254 miles


*[Note: since the loss of HMS Clan MacNaughton on February 3rd, and increasing reports of floating mines, awareness of this danger had increased.]


**[Note: HMS Caesarea was returning prize crews from Kirkwall to their ships, and as a former (and future) ferry-boat was not part of the main patrol but a supporting vessel which had been attached to the 10th Cruiser Squadron.]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce7b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-040_1.jpg)


14 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.8, Long -1.8

Wind N force 3 veering to NE force 7; sea slight becoming moderate; mainly overcast and cloudy with showers and squalls; air temperature 42-40°F; sea 48-45°F

0.10am: sighted steamer; altered course to close

2.40am: signalled and closed Swedish [sic; Danish-see below] steamer Oscar II

3.00am: boarding officer left Cedric with prize crew in position 61°06’N, 1°12’W

4.15am: Oscar II proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew

4.25am: boarding officer returned; resumed course N65°E, speed 64 revs

7.20am: challenged HMS Caribbean and received reply

8.00am: altered course to S80°W to close tug with sailing ship in tow

8.27am: altered course to S40°W; observed tug Achilles and sailing ship Lingard

8.45am: resumed course and speed

Distance run 299 miles


*[Note: this was quite an exciting day for HMS Cedric. The Admiralty had been informed that the Danish liner Oscar II (9,996 tons) had left New York on 4th February 1915 with material and persons which the British considered to be contraband, including alleged German reservists, and that she intended to avoid the patrols rather than calling in at Kirkwall. In readiness to intercept this ship, de Chair had moved the patrol line of “B” Patrol some 40 miles to the east, and Cedric intercepted Oscar II and after a chase, sent her with a prize crew to Kirkwall. See E. K.Chatterton, The Big Blockade, pages 112-3, and John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, pages 89-90]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce7c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-041_0.jpg)


15 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -2.7

Wind variable mainly ENE force 3-5; sea moderate; broken cloud with showers; air temperature average 40°F; sea average 47°F

4.15am: increased speed to 64 revs

5.45am: challenged steamer, working searchlight; not receiving prompt reply, engines to full speed; repaired to action stations

5.55am: challenged again and vessel found to be HMS Caribbean

6.00am: altered course to S80°W

8.00am: DR position 60°55’N, 1°33’W

2.45pm: sighted steamer bearing N; altered course to N10°E to intercept Danish SS Alexy

3.36pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°24’N, 3°40’W

4.10pm: boarding officer returned and Cedric circled around SS Alexy

5.45pm: SS Alexy proceeded on her voyage; set course S72°W, 62 revs

Distance run 299 miles



4caf8527cadfd3419700ce7d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-041_1.jpg)


16 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -6.0

Wind variable N force 4-3 later SE strengthening to force 7; sea slight becoming moderate; cloudy with showers later; air temperature 38-40°F; sea average 46°F

8.45am: sighted HMS Alsatian

9.00am: exercised guns’ crews; Cedric challenged, Alsatian replied

11.34am: stopped

11.40am: Alsatian sent boat to Cedric

11.50am: Alsatian’s boat left Cedric; full speed ahead course S20°W*

2.00pm: sighted HMS Caesarea; altered course to close; engines to order

3.00pm: stopped

3.06pm: sent boat to HMS Caesarea

3.18pm: boat returned with prize crew for HMS Patia;** in position 60°03’N, 5°53’W

3.27pm: set course S03°W, speed 64 revs

Distance run 245 miles


*[Note: Admiral de Chair reported that he had taken this opportunity to order Cedric back to Liverpool for coaling, so this boat was the bringer of good news to Cedric’s crew. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 90.]


**[Note: at this time “B” Patrol consisted of HMS Cedric, HMS Caribbean, HMS Patia and HMS Orotava]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce7e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-042_0.jpg)


17 February 1915

At sea [returning to Liverpool]

Lat 56.0, Long -7.0

Wind variable mainly S force 6-7; sea slight then moderate then slight; mainly overcast with rain squalls; air temperature average 44°F; sea 47°F

0.27am: Flannan Islands abeam

3.38am: Shillay Lighthouse on a 4 point bearing

4.40am: Shillay lighthouse abeam 9 miles; altered course to S15°W

8.00am: position off Barra Head 56°47’N, 7°48W

8.16am: Barra Head abeam 4 miles; altered course to S7°E

10.34am: answered challenge from HMS Teutonic

10.40am: Skerryvore Lighthouse abeam; altered course to S15°E

2.10pm: Oversay Island abeam 2 miles; altered course to S19°E

4.35pm: signalled HMS Tara

6.39pm: Maidens Lighthouse abeam 4 miles; altered course to S9°E

7.15pm: Copeland Lighthouse abeam 7 miles

7.43pm: Blackrock Lighthouse abeam 37 miles

10.35pm: Chicken Rock Lighthouse abeam 4 miles; altered course to S42°E

Distance run 318 miles


[Note; this time Cedric has not followed the route to the west and south of Tory Island, but has come straight down the Irish Sea. No reason is given for this change of route. Some attempts had been made to clear the minefield to the NE of Tory Island, but as late as March 16th 1916 the C-in-C ordered that all ships in the squadron should continue to use the Tory Island route when proceeding to and from their southern bases. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 397]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce7f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-042_1.jpg)


18 February 1915

At sea and at Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly SW force 4; sea slight; broken cloud and occasional rain showers; air temperature 42-48°F

2.30am: half speed and engines to order

2.42am: Bar Light Vessel abeam

3.00am: pilot boarded

3.17am: Formby Light Vessel abeam

3.32am: slow to close and hail examination vessel

3.52am: proceeded; engines at half speed and to order

4.17am: Rock Light abeam

4.20am: stopped

4.40am: anchored in 14 fathoms

4.47am: rung off engines

6.00am: hands employed as requisite. Draught of water: forward 28’7”, aft 29’6”, mean 20’05”, side 20’35”

9.30am: hands employed in preparing the ship for coaling and as requisite

12.30pm: engines to standby; shortened in cable

12.53pm: anchor aweigh

12.54pm: tug Brunswick secured alongside

1.05pm: proceeded to dock entrance

1.08-1.09pm: tugs Victoria and Magnetic secured alongside

1.24pm: alongside dock wall

1.35pm: tug Morpeth secured alongside

1.45pm: entered Sandon Basin

2.46pm: secured to No. 2 Wharf Canada Dock

3.16pm: rung off engines

4.15pm: 3rd watch proceeded on 4 days leave

4.30pm: gave special leave to watch until 7.00am

5.00pm: commenced coaling

6.30pm: exercised watch at fire stations

Coal remaining: 3627 tons*

Distance run 223 miles


*[Note that Cedric still has 3627 tons of coal even after arriving back in Liverpool, ostensibly to coal. In his report to the Admiralty, de Chair made the following observation: “Cedric arrived at Liverpool to coal. This ship carries 6000 tons of coal and can keep the sea for 43 days at 13 knots, but Caribbean who left Loch Ewe today to rejoin patrol is a very poor sea boat and carries only enough coal to keep the sea 11 days.” Clearly the Admiral felt it would be seen as unfair for Cedric’s crew to be kept out on patrol for such a long time, so in fairness, Cedric has been ordered back to Liverpool after 14 days on patrol. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 91]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce80: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-043_0.jpg)


19 February 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly W force 4; rain then cloudy; air temperature average 47°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

1.15pm: hands employed getting paymaster’s stores on board, and as requisite

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch

Coal remaining: 4889 tons


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce81: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-043_1.jpg)


20 February 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly W mainly force 2; broken cloud; air temperature 46-52°F

8.30am: hands employed getting out shell and as requisite

1.30pm: hands employed shifting the ship to No. 1 Wharf Canada Dock

5.00pm: gave special leave to watch

Coal remaining: 5579 tons


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce82: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-044_0.jpg)


21 February 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind E force 2 veering to SW force 2; broken cloud; air temperature 52°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

Coal remaining: 5928 tons


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce83: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-044_1.jpg)


22 February 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind very light 2-0 variable W and NE; misty; air temperature average 47°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.30am: RNVRs at boat-pulling exercise; rest of the hands employed as requisite

5.00pm: gave special leave to watch


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce84: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-045_0.jpg)


23 February 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NNW force 4-2; broken cloud and snow showers; air temperature 46°F

8.30am: hands employed shifting SS Georgie

9.45am: RNVRs in boat-pulling exercise

1.40pm: RNVRs in boat-pulling exercise; rest of the hands employed in getting in stores

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch

11.00pm: 3rd watch returned from long leave


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce85: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-045_1.jpg)


24 February 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly NW force 2; broken cloud; air temperature 45°F

8.30am: 1 marine joined the ship from Plymouth RMLI division

5.00pm: gave special leave to watch


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce86: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-046_0.jpg)


25 February 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 2; later no wind; broken cloud; later mist; air temperature 46-50°F

12.20pm: slipped and proceeded to berth in Huskisson Dock; tugs in attendance Wellington, Albert, Toxteth and Canada

12.55pm: entered Huskisson Dock

1.20pm: secured alongside wall at West Huskisson Dock

5.00pm: gave special leave to watch


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce87: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-046_1.jpg)


26 February 1915

At Liverpool and at sea [en route to Northern Patrol station]

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable NE force 2 rising to SW force 7 later; mainly gloomy, overcast and misty; air temperature average 45°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

1.30pm: hands employed in preparing for sea

4.00pm: guns’ crews refilling ready racks

6.34pm: engines to standby

6.41pm: slipped from berth in Huskisson Dock; tugs in attendance Alexandria, Trafalgar, Nelson and Canning; engines to order for undocking

7.44pm: rung off and engines to standby

8.35pm: engines to order

9.07pm: in river

10.00pm: rounded Askew Spit

10.15pm: Formby Light Vessel abeam

10.20pm: stopped and discharged pilot

10.25pm: ships’ tender Magnetic left

10.40pm: Bar Light Vessel abeam; set course N49°W

Coal remaining 5767 tons*


*[Note: reporting that Cedric was returning to patrol without a full complement of coal, Admiral de Chair stated that “Cedric left Liverpool 800 [sic] tons short of full stowage in consequence of a coal strike at that port.” Yet there is no record of such a strike, and the strike by miners in South Wales was not until July 1915. Therefore this may have been a small local dispute, or just a more general supply problem. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 95]


4caf8527cadfd3419700ce88: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37364/ADM 53-37364-047_0.jpg)


27 February 1915

At sea [en route to Northern Patrol station]

Lat 55.5, Long -6.5

Wind W force 7 backing to NW force 8; sea moderate becoming rough; broken cloud with squalls; air temperature 44-36°F; sea 44-46°F

2.45am: Chicken Rock Lighthouse abeam 7 miles; altered course to N5°W

5.02am: South Rock Lighthouse abeam

5.32am: Skulmartin Lighthouse abeam

6.17am: Copeland Lighthouse abeam 3¼ miles

6.44am: Blackhead Lighthouse abeam

7.22am: Maidens Lighthouse abeam; altered course to N22°W

8.00am: position 55°03’N, 5°49’W

8.52am: Torr Point abeam

9.17am: Rathlin Island abeam ½ mile

9.36am: Bull Point abeam 1½ miles; altered course to N

9.40am: in company with HMS King George V ; Dummy fleet

11.06am: Oversay Lighthouse abeam 2 miles; altered course to N14°W

2.15pm: Skerryvore Lighthouse abeam 8 miles; altered course to N7°W

4.00pm: evening quarters; read Warrants nos. 2, 3 4 and 5

5.00pm: Barra Head abeam 3 miles; altered course to N13°E

8.00pm: DR position 57°22’N, 7°57’W

8.10pm: Shillay Lighthouse abeam 9 miles; altered course to N24°E

11.27pm: Flannan Islands abeam 9½ miles; altered course to N52°E

Distance run 212 miles


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28 February 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -3.5

Wind mainly N force 7 reducing to S force 4; sea moderate; broken cloud with snow and hail showers and squalls; air temperature 36-40°F; sea 47-46°F

4.30am: altered course to N77°E

[am and pm: exercised crews]

3.50pm: sighted sailing ship bearing NW; engines to full speed to close

4.45pm: boarding officer left Cedric and boarded sailing vessel Pass-of Balmaha of Boston USA sailing from New York to Bremerhaven with a cargo of cotton* and stone ballast in position 60°17’N, 4°40’W

5.40pm: boarding officer returned

5.55pm: prize crew left Cedric

6.25pm: boat returned and hoisted; set course S75°E

Distance run 336 miles

*[Note: the cargo was actually coffee, and on March 9th, 1915, the Contraband Committee allowed the ship to proceed, as coffee was not yet on the contraband list. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 102]



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LOGS FOR MARCH 1915


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1 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -3.4

Wind mainly N force 2-3; sea smooth; broken cloud; air temperature average 43°F; sea 47°F

[am: hands employed cleaning ship and as requisite]

12.52pm: sighted steamer bearing WSW; altered course to S73°W

1.12pm: exchanged signals with HMS Orotava; resumed course S80°W

1.29pm: full speed

1.36pm: half speed, 62 revs

11.00pm: altered course to N08°W

Distance run 296 miles


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2 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.0, Long -7.0

Wind mainly N force 3; difficult sea with confused swell; mainly broken cloud with squalls; air temperature average 41°F; sea 46°F

7.10am: altered course to N82°W, speed to 70 revs

7.43am: full speed to close Russian SS Canada [also called Kanada]

8.15am: boarding officer left Cedric for SS Canada

8.55am: boarding officer returned

9.07am: full speed; set course S81°W

11.53am: sighted HMS Alsatian

1.58pm: stopped

2.02pm: lowered and sent cutter to HMS Alsatian

2.12pm: half speed ahead

2.45pm: cutter returned; in position 60°44’N, 7°47’W

2.52pm: hoisted cutter and set course S73°E

Distance run 314 miles


[Note: these log entries cover an unusual situation, which was reported to the Admiralty by Admiral de Chair as follows:”The Russian icebreaker Canada and the steamer Dwinsk, both on their way from Archangel to Barrow were met with, and the former, whose captain appeared to be doubtful of his position (he made Faroe Islands but thought he was off Out Skerries) and reported his engines in a bad way, was advised as to his course. Both vessels were given a safe route and instruction as directed by the Commander-in-Chief, and they proceeded in company. At 2.00pm I communicated with Cedric at a pre-arranged rendezvous and gave her all necessary

orders visually.” Hence the rendezvous with de Chair’s vessel Alsatian noted in the log. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 97]


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3 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -4.5

Wind mainly SSE and S force 6 rising to force 8; sea becoming rough; overcast with rain and squalls; air temperature average 41°F; sea 46-47°F

0.20am: altered course to S5°W

1.06am: half speed and engines to order for boarding purposes

1.30am: boarding officer left Cedric for Russian SS Canada in position 59°05’N, 6°24’W*

2.07am: boarding officer returned to Cedric

2.15am: set course N65°E, 60 revs

3.00am: Sulisker Rock [Sula Sgeir] abeam

12.42pm: altered course to close steamer; engines full speed

12.58pm: engines to half speed and to order to signal Danish steamer SS Kallundborg**

1.10pm: resumed course S81°W, 64 revs

3.25pm: stopped and signalled to Norwegian SS Galacia in position 60°10’N, 4°27’W

4.00pm: set course N80°E, 64 revs

Distance run 295 miles


*[Note: presumably to give Canada her sailing orders from Admiral de Chair-see above]


**[Note: both the Kallundborg and the Pass-of-Balmaha (see log 28th February) were also stopped by HMS Patia in these same few days, the latter vessel with the Cedric’s prize crew already aboard, so the blockade is being quite effective. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 102]


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4 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -2.2

Wind mainly WSW force 8 reducing to force 4; sea very rough becoming rough; overcast with squalls am; air temperature average 43°F; sea 46°F

6.40am: altered course to S22°E and various to intercept steamer

6.45am: increased to 64 revs and resumed course*

8.45am: altered course to N60°W

9.00am: altered course to N43°W

10.30am: altered course to N20°W; reduced to 64 revs

11.00am: sighted and signalled to HMS Patia

1.45pm: altered course to S19°W

2.52pm: sighted vessel bearing S21°E; altered course to S20°E; full speed to intercept vessel

3.50pm: signalled Norwegian steamer Bergensfjord on passage from “Bergen” [ sic] to “New York” [sic] in position 61°00’N, 2°40’W **

4.00pm: boarding officer left Cedric

4.33pm: boarding officer returned

4.45pm: set course N, speed 56 revs

8.05pm: sighted steamer bearing SE; full ahead

8.15pm: slow and engines to order

8.55pm: closed Norwegian steamer Hans Gude at 61°33’N, 2°36’W

8.42pm: boarding officer left Cedric

9.20pm: boarding officer returned

9.30pm: slow ahead, to circle around the steamer

10.37pm: prize crew left Cedric for Hans Gude

11.00pm: boat returned

11.15pm: set course S37°W

Distance run 262 miles


*[Note: presumably this was a fast liner which outran Cedric]


**[Note: the quotation marks imply mistrust of the information given by the liner, and indeed the Bergensfjord was something of a bete noir for the 10th Cruiser Squadron, being accused of running German reservists back to the fatherland from America, and also being involved in the von Wedel affair. (See note to the log 8th January above.) Chatterton refers to “the notorious Bergensfjord”-my emphasis. He also refers to the ship as “The German Atlantic ferry.” (See E K Chatterton, The Big Blockade page 128 and page 156). This time, of course, the Bergensfjord was westbound.]


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5 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.3, Long -3.0

Wind mainly westerly mainly force 4-5; sea moderate then slight; broken cloud then overcast; air temperature average 43°F; sea average 47°F

2.00am: sighted steamer bearing SSE; engines to full speed; altered course to S30°E to close

2.12am: half speed, and engines to order; stella observation 61°07’N, 2°41’W

2.27am: closed Norwegian steamer Libra

2,35am: boarding officer left Cedric

3.13am: boarding officer returned

3.18am: slow ahead, and circled around steamer

4.00am: steamer allowed to proceed

[am: exercised crews]

2.00pm: exercised searchlight crews and seaboats’ crews; stopped engines to fire at a floating object

3.26pm: full ahead and courses various to intercept steamer

3.45pm: slow and engines to order

3.48pm: hailed Grimsby trawler Grebe, no. 219, on passage from Iceland to Grimsby

3.52pm: full ahead to intercept sailing ship

4.08pm: reduced to 64 revs

4.21pm: signalled Norwegian barque Bonovento in position 61°25’N, 3°23’W

4.30pm: set course N57°E, 64 revs

7.00pm: altered course to S19°W

Distance run 242 miles


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6 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -3.0

Wind mainly NNW force 6-7; sea moderate to rough; cloudy then broken cloud and squalls; air temperature 42-40°F; sea 46°F

4.30am: altered course to S19°W

8.00am: DR position 60°30’W, 3°00’W

9.20am: challenged HMS Teutonic; received reply

12.50pm: altered course to N19°E

1.00pm: hands making and mending clothes

4.00pm: altered course to S19°W

Coal expended: 152 tons: remaining: 4402 tons

Distance covered 283 miles


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7 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly NE force 6-7; sea moderate to rough; overcast with showers then squalls; air temperature 42°F; sea 46°F

6.53am: Foula Island bearing S50°E (magnetic)

10.45am: engines to full speed and courses various to intercept Swedish sailing vessel Valkyrian on passage from Gothenberg to “Dakar” [sic]

11.35am: set course S, revs 64

4.00pm: set course S19°W

[pm: exercised crews]

Distance run 287 miles


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8 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.7, Long -2.4

Wind mainly N (NNE to NNW) force 4; sea moderate; broken cloud; air temperature average 42°F; sea 46°F

1.00am: altered course to N79°E

9.45am: altered course to S79°W

[am: hands employed cleaning ship, in crew exercises and aiming practice]

1.06pm: sighted steamer bearing N70°W; altered course to N60°W to intercept; engines to full speed

1.23pm: engines to half speed and to order to close with “American” [sic] SS Oliver J Olston [sic: actually OliverJ Olson] on passage from Galveston USA to Bremen with a cargo of cotton

1.48pm: boarding officer and prize crew left Cedric in position 60°36’N, 2°53’W

2.20pm: boarding officer returned

2.23pm: set course N15°E; SS Oliver J Olston [sic] proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew

3.50pm: challenged HMS Teutonic and received reply

3.54pm: reduced to 64 revs, and altered course to intercept HMS Teutonic

4.05pm: stopped

4.15pm: sent boat to HMS Teutonic

4.36pm: boat returned

4.42pm: set course S21°W

7.15pm: altered course to N17°E

10.00pm: altered course to S21°W

Distance run 282 miles


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9 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -3.6

Wind W veering NW force 5 later W force 6; sea moderate to rough; overcast; air temperature average 45°F, sea 47°F

7.45am: sighted steamer bearing N35°E; engines to order to close Danish steamer Tomsk on passage from Newcastle to Philadelphia with general cargo

8.00am: DR position 60°40’N, 3°00’W

8.05am: boarding officer left Cedric

8.35am: boarding officer returned in position 60°40’N, 2°50’W

8.40am: set course S78°W, 64 revs

9.55am: signalled Norwegian steamer Rundo [sic] on passage from Swansea to “Allsund” [sic: Alesund, Norway] with a cargo of salt

10.00am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°36’N, 3°05’W

10.20am: Rundo proceeded

10.22am: boarding officer returned

10.34am: set course S78°W

2.04pm: set course to S; engines to slow and to order to close Norwegian barque

2.11pm: set course N81°W, 72 revs*

4.00pm: engines to slow and to order for boarding HMS Duke of Albany** with prize crews for HMS's Hilary, Virginian, Otway and Cedric

Distance run 267 miles


*[Note: there is no further mention in the log of the sailing barque]


**[Note: HMS Duke of Albany had been sent from Scapa Flow at the end of February to act as a support vessel]


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10 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.0, Long -7.0

Wind W then WSW force 5; sea moderate; overcast with mist and fog; air temperature average 45°F; sea 46-47°F

[am and pm: exercised crews]

4.20pm: sighted HMS Otway bearing N25°W; altered course to intercept

4.27pm: engines stopped and as required in position 61°00’N, 7°05’W

4.43pm: Otway’s boat alongside

4.50pm: Otway’s boat left with prize crew

4.52pm: set course S80°W, 60 revs

9.39pm: sighted HMS Virginian; altered course to close

9.54pm: engines slow and to order to close Virginian

10.35pm: Virginian’s boat alongside

10.38pm: boat left with part of prize crew

11.00pm: boat returned

11.03pm: boat left with remainder of prize crew

11.06pm: set course N86°W, 50 revs

Distance run 263 miles


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11 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -6.0

Wind NW force 5 reducing to force 3; sea moderate becoming slight; broken cloud with showers and mist later; air temperature average 46°F; sea 47°F

6.37am: set course S50°E

6.39am: closed HMS Hilary

6.54am: engines slow and to order

6.58am: stop in position 60°55’N, 7°02’W

7.12am: Hilary’s boat alongside

7.17am: boat left with prize crew

7.40am: set course S62°E, 64 revs

11.35am: closed Norwegian barque Grand Grimstad [sic: possibly Grimstad] on passage from Copenhagen to New York in ballast

11.40am: set course S77°E

6.30pm: challenged HMS Orotava and received reply

8.15pm: engines slow and to order to close with Danish steamer Kentucky on passage from Newcastle to Boston with general cargo

8.31pm: set course N87°E, 48 revs

Coal remaining: 3628 tons

Distance run 228 miles


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12 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -3.7

Wind NW force 4 backing to WNW force 6; sea slight becoming moderate; overcast with mist in the morning; air temperature 43-47°F; sea 46-48°F

9.02am: slow engines

9.05am: fired at a floating object

9.06am: increased to 60 revs

10.15am: hands employed; 1st watch, squad drill; 2nd watch, physical drill; 3rd watch, seamanship; marines, infantry drill

3.25pm: slow; arrived at rendezvous 60°05½’N, 5°00’W; altered course to S to close HMS Duke of Albany; engines to [order]

3.50pm: first cutter left Cedric for Duke of Albany

4.15pm: second cutter left Cedric

4.25pm: first cutter returned with prize crew

4.47pm: second cutter returned

4.52pm: set course N78°E, 62 revs

11.20pm: altered course to S7°E, engines to full speed*

Distance run 277 miles


*[Note: Cedric had clearly received the signal to go to the aid of the ship at Fair Isle-see next log entry.]


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13 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.6, Long -1.8

Wind mainly NW force 5 rising to force 7; sea moderate becoming rough; overcast with mist, squalls and showers; air temperature 46°F; sea 47-48°F

3.20am: sighted Skroo Lighthouse [Fair Isle]; altered course to S

3.26am: half speed; courses various

3.42am: engines stop and to order to await daylight to send boats to assistance of SS Canadia* on Fair Island [sic]

5.15am: boats left Cedric

6.18am: boats returned unable to render any assistance

8.00am: DR position 59°38’N, 1°53’W

Distance run 261 miles


*[Note: This Danish freighter was originally on passage from Galveston to Christiania, but was then intercepted by HMS Hilary and was bound for Kirkwall with a British prize crew (led by Lieut Herbert Spencer, RNR) and a cargo of 8000 tons of cotton and flour. The vessel stranded on Hellie Stack or Fugla Stack, Fair Isle. There was no loss of life, and the islanders saved much of the cargo for their own consumption. See E Keble Chatterton, The Big Blockade, Blackett, 1932, pages 125-126 for a detailed account of the loss of the Canadia.]

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14 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -3.9

Wind NW backing to WSW generally force 6; sea moderate; broken cloud then overcast with some mist; air temperature 47°F; sea 48°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

10.10pm: sighted Sule Skerry S7°W (true)

Number on sick list: 2

Distance run 281 miles


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15 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.0, Long -6.4

Wind W veering to WNW then NW mainly force 7; sea moderate to rough; overcast then broken cloud with showers; air temperature mainly 47°F; sea 48°F

8.58am: full speed to intercept sailing ship bearing N20°W; altered course to N15°W

9.16am: altered course to N26°W

9.20am: altered course to N60°W

9.23am: half speed and to order to close sailing ship

9.29am: resumed course N8°W, 64 revs

Distance run 285 miles


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16 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.1, Long -6.4

Wind N (NW through to NE) force 5; sea moderate; broken cloud with some snow showers; air temperature 47°F dropping to 33°F; sea 46-38°F

6.00am: altered course to N8°W

Sumbo Light bearing 334° 20 miles

Number on sick list: 2

Coal remaining: 2860 tons

Distance run 288 miles


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17 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -5.7

Wind mainly N force 5; sea slight to moderate; broken cloud with some snow showers; air temperature average 34°F; sea average 45°F

12.07pm: set course to S22°E

2.03pm: intercepted Norwegian SS Corona*

2.05pm: engines stop and to order, to close

2.15pm: boarding officer and prize crew left Cedric in position 60°05½’N, 5°00’W

2.45pm: SS Corona proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew

2.46pm: boarding officer returned

2.52pm: set course S22°W, 60 revs

3.25pm: altered course to S6°W to close HMS Duke of Albany

3.38pm: engines stop and to order

3.48pm: sent boat to HMS Duke of Albany in position 60°00’N, 5°00’W

4.00pm: boat returned with prize [crew] for HMS Otway

4.15pm: set course N16°W, 60 revs

Distance run 285 miles


*[Note: this ship was ultimately to meet her end in company with ships of the 10th Cruiser Squadron. On October 16th 1915, HMS Hildebrand boarded the Corona, but the Master claimed the ship had sprung a leak and was sinking, so Hildebrand took her crew on board. Hildebrand, escorted by HMS Hilary, attempted to tow her into Stornoway, but the cable parted and on the orders of the C-in-C, she was abandoned and sunk. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 287-288.]


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18 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.3, Long -7.6

Wind N force 6 reducing to force 4; sea moderate; hail and snow showers am, broken cloud pm; air temperature 36-38°F; sea 44-46°F

6.00am: stella obs. 61°01’N, 7°01’W

6.04am: bearing of Vigerburg Mountains [Faroes] N38°30’ (magnetic)*

7.30am: altered course to N21°W

9.45am: challenged HMS Otway

9.56am: engines stop and to order

10.10am: Otway’s boat alongside in position 61°30’N, 8°00’W

10.14am: Otway’s boat left with prize crew

10.15am: hands to physical drill

10.32am: set course S23°E, 62 revs

[pm exercised all crews}

Distance run 259 miles



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19 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -4.2

Wind W then veering N then NNE; sea moderate then rough; broken cloud with snow and rain squalls; air temperature 36 dropping to 31°F; sea average 45°F

5.00am: altered course to S85°W

5.17am: increased to 62 revs

5.22am: altered course to N80°W

5.40am: altered course to N65°W

5.42am: engines stop and to order to close Swedish steamer Polly of Denmark* on passage from Grimsby to Iceland

5.45am: altered course to N43°W

10.15am: exercised ‘abandon ship’ stations

11.12am: altered course to S79°W

Coal remaining: 2405 tons; water remaining: 895.39 tons

Distance run 283 miles


*[Note: this is a confusing entry into the log. It is actually written ‘Swedish steamer “Polly” of Denmark’, perhaps ruling out the idea that the ship was named ‘Polly of Denmark’, which in any event would be an unusual name for a Swedish vessel. There is no record of a Swedish vessel of that name or ‘Polly’ at that time, but there was a Danish cargo ship Polly in service at the time, so that seems to be the most likely explanation.]


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20 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -4.2

Wind variable-mainly SSW veering to NW force 7-5; sea moderate; generally cloudy with some snow squalls; air temperature 30-42°F; sea average 45°F; [a very mixed day]

1.28am: Muckle Flugga Light abeam 17 miles

2.00am: Muckle Flugga Light bearing S18°E

1.00pm: hands make and mend clothes

Distance run 287 miles


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21 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -3.6

Wind NW force 5 rising to force 9; sea slight becoming fairly rough; broken cloud with showers then hail squalls; air temperature 38-32°F; sea 46-43°F [temperature entries pm only]

9.25am: full speed ahead to intercept steamer; courses various

10.25am: slow and to order, to close with Swedish steamer Nordstjernan on passage from Christiania to Carnmilla Point [sic]*, with general cargo, in position 60°14’N, 3°37’W

11.10am: set course N80°W, 56 revs

4.13pm: set course S62°E, increased to 62 revs

7.13pm: stella obs. 60°20’N, 3°36’ W

Distance run 298 miles


*[Note: it is not clear where this destination is or was; possibly Carville, Louisiana, USA, or Manila? Perhaps the most likely is “Sevilla Port”, which may have been shouted or signalled in a force 9 gale]


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22 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -3.2

Wind am NW to NNE force 7 reducing to force 4, pm SSE force 3-5; sea rough reducing to slight; broken cloud with squalls in the am, overcast later; air temperature 33 to 44°F then 40°F; sea 43-46°F

2.25am: Muckle Flugga Light abeam 18 miles

2.30am: altered course to S84°W; Muckle Flugga Light bearing S9°E

7.45am: full speed; altered course to N to close sailing vessel

8.45am: engines to order; closed and signalled Danish sailing vessel Thuro on passage from “Nantes” [sic] to “Malmo” [sic]

8.51am: set course S60°W, 62 revs

10.55am: fired at a floating object

3.00pm: altered course to N79°E, reduced to 60 revs

5.30pm: altered course to S80°E to intercept steamer

5.55pm: engines to slow and to order to close Danish steamer Tiber on passage from Newcastle to Marseille with a cargo of coal

6.00pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°26’N, 3°24’W

6.23pm: boarding officer returned

6.26pm: resumed course and speed

10.00pm: altered course and speed to rendezvous with HMS Alsatian in position 60°00’N, 10°00’W

Distance run 279 miles


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23 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -8.2

Wind am SW force 5, pm NE force 3-5; sea slight to moderate; broken cloud, overcast later; air temperature average 45°F; sea average 46°F

[am exercised crews and hands to physical drill]

3.05pm: sighted HMS Alsatian bearing N; altered course to N20° and various

3.20pm: half speed and to order, to keep station on Alsatian

3.45pm: Alsatian’s boat alongside

4.00pm: Alsatian’s boat left*

4.25pm: set course S80°E, revs to order

Coal remaining: 1761 tons

Number on sick list: 3

Distance run 320 miles


*[Note: Admiral de Chair reported that he met with Cedric at this location in order to update Cedric’s captain on the disposition of patrols. “B” Patrol was now to consist of HMSs Cedric, Columbella, Caribbean and Patia, and was ordered to cross a centre line 350° from Lat 60°35’N (60.583) Long 3°00’W (-3.00) daily at 8.00am, steering to make good 240°; ships from south to north 20 miles apart. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, pages 125-126. Midshipman Scrimgeour reported that at this meeting, Admiral de Chair had again taken over command of the 10th Cruiser Squadron from Captain Benson, as the former was back on patrol. He also notes that the crew of Cedric reported that they had “experienced the coldest weather of the winter” in the previous few days. See Alexander Scrimgeour, Scrimgeour’s Small Scribbling Diary 1914-1916, Conway, 2008 page 161].


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24 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -4.1

Wind NE force 5 rising to NNE force 7; sea slight becoming moderate; broken cloud, overcast later; air temperature 40-36°F; sea 46°F

8.05am: challenged HMS Caribbean and received reply

10.15am: 1st watch to physical drill, 2nd watch to squad drill, 3rd watch to seamanship

Distance run 292 miles


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25 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -4.1

Wind NNE force 5-7; sea moderate to rough; broken cloud then overcast with squalls, some of hail; air temperature average 35°F; sea average 45°F

2,35am: Muckle Flugga Light abeam 15 miles

[am and pm: exercised all crews]; 1st watch to seamanship

Distance run 300 miles on zigzag courses


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26 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -4.1

Wind NNE force 7; sea rough; broken cloud with squalls, some hail; air temperature average 37°F; sea 46°F

1.10am: Muckle Flugga Light abeam

8.09am: full speed to intercept Danish steamer William on passage from Copenhagen to New York in ballast

Coal remaining: 1288 tons

Distance run 296 miles


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27 March 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.0, Long -3.5

Wind ENE force 5-6 backing to NE force 6; sea moderate; broken cloud with some snow squalls; air temperature average 38°F; sea 46°F

2.00am: altered course to S82°W; Muckle Flugga Light bearing S24°E

[am: hands employed cleaning ship]

3.00pm: altered course to N17°E

Coal remaining: 1135 tons; water remaining: 676.65 tons

Distance run 296 miles


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28 March 1915

At patrol [beginning the return to Liverpool]

Lat 59.1, Long -7.5

Wind mainly NE force 4; sea slight; broken cloud; air temperature 39 rising to 48°F; sea 46°F

9.45am: hands to ‘abandon ship’ stations, and turned all boats out

10.00am: divisions

10.30am: divine service

1.00pm: courses various to intercept steamer

2.05pm: full speed

2,21pm: half speed and to order

2,22pm: signalled Danish steamer Denmark on passage from Ardrossan to Aarhus with a cargo of oilcake in position 58°47’N, 7°28’W

2.34pm: boarding officer left Cedric

2.52pm: SS Denmark proceeded on voyage

2.57pm: boarding officer returned

3.00pm: set course S47°W, 52 revs

7.58pm: Flannan Islands abeam 13 miles

8.00pm: X [cross] bearings 58°17’N, 8°00’W; altered course to S21°W, increased to 58 revs

Distance run 289 miles



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29 March 1915

At sea [on passage back to Liverpool]

Lat 55.3, Long -6.4

Wind variable force 2; sea smooth; broken cloud; air temperature 41-46 then 38°F; sea 46°F

4.50am: Barra Head abeam 11 miles; altered course to S4°E

9.25am: fired at and exploded a drifting mine in position 55°46’N, 7°12’W*

10.10am: challenged HMS Garry and received reply

10.52am: Inishtrahull bearing N70°W (magnetic); altered course to S50°E, HMS Garry escorting**

12.35pm: HMS Thorn escorting

12.40pm: Bull Point abeam

1.03pm: Rathlin Island abeam; courses various

1.25pm: altered course to S18°E

1.27pm: Torr Point abeam

1.35pm: HMS Thorn left

2.43pm: Maidens Light abeam; altered course to S8°E

2.25pm: HMS Garry left

3.43pm: Copeland abeam

5.00pm: altered course to S4°E

5.08pm: South Rock Light abeam

6.00pm: altered course to S15°W

6.40pm: Chickens Light abeam 10 miles

7.08pm: altered course to S52°E

11.28pm: engines to standby

11.29pm: Bar Lightship abeam

11.31pm: slow

11.32pm: stop and engines to order, to embark pilot

11.50pm: tug Trafalgar alongside with pilot “Mr Ankers” [sic]

11.53pm: Formby Lightship abeam

11.55pm: full ahead

11.57pm: slow and to order

Distance run 309 miles


*[Note: this event was reported to the Admiralty. It is likely this was one of the mines drifting north from the minefield laid off Tory Island. However, in Admiral de Chair’s report to the Admiralty, the position of the explosion is given as 55°46’N, 9°48’W.]


**[Note: because of the supposed sighting of a U-boat by the steamer Grodno in the vicinity of Fair Isle on March 27th, the SNO Larne was requested to provide a destroyer escort for Cedric on this voyage down to Liverpool, but according to de Chair’s report, “none was available”. As the log shows that Cedric was indeed being escorted by destroyers, namely HMSs Thorn and Garry, this report appears to have done a dis-service to the SNO Larne. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 128.]


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30 March 1915

At Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm then N force 2; broken cloud; air temperature 38 rising to 42°F; sea 44°F

0.30am: rounded Askey Spit and proceeded up the harbour

0.34am: Rock Light abeam

0.58am: Prince’s Landing Stage abeam

1.02am: anchored; port anchor, 75 fathoms of chain

1.45am: tug alongside

5.55am: swung to flood tide

7.35am: ships’ tender Magnetic alongside

9.00am: hands employed preparing the ship for coaling

10.30am: exercised boat stations, and turned in boats

10.37am: engines to standby and to order

11.30am: rung off; swung to ebb tide

1.15pm: hands employed preparing ship for coaling, and as requisite; draught: forward 25’8”, mean 27’1”, aft, 28’6”, side 22’3”

5.40pm: engines to standby and to order

6.23pm: rung off; swung to flood tide

11.45pm: swung to ebb tide

Ebb tide bearings:

Ship’s Head S

Seacombe stage: N23°E

Woodside Ferry: S36°W

Prince’s Pier: S77°E

Flood tide bearings:

Ship’s Head: N

Dock Office: N61°E

Vauxhall Chimney: N42°E

Birkenhead Stage: S50°W


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31 March 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; gentle E breeze; misty then broken cloud; air temperature 39 rising to 48°F

8.20am: hands employed placing hawsers; preparing ship to go into docks, and as requisite

9.45am: engines to standby and shortened in cable

10.43am: anchor aweigh; engines to order for docking; tugs in attendance Brocklebank, Trafalgar and Victoria

11.06am: alongside wall

11.09am: entered Sandon Lock

12.54pm: secured to berth in Canada Dock; rung off engines

1.00pm: discharged 1 man to hospital

4.30pm: 1st watch and 1st part of 2nd watch proceeded on 4 days leave

9.00pm: 6 stokers and 1 AB RFR joined ship from Devonport Depot


[Note: the log for this day is signed by Captain Benson]


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LOGS FOR APRIL 1915


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[J Carter signs April 1915 log as Navigating Officer]

[R E R Benson signs April 1915 log as Captain]

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1 April 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SSE force 2 backing to E; cloudy then broken cloud; air temperature average 48°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed getting out ammunition

5.00pm: gave special leave to watch

6.00pm: hands employed in getting in projectiles [sic]

6.30pm: 2 ABs and 2 Boys joined ship from the depot

8.30pm: 1 marine joined ship from Plymouth Divisions


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2 April 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm then SW force 2; broken cloud and cloudy with some rain; air temperature 48-50°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed getting in ammunition

1.15pm: gave special leave to watch


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3 April 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm-no wind; overcast with some rain; air temperature 51-57°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed in hauling off ship and placing coal lighters

10.00am: hands employed provisioning ship

1.15pm: gave special leave to watch; hands make and mend clothes

4.00pm: evening quarters; read Warrant No. 7*


*[Note: Midshipman Scrimgeour reported that on this day on HMS Alsatian, “the Captain read out letters of congratulations, to the ship’s company, from the Lords of the Admiralty and from the C-in-C, Admiral Jellicoe, to Rear-Admiral de Chair, on the work of the 10th cruiser patrols.” It is likely, therefore, that the same message was read out to the crew of Cedric. See Alexander Scrimgeour, Scrimgeour’s Small Scribbling Diary 1914-1916, Conway, 2008 page 162.]


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4 April 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm then NW force 4 later; mainly cloudy; air temperature average 54°F

6.00am: hands employed in hauling off ship and placing coal lighters

7.00am: liberty men returned

10.00am: divisions and prayers; R.C. Chaplain came from shore; celebrated Mass on board*

1.15pm: gave special leave to watch

6.45pm: hands employed in hauling off ship and placing coal lighters


*[Note: this was Easter Sunday in 1915]


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5 April 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 4 reducing to calm; broken cloud and cloud; air temperature average 49°F

6.00am: hands employed in hauling off ship and placing coal lighters

7.00am: liberty men returned

1.15pm: gave special leave to watch; hands make and mend articles


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6 April 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm, then NE then W force 2; broken cloud and cloud, some rain later; air temperature average 53°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

7.30am: 1st watch and part of 2nd watch returned from 4 days leave

8.00am: hands employed provisioning ship

1.15pm: hands employed provisioning ship

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch


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7 April 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 3; cloud with some rain; air temperature average 50°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed provisioning ship

1.15pm: hands employed provisioning ship

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch

6.30pm: 2 ERAs joined ship from Devonport Depot


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8 April 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable; NE force 3 through to W force 5; broken cloud then cloud; air temperature average 50°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed in getting in stores

1.15pm: hands employed in painting ship’s sides and getting in stores

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch

6.30pm: 2 ERAs joined ship from Devonport Depot


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9 April 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind W force 7-8 reducing to NW force 3; cloudy and overcast with rain later; air temperature average 53°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: discharged 2 ERA's [Engine Room Artificers] to Devonport Depot; hands employed in cleaning ship

am: completed with coal; received 6189 tons, 17 cwts

1.15pm: hands employed in painting ship’s sides and getting in stores


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10 April 1915

At Liverpool and at sea [en route to patrol area]

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 2; broken cloud then overcast with rain; air temperature average 47°F

4.55am: engines to standby; slipped from wall; tugs in attendance Trafalgar, Wallassey, and Alexandria; engines to order for undocking

5.53am: entered Huskisson Dock

6.12am: entered Sandon Basin

6.34am: secured alongside SS Mauretania

7.46am: slipped and proceeded out of docks

7.54am: entered river; engines to order

8.20am: anchored in 13½ fathoms with 75 fathoms of chain

8.28am: rung off engines

9.30am: hands employed preparing for sea and cleaning ship; swung to ebb tide

Draught of water leaving Liverpool: forward 30’6”, aft 30’4”, mean 30’6½”, side 18’10”

3.40pm: exercised ‘abandon ship’ and turned out all boats

7.30pm: shortened in cable

7.56pm: anchor aweigh; engines to order and proceeded out of harbour

8.19pm: Rock Light abeam

9.00pm: stopped and discharged pilot

9.03pm: Formby Light Vessel abeam

9.07pm: full ahead

9.22pm: Bar Light Vessel abeam

9.24pm: set course N57°W; in company with HMS Dove

9.43pm: 72 revs

10.25pm: Great Ormes Head abeam

11.00pm: exercised guns’ crews and searchlight crews; HMS Dove proceeded

11.30pm: exercised sea boats’ crews


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11 April 1915

At sea [towards patrol]

Lat 55.4, Long -7.1

Wind mainly NW reducing from force 6 to force 3; sea slight; showers and overcast with mist later; air temperature average 48°F; sea 47°F

2.45am: altered course to N45°E

3.05am: St Johns Point abeam 17 miles

4.02am: Rock Light abeam 8½ miles; altered course to N16°E

4.36am: altered course to N14°W; Copeland Light abeam 5 miles

7.00am: Maidens Light abeam 3 miles; altered course to N22°W

7.10am: met and escorted by HMS Garry*

8.27am: Torr Head abeam 1 mile

8.45am: altered course to N50°W; Rue Point abeam

9.00am: altered course to N50°W

9.05am: Mull Point abeam; parted company with HMS Garry

11.05: altered course to N4°W

12.30pm: met HMS Hildebrand

5.00pm: altered course to N21°E

6.15pm: altered course to N31°E

9.50pm: altered course to N21°E

Distance run 242 miles


*[Note: so once again an anti-submarine destroyer escort has been provided around the northern Irish coast]


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12 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -7.4

Wind W veering NW force 6-7; sea moderate to rough; overcast then broken cloud with showers; air temperature average 47°F; sea 48°F

8.00am: DR position 59°48’N, 8°00’W

9.10am: altered course to S69°E

2.00pm: sighted HMS Alsatian; altered course to S70°E to close

2.34pm: full speed to keep station with HMS Alsatian

4.15pm: stopped and sent boat to HMS Alsatian in position 60°13’N, 6°02’W*

4.18pm: half ahead, and engines to order

4.53pm: boat returned

5.00pm: set speed at 64 revs and course N21°E

5.14pm: reduced to 62 revs and various speeds

5.55pm: altered course to N22°W, 66 revs

6.20pm: course N21°E, 64 revs

Distance run 331 miles


*[Note: on 11th April 1915 “in order to meet the altered conditions caused by short nights and the passage of shipping north of Iceland during the summer months” the patrol areas were changed. “B” Patrol was withdrawn, and Cedric was allocated to “C” Patrol south of the Faroe Islands and in company with HMSs Patia, Orotava, Oropesa, Changuinola, Motagua, Digby and Patuca. Captain Benson in Cedric was designated the Senior Officer for this group. “C” Patrol had to cross the centre line from Lat 58°30’N, Long 8°00’W at noon daily, steering to make good 240°, with ships 25 miles apart from S to N. Admiral De Chair reported that he rendezvoused with Cedric in order to brief Captain Benson on the altered patrol arrangements. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 133-135.]


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13 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.5, Long -7.1

Wind NW force 4-5 am, W force 4-7 pm; sea moderate; broken cloud but also overcast with rain; air temperature average 47°F; sea 48°F

[Zigzag course; N79°E, S81°W]

12.30pm: altered course to S71°W to intercept steamer

12.45pm: altered course to S45°W

1.45pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer SS Fridtjof Nansen on passage from Newcastle to New York in ballast in position 59°38’N, 7°30’W

1.42pm: resumed course, speed 66 revs

1.45pm: set course S87°W

3.23pm: closed with Swedish steamer SS Talavera on passage from New York to Goteborg [Gothenburg] with a cargo of corn; engines to order

3.40pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°33’N, 8°14’W

4.22pm: boarding officer returned; SS Talavera proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew

4.28pm: set course S87°W, 66 revs

4.40pm: altered course to S75°E to make further signal to SS Talavera

5.30pm: altered course to W

8.39pm: altered course to N81°E

Distance run 314 miles


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14 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.5, Long -6.3

Wind mainly W force 6; sea moderate to rough; overcast with some mist and rain, broken cloud later; air temperature average 49°F; sea 48°F

4.40am: altered course to S74°E

4.42am: sighted and challenged HMS Teutonic and received reply

5.20am: engines slow and to order

5.40am: sent boat to HMS Teutonic with ratings; signalled HMS Patia to close

6.10am: boat returned

6.15am: resumed patrol

6.20am: set course S81°W in position 60°00’N, 6°10’W

9.08am: altered course to S20°E and various courses to intercept steamer

9.44am: slow and to order to close Swedish SS Carolina in position 59°54’N, 6°18’W on passage from Charleston USA to “Goteborg” [sic] with a cargo of cotton

10.25am: boarding officer and prize crew left Cedric

10.55am: SS Carolina proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew*

11.00am: boarding officer returned

11.04am: set course S85°W, 64 revs

Coal remaining: 5929 tons

Distance run 264 miles


*[Note: the Contraband Committee recommended that the cargo of 2600 tons of cotton should be purchased rather than go on to Sweden; the purchase was recorded as going through on 28th April 1915. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 134.]


[Note: according to Admiral de Chair’s report to the Admiralty, at 4.00am on April 14th Cedric reported the sighting of a large submarine steering SW at Lat 59°55’N, Long 7°38’W, although there is no mention in the log. As a result, “C” Patrol was temporarily moved to the eastward as a precautionary measure. It may have been this sighting which caused Teutonic and Patia to come onto the scene shortly after the sighting, as recorded in the log. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 134.]


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15 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.5, Long -4.7

Wind am NW force 4 pm W force 6; sea slight becoming moderate; cloudy then broken cloud with squalls; air temperature 50-48°F; sea 48°F

6.00am: altered course to intercept steamer

6.15am: engines to slow and as needed to close Danish SS Louisiana of Copenhagen

6.34am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°50’N, 3°08’W

7.08am: boarding officer returned

7.12am: half ahead and circled round steamer

7.50am: engines stop and to order

7.55am: prize crew left Cedric

8.10am: SS Louisiana proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew

8.15am: boat returned; slow ahead course S81°W

10.00am: engines slow and to order; exercised general quarters, and carried out 1” electric aiming practice

10.36am: set course S81°W, 72 revs

11.15am: reduced to 64 revs

6.45pm: altered course to S60°E; engines full speed to close steamer

7.15pm: signalled HMS Hilary

11.15pm: altered course to N80°E

Distance run 310 miles


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16 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -6.2

Wind mainly NW force 7; sea rough; broken cloud with squalls of rain, hail and snow; air temperature 43°F dropping to 38°F; sea average 47°F

8.00am: DR position 60°25’N, 5°00’W

2.15pm: altered course to S20°W to intercept sailing vessel bearing S20°W

2.33pm: engines to slow and to order, to close [Norwegian] sailing vessel Kentigern, on passage from Fredrikstad to Dublin with a cargo of trees in position 59°46’N, 6°50’W

3.06pm: slow ahead

3.10pm: half speed

3.13pm: set course W, 60 revs

5.40pm: signalled Norwegian sailing vessel Vikar on passage from Stavanger to Halifax [Nova Scotia] with a cargo of gravel

6.10pm: altered course to N70°E to intercept steamer; engines to full speed

6.58pm: half speed and to order to close Swedish SS Torgerd on passage from New “Orleans” [sic] to “Malmo” [sic] with a cargo of oilcake in position 59°42’N, 7°32’W

7.37pm: half speed

Distance run 314 miles


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17 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -4.9

Wind NW force 5 backing W force 7; sea moderate becoming rough; broken cloud am, squalls pm; air temperature 38 rising to 46°F; sea 48°F

6.07am: stop, and engines to order

6.15am: boarding officer and prize crew left Cedric for SS Torgerd in position 60°11’N, 4°19’W

6.42am: boarding officer returned; Torgerd proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew

6.48am: closed Norwegian SS Symra on passage from Rotterdam to Cape-Breton in ballast (water)

7.25am: increased to 66 revs; set course N36°W

8.30am: closed Swedish SS Ceylon on passage from “Vladivostok” [sic] to “Kirkwall” [sic] with a cargo of beans

8.40am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°06’N, 4°51’W

9.17am: SS Ceylon proceeded

9.23am: boarding officer returned

9.27am: speed 64 revs

9.43am: engines to order to close Norwegian SS San Remo on passage from “Bergen” [sic] to “Rio-de-Janeiro” [sic] with assorted cargo

10.18am: boarding officer left Cedric with prize crew in position 60°07’N, 4°47’W

11.00am: boarding officer returned

11.05am: speed 64 revs; SS San Remo proceeded to Stornoway under prize crew; set course S71°W

1.00pm: hands make and mend clothes

2.00pm: signalled Norwegian sailing vessel Desideria

3.15pm: sighted HMS Hilary; altered course to N81°W to close

3.50pm: engines slow and to order

4.15pm: sent boat to Hilary

4.16pm: Hilary’s boat alongside Cedric with prize crews

4.25pm: Hilary’s boat left Cedric

4.30pm: boat returned from Hilary with prize crews

4.38pm: set course N22°W, 64 revs

6.40pm: altered course to N50°W to intercept steamer

7.10pm: full speed

7.24pm: half speed and to order

7.30pm: set course to N20°E

7.31pm: full speed

8.00pm: DR position 60°00’N, 7°00’W*

9.00pm: altered course to S22°W

Distance run 191 miles


*[Note: it is difficult to account for Cedric’s movements here. The abandonment of the chase towards the steamer might suggest that Hilary had intercepted her, and the full speed towards the DR position at 8.00pm, and its suggestion of a rendezvous position suggests something significant, but there was no rendezvous entered in the log.]


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18 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.3, Long -8.6

Wind WSW force 7-8; sea moderate then very rough; cloudy with rain squalls; air temperature average 46°F; sea 48°F

5.00am: altered course to E

6.00am: hands employed cleaning ship

8.27am: altered course to N88°W

6.00pm: altered course to E; reduced to 50 revs

8.00pm: DR position 59° 04’N, 9° 49’W; exchanged signals with HMS Alsatian

10.30pm: reduced to 48 revs

Distance run 248 miles


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19 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.5, Long -8.3

Wind SW veering to WSW force 3-5; sea moderate; overcast with rain then broken cloud with squalls; air temperature average 45°F; sea 47°F

7.25am: full speed to intercept steamer

7.36am: reduced to 62 revs; signalled Swedish steamer Heros on passage from Baltimore to Kirkwall

7.38am: resumed course N88°W

7.55am: altered course to N75°W

8.45am: sighted and exchanged signals with HMS Teutonic

10.03am: sighted HMS Changuinola

10.30am: reduced to 60 revs; altered course to SW

10.32am: reduced to 25 revs

11.03am: stopped, and HMS Changuinola sent a boat over to Cedric in position 59°28’N, 8°08’W; exercised “collision stations” and flannel mat

11.20am: discharged prize crew to Changuinola

11.34am: set course S89°W, 64 revs

12.35pm: challenged HMS Motagua and received reply

3.40pm: parted company with HMS Motagua

6.00pm: altered course to E

7.00pm: altered course to intercept steamer, and altered courses accordingly

7.30pm: half speed and to order, to close Swedish steamer Bertha on passage from Baltimore to Norrkoping with a cargo of corn

7.45pm: boarding officer and prize crew left Cedric in position 59°06’N, 9°58’W

8.15pm: SS Bertha proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew

8.20pm: boarding officer returned

8.22pm: set course S88°E, 60 revs

Distance run 283 miles


[Note: on 18th April 1915 the allocation to “C” Patrol was altered so that it would now consist of HMSs Cedric, Columbella, Teutonic, Oropesa, Changuinola, Hilary and Motagua. Patuca was returning to Belfast to coal. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 136.]


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20 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.3, Long -8.5

Wind WNW to NNW mainly force 7; sea moderate then rough; broken cloud with squalls; air temperature average 40°F; sea 47°F

5.45am: set course at N88°W, 64 revs

10.45am: set course at S87°W

2.10pm: altered course to S 45°W to intercept steamer

2.45pm: altered course to S21°W

3.19pm: engines slow and to order to close “Danish” [sic] steamer Gulfaxe on passage from “Sorte Chan” [ie Sorte Rende Channel, Copenhagen] to New York in ballast

3.30pm: set course N63°W, 64 revs; SS Gulfaxe proceeded on voyage from position 58°57’N, 9°17’W

6.15pm: altered course to E, reduced to 60 revs

Coal remaining: 4990 tons; fresh water remaining: 1187½ tons

Distance run 301 miles



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21 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.3, Long -8.6

Wind WNW force 5-6 veering to N force 3; sea moderate then slight; cloudy with squalls then broken cloud; air temperature average 43°F; sea 47°F

6.07am: altered course to N85°E, to close with Swedish steamer Regina on passage from Savannah to ”Esjborg” [sic: most likely Esbjerg] with a cargo of cake

6.26am: engines slow and to order

6.35am: boarding officer and prize crew left Cedric in position 59°40’N, 6°34’W

7.20am: boarding officer returned; SS Regina proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew

7.25am: set course N88°W

12.10pm: altered course to N26°E

12 .34pm: set course to S72°W

1.20pm: altered course to N30°W

1.30pm: altered course to N23°W

1.38pm: resumed course S72°W*

8.00pm: challenged HMS Changuinola and received reply

9.00pm: altered course to S86°E

Distance run 291 miles

*[Note: no explanation is given for these intensive zigzags; it may have been a sighting of something suspicious, especially anything connected with submarines such as periscopes or oil patches.]


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22 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.2, Long -8.2

Wind WSW force 2-4; sea smooth; mainly overcast and cloudy with a few squalls around mid-day; air temperature 45-50°F; sea 48°F

4.30am: challenged HMS Hilary and received reply

6.50am: closed Hilary; engines slow and to order

7.08am: sent boats to HMS Hilary

7.25am: first cutter returned with prize crews

7.30am: second cutter returned with prize crews

7.36am: set course N83°W, 62 revs

10.10am: hands employed; 1st watch to seamanship, 3rd watch to physical drill

11.20am: challenged HMS Changuinola and received reply

1.52pm: altered course to S75°E to close HMS Changuinola; engines to order

2.23pm: Changuinola’s boat alongside

2.30pm: discharged prize crews to Changuinola

2.31pm: set course to S67°W, 62 revs

5.20pm: challenged HMS Digby* and received reply

5.25pm: altered course to close HMS Digby

5.46pm: slow and engines to order

6.05pm: Digby’s boat alongside

6.10pm: discharged prize crews to HMS Digby

6.19pm: full ahead

6.23pm: set course to N88°W, 64 revs

Distance run 294 miles


*[Note: written throughout as “Dighby”.]


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23 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.2, Long -8.5

Wind WSW force 4; sea slight; overcast with rain and mist; air temperature average 48°F; sea 48°F

6.00am: hands employed cleaning ship; altered course to N88°W

8.00am: DR position 59°22’N, 7°16’W; challenged HMS Hilary and received reply

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

4.00pm: evening quarters; read Warrants Nos.13 and 14

6.00pm: altered course to E

7.00pm: challenged HMS Changuinola and received reply

Coal remaining: 4507 tons

Distance run 297 miles


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24 April 1915


At patrol

Lat 59.1, Long -8.3

Wind WNW to NW mainly force 4; sea slight; mainly overcast and misty with a few squalls; air temperature average 50°F; sea 48-49°F

[-am and pm: hands employed cleaning ship and make and mend clothes]

4.17pm: altered course to S72°W to intercept steamer. Courses various to close Danish SS I.D.S. Adolph* on passage from New York to Stornoway [sic] with a cargo of lubricating oil, in position 58°47’N, 10°02’W

5.10pm: boarding officer and prize crew left Cedric

5.42pm: boarding officer returned; SS I.D.S. Adolph proceeded to Stornoway** under prize crew

5.45pm: set course N, 62 revs

6.20pm: altered course to E

Distance run 312 miles


*[Note: this ship is mentioned in the 1915 list at http://www.sbib.dk/skibslister.htm.]


**[Note: the log states that the IDS Adolph was on passage from New York to Stornoway, which may not be accurate, as the prize crew was itself taking the boat into Stornoway. Normally, eastbound ships were taken into Kirkwall, apart from some sailing ships, which could go into Lerwick. Westbound vessels were normally taken into Stornoway. This was an eastbound vessel, but perhaps was taken into Stornoway as that is where it said was its destination.]


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25 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.5, Long -5.3

Wind NW force 2-3 backing to WNW force 4; sea slight; overcast and misty; air temperature average 47°F; sea 48°F

12.15pm: altered course to S70°E

2.10pm: altered course to N70°W

2.37pm: full speed

3.09pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Duke of Cornwall

3.20pm: sent boat to HMS Duke of Cornwall

3.20pm: [sic] boat returned [with prize crews]

3.30pm: set course N55°E, 60 revs

5.22pm: altered course to S60°W, to intercept steamer

5.30pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Patria* on passage from Faroe Islands to “Leith” [sic] in ballast

5.50pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°14’N, 4°43’W

6.20pm: boarding officer returned; SS Patria proceeded

6.22pm: resumed course N55°E, 64 revs

Distance run 301 miles


*[Note: it has not been possible to identify a Norwegian ship of this name in service at this time, although there were a number of ships of this name from other nationalities in service. It is possible that this might have been a Finnish ship of the same name, Patria.]



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26 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.0, Long -3.0

Wind mainly WNW to NNW force 5 reducing to force 2; sea moderate to slight; overcast with mist, then cloudy; air temperature 47-48°; sea 48°F

6.07am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Katfos on passage from “Mamos” [sic: possibly Malrno] to “Manches” [sic: likely to be Manchester] with a cargo of wood

6.25am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 61°14’N,1°20’W

6.50am: boarding officer returned; SS Katfos proceeded

6.52am: resumed course, full speed

7.22am: slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Sticklestad on passage from the River Tyne to Portland USA in ballast

8.00am: DR position 61°11’N, 1°29’W

8.05am: boarding officer left Cedric

8.35am: boarding officer returned; Sticklestad proceeded

8.40am: set course W, 64 revs

11.30am: closed Norwegian sailing vessel Vikar of Stavanger

11.40am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 61°00’N, 3°00’W

12.10pm: boarding officer returned; Vikar proceeded

12.12pm: set course N84°W, 64 revs

1.00pm: reduced to 56 revs

2.20pm: altered course to N80°E, and increased to 64 revs, to intercept steamer

2.49pm: altered course to E

2.50pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish steamer Kronborg on passage from Copenhagen to Sandy Hook in ballast

3.07pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 61°00’N, 2°25’W

3.45pm: boarding officer returned; Kronborg proceeded

3.48pm: set course N85°W

Distance run 278 miles


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27 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -3.0

Wind WNW backing WSW generally force 2-3; sea smooth; overcast and misty; air temperature average 47°F; sea 48°F

10.00am: altered course to W; read Articles of War, and court martial returns*

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

11.25pm: altered course to NE, to intercept steamer

11.38pm: engines slow and to order to close Swedish steamer Norrbotten

11.50pm: steamer allowed to proceed in position 60°17’N, 6°37’W; resumed course and speed

Distance run 301 miles


*[Note: It was compulsory for the Captain to read the Articles of War to his ship's company at least once a month. These are the regulations by which the ship is governed and cover the offences with which a seaman may be charged and the penalties thereto. It was usually read on a Sunday at divisions. For the origins of the practice in the 17th century and the original Royal Navy Articles of War see N A M Rodger, The Command of the Ocean, Penguin Books, 2005, p 59.]


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28 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.8, Long -8.9

Wind mainly E and calm force 0-1; sea smooth; overcast with mist; air temperature 43 rising to 48°F; sea 46-49°F

10.02am: engines to slow and to order to carry out 1” electric aiming practice

10.12am course N88°W

6.00pm: altered course to S71°E

Flannan Islands bearing 156°, 96 miles

Coal remaining: 3729 tons; fresh water remaining: 964.28 tons

Distance run 306 miles


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29 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.8, Long -8.6

Wind variable then settling to NW force 3; sea smooth, slight later; overcast with mist then broken cloud; air temperature 46-48°F; sea 48°F

5.08am: sighted steamer and altered course to N35°E

5.40am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer W. Salmes [sic]* on passage from Newcastle to Sydney, Cape Breton Island [Nova Scotia] in ballast

5.55am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°51’N, 7°03’W

6.15am: boarding officer returned

6.22am: altered course to S25°E to intercept steamer

7.00am: closed Danish steamer Alf from “Methyl” [sic]** to “Baltimore” [sic] in ballast

7.05am: boarding officer left Cedric

7.25am: boarding officer returned

7.28am: set course N88°W, 64 revs

12.12pm: altered course to S40°W to intercept sailing vessel

1.21pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian sailing vessel Rollo

1.28pm: resumed course and speed in position 59°30’N, 8°50’W

2.40pm: challenged HMS Virginian and received reply

6.55pm: altered course to N30°E; full speed to close steamer, oil tanker Suwanee

7.09pm: resumed course and speed

8.00pm: DR position 59°12’N, 10°01’W

Distance run 298 miles


*[Note: there is no record of such a ship, but it is possible that this ship belonged to the shipping line W. Selmer of Trondheim, called in Norwegian Det Selmerske Rederi,(can be looked up on “Wrecksite”) which had a number of vessels in service at this time and would have been very difficult for a British officer to register correctly in the log.]


**[Note: it is very difficult to identify this port, which appears as “Nethyl” in the log. There are no Danish or other Scandinavian ports which approximate to this, and indeed the phonetics of the written entry might even suggest that the sound “yl” at the end of the word is “isle” as in “Fairisle” or “Northisle”. This ship was proceeding westwards in ballast, so would not have attracted a great deal of interest.]


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30 April 1915

At patrol

Lat 58.9, Long -11.0

Wind NW force 3 or 4 veering to E force 5; sea slight then moderate; overcast with showers and rain; air temperature 48°F dropping to 43°F; sea average 47°F

7.30am: challenged HMS India and received reply

10.10am: exercised collision stations and “abandon ship”

2.20pm: sighted HMS Alsatian

2.30pm: took station on starboard beam, 2 miles off Alsatian; course NNE, speed various

2.58pm: altered course to SSW and closed to 1 mile

3.30pm: sent boat to Alsatian

3.55pm: boat returned from Alsatian with prize crews in position 58°42’N, 11°50’W

4.25pm: speed 13 knots, course ENE, 2 miles N of Alsatian

5.35pm: reduced to 56 revs

6.05pm: increased to 60 revs

6.34pm: increased to 64 revs

6.55pm: set course N79°E; parted company with HMS Alsatian*

7.22pm: increased to 70 revs

11.30pm: altered course to S; stop [sic] and to order to intercept Norwegian steamer Drott on passage from Newcastle to “Leusborg” [sic: possibly Louisbourg, Nova Scotia] in ballast

11.56pm: boarding officer left Cedric

Distance run 312 miles


*[Note: Midshipman Scrimgeour noted that Admiral de Chair met with Cedric and India in order to once again take over command of the squadron from Captain Benson. HMS India was a new addition to the squadron. See Alexander Scrimgeour, Scrimgeour’s Small Scribbling Diary 1914-1916, Conway, 2008 page 176.]



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LOGS FOR MAY 1915


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[A S Gilbert Lieut RNR signs log as Navigating Officer]

[RER Benson (Commodore)]


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1 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.8, Long -8.9

Wind NE force 3-6; sea moderate; broken cloud with squalls; air temperature 38-42°F; sea 47-48°F

0.26am: boarding officer returned [from SS Drott]

0.30am: resumed course and speed

3.40am: stella position 59°52’N, 8°02’W

12.20pm: altered course to S32°W; engines to full speed

12.38pm: half speed; altered course to S50°W and various; engines to order to close Danish steamer United States on passage from New York to Christiania with miscellaneous cargo

12.45pm: boarding officer left Cedric

2.00pm: boarding officer returned in position 59°36’N, 9°04’W

2.04pm: slow ahead to circle around steamer

3.23pm: put prize crew on board SS United States, officer in charge J B Titterington, Sub Lieut RNR

3.35pm: SS United States proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew*

3.40pm: boat returned

3.41pm: set course N74°W, 60 revs

10.10pm: altered course to S35°W, to intercept steamer

10.25pm: full ahead

10.35pm: engines slow and to order to close US steamer Wico

10.48pm: resumed course and speed

Distance run 290 miles


*[Note: this interception became a big story. EK Chatterton reports: “On May Day the Danish United States on her voyage from New York was stopped by the Cedric and sent into Kirkwall. There were found on board, besides half a dozen German women, one Austrian stowaway, one German reserve officer (an aviator), and a man with no naturalization papers, though in possession of a German Passport.” See E K Chatterton, The Big Blockade, Hurst and Blackett, 1932, page 138. Admiral de Chair reported to the Admiralty that he had personally instructed Cedric to take the United States into Kirkwall and had recommended the officers there to carry out a particularly thorough search. There was a further consequence. In the words of Commodore Benson: “At 1.30pm, Cedric was in visual touch with HMS Motagua, and when that ship made her pendants, the ‘Affirmative Flag’ was hoisted in Cedric, and then hauled down.The similarity between the ‘Affirmative Flag’ and the Danish Merchant Ensign undoubtedly accounts for the origin of the statement that belligerent rights were exercised under the Danish Flag. I need hardly add that the Britsh White Ensign was flying in Cedric the whole time.” See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 153 and pages 301-302]


4caf8528cadfd3419700cee4: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-004_0.jpg)


2 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.3, Long -10.3

Wind mainly NNE and E force 6 reducing to force 3; sea moderate becoming slight; mainly broken cloud; air temperature 36 rising to 42°F; sea average 47°F

8.00am: DR position 59°42’N, 9°12’W

1.00pm: altered course to N88°E

7.30pm: challenged HMS Oropesa

8.00pm: position 59°51’N, 9°18’W; engines slow and to order to intercept steamer

9.25pm: signalled Danish SS Frederick Vlll on passage from Copenhagen to New York

9.30pm: set course S89°E

Coal remaining: 3086 tons

Distance run 300 miles


[Note: on May 2nd 1915, because of submarine activity, “C” Patrol was moved 40 miles to the westward. “C” Patrol was now to consist of Cedric, Columbella, Motagua, Patia, Orotava, Virginian and Oropesa. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 154.]


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3 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.4, Long -9.1

Wind WSW then SW force 4-5; sea slight; broken cloud; air temperature 40 rising to 46°F; sea 46-48°F

6.30am: altered course to S15°E to intercept steamer

7.20am: half speed to close Norwegian SS Minerva in position 59°53’N, 7°40’W

7.30am: set course N87°W, 70 revs

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

Distance run 352 miles


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4 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.2, Long -10.4

Wind mainly SSW to SW force 4-5; sea slight; cloud and broken cloud; air and sea temperature both 46°F to 50°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

Coal remaining: 2686 tons

Distance run 360 miles


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5 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.1, Long -10.2

Wind mainly SSW and SW force 4; sea slight to moderate; cloudy and overcast with some mist; air temperature 49-52°F; sea 48°F

10.10am: exercised rigging derrick

11.02am: sighted stranger [sic] about 3 points on starboard bow; steering SW course

11.05am: challenged stranger with searchlight

11.10am: hoisted challenge

11.15am: sounded off action

11.16am: altered course 2 points

11.17am: full speed

11.23am: fired starboard 6” [gun] across chase’s [sic] quarter

11.27am: received reply to challenge

11.30am: dispersed; resumed course and speed

7.00pm: altered course to S88°E

Distance run 317 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700cee8: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-006_0.jpg)


6 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.0, Long -8.0

Wind mainly SW force 1-3; sea slight to smooth; cloudy and very misty; air temperature average 51°F; sea 48°F

7.00am: altered course to S68°E

10.30am: full speed to intercept steamer; altered course to S40°E

10.50am: engines slow and to order to close Danish steamer Tuborg

10.53am: altered course to S36°W, reduced to 60 revs

Noon: altered course to N19°E

Coal remaining: 2358 tons; fresh water remaining: 758.96 tons

Distance run 314 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700cee9: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-006_1.jpg)



7 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.0, Long -8.0

Wind mainly NNW, calm to force 2; sea smooth; overcast and cloudy then broken cloud; air temperature 46-49°F; sea 48-50°F

2.58am: signalled steamer bearing NNE

3.05am: challenged

3.13am: received reply from HMS Patuca

3.17am: altered course to S21°E

4.40am: challenged HMS Columbella and received reply

6.45am: sighted AMC [sic: Armed Merchant Cruiser as Cedric was herself]; challenged and received reply

11.27am: slow and to order to close HMS Patuca

11.30am: sent boat to HMS Patuca

11.48am: boat returned

11.49am: resumed course

1.30pm: replied to challenge from HMS Orion

2.30pm: altered course to S21°W to intercept sailing vessel

3.05pm: stop and engines to order to close

3.15pm: altered course to S22°W

6.36pm: altered course to N21°E

9.30pm: altered course to N35°W; full speed to intercept steamer

10.00pm: half speed and to order to close Danish steamer Bertha on passage from “Iceland” [sic] to Llanelly [sic: presumably Llanelli]; stella obs. 59°29’N, 8°14’W

10.13pm: boarding officer left Cedric

10.40pm: boarding officer returned; SS Bertha proceeded

10.43pm: set course S3°W

11.00pm: replied to challenge from HMS Patia

0.00am: set course N20°E

Distance run 309 miles


[Note: there is no explanation in the records as to why a number of the AMCs of the 10th Cruiser Squadron and a Dreadnought of the Home Fleet should be together in so close an area, although at this time there were numerous U-boat alerts and sightings. Admiral de Chair reported to the Admiralty that on this day “a submarine was reported off Fair Isle steering west at 15 knots. “C” Patrol was warned accordingly.” See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 156.]


4caf8528cadfd3419700ceea: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-007_0.jpg)


8 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.0, Long -8.0

Wind mainly NNE force 2-3; sea smooth; broken cloud; air temperature 45-50°F; sea 48-49°F

4.40am: passed Norwegian barque Alonso (boarded by HMS Patia, 7th May 1915)

1.15pm: hands employed making and mending clothes

4.15pm: altered course to S10°E to intercept schooner

4.20pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish schooner

4.40pm: resumed course and speed

7.30pm: altered course to S45°W

7.32pm: engines slow and to order to close: Norwegian sailing vessel Argo on passage from Fredrikstad to Nova Scotia in ballast

7.45pm: boarding officer left Cedric

8.00pm: boarding officer returned in position 59°20’N, 8°00’W

8.11pm: set course N9°E

Coal remaining: 2042 tons

Distance run 304 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700ceeb: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-007_1.jpg)


9 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.0, Long -9.0

Wind mainly ESE force 2-3; sea smooth; broken cloud; air temperature 47-52°F; sea 48-50°F

3.30am: stella obs. 59°14’N, 8°57’W; altered course to S35°W

3.40am: full speed

4.00am: half speed and to order to close Norwegian steamer Maricopa on passage from Newport News [USA] to “Amsterdam” [sic] with a cargo of oil

4.25am: boarding officer and prize crew left Cedric

4.48am: boarding officer returned

4.50am: Maricopa proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew in position 59°07’N, 9°00’W; Lt G E Stewart RNR in charge*

4.57am: resumed course and speed

8.45am: altered course to N76°E to intercept steamer

9.02am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Randulf Hansen on passage from Arendal to New York in ballast

9.03am: stop

9.05am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°30’N, 8°52’W

9.20am: boarding officer returned

9.23am: set course S21°W

Noon and 6.00pm: altered course to N21°E

Coal remaining: 1886 tons

Distance run 302 miles


*[Note: the interception of the Maricopa, a large (7,000 ton) tanker with its cargo of oil would have been seen as a major coup for the Cedric. Presumably this is why the officer-in-charge of the prize crew was named.]


4caf8528cadfd3419700ceec: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-008_0.jpg)


10 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.0, Long -9.0

Wind SSW veering to NNW then NE, mainly force 3; sea smooth; mainly overcast with cloud and some showers; air temperature average 48°F; sea 49°F

8.52am: altered course to N20°E; full speed to intercept steamer*

9.00am: altered course to S21°W, reduced to 62 revs

9.10am: increased to 64 revs

10.15am: exercised “abandon ship”; turned out all boats

12.25pm: full speed 72 revs; altered course to N22°W

3.30pm: altered course to S22°W

Distance run 315 miles


*[Note: no reason is given as to why this steamer was not pursued.]


4caf8528cadfd3419700ceed: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-008_1.jpg)


11 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.0, Long -10.0

Wind mainly NE force 5-6; sea moderate; mainly overcast and cloudy; air temperature average 39°F; sea 48°F

0.07am: altered course to N25°W to intercept steamer

0.30am: engines to slow and to order to close Danish steamer Waladiner Saura [sic: most likely Wladimir Sawin] on passage from “River Tyne” [sic] to “Merameechin” [sic: most likely Miramichi] “Canada” [sic] in ballast

0.38am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°00’N, 10°08’W

1.40am: boarding officer returned; set course N33°E, 62 revs; SS Wladimir Sawin proceeded

10.00am: divisions and prayers

10.15am: 1st and 2nd watch to “first aid” instruction from Staff Surgeon

10.17am: full speed

10.19am: reduced to 60 revs

10.20am: challenged and received reply from HMS Columbella

5.25pm: altered course to S70°W

5.29pm: engines slow and to order to close Swedish SS Indianic on passage from New York to Gothenburg via Kirkwall with general cargo

5.46pm: boarding officer and prize crew left Cedric in position 59°02’N, 10°08W

6.15pm: Indianic proceeded to Kirkwall under prize crew, Lieut. S Bolton RNR in charge

6.22pm: boarding officer returned

6.26pm: set course N20°E, 64 revs

Coal remaining: 1560 tons

Distance run 304 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700ceee: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-009_0.jpg)


12 May 1915

At sea [returning to Liverpool]

Lat 56.7, Long -8.0

Wind NE force 6 then NNE force 4; sea moderate becoming slight; cloudy am then broken cloud pm; air temperature 39 rising to 47°F; sea average 47°F

2.00am: challenged HMS Columbella

6.00am: St Kilda E 15 miles; altered course to S10°E

9.15am: full speed

9.43am: Barra Head bearing S38°E (magnetic)

10.15am: 1st watch to first aid instruction, 2nd watch to physical drill

2.30pm: Skerryvore Light abeam 14 miles

6.33pm: Oversay Light bearing E 10 miles; altered course to S44°E

7.40pm: Otter Rock Light Vessel abeam 4¾ miles

8.15pm: altered course to S22°E

9.00pm: Mull of Cantyre abeam ½ mile; altered course to S37°E

9.21pm: Sanda Island abeam

9.50pm: altered course to S9°W

10.26pm: Corsewall Light abeam

10.58pm: Blackhead Light abeam 7 miles

Distance run 336 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700ceef: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-009_1.jpg)


13 May 1915

At sea and at Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly ESE force 5 reducing to force 3; sea (am only) slight; mainly cloudy; air temperature 44 rising to 54°F; sea (am only) 47°F

0.05am: Skulmartin Light abeam

2.29am: Chicken Rock Lighthouse abeam 10 miles

2.55am: altered course to S53°E

6.20am: full speed

8.00am: engines to standby

8.01am: Bar Light Vessel abeam; altered course to S60°E

8.07am: engines to slow

8.18am: stop

8.20am: Formby Light Vessel abeam

8.22am: altered course to S87°E

8.24am: pilot, Mr Parkinson boarded

8.30am: engines half speed and to order

8.45am: obtained permission to proceed from Port War Station

9.08am: Rock Light abeam

10.11am: entered Sandon Basin; tugs in attendance Alexandria, Trafalgar and Brunswick

12.25pm: secured to berth at west wall of Canada Dock; rung off engines

2.00pm: hands employed preparing the ship for coaling, and as requisite

4.00pm: watch proceeded on 4 days leave

4.30pm: gave special leave to part of watch

5.15pm: commenced coaling

6.00pm: exercised fire stations

7.00pm: discharged one seaman to hospital

11.00pm: 2 officers and 4 men returned from prize crew [duty]

Distance run 325 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700cef0: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-010_0.jpg)


14 May 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable ENE to WSW force 2-3; light then broken cloud; air temperature mainly 52°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

10.30am: prize crew returned

4.30pm: exercised fire quarters; gave special leave to part of watch

Coal remaining: 2121 tons


4caf8528cadfd3419700cef1: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-010_1.jpg)


15 May 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly NW force 2; broken cloud; air temperature 54°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

10:30am: returned 62 rifles and received 62 rifles

1.00pm: gave special leave to part of watch

5.00pm: exercised fire stations


4caf8528cadfd3419700cef2: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-011_0.jpg)



16 May 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable from WSW to SSE force 2; broken cloud then overcast; air temperature 54-58°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.30am: landed Roman Catholics for religious service on shore [this was a Sunday]

Noon: RCs returned

1.00pm: gave special leave to watch

4.30pm: exercised fire quarters


4caf8528cadfd3419700cef3: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-011_1.jpg)


17 May 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SE to ESE force 3-4; mainly overcast; air temperature 53-64°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

4.30pm: gave special leave to part of watch

6:30pm: 1 seaman RNR joined ship


4caf8528cadfd3419700cef4: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-012_0.jpg)


18 May 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly SE force 3; overcast then broken cloud; air temperature 56-63°F

5.30am: hands employed shifting coal lighters

7.00am: liberty men returned

1.15pm: hands employed provisioning ship

4.30pm: gave special leave to part of watch


4caf8528cadfd3419700cef5: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-012_1.jpg)


19 May 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable from SE to SSW force 2-4; mainly broken cloud; air temperature 54°F am, 66°F pm

7.00am: liberty men returned

7.30am: watch returned from 4 days leave

8:30am: hands employed getting in stores, and as requisite

1.10pm: hands employed in getting in stores and painting ship’s sides

4.30pm: gave special leave to watch

Coal remaining: 6404 tons; fresh water remaining: 419 tons


4caf8528cadfd3419700cef6: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-013_0.jpg)


20 May 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SSE force 3-4 am then calm pm; mainly overcast and cloudy with some rain; air temperature 63-70°F

5.30am: hands employed shifting coal lighters

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed getting in stores, painting ship’s side and returning rifles

4.15pm: gave special leave to part of watch

4.40pm: exercised watch to fire stations

Coal remaining: 6910 tons


4caf8528cadfd3419700cef7: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-013_1.jpg)


21 May 1915


Liverpool and at sea [towards patrol area]

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable SSE to NNE force 1-2; broken cloud; air temperature 67°F reducing to 56°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.00am: 1 seaman RNR joined from RN Barracks Devonport

12.30pm: engines to standby

12.45pm: slipped from west wall, Canada Dock, and proceeded through lock; tugs in attendance Albert, Brocklebank and Coburg

1.28pm: engines slow astern and to order

2.11pm: rung off and engines to standby

3.30pm: slipped and proceeded to anchorage in river

3.58pm: anchored (60 fathoms of cable)

3.59pm: rung off engines; pilot Mr M.J. McWhor [Maguire?]

4.00pm: evening quarters

5.00pm: 15 stokers joined ship from HMS Andes*

5.48pm: exercised “abandon ship” stations and turned out boats

6.00pm: shortened in cable

6.20pm: anchors aweigh; engines as required

6.23pm: half speed and to order to proceed out of harbour

6.39pm: Rock Light abeam

6.52pm: Crosby Light abeam

7.07pm: Formby Light abeam

7.17pm: stop

7.20pm: discharged pilot

7.24pm: full ahead

7.35pm: Bar Light Vessel abeam; set course N53°W

8.00pm: DR position 53°34’N, 3°27’W

9.20pm: HMS Dove parted company**

10.00pm: exercised guns’ crews and searchlight crews

11.30pm: Chicken Rock Light bearing N28°W (magnetic); Langness bearing N11°E

11.57pm: Chicken Rock Light abeam 7 miles


*[Note: on 23rd May Admiral de Chair reported: “In reply to my enquiry as to when HMS Andes would be ready to join patrol the Senior Naval Officer in Liverpool informed me that that vessel was delayed owing to a shortage of firemen.” The explanation here might depend on whether the terms “stokers” and “firemen” are being used to describe the same people, in which case the shortage is because these men had been transferred to the Cedric. Although commissioned on 22nd April, Andes did not join the Patrol until 31st May. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, pages 160-161 and page 163.


The edited record of the log of HMS Andes includes the following entry for 20th May 1915: “9.30pm: Discharged 39 Firemen under armed escort to Mauretania.” The editor comments: “an odd entry; some research uncovered the following information: The Mauretania and her sister ship Lusitania were both built as Cunard liners; Mauretania was launched in 1906, and was at that time the largest and fastest ship in the world. She held the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing for 22 years from 1907. At the outbreak of war both Mauretania and Lusitania were requested for war service - the government had subsidised their building in return for a promise that they would be available to the navy in case of war - but they were too big and expensive to run to be used and didn't serve at that stage. But of course there were fewer transatlantic passengers, and so Mauretania was laid up in Liverpool, while Lusitania continued to cross the Atlantic. On 7th May 1915, off the Southern coast of Ireland, on a voyage from New York to Liverpool, she met a German U-boat, was hit by a torpedo, and sank in 18 minutes, with the loss of 1195 lives. Among them were 123 Americans, and this loss was one factor in bringing America into the war.


Mauretania was then requisitioned as a troopship, and sent to support the campaign in Gallipoli - and I think this must be the point at which these firemen are being sent to her. My speculation is that they were superstitious enough not to want to serve on a sister ship to one which had just been sunk, and so had to be escorted there. Mauretania survived the war, serving as troopship and hospital ship, and then again as troopship to Canada and the USA.” See HMS Andes


The action of transferring these men to Cedric might have been a way of splitting up the possibly rebellious Andes firemen.]


**[Note: in this period, including the next day, May 22nd, submarines had been reported off Little Ormes Head and the Maidens in the Liverpool district. HMS Dove was an escorting destroyer. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 159.]


4caf8528cadfd3419700cef8: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-014_0.jpg)


22 May 1915


At sea [towards patrol area]

Lat 56.3, Long -7.6

Wind variable, but mainly calm; sea smooth; light and broken cloud; air temperature 50 rising to 60°F; sea average 50°F

0.28am: Chicken Rock Light bearing N88°E; altered course to N16°E

0.38am: Chicken Rock Light abeam on 2nd course [?] 10 miles

2.18am: South Rock Light Vessel abeam 7 miles; altered course to N

3,35am: Mew Island Lighthouse abeam; altered course to N22°W

3.47am: Black Head bearing N31°E magnetic; Mull of Galloway bearing E (magnetic)

5.00am: Maidens Light abeam 2.5 miles

5.04am: Black buoy ½ mile

6.10am: Torr Point abeam 1½ miles; challenged HMS Tara; altered course variously

6.42am: Bull Point abeam 1½ miles; altered course to N47°W

8.00am: DR position 55°24’N, 6°50’W

1.00pm: hands make and mend clothes

1.49pm: Barra Head bearing E (true) 12 miles; altered course to N7°W

4.00pm: evening quarters; read Warrants 16 and 17

8.00pm: DR position 57°49’N, 9°04’W; altered course to N21°E

9,00pm: rounds; altered course to N38°E

Distance run 245 miles



4caf8528cadfd3419700cef9: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-014_1.jpg)


23 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -8.0

Wind mainly SSW force 3 becoming SW force 4; sea slight; hail and some fog; air temperature average 50°F; sea 49°F

1.00am: altered course to N55°E, increased to 72 revs

10.45am: divine service

11.00am: altered course to S22°W

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

Distance run 331 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700cefa: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-015_0.jpg)


24 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -8.0

Wind mainly SW force 3-4; sea slight; mainly mist and fog; air temperature 50°F; sea 49°F

6.00am: altered course to S22°W; hands employed cleaning ship

8.00am: DR position 59°45’N, 8°00’W; altered course to N21°E

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

Number on sick list: 1

Distance run 244 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700cefb: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-015_1.jpg)


25 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -10.0

Wind mainly N force 2-3; sea slight; mainly broken cloud then clear with light cloud; air temperature average 50°F; sea 49°F

4.26am: altered course to N73°E to intercept sailing ship steering SE

4.47am: set course N45°W

9.45am: divisions and prayers; challenged HMS Alsatian and received reply; altered course to S22°W

10.05am: exercised collision stations

10.15am: full ahead to close HMS Alsatian; engines to order to keep station

11.02am: sent boat to HMS Alsatian

12.12pm: boat returned; half speed ahead

12.20pm: parted company with HMS Alsatian; set course S66°E, 60 revs*

7.24pm: full speed, and altered course to S80°E to intercept steamer

7.03pm: [sic] half speed and to order to close “Danish” [sic] whaler Leif

8.10pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°52’N, 7°46’W

8.30pm: boarding officer returned

8.32pm: slow ahead

8.35pm: half speed, 48 revs

8.51pm: altered course to S45°E

9.08pm: altered course to N45°W

9.36pm: increased to 65 revs

9.45pm: full speed

9.55pm: reduced to 60 revs

9.57pm: set course N43°E

Distance run 298 miles


*[Note: Admiral de Chair reported that he had arranged this meeting in order to pass on orders and information. Furthermore, “I directed Commodore Benson to take charge of “B” and “C” Patrols.” Commodore is a rank that is superior to a Captain, but below a Rear Admiral. Traditionally, "Commodore" is the title for any officer assigned to command more than one ship at a time. As an official rank, a Commodore typically commands a flotilla or squadron of ships, so this promotion would reflect Benson’s responsibilities. “B” Patrol now consisted of Cedric, Teutonic and Digby. See John D. Grainger (ed) .The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 161.]


4caf8528cadfd3419700cefc: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-016_0.jpg)


26 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -7.0

Wind variable, mainly N force 0-2; sea smooth; broken cloud, overcast later; air temperature average 50°F; sea 50°F

4.30am: met Russian SS Anna flying NE quadrant flag*

[am exercised all crews]

Noon: full speed

12.35pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish whaler Flinding [sic]

12.48pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°55’N, 6°50’W

1.04pm: boarding officer returned

1.07pm: resumed course S20°W, 60 revs

2.00pm: altered course to N23°E

[pm: exercised all crews]

Distance run 305 miles


*[Note: it is difficult to identify what the significance of this was. It is possible an ensign with the cross of St Andrew in the NE quadrant shows the vessel as a Russian Naval Auxiliary in the pre-1917 period. See //www.crwflags.com/fotw/flags/ru~nav.html#and for discussion.]


4caf8528cadfd3419700cefd: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-016_1.jpg)


27 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -7.0

Wind mainly NW force 3; sea smooth/slight; overcast and cloudy; air temperature average 49°F; sea 49°F

1.45am: full speed; altered course to N10°W to close SS Aldebaran on passage from Baltimore to Kirkwall

1.52am: slow

1.59am: stop and engines to order

2.12am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°48’N, 7°05’W

2.25am: boarding officer returned; prize crew on board

2.30am: resumed course N23°E, 60 revs

5.00am: altered course to S20°W

10.00am: hands employed at physical drill and rifle drill

1.12pm: full speed ahead and altered course to S30°W to intercept steamer; courses various

1.59pm: half speed; signalled Swedish steamer Kiruna,* with prize crew on board

2.25pm: set course N22°E, 60 revs

Number on sick list: 1

Distance run 303 miles


*[Note: see http://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?201420 for further information on this vessel]



4caf8528cadfd3419700cefe: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37367/ADM 53-37367-017_0.jpg)


28 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -6.0

Wind mainly N (NW to NNE) force 2 rising to force 5; sea smooth then slight; cloudy and misty then showers later; air temperature 50 dropping to 42°F; sea 50 dropping to 48°F

1.00am: altered course to S21°W

1.30am: altered course to N21°E

2.00am: altered course to S21°W

2.30am: altered course to N21°E*

4.15am: altered course to E to close Danish schooner Dagmar ** on passage from Burntisland to Iceland with a cargo of coal

4.42am: engines slow and to order to close

5.08am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°16’N, 6°45’W

5.23am: boarding officer returned

5.27am: resumed course S21°W, 62 revs

6.25am: altered course to S70°E

7.00am: resumed patrol, set course at S60°W

10.00am: exercised general quarters, collision stations and after steering position

3.45pm: altered course to S45°E to intercept schooner

4.00pm: half speed and engines to order

4.09pm: altered course to N20°W

4.23pm: resumed course N71°E, 62 revs

Number on sick list: 2

Distance run 313 miles


*[Note: Cedric is following a much tighter zigzag than previously. No reason is given for this, but following the sinking of the Lusitania on May 7th, awareness of the U-boat threat had greatly increased. Also, Midshipman Scrimgeour reported that on this day HMS Alsatian had engaged with Cedric in a dummy battle, and that at 4.00pm Alsatian had sent over a boat to Cedric with Captain Boty [actually Booty] of HMS Otway on board. See

Alexander Scrimgeour, Scrimgeour’s Small Scribbling Diary 1914-1916,Conway,2008 page 133].

**[Note: see http://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?201072 for further information on this vessel]


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29 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.5, Long -5.3

Wind NNE force 6 reducing to force 4; sea moderate becoming slight; overcast then broken cloud and showers; air temperature 40-46°F; sea average 49°F

[am: exercised all crews]

1.00pm: hands make and mend clothes

5.47pm: slow and engines to order to close Russian steamer Kursk on passage from Archangel to Glasgow

6.03pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°38’N, 6°41’W

6.45pm: boat proceeded to HMS India [sic]*

6.48pm: boarding officer returned

7.03pm: set course N35°W, 60 revs

Distance run 321 miles


*[Note: as there is no other reference to HMS India, it is most likely that this is an error, and should have read “SS Kursk”]


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30 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -7.0

Wind variable: N then W then SW, force 3 rising to force 5; sea slight becoming moderate; overcast and cloudy with some showers; air temperature 42 rising to 49°F; sea 48-49°F

2.00am: altered course to N21°E

5.00am: altered course to S21°W [Note; these course changes were maintained throughout the day at 3-hour intervals]

Number on sick list: 3

Distance run 294 miles


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31 May 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -7.0

Wind mainly W-SW through to NW rising from force 5 to force 7; sea moderate to rough; overcast with squalls and showers; air temperature average 49°F; sea 49°F

10.00am: hands employed in physical drill and rifle exercises

11.21am: challenged HMS India and received reply

10.25pm: stella obs. 59°54’N, 7°46’W

11.10pm: challenged HMS Motagua and received reply

11,20pm: altered course to close HMS Motagua

11.40pm: engines slow and to order to close Swedish steamer Sydic on passage from New York to Stockholm with a cargo of wheat

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 312 miles



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LOGS FOR JUNE 1915


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4caf8528cadfd3419700cf07: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-001_1.jpg)

Person mentioned: Lieut A S Gilbert RNR signs log as Navigating officer

Person mentioned: Lieut A S Gilbert RNR

Person mentioned: R E R Benson (Commodore)

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1 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -7.0

Wind NW force 5 reducing to force 2; sea moderate becoming slight; clear sky then broken cloud; air temperature 44-49°F; sea 49°F

0.05am: boarding officer and armed guard left Cedric in position 60°00’N, 8°00’W [sic] ; officer in charge N S Welsh Lt RNR

0.32am: boarding officer returned

0.38am: set course S69°E, 60 revs

3.30am: altered course to N21°E

11.00am: altered course to N60°E to intercept steamer

11.22am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Riga [?] on passage from Copenhagen to Sydney Cape Breton [Nova Scotia] in ballast

11.37am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°19’N, 6°64’W

12.08pm: boarding officer returned

12.12pm: set course S26°W, 62 revs

4.30pm: reduced to 48 revs

4.47pm: reduced to 38 revs

5.01pm: engines stop and to order

5.05pm: sent boat to HMS Motagua

5.17pm: parted company with HMS Motagua

5.23pm: boat returned

5.26pm: set course N21°E, 60 revs

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 265 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700cf0c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-004_0.jpg)


2 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -7.0

Wind mainly S and SE force 2-4; sea slight but a northerly swell; mainly broken cloud with rain squalls later; air temperature 46-50°F; sea 48-49°F

7.57am: altered course to S20°E to intercept steamer

8.07am: engines slow and to order to close Russian steamer Altai on passage from “Barry” [sic] to Archangel with a cargo of coal

8.12am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°45’N, 7°00’W

8.40am: boarding officer returned

8.45am: set course N21°E, 60 revs

1.30pm: exercised action; dropped target; engines to order to carry out 6” gun practice

2.20pm: completed practice

2.35pm: engines to order to pick up target

7.10pm: altered course to intercept sailing ship

7.35pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish barque Anna of Marstal

7.35pm: resumed course S22°W

Distance run 291 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700cf0d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-004_1.jpg)


3 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -7.0

Wind ESE mainly force 2; sea smooth; early rain, then broken cloud; air temperature 49-52°F; sea 48-49°F

[Courses S22°W, N21°E; zigzag at 3-hourly intervals]

10.00am: 1st and 3rd watch physical drill, marines rifle drill

11.27am: challenged HMS Oropesa and received reply

11.40am: engines slow and to order to close Oropesa

Noon: armed guard for Ebro* joined ship from Oropesa

8.05pm: challenged HMS Caribbean

8.25pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Caribbean

8.35pm: sent boat to HMS Caribbean in position 59°42’N, 7°00’W

8.50pm: boat returned

8.53pm: set course N21°E

9.00pm: set speed at 62 revs

9.02pm: full speed

9.22pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Oropesa

9.40pm: set course N21°E

11.00pm: Lat. Venus 59°56’N

11.20pm: full speed and courses various to close Norwegian sailing ship Margarita on passage from Stavanger to Mobile [USA] in ballast

Distance run 300 miles


*[Note: a member of the 10th Cruiser Squadron, currently on “G” Patrol, off the coast of Norway.]


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4 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -7.0

Wind mainly SSW to SW force 4-5; sea slight; overcast then broken and light cloud; air temperature 50-54°F; sea 49-50°F

0.30am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°10’N, 7°00’W

0.58am: boarding officer returned

1.00am: set course N21°E

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

10.36pm: stella position 60°14’N, 7°05’W

Distance run 301 miles


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5 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -7.0

Wind SW am then W pm force 5; sea slight to moderate; cloud am then broken cloud pm; air temperature average 50°F; sea 50 to 49°F

9.45am: challenged HMS Ambrose and received reply

10.00am: engines slow and to order to close HMS Ambrose

10.10am: discharged armed guard to Ambrose in position 60°08’N, 7°00’W

10.35am: boat returned; engines full ahead, course N21°E and courses various to intercept steamer

11.25am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Pluton on passage from Liverpool to Archangel with general cargo

11.37am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°24’N, 7°06’W

12.05pm: boarding officer returned

12.06pm: set course N21°E, 62 revs

8.00pm: DR position 60°21’N, 7°00’W

8.52pm: arrived at rendezvous, circled round

9.15pm: sighted HMS Duke of Cornwall; full speed

9.45pm: sent boat to HMS Duke of Cornwall in position 60°28’N, 6°54’W

10.00pm: boat returned with armed guard*

10.11pm: set course S22°W

Distance run 306 miles


*[Note: this is the first use of the term ”armed guards” rather than “prize crews” in Cedric’s log, and continues from this point on. From the start of the blockade, armed guards were sent onto a ship if it was thought to be “suspicious”. However, the issue of armed guards was brought to the fore by the increasing practice of German U-boats in also stopping and boarding neutral ships. If a British armed guard was found to be aboard, then the ship would be sunk by the U-boat as it would be assumed that the ship was under British control. For the debate on this issue at this time, see John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 175-77.]


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6 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -7.8

Wind WNW force 5-3 am, SE force 2-3 pm; sea slight; generally cloudy; air temperature 49-52°F; sea 49-50°F

6.53am: altered course to W; full speed to intercept steamer

7.15am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Nordkyn (armed guard on board)*

10.05am: full speed ahead and courses various to intercept steamer; altered course to N40°W

11.58am: engines slow and to order to close Russian steamer Radetzky [sic: actually General Radetzky] on passage from Cardiff to Archangel with a cargo of coal

Noon: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°09’N, 7°48’W

12.17pm: boarding officer returned

12.19pm: full speed ahead and courses various to intercept steamer

1.40pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish steamer Louisiana on passage from Christiania to Boston with aSSorted cargo

1.50pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°06’N, 8°24’W

2.12pm: boarding officer returned

2.15pm: armed guard left Cedric; J B Titterington, Sub Lieut RNR in charge

2.38pm: SS Louisiana proceeded to Stornoway under armed guard

2.30pm: [sic] boat returned

2.31pm: set course S58°E, 60 revs

5.08pm: full speed ahead and altered course to S8°E and various to intercept steamer

6.11pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish steamer SS Hellig Olav

6.24pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°52’N, 7°08’W

6.50pm: sent armed guard to SS Hellig Olav

7.07pm: boarding officer returned; SS Hellig Olav proceeded to Stornoway under armed guard, Lt. J M Stuart RNR in charge; slow ahead

7.20pm: set course N65°E

Distance run 308 miles


*[Note: the armed guard was from HMS Patia, which had boarded Nordkyn on 5th June. Nordkyn was on passage from Baltimore to Aarhus with a cargo of maize. The ship had called into Canada to obtain clearance, but this was not respected by Patia, and the ship was sent into Kirkwall and its cargo was put to the Prize Court on the assumption that it may have been destined for Germany. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, pages 173-174.]


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7 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -7.0

Wind SE then S, mainly force 4; sea slight; mainly cloudy; air temperature average 50°F; sea 50°F

[Courses N21°E and S22°W on a 3-hour rotation]

12.05pm: altered course to NE to intercept steamer; full speed

12.30pm: engines slow and to order to intercept Grimsby steam trawler Magnolia No. 226

12.40pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°17’N, 6°56’W

12.55pm: boarding officer returned

12.56pm: resumed course

9.00pm: altered course to N19°W

12.00am: altered course to S9°W

Distance run 295 miles


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8 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -7.0

Wind SSW then SE force 3-4; sea slight; broken cloud then overcast; air temperature average 50°F; sea 49°F

10.25am: altered course to N20°E to intercept sailing ship

10.55am: closed and found that the ship had armed guard in charge

11.00am: altered course to S9°W

7.05pm: challenged HMS Digby and received reply

11.00pm: stella obs. 60°15’N, 7°14’W

Distance run 305 miles


4caf8528cadfd3419700cf13: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-007_1.jpg)


9 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -7.0

Wind variable but mainly SW force 6-7 dropping to force 3; sea moderate becoming slight; overcast then broken cloud; air temperature 50-52°F; sea 50°F

[Courses N21°E and S20°W on 3-hour pattern]

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

5.05pm: challenged HMS Ebro and received reply

5.10pm: challenged HMS Digby and received reply

5.35pm: closed HMSs Ebro and Digby

5.37pm: speed 35 revs

6.03pm: sent boat to HMS Digby

6.20pm: boat returned in position 60°00’N, 7°00’W

7.05pm: set speed at 47 revs

7.39pm: full speed ahead to intercept steamer

7.39pm: closed steamer, “American” [sic] SS Platuria* (in charge of armed guard from HMS Patia)

Distance run 300 miles


*[Note: this tanker was on passage from New York to Karlshamn with a cargo of 4000 tons of petroleum. It was sent into Kirkwall with an armed guard in charge of Sub Lt Grant RNR. See HMS Patia, 9th June 1915 Patia. There was also a sequel to this story. This ship was a former German vessel which was sold to Standard Oil of New Jersey in September 1914. The destination of the cargo was on the southernmost coast of Sweden, and there were suspicions that it would either go to Germany or be intercepted by German patrols in the Baltic, but the cargo could not be taken by the British as there was nowhere to store it. The ship was therefore allowed to continue and the British Minister in Stockholm oversaw its arrival and discharge at Karlshamn. The vessel was intercepted again in August 1915 and again allowed to proceed, this time to Copenhagen. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 174 and page 235.]


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10 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.0, Long -7.0

Wind mainly WSW force 2; sea slight; broken cloud; air temperature 48-54°F; sea 48-51°F

4.30am: Sumbo Light bearing N38°E (true mag)

10.01am: 1st watch to physical drill; 2nd watch cutlass drill; marines rifle drill

5.00pm: altered course to N21°E

5.28pm: full speed and altered course to S60°E and various to intercept steamer

5.50pm: engines slow and to order to close Grimsby steam trawler St Bernard No. 1280

6.15pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°05’N, 6°44’W

6.20pm: boarding officer returned

7.22pm: set course N16°E, 62 revs

7.30pm: altered course to N69°E

9.45pm: challenged HMS Digby and received reply

Coal remaining: 3684 tons

Distance run 300 miles


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11 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.7, Long -8.1

Wind WSW force 5-6; sea slight becoming moderate; mainly overcast with a few squalls later; air temperature mainly 50°F; sea 50°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

[Courses mainly N21°E and S22°W on 3-hourly cycle]

Coal remaining: 3533 tons; fresh water remaining: 828.49 tons

Distance run 316 miles


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12 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -10.6

Wind W am force 5 declining to force 3, pm NNW force 2 to calm; sea smooth; overcast with mist then broken cloud and mist; air temperature 50-54°F; sea 49-50°F

5.00am: altered course to S87°W

[am and pm: exercised all crews] and hands employed making and mending clothes and cleaning ship

4.26pm: arrived at rendezvoux in position 60°12’N, 12°W

5.00pm: set course N24°E, 46 revs

5.30pm: increased to 60 revs

6.20pm: challenged HMS Alsatian and received reply; full ahead and altered course to S80°E and various to close

6.50pm: sent boat to Alsatian*

7.11pm: boat returned

7.22pm: set course NE and speed various to keep station

7.50pm: altered course to S84°E, 60 revs

9.00pm: rounds; challenged HMS Hildebrand and received reply

Distance run 312 miles


*[Note: in his report to the Admiralty, Admiral de Chair stated that because of “thick weather”, it had been difficult to locate Cedric for this rendezvous. The purpose of the meeting was to inform Commodore Benson of the new patrol arrangements. Cedric would now make up “B” Patrol in company with HMSs Orotava and Motagua.

See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 179.]


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13 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -7.0

Wind variable mainly SE and ESE force 1-3; sea smooth; cloud then broken cloud; air temperature 48-50°F; sea 49-50°F

8.00am: DR position 60°24’N, 7°16’W; altered course to S21°W

8.20am: full speed to intercept steamer

8.30am: speed 62 revs

8.39am: speed 44 revs

8.57am: engines slow and to order to close Danish SS Nordhavel [?] on passage from Baltimore to Copenhagen with a cargo of agricultural implements

9.07am: boarding officer and armed guard left Cedric in position 60°10’ [?] N, 7°12’W

9.25am: SS Nordhavel proceed to Kirkwall under armed guard, N S Nelson Lieut. RNR in charge

9.30am: boarding officer returned

9.35am: set course S86°E, 60 revs

2.05pm: altered course to N45°E to intercept steamer

2.30pm: altered course to N

2.46pm: half speed

2.57pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish steamer Kentucky on passage from Newcastle to Philadelphia with assorted cargo

3.10pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°57’N, 7°00’W

3.25pm: SS Kentucky proceeded

3.30pm: boarding officer returned

3.32pm: set course N21°E, 60 revs

6.00pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Orotava

Distance run 285 miles


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14 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.1, Long -7.0

Wind mainly ESE force 3; sea slight; broken cloud; air temperature 50°F; sea 50°F

0.35am: altered course to S40°E and various

0.50am: engines slow and to order to close Russian steamer Albatros on passage from Barry to Archangel with a cargo of coal

1.15am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°56’N, 6°51’W

1.26pm: boarding officer returned

1.28am: full speed

1.33am: altered course to N40°W

2.20am: engines slow and to order to close Danish SS Frederick Vlll

2.35am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°01’N, 7°08’W

3.15am: armed guard sent to Frederick Vlll

3.44am: boarding officer returned

3.53am: set course N21°E, 62 revs; SS Frederick Vlll proceeded to Stornoway under armed guard,

Lieut S Relton [?] RNR in charge*

10.45am: observed Lat. Venus 60°09½’N

3.15pm: altered course to N63°E to intercept steamer

3.23pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Deneb on passage from Trondheim to Glasgow and Manchester

3.37pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°03’N, 6°55’W

4.05pm: SS Deneb proceeded

4.07pm: boarding officer returned

4.10pm: resumed course and speed

5.15pm: altered course to S20°W

5.38pm: full speed; altered course to S25°E to close steamer

6.09pm: half speed

6.15pm: speed set to 62 revs

Distance run 295 miles


*[Note: Frederick VIII had 718 assengers on board, including many Germans. On being taken in to Stornoway, the ship’s Master made a written complaint. The ship was detained until 28th June, and a “suspicious” cargo of tobacco was also released. The log entry does not indicate in which direction the ship was sailing, but in fact it was sailing from Copenhagen to New York. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 180.]


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15 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -7.0

Wind S force 3 to 0; sea smooth; broken cloud; air temperature 50-57°F; sea 50°F

2.45am: sighted floating object; opened fire with 6 rounds and destroyed object*

9.30am: divisions and prayers

1.15pm: altered course to N68°W; exercised boat stations and turned out boats

4.00pm: altered course to S78°W, 62 revs

5.28pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian sailing ship West Lothian of Sandefjord on passage from Randers [Denmark] to “Halifax” [sic] in ballast

5.45pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°03’N, 9°00’W

6.12pm: boarding officer returned

6.13pm: resumed course and speed

0.00am: stella position 59°20’N, 10°46’W

Distance run 303 miles


[Note: the object in question was a buoy, as noted in the log of HMS Orotava. See HMS Orotava.]


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16 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.2, Long -11.1

Wind am ENE force 2, pm ESE force 4-5; am broken cloud, pm overcast; sea smooth becoming slight; air temperature 54-49°F; sea average 53°F

0.31am: altered course to S40°E to close Danish steamer Pangon [sic: possibly Paragon] (armed guard on board)

0.45am: resumed course and speed

2.00am: altered course to N2°W, 60 revs

7.55pm: altered course to S23°W and various to intercept steamer; full speed

9.08pm: engines slow and to order to close Swedish steamer Prinsessan Ingeborg on passage from Kirkwall to Pernambuco [Brazil] in position 59°48’N, 10°54’W

9.20pm: SS Prinsessan Ingeborg proceeded

9.30pm: set course N11°E

Distance run 310 miles


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17 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.3, Long -11.0

Wind am E, pm SE force 5-6; sea moderate; mainly broken cloud; air temperature 48-54°F; sea average 52°F

1.00am: challenged and received reply from HMS Oropesa

10.18am: altered course to N55°W

10.25am: engines stop and to order

10.35am: sent boat to HMS Patuca in position 59°27’N, 10°58’W

10.50am: boat returned

10.51am: half speed; set course N21°E

11.00am: reduced to 48 revs; arrived at rendezvous 59°30’N, 11°00’W

11.40am: full speed

12.15pm: half speed

12.17pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Changuinola

12.32pm: sent boat to HMS Changuinola

12.53pm: boat returned with armed guard

12.54pm: set course S4°E

12.00am: stella obs. 59°44’N, 11°21’W

Distance run 298 miles


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18 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.9, Long -11.1

Wind SE then SSE force 3 reducing to calm; sea slight reducing to smooth; mainly broken cloud; air temperature 50-58°F; sea average 53°F

2.00am: challenged and received reply from HMS Oropesa

4.40am: challenged and received reply from HMS Hildebrand

1.00pm: altered course to S; full speed

1.15pm: altered course to S½W [sic]

1.28pm: engines slow and to order to close American oil steamer Pioneer* on passage from New York to Copenhagen

1.40pm: boarding officer and armed guard left Cedric in position 59°34’N, 10°55’W

2.15pm: boarding officer returned; SS Pioneer proceeded to Kirkwall under armed guard

2.16pm: set course N1°W

5.30pm: lunar obs. 60°00’N, 11°18’W

Coal remaining: 2520 tons

Distance run 312 miles


*[Note: this ship was formerly the German vessel Kiowa (although called Kiow in Admiralty records) and was purchased by Standard Oil at the beginning of the war. On 16th February 1915 she was boarded by a prize crew from HMS Changuinola and sent into Kirkwall. The American captain had attempted to evade the patrol. She was inspected and allowed to proceed. The ship continued to attempt to evade the blockade by taking a route inside the Flannan Islands and round the Butt of Lewis, and In October 1915 the captain was expressly forbidden to take this route by the Admiralty. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, pages 90-91 and 541.]


4caf8528cadfd3419700cf1d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-012_1.jpg)


19 June 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.59, Long -11.1

Wind variable, but essentially calm; sea smooth; overcast with mist, broken cloud later; air temperature 52-56°F; sea 52°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews], cleaned ship and made and mended clothes

7.05pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Alcantara

9.55pm: full speed and altered course to S80°E and various to intercept steamer

10.29pm: engines slow and to order to close Hull steam trawler Queen Alexandra No. H 530

10.36pm: set course N67°W, 60 revs

Distance run 305 miles


The following two scans (probably 20–21 June 1915) could not be accessed.


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22 June 1915

At sea and at Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.4

Wind am E force 5, pm S force 2; sea slight then smooth; misty am then broken cloud; air temperature 53 rising to 68°F; sea (am only) average 55°F

0.05am: Maidens Light abeam 12 miles

1.40am: Mew Island bearing N32°W (magnetic); Skulmartin Light bearing N85°W

1.42am: Skulmartin Light abeam 6½ miles

2.58am: Chicken Rock bearing S22°E (magnetic)

4.15am: Chicken Rock Light bearing N68°E; altered course to S53°E

6.20am: escorted by HMS Dove

8.48am: Bar Light abeam

8.51am: engines to order to proceed up harbour

9.09am: Formby Light Vessel abeam; Magnetic alongside with pilot

9.54am: Rock Light abeam

10.10am: anchored with 50 fathoms of cable; draughts of water: forward 26’8”: aft 29’4”: mean 28’00”: side 21’4”

1.15pm: hands make and mend clothes

5.30pm: shortened in cable

5.51pm: anchors aweigh; engines to order to proceed into dock

6.12pm: alongside wall

6.16pm: entered Sandon Basin; awaiting levelling of basin

8.43pm: secured to berth in Canada Dock

9.30pm: gave special leave

Coal remaining: 1933 tons

Distance run 320 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf21: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-014_1.jpg)


23 June 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; overcast with rain; air temperature mainly 67°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

9.30am: discharged 2 ERAs to RN Depot Devonport

10.55am: armed guard returned

1.15pm: 1st watch and part of 2nd watch embarked on 4 days leave

5.00pm: exercised fire quarters; gave special leave to part of watch


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf22: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-015_0.jpg)


24 June 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; E in pm; overcast with cloud and some rain; air temperature average 54°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

am: reprimanded Mr J M Bailey, Temporary Warrant Telegraphist RNR, for making an en clair signal on 18th June 1915, he being aware that this was contrary to strict orders. [log is signed by Commodore Benson and JM Bailey]

5.00pm: exercised fire quarters; gave special leave to part of watch

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf23: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-015_1.jpg)


25 June 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind E force 2; overcast; air temperature 56-70°F

6.00am: hands employed in shifting ship and placing coal lighters

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed getting in stores

4.30pm: gave special leave to watch


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf24: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-016_0.jpg)


26 June 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly E or calm; early rain then broken cloud; air temperature 62-68°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

4.00pm: evening quarters; read Warrant No. 19

8.15pm: 1 AB RNR joined the ship from RN Depot Devonport


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf25: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-016_1.jpg)


27 June 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; broken cloud; air temperature 68°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.45am: Roman Catholics landed for service onshore

9.55am: Roman Catholics returned

1.15pm: gave special leave to watch

Coal remaining: 5937 tons


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf26: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-017_0.jpg)


28 June 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; broken cloud; air temperature 62-65°F

6.00am: hands employed shifting ship and placing coal lighters

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed getting in stores

1.15pm: gave special leave to watch

Coal remaining: 6615 tons


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf27: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-017_1.jpg)


29 June 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; rain am then broken cloud; air temperature 60-66°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

7.30am: 1st watch and part of 2nd watch returned from 4 days leave

8.00am: hands employed getting in stores

4.30pm: gave special leave to watch

Coal remaining: 6732 tons


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf28: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-018_0.jpg)


30 June 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; broken cloud then overcast later; air temperature 64-68°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed getting in stores, cleaning and painting ship

4.30pm: gave special leave to watch

Coal remaining: 6763.3 tons



4caf8529cadfd3419700cf29: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-018_1.jpg)

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf2a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-019_0.jpg)

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf2b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-019_1.jpg)

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4caf8529cadfd3419700cf2d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37368/ADM 53-37368-020_1.jpg)



LOGS FOR JULY 1915


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf2e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-001_0.jpg)

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf2f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-001_1.jpg)

[Person: Mentioned: A S Gilbert Lieut RNR]

[Person: Mentioned: R E R Benson Commodore]

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf30: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-002_0.jpg)

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf31: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-002_1.jpg)

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf32: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-003_0.jpg)


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf33: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-003_1.jpg)


1 July 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; overcast then broken cloud later; air temperature 64-62°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed getting in stores, cleaning and painting ship

5.00pm: gave special leave to watch

Coal remaining: 6729 tons


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf34: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-004_0.jpg)


2 July 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm then W force 2; overcast with some rain; air temperature 60-68°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed getting in stores, cleaning and painting ship

4.45pm: gave special leave to watch

5.00pm: hands employed getting in ammunition


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf35: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-004_1.jpg)


3 July 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SW force 3 then calm later; overcast with some rain; air temperature mainly 66°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed getting in stores, cleaning and painting ship

1.00pm: gave special leave to watch



4caf8529cadfd3419700cf36: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-005_0.jpg)


4 July 1915

At Liverpool and at sea [en route to Northern Patrol station]

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; mainly overcast with rain and cloud later; air temperature average 64°F

1.05pm: engines to standby

1.36pm: engines as required for going through locks; tugs in attendance: Canning, Brunswick, Trafalgar and Coburg

2.50pm: secured to berth in Sandon Dock

4.12pm: engines to order for entering river

4.30pm: discharged tugs

5.10pm: Rock Light abeam; courses various

6.21pm: Formby Light Vessel abeam; discharged pilot (Mr Ankers)

6.31pm: full speed

6.41pm: Bar Light abeam; set course N54°W

7.05pm: signalled HMS Dove, escort

8.00pm: HMS Dove parted company; DR position 53°39’N, 3°50’W

[9.45pm: soundings, bottom gravel 42 fathoms]

10.10pm: Chicken Rock Light bearing N9°W (magnetic), Skerries S16°W (magnetic)

10.42pm: Chicken Rock Light abeam


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf37: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-005_1.jpg)


5 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 56.3, Long -8.3

Wind calm then W force 4-5 later; sea smooth then slight; broken cloud with showers; air temperature 54-58°F; sea 52-59°F

1.10am: South Rock Light abeam 7 miles; altered course to N

2.42am: Maidens Light abeam 6 miles; altered course to N22°W

3.53am: Maidens Light abeam 2½ miles

5.10am: Torr Point abeam 1¼5 miles; courses various

5.20am: set course N48°W; HMS Thorn escorting

5.43am: Bull Point abeam

6.00am: HMS Thorn parted company

7.18am: Inishtrahull bearing 270° 10 miles; altered course to N23°W

7.40am: Inishtrahull Light abeam

8.00am: DR position 53°34’N, 7°09’W

9.30am: opened watertight doors, sounded alarm, action stations

9.50am: exercised general quarters

10.00am: exercised collision stations

10.12am: secure; hands employed as requisite

12.15pm: altered course to N9°W

4.00pm: evening quarters; read Warrant No. 22

8.00pm: DR position 57°37’N, 9°51’W

Distance run 295 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf38: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-006_0.jpg)


6 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.5, Long -12.9

Wind mainly N (NW to NNE) force 4-3; sea slight; mainly overcast; air temperature 56-50°F; sea average 55°F

6.00am: challenged and received reply from HMS Columbella

1.25pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Andes

1.40pm: rendezvous with HMS Alsatian

2.07pm: altered course to S15°E; engines to order to keep station with HMS Alsatian

2.33pm: stop

2.45pm: HMS Alsatian’s boat alongside Cedric

3.07pm: engines to order

4.40pm: parted company with HMS Alsatian

4.42pm: set course S73°E, 62 revs

Distance run 312 miles


[Note: “B” Patrol was temporarily suspended because of the submarine menace, so Cedric now joined “C” Patrol south of the Faroes along with HMSs Alcantara, Oropesa and Hildebrand.].


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf39: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-006_1.jpg)


7 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.9, Long -5.4

Wind N and NNE force 3-4; sea slight to smooth; overcast and misty; air temperature 50-55°F; sea 51-54°F

10.00am: exercised taking ship in tow

12.05pm: altered course to S to intercept sailing vessel

12.19pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish schooner Vesta on passage from “Leith” [sic] to Iceland*

12.55pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°42’N, 5°18’W

1.05pm: boarding officer returned

1.07pm: full ahead

1.19pm: engines half speed and to order to close Swedish steamer SS Hispania on passage from Lisbon to Goteborg with general cargo

1.40pm: boarding officer and armed guard left Cedric in position 60°50’N, 5°22’W

2.17pm: boarding officer returned; SS Hispania proceeded to Kirkwall under armed guard, officers in charge Sub Lieut. W Pearse RNR and Midshipman Boughton RNR

2.20pm: set course S83°E, 62 revs

Distance run 309 miles


*[Note: this ship was also intercepted by HMS Andes on July 11th. See HMS Andes.]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf3a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-007_0.jpg)


8 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 64.4, Long -3.5

Wind NNE to NE force 4-3; sea slight to smooth; overcast, cloudy and misty; air temperature average 49°F; sea 47°F

10.00am: exercised physical drill, marines rifle drill

Distance run 297 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf3b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-007_1.jpg)


9 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 64.0, Long -0.8

Wind calm; sea smooth; overcast and misty; air temperature 45-52°F; sea 47-50°F

1.00am: circling around to maintain communication with HMS India

5.24am: full speed, 75 revs; course N87°E to maintain communication with HMS India

1.17pm: altered course to S65°E to intercept steamer

1.31pm: engines stop and to order to close Norwegian steamer Argus

1.42pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 63°40’N, 1°23’W

2.02pm: boarding officer returned; SS Argus proceeded to Iceland

4.00pm: evening quarters; read Warrant No. 24

4.17pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Bordeyri

4.25pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 63°10’N, 1°58’W

4.38pm: boarding officer returned, SS Bordeyri proceeded to Iceland

4.40pm: resumed course and speed

Distance run 342 miles

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf3c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-008_0.jpg)


10 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -9.2

Wind mainly NW force 4-5; sea slight; misty and overcast; air temperature 49-54°F; sea average 51°F

3.55pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Amsterdam

4.35pm: sent boat to H.M.S Amsterdam in position 60°00’N, 11°00’W

4.50pm: boat returned with armed guard

4.55pm: speed 62 revs, course S85°E

Distance run 308 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf3d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-008_1.jpg)


11 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.3, Long -4.0

Wind NE then N, generally force 4-5; sea slight to moderate; misty then showers; air temperature average 48°F; sea average 51°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

2.25pm: altered course to W to intercept steamer; full speed

2.38pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Flora* on passage from Faroe Islands to Bergen

2.50pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 61°45’N, 4°10’W

3.05pm: sent armed guard to SS Flora, Lieut. J B Titterington RNR and Midshipman Williams RNR in charge

3.18pm: SS Flora proceeded to Kirkwall

3.20pm: boarding officer returned

3.23pm: set course N55°W, 72 revs to intercept steamer

4.05pm: reduced to 60 revs; altered course to N10°E

4.10pm: altered course to N30°E

5.30pm: altered course to N40°E

6.00pm: altered course to S23°E**

Distance run 306 miles


*[Note: there were 3 Norwegian ships named Flora sunk by U-boats in the war. This ship is likely to be one of them, but it is not certain. See http://www.uboat.net/wwi/ships_hit/search.php .]


**[Note: no explanation is given for these rapid changes of course or what happened to the pursuit of the steamer.]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf3e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-009_0.jpg)


12 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.2, Long -4.1

Wind mainly N (NNE to NW) force 5 reducing to force 1; sea moderate becoming slight; overcast and cloudy with early mist; air temperature average 48°F; sea average 50°F

7.16am: altered course to S85°W to intercept steamer

7.47am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Frida on passage from Reykjavik to “Bergen” [sic]

7.55am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 61°49’N, 4°14’W

8.15am: SS Frida proceeded

8.22am: boarding officer returned

8.25am: set course N23°E, 62 revs

12.30pm: altered course to intercept sailing vessel

1.30pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian schooner Haugar

1.38pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 62°15’N, 4°22’W

1.50pm: schooner proceeded

1.53pm: boarding officer returned

1.55pm: set course N41°E

4.30pm: altered course to S19°W

Distance run 287 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf3f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-009_1.jpg)


13 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.0, Long -4.0

Wind E am then calm pm; sea smooth; overcast am then broken cloud pm; air temperature 46-56°F; sea 47-52°F

5.45am: sighted HMS Teutonic

5.48am: Bispen bearing N25°W (magnetic), Vidhoy bearing N35°W [Faroes]

6.40am: engines slow and to order to close HMS Teutonic

6.55am: discharged armed guard to Teutronic

7.00am: Bispen bearing N2½°W (magnetic) [sic], Nolso Lighthouse bearing 76°30’W (magnetic)

7.12am: set course S66°E, 60 revs

10.00am: hands employed in squad drill and physical drill

Distance run 304 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf40: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-010_0.jpg)


14 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.7, Long -4.0

Wind calm am then NE force 3; sea smooth; mainly broken cloud; air temperature 50-53°F; sea average 51°F

12.30pm: altered course to N26°W to intercept steamer

12.35pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian whaler

1.19pm: resumed speed

1.23pm: set course N59°E

2.06pm: full speed; altered course to N56°E to intercept sailing ship*

2.40pm: set speed at 60 revs, set course at S19°W

Number on sick list: 2

Distance run 312 miles


*[Note: no names of the whaler or the sailing ship are given.]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf41: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-010_1.jpg)


15 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.0, Long -3.9

Wind NE force 4 am then calm; sea slight then smooth; overcast then broken cloud; air temperature average 49°F; sea average 50°F

6.50am: altered course to intercept steamer

7.48am: full speed

8.10pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Minerva on passage from Bergen to Iceland

8.28am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 62°29’N, 3°52’W

8.40am: boarding officer returned

8.48am: course N15°E

11.45am: altered course to N85°E to intercept trawler

11.58am: engines slow and to order

12.10pm: speed 60 revs

12.15pm: set course N8°W

1.00pm: altered course to S19°W

1.45pm: altered course to S54°W

1.48pm: full speed to intercept steamer

2.28pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Argo on passage from Stavanger to Iceland with a cargo of empty barrels

2.44pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 62°57’N, 4°20’W

2.57pm: boarding officer returned, SS Argo proceeded

11.15pm: challenged and received reply from HMS India

Distance run 309 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf42: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-011_0.jpg)


16 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -4.0

Wind mainly calm; sea smooth; overcast; air temperature 48-50°F; sea 48-50°F

9.45am: exercised towing stations

10.14am: engines stop and to order

10.39am: set speed at 62 revs, course N2°E

6.10pm: altered course to S19°W

6.50pm: challenged HMS India

7.25pm: challenged HMS Digby

8.07pm: reduced to 46 revs

8.22pm: sent boat to HMS Digby

Distance run 300 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf43: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-011_1.jpg)


17 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.9, Long -4.0

Wind mainly NW force 3-4; sea smooth; early rain and showers then cloudy; air temperature average 48°F; sea average 47°F

9.27am: full speed to intercept steamer

10.04am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Pluton on passage from Archangel to Glasgow with a cargo of flax

10.10am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 62°45’N, 4°15’W

10.25am: boarding officer returned; SS Pluton proceeded

10.27am: resumed course and speed

Bearing: Fuglo Island 245° 71 miles

Coal remaining: 4583 tons

Distance run 296 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf44: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-012_0.jpg)


18 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.8, Long -4.0

Wind mainly WNW force 4-3; sea slight becoming smooth; broken cloud with early mist; air temperature 45-50°F; sea 49-50°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

Distance run 312 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf45: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-012_1.jpg)


19 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.7, Long -4.5

Wind mainly SE force 3 rising to force 6; sea slight becoming moderate; cloudy then overcast with rain; air temperature average 50°F; sea average 49°F

3.30am: full speed to intercept steamer

4.02am: engines slow and to order to close SS Garron Head on passage from Archangel to Belfast with a cargo of flax

4.15am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 62°43’N, 3°45’W

4.30am: SS Garron Head proceeded

4.37am: boarding officer returned

4.40am: set speed at 60 revs, course S33°W

9.50am: divisions and prayers; lost by accident overboard 2 rifle magazines by David Mill (Able Seaman, RNR) and Jas Powell (Private, RNLI)

11.00am: altered course to N22°W, allowing 2° for set to southward

Distance run 308 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf46: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-013_0.jpg)


20 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.1, Long -4.0

Wind SE force 6 reducing to calm and “light airs” [sic]; sea moderate then slight; overcast then fog; air temperature average 51°F; sea average 50°F

[Courses S19°W and N22°E on a regular pattern]

[9:00am: soundings; no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

[4.00pm: soundings; no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

Distance run 312 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf47: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-013_1.jpg)


21 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.0, Long -3.9

Wind S force 4, then “light airs” then calm; sea smooth; fog, overcast, broken cloud then rain; air temperature 50-53°F; sea mainly 50°F

[6.00am-8.30am: 6 soundings; no bottom with 285 fathom wire]

8.35am: altered course to intercept steamer

8.45am: resumed course

Coal remaining 3977 tons; fresh water remaining: 936.21 tons

Distance run 312 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf48: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-014_0.jpg)


22 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.7, Long -4.0

Wind NE force 3 then calm then E force 2; sea smooth to slight; mainly overcast with rain; air temperature 49-54°F; sea 50-54°F

1.30pm: full speed to intercept sailing ship

1.35pm: altered course to S35°W

2.12pm: engines slow and to order

2.28pm: resumed course

2.30pm: set speed at 60 revs; sailing ship Springbank flying the flag of the day*

3.48pm: altered course to N22°E

7.09pm: altered course to intercept steamer; engines to order to close Norwegian steam trawler Anne

7.20pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 61°34½’N, 4°00’W

7.32pm: trawler proceeded

7.36pm: boarding officer returned

7.40pm: resumed course and speed

Distance run 312 miles


*[Note: flying the flag of the day meant the ship had already put into Kirkwall and had the cargo and passengers cleared.  The flag of the day lasted them for three days, plenty of time for a steamship to clear the Atlantic patrol area. The procedures kept changing.  Both green clearance and flying the flag of the day meant that the ship would be allowed to proceed and no need to put an armed guard on and send it into Kirkwall.  However, as the war proceeded some of the shipping lines entered into agreements with the Allies and basically they were cleared from the point of departure.


Some 30 minutes after been sighted by Cedric, Springbank had rescued the crew and armed guard from the SS Fimreite which had been sunk by gunfire from a “small submarine” (actually U-36) in position 60°15’N, 8°45’W. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 216.]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf49: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-014_1.jpg)



23 July 1915


At patrol

Lat 63.1, Long -5.8

Wind NE am mainly NW pm mainly force 3; sea smooth becoming slight; overcast with rain then broken cloud with showers; air temperature average 49°F; sea 48°F

[3.00am-8.30am: 10 soundings; generally no bottom with 285 fathom cable; 6.30am: bottom of sand and shingle, 72 fathoms: 8.00am: bottom of sand and shingle, 76 fathoms]

6.26am: sighted Fuglo Island bearing N34°E (magnetic) and Svinoy bearing N85°W (magnetic); set course N21°E

7.15am: Norduroy bearing N77°W, Bispen bearing N81°W, Svinoy bearing N62°W

8.54am: Estero bearing S48°W, Fuglo bearing S10°W

9.00am: altered course to N23°E

9.10am: sighted HMS Alsatian and closed, engines to order

10.28am: sent boat to HMS Alsatian*

10.52am: boat returned

10.53am: engines to order to keep station with HMS Alsatian

11.58am: parted company; set speed at 60 revs

1.53pm: altered course to intercept steamer; full speed

2.14pm: engines half speed and to order to close British steamer Mereddio [sic]**

2.26pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 63°03’N, 6°30’W

3.10pm: SS Mereddio proceeded, boarding officer returned

3.14pm: resumed course and speed

Number on sick list: 3

Distance run 314 miles


*[Note: Admiral de Chair reported that he had met with Commodore Benson, who had been given “special orders”. The Commodore then took over command of “C” Patrol. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 214.]


**[Note: it has not been possible to identify the correct name of this ship. However, HMS Alcantara reported to the Admiralty that on October 2nd 1915 she had stopped “the Merridir of Glasgow” and it was not possible for the Admiralty to identify the correct name of the ship, which may have been the same vessel. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 279.]


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24 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.5, Long -10.8

Wind mainly WNW and NW force 3-5; sea slight; overcast then broken cloud with showers; air temperature 50-54°F; sea 50-56°F

9.15am: sighted HMS Patia

10.00am: reduced to 48 revs

10.45am: engines stop and to order to close HMS Patia

10.40am: sent boat to HMS Patia

10.57am: set speed at 60 revs

11.03am: set course at N10°W

6.05pm: stop; engines to order

6.15pm: launched sea boat

6.23pm: hoisted sea boat and resumed course

10.00pm: full speed, altered course to N25°W to intercept steamer

11.49pm: engines half speed and to order to close American oil tank steamer Muskogee*

0.00am: boarding officer left Cedric in position (stella obs.) 59°41’N, 11°09’W

Distance run 316 miles


*[Note: this vessel was the former German tanker Triton, taken over by Standard Oil at the beginning of the war. The Admiralty suspected that its skipper, Captain Tiedemann, was a German agent. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 496.]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf4b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-015_1.jpg)


25 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.5, Long -10.8

Wind WNW am SE pm mainly force 2; sea slight to smooth; broken cloud; air temperature 53-59°F; sea 52-58°F

0.47am: boarding officer returned; full speed ahead

1.00am: set course S16°E

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 298 miles


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26 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -10.8

Wind E then NE force 3; sea smooth; broken cloud; air temperature 52-60°F; sea 54-59°F

9.40am: stop engines, drop target

9.45am: exercised action; carried out 1” electric aiming practice; engines to order, courses various in position 60°03’N, 10°35’W

10.55am: completed practice; engines to order to secure target

11.09am: course N3°W

2.37pm: altered course to S48°W; full speed to intercept sailing ship

3.00pm: half speed

3.20pm: reduced to 60 revs

3.23pm: set course S48°E

10.45pm: stella position 59°59’N, 10°44’W

Distance run 304 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf4d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-016_1.jpg)


27 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -11.9

Wind mainly NE force 3; sea smooth; broken cloud; air temperature 52-56°F; sea 56°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

1.30pm: full speed to intercept sailing ship

1.43pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian barque Edderside

1.55pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°04’N, 11°38’W

2.18pm: boarding officer returned

2.27pm: set course S2°E, 62 revs

Number on sick list: 3

Distance run 320 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf4e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-017_0.jpg)


28 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -11.6

Wind NE force 2 then calm; sea smooth; broken cloud; air temperature 51-63°F; sea mainly 56°F

5.23am: challenged and received reply from HMS India*

10.00am: exercised physical drill and rifle drill

[Courses S2°E and N1°W on regular rotation]

Coal remaining: 2911 tons

Distance run 304 miles


*[Note: HMS India was torpedoed and sunk on 8th August 1915 off the Norwegian coast in position 67°24’N, 13°44’E. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, pages 248-254.]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf4f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-017_1.jpg)


29 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -10.9

Wind SW veering to NW force 3; sea smooth; mainly overcast with rain and showers; air temperature average 55°F; sea 55°F

0.52am: full speed to intercept steamer

1.20am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Mexicano* on passage from New Orleans to “Kirkwall” [sic] with general cargo

1.30am: boarding officer and armed guard left Cedric in position 59°53’N, 11°43’W

1.53am: boarding officer returned; SS Mexicano proceeded to Kirkwall under armed guard, Lieut. E A Stuart RNR in charge

2.03am: set course S64°E

3.00am: challenged and received reply from HMS Motagua

4.00am: altered course to N8°E

4.36am: full speed to intercept steamer

5.20am: reduced to 60 revs

[pm: exercised all crews]

Distance run 307 miles


*[Note: in November 1916 this vessel sent a message to the Admiralty to inform them that she had rescued the crew from the Norwegian barque Musselcrag and had attempted to sink the stricken vessel by setting fire to her, but without success. She requested that the barque be sunk by gunfire, but it was not thought practicable to carry this out. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, pages 550-551.]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf50: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-018_0.jpg)


30 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.8, Long -12.0

Wind calm; sea smooth; broken cloud; air temperature 56-61°F; sea mainly 56°F

8.48am: altered course to S to close HMS Digby

9.08am: engines slow and to order

9.25am: HMS Digby sent boat in position 59°24’N, 11°26’W

9.42am: full speed

9.48am: set course N

11.43am: altered course to N23°E

7.00pm: altered course to S55°E; full speed to intercept steamer

7.22pm: engines slow and to order to close American SS Sea Connet

7.30pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°57’N, 11°42’W

7.45pm: SS Sea Connet proceeded*

7.48pm: boarding officer returned

8.00pm: set course S8°W, speed 60 revs

10.00pm: stella obs. 59°40’N, 11°51’W

Coal remaining 2612 tons

Distance run 313 miles


*[Note: it might be thought surprising that this was vessel was allowed to proceed, as on 14th June 1915 she was intercepted by HMS Hilary and found to be carrying rifles, copper, armour plating and ammunition. She was sent into Kirkwall and from there to North Shields. Cedric’s log does not indicate her direction, and it is likely that she was here returning to the US. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 181.]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf51: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-018_1.jpg)


31 July 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -11.4

Wind NE force 3 rising to force 5; sea slight becoming moderate; broken cloud, overcast later; air temperature average 56°F; sea average 57°F

10.52am: full speed

11.18am: engines slow and to order to close HMS Hildebrand

5.00pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Fiona*

7.30pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Ebro

Coal remaining: 2435 tons

Distance run 302 miles


*[Note: HMS Fiona, an Armed Boarding Steamer, had joined the squadron on 4th July 1915 as a support vessel, replacing HMS Royal Scot.]



4caf8529cadfd3419700cf52: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-019_0.jpg)

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4caf8529cadfd3419700cf55: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37369/ADM 53-37369-020_1.jpg)



LOGS FOR AUGUST 1915


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4caf8529cadfd3419700cf57: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-001_1.jpg)

[Person: Mentioned: A S Gilbert Lieut RNR]

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf58: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-002_0.jpg)

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf59: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-002_1.jpg)

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf5a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-003_0.jpg)


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf5b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-003_1.jpg)


1 August 1915

At sea [returning to Liverpool]

Lat 55.2, Long -6.2

Wind mainly E (NE, SE then E) force 5 reducing to “light airs”; sea slight then smooth; broken cloud then overcast with mist and rain; air temperature average 56°F; sea average 56°F

[7.00am-10am: soundings: 7.00am: bottom sand and shingle 98 fathoms, 7.30am: no bottom with 285 fathom cable, 8.00am: bottom fine sand 77 fathoms, 8.30am: bottom fine sand 51 fathoms, 9.00am: bottom pebbles 36 fathoms, 9.30am: bottom pebbles 30 fathoms, 10.00am: bottom pebbles 22 fathoms, 10.30am: bottom broken shells 50 fathoms]

7.00am: closed watertight doors

8.00am: DR position 55°53’N, 7°41’W

10.00am: Inishtrahull bearing S48°W (magnetic)

10.15am: altered course to N71°W [sic]

12.40pm: Bull Point abeam, 1½ miles; full speed, course S53°E

12.22pm: Fair Head abeam ¾ mile, course S46°E

12.32pm: Torr Point abeam; answered challenge from HMS Tara; altered course to S22°E

1.35pm: Maiden's Buoy abeam

2.35pm: Mew Island abeam 3½ miles; altered course to S3°E

4.35pm: South Rock Light Vessel abeam; altered course to S13°W

6.43pm: Chicken Rock Lighthouse bearing S73°E 10 miles

7.21pm: Chicken Rock Lighthouse bearing N71°E; altered course to S53°E

9.28pm: Lynas Lighthouse bearing S2°E, Skerries S32°W (magnetic); altered course to S55°E

11.20pm: escorted by HMS Dee

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 366 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf5c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-004_0.jpg)


2 August 1915

At sea and at Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind “light airs” then calm; sea smooth; overcast then rain; air temperature average 70°F

0.44am: Bar Light Vessel abeam

1.00am: engines to order for entering harbour

1.05am: Formby Light Vessel abeam

1.50am: Rock Light abeam

3.02am: alongside wall; tugs in attendance Collingwood, Brunswick, and Canning

3.09am: entered Sandon Basin

5.17am: secured to berth in Canada Dock; rang off engines

8.30am: hands employed returning ammunition and shell to magazine and shell rooms, rigging coaling screens, and as requisite; 50.03 tons fresh water destroyed by salt water

1.00pm: hands employed making and mending clothing; gave special leave to 1st and 2nd watches; discharged 1 stoker to hospital

Coal remaining: 2201 tons


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf5d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-004_1.jpg)


3 August 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SW am then NW to N pm force 2-3; early rain then broken cloud; air temperature 64-69°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: 3rd watch and part of 2nd watch proceeded on leave

1.30pm: hands employed painting and provisioning ship


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf5e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-005_0.jpg)


4 August 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 2-3 backing WSW then SW; overcast then broken cloud pm; air temperature 64-68°F

6.00am: hands employed shifting ship and placing coal lighters

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed painting ship and as requisite; returned 4 cases of ammunition


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf5f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-005_1.jpg)


5 August 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; overcast with some showers air temperature average 70°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed painting ship and as requisite

Coal remaining: 3573 tons


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf60: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-006_0.jpg)


6 August 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock and Dry Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable force 3, SE through to WNW; mainly overcast; air temperature average 68°F

7.00am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed painting ship and as requisite

1.10pm: hands employed preparing ship to enter dry dock

2.42pm: entered dry dock; pilot Mr Davis; tugs in attaendance Nelson, Formby, Brocklebank and Canning

Draught of water entering dry dock: forward, 27’4”, aft 27’8”


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf61: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-006_1.jpg)


7 August 1915

At Liverpool, Dry Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable NNW to SE force 2-3; mainly overcast with mist and rain; air temperature average 62°F

[am and pm: general duties]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf62: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-007_0.jpg)


8 August 1915

At Liverpool, Dry Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable SW to SEand calm; mainly overcast with mist and rain; air temperature average 61°F

[am and pm: general duties]

8.15am: landed Roman Catholics for service on shore

10.20am: RCs returned


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf63: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-007_1.jpg)


9 August 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable with calm and “light airs”; mainly overcast with rain showers; air temperature 62-71°F

6.40am: left dry dock; tugs in attendance Alexandria, Nelson, Trafalgar and Brocklebank

7.25am: secured to berth in Canada Dock

8.30am and 1.10pm: hands employed getting in stores and provisions

Coal remaining: 4070 tons


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf64: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-008_0.jpg)


10 August 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; overcast then broken cloud; air temperature 72-78°F

7.30am: 3rd watch and 2nd part of 2nd watch returned from leave

11.00am: 1 private RMLI joined ship from RMLI Depot Plymouth


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf65: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-008_1.jpg)


11 August 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SSW force 2 then calm; broken cloud; air temperature 66-70°F

4.30pm: hands employed getting in Paymaster’s stores

8.00pm: 1 rating joined ship from RN Depot Devonport


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf66: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-009_0.jpg)


12 August 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly calm and SSW force 2; broken cloud; air temperature 66-74°F

4.00pm: evening quarters; read Warrant No. 27

Coal remaining: 6749 tons


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf67: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-009_1.jpg)


13 August 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable, mainly W and calm; mainly broken cloud; air temperature average 66°F

7.00am: liberty men returned; RC priest held service on board

8.45am: discharged 1 rating to RN Depot Devonport

4.00pm: evening quarters; discharged 1 AB to RN Depot Devonport

7.15pm: discharged 1 Lieutenant to RN Depot Devonport


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf68: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-010_0.jpg)



14 August 1915

At Liverpool and at sea [en route to patrol area]

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm then WSW force 3; sea smooth (pm only); cloud and broken cloud; air temperature average 60°F; sea (pm only) 57°F

8.00am: hands employed cleanng ship; discharged 4 ERA's RNR to RN Depot Devonport

10.38am: engines to order for undocking; tugs in attendance Toxteth, Huskisson, Alexandria and Waterloo

11.40am: secured to berth in Sandon Basin

1.15pm: left Sandon Basin; engines to order

1.36pm: entered river

1.50pm: discharged pilot

1.53pm: full speed

1.57pm: Rock Light abeam; courses various

2.28pm: Formby Light Vessel abeam

2.43pm: Bar Light Vessel abeam; set course N53°W; exercised “abandon ship” stations, turned out boats

4.22pm: Chicken Rock Light bearing N12°E

7.00pm: Chicken Rock Light bearing N67°E; altered course to N9°E

9.00pm: St John’s Point bearing S80°W; South Rock Light Vessel bearing N64°W

Coal remaining: 6607 tons


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf69: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-010_1.jpg)


15 August 1915

At sea [en route to patrol area]

Lat 56.9, Long -8.7

Wind NE am, E pm force 2-4; sea smooth; mainly cloudy with showers and squalls; air temperature 59-62°F; sea 55-60°F

0.32am: altered course to N32°W

1.33am: altered course to N20°W; Mull of Cantyre abeam ¾ mile

2.35am: altered course to N60°W

4.45am: Inishtrahull bearing S20°W; altered course to N20°E

9.48am: altered course to N27°W

8.00pm: DR position 58°32’N, 10°45’W; altered course to N10°W

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 340 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf6a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-011_0.jpg)


16 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.2, Long -13.1

Wind mainly NE force 2-4; sea slight; overcast with mist; air temperature average 55°F; sea average 57°F

9.20am: proceeded to rendezvous in position 63°00’N, 6°00’W; set course N86°E

10.50am: challenged and received reply from HMS Orcoma

4.25pm: full speed to intercept steamer

5.12pm: engines slow and to order to close Grimsby steam trawler Aphelion No. 1123

5.25pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 61°40’N, 11°22’W

5.35pm: steam trawler Aphelion proceeded

5.38pm: boarding officer returned

5.46pm: set course S80°E

[9.00-midnight: 4 soundings: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

Distance run 373 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf6b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-011_1.jpg)


17 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.9, Long -5.7

Wind mainly NW force 2-4; sea smooth; mainly fog; air temperature average 47°F; sea 50°F

3.00am: Mykines abeam 5 miles

9.15am: challenged and received reply from HMS Alsatian; altered course to close

9.47am: stop; engines to order

10.12am: sent boat to HMS Alsatian in position 62°55’N, 5°55’W*

11.26am: boat returned

11.33am: full speed to intercept sailing vessel; altered course accordingly

11.58am: engines slow and to order to close Danish schooner Ruth

12.15pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 62°53’N, 5°39’W

12.30pm: schooner Ruth proceeded

12.35pm: boarding officer returned

12.48pm: set course N55°E

Distance run 298 miles


*[Note: Alsatian was about to return to Liverpool, and it is assumed that Admiral de Chair was meeting Commodore Benson so that the latter could take over command of the patrol in his absence. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 227.]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf6c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-012_0.jpg)


18 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.2, Long -6.0

Wind NW force 5 reducing to force 3; sea slight; fog then mainly overcast; air temperature 46-49°F; sea average 49°F

[Courses S22°W and N22°E on regular rotation]

10.00am: 1st watch on pistol drill, 2nd watch on physical drill

11.10am: challenged and received reply from HMS Patuca

11.37am: full speed

11.40am: altered course to E

11.42am: engines slow and to order to close HMS Patuca

Noon: HMS Patuca’s boat alongside Cedric

12.08pm: engines slow ahead

12.15pm: altered course to N22°E

4.34pm: altered course to SW

4.35pm: reduced speed to 48 revs and to order to close HMS Ambrose

5.00pm: HMS Ambrose’s boat alongside Cedric

Number on sick list: 6

Distance run 270 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf6d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-012_1.jpg)


19 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.2, Long -6.0

Wind NW force 2 backing to W force 4-5; sea smooth becoming slight; overcast then rain pm; air temperature 48-52°F; sea 48-52°F

[Courses S23°W and N23°E on regular rotation]

10.00am: exercised small arms drill

[6.00pm: sounding: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

Number on sick list: 6

Distance run 303 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf6e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-013_0.jpg)


20 August 1915


At patrol

Lat 62.7, Long -6.0

Wind W force 5 veering to N force 6; sea slight becoming moderate; overcast with early showers; air temperature 50 down to 44°F later; sea average 49°F

[4.00am-5.30am: 3 soundings: 4.00am: bottom sand 105 fathoms; 5.00am: bottom sand and sand and rock 83 fathoms; 5.30am: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

7.00am: sighted HMS Hildebrand; reduced to 60 revs

7.10am: stop; engines to order to close HMS Hildebrand

7.32am: HMS Hildebrand sent boat to Cedric in position 62°58’N, 6°00’W*

7.45am: set course N20°E, speed 60 revs

9.00am: altered course to S24°W

4.40pm: full speed to intercept steamer; courses various

5.15pm: signalled Danish steamer Perm

5.25pm: reduced speed to 60 revs, set course S24°W

Number on sick list: 5

Distance run 307 miles


*[Note: having been given responsibility for the patrol, Commodore Benson is apparently meeting the other captains over these few days, and the rendesvoux point looks like it was set at 63°00’N, 6°00’W.]


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf6f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-013_1.jpg)



21 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.2, Long -6.1

Wind NW backing to SW force 4-5; sea slight to moderate; mainly overcast with rain; air temperature 46-52°F; sea 48-50°F

6.20am: altered course to N50°W to intercept “schooner” [sic]

6.52am: engines slow and to order to close Danish schooner H C Jensen

7.03am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 63°08’N, 6°13’W

7.15am: H C Jensen proceeded

7.22am: boarding officer returned

7.24am: full speed

7.30am: course N45°E

11.34am: stop; engines to order to close HMS Mantua

11.50am: HMS Mantua sent boat to Cedric in position 62°38’N, 6°05’W

12.20pm: set course N22°E

Number on sick list: 5

Distance run 302 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf70: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-014_0.jpg)


22 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.7, Long -6.0

Wind W force 5 am, SW force 6 pm; sea moderate; overcast with rain then showers; air temperature 50-52°F; sea 48-50°F

[am and pm: exercised all cews]

6.05pm: sighted HMS Ambrose

6.10pm: stop and engines to order to close HMS Ambrose

6.20pm: sent boat to Ambrose in position 63°23’N, 6°00’W

7.08pm: boat returned; set course S14°W

8.25pm: sighted HMS Digby; reduced to 48 revs

8.34pm: stop and engines to order to close HMS Digby

8.45pm: sent boat to Digby in position 63°14’N, 5°38’W

9.08pm: boat returned

9.10pm: speed 62 revs, course S38°W

Distance run 308 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf71: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-014_1.jpg)


23 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 64.0, Long -6.0

Wind variable mainly W (WSW WNW) force 6; sea moderate to rough; mainly cloudy; air temperature average 49°F; sea average 49°F

10.00am: exercised general quarters, boat stations and collision stations

10.00pm: stella obs. 64°11’N, 6°34’W

Number on sick list: 5

Distance run 295 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf72: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-015_0.jpg)


24 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 64.0, Long -6.0

Wind W and WSW force 6-7; sea rough; broken cloud then cloud; air temperature 47-50°F; sea average 48°F

12.30pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Ebro

Distance run 312 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf73: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-015_1.jpg)


25 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -6.1

Wind WSW force 7 reducing to SW force 3; sea rough becoming moderate; early squalls then overcast; air temperature average 48°F; sea 50 reducing to 46°F

[Course rotation around N20°E and S22°W]

Nmber on sick list: 6

Distance run 312 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf74: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-016_0.jpg)


26 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -6.0

Wind variable mainly W (WNW to SW) force 3-4; sea moderate to slight; early mist then broken cloud; air temperature average 48°F; sea average 47°F

5.20am: challenged and received reply from HMS Ebro

5.30am: altered course to S22°W

7.46am: stop; engines to order to close HMS Ebro

7.55am: sent boat to HMS Ebro

8.00am: DR position 63°11’N, 6°11’W

8.13am: boat returned

8.21am: set course N31°E

3.34pm: altered course to N; full speed to intercept steamer

3.49pm: engines slow and to order to close British steamer Southfield* on passage from Cardiff to Archangel with a cargo of coal

4.05pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 64°02’N, 6°04’W

4.23pm: SS Southfield proceeded

4.30pm: boarding officer returned; set course S19°W

9.30pm: stella obs. 63°35’N, 5°51’W

Number on sick list: 6

Distance run 307 miles


*[Note: the vessel’s name Southfield is clearly written in the log, but there seems to be no record of this ship. However, there was a British vessel Southford in service at this time. Also, a Welsh website identifies the SS Southina, torpedoed in July 1917, as having formerly been named Southfield. It has not been possible to confirm this. See http://www.walesonline.co.uk/lifestyle/lifestyle-opinion/world-war-one-ships-lost-7743540.See also

http://www.uboat.net/wwi/ships_hit/5671.html.]



4caf8529cadfd3419700cf75: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-016_1.jpg)


27 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.2, Long -6.0

Wind WSW force 2 veering to WNW force 7; sea moderate becoming rough; mainly overcast; air temperature average 47°F; sea average 47°F

11.00am: barometer reading increased and disregarded owing to a defective barometer

Number on sick list: 7

Coal remaining: 4538 tons; fresh water remaining: 1128.25 tons

Distance run 302 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf76: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-017_0.jpg)


28 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.2, Long -6.0

Wind mainly N and NNW force 6-8; sea rough; early squalls then cloud and rain; air temperature average 45°F; sea average 46°F

11.00am: full speed to intercept sailing vessel

11.21am: engines slow and to order to close Danish schooner Ragnhild on passage from Iceland to Copenhagen with a cargo of herrings

11.45am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 63°08’N, 5°50’W

12.20pm: sent armed guard to schooner Ragnhild

12.38pm: schooner proceeded to Lerwick under armed guard, Sub Lieut. W Pearce RNR in charge

12.32pm: boarding officer returned

12.45pm: set course N19°E

3.45pm: full speed; altered course to S86°E

8.30pm: altered course to N74°W

Number on sick list: 7

Distance run 307 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf77: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-017_1.jpg)


29 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.2, Long -6.0

Wind N then NNW force 8; sea rough; cloud with rain squalls; air temperature average 43°F; sea average 46°F

[Course regular rotation around N22°E and S23°W]

Coal expended: 158 tons; remaining: 4204 tons

Number on sick list: 6

Distance run 325 miles


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf78: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-018_0.jpg)


30 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.2, Long -6.0

Wind N force 6 reducing to force 3; sea rough reducing to slight; overcast with rain and mist later; air temperature average 45°F; sea average 45°F

4.00pm: altered course to S22°W; evening quarters

4.22pm: engines to order; opened fire on floating object

4.45pm: resumed course and speed

Distance run 312 miles



4caf8529cadfd3419700cf79: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-018_1.jpg)


31 August 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -6.0

Wind mainly N and NE force 2-3; sea slight; overcast and cloudy; air temperature average 44°F; sea average 44°F

2.50pm: full speed

3.12pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Ebro

3.25pm: sent boat to HMS Ebro in position 63°57’N, 6°08’W

4.00pm: set course N37°E

Number on sick list: 7

Distance run 301 miles



4caf8529cadfd3419700cf7a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37370/ADM 53-37370-020_0.jpg)

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From this time on, the format of the log book is two pages per day. The log scans for 22–31 August are identical in content to the corresponding pages above. These scans have not been duplicated in the interest of clarity.



4caf8529cadfd3419700cf80: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0002_0.jpg)

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22 August 1915


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23 August 1915


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24 August 1915


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25 August 1915


4caf8529cadfd3419700cf8a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0007_0.jpg)

4caf8529cadfd3419700cf8b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0007_1.jpg)


26 August 1915


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27 August 1915


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28 August 1915


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29 August 1915


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30 August 1915


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31 August 1915


4caf852acadfd3419700cf96: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0013_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cf97: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0013_1.jpg)



LOGS FOR SEPTEMBER 1915


4caf852acadfd3419700cf98: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0014_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cf99: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0014_1.jpg)


1 September 1915


At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -6.0

Wind mainly N (NNE and NE) force 3 to force 5; sea slight; overcast with rain and showers; air temperature average 44°F; sea average 45°F

[Courses on regular rotation: S24°W and N21°E]

Number on sick list: 7

Distance run 303 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cf9a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0015_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cf9b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0015_1.jpg)


2 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -6.0

Wind mainly N (NNE and NE) force 3 to force 6; sea moderate; broken cloud then overcast; air temperature average 44°F; sea average 44°F

Number on sick list: 9

Distance run 312 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cf9c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0016_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cf9d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0016_1.jpg)


3 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.1, Long -5.8

Wind mainly NE force 5 reducing to force 2; sea slight; mainly overcast; air temperature 45-49°F; sea average 45°F

10.00am: read Articles of War and Court Martial Returns

1.45pm: signalled HMS Alsatian

1.55pm: full speed and altered course to S35°E

2.20pm: reduced speed to 60 revs; engines to order to close HMS Alsatian

2.35pm: sent boat to HMS Alsatian in position 62°55’N, 5°51’W*

3.20pm: boat returned

3.22pm: set speed at 72 revs, courses various and engines to order

5.30pm: sent boat to HMS Alsatian

5.56pm: set course N7°E

Distance run 324 miles


*[Note: Admiral de Chair had now resumed command of the squadron, and at this meeting it is assumed he would have outlined the new patrol arrangement for Cedric, which was to join “A” Patrol north of the Faroes along with HMSs Hilary and Alsatian. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 259-260.]


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4caf852acadfd3419700cf9f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0017_1.jpg)


4 September 1915


At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -5.9 [No position in log; estimate only.]

Wind NE force 3 veering to E force 1; sea smooth; overcast; air temperature average 46°F; sea average 45°F

5.35am: altered course to S5°W to intercept steamer

6.00am: engines slow and to order to close Swedish steamer Mimer on passage from Goteborg to Iceland with a cargo of empty salt barrels

6.16am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 63°31’N, 5°56’W

6.38am: boarding officer returned; SS Mimer proceeded

6.40am: set speed at 60 revs, course N18°E

9.50pm: full speed to intercept steamer

9.53pm: altered course to S35°E

11.15pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamship Christina [sic; more likely Christiania ]; armed guard on board

11.40pm: set course N30°W

Number on sick list: 9

Distance run 266 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfa0: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0018_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfa1: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0018_1.jpg)


5 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -6.0

Wind mainly S force 3-4; sea slight; overcast with some rain; air temperature average 47°F; sea average 45°F

[Course rotation S23°W and N22°E]

Fuglo Island bearing 185° (true) 64 miles

Coal remaining: 3157 tons

Number on sick list: 8

Distance run 304 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfa2: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0019_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfa3: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0019_1.jpg)


6 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -6.0

Wind WNW am then S pm force 1-2; sea slight then smooth; mainly cloud then fog late am and pm; air temperature 46 reducing to 43°F; sea average 45°F

10.15am: full speed to intercept steamer; altered course to S45°W

10.33am: engines slow and to order to close British steamer Orlock Head on passage from Liverpool to Archangel with general cargo

10.45am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 63°36’N, 6°05’W

11.05am: boarding officer returned; SS Orlock Head proceeded

Noon: altered course to N22°E

Number on sick list: 7

Distance run 309 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfa4: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0020_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfa5: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0020_1.jpg)


7 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -6.0

Wind SE force 2-4; sea slight; cloudy with some mist and fog; air temperature 42-46°F; sea average 45°F

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 312 miles



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8 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -6.0

Wind SW then S force 3-4; sea slight; fog then broken cloud; air temperature 46-58°F; sea 44-50°F

3.30pm: sounding: bottom sand 100 fathoms

4.00pm: sounding bottom sand 71 fathoms

Distance run 312 miles


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4caf852acadfd3419700cfa9: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0022_1.jpg)


9 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -6.0

Wind mainly S force 4-5; sea moderate; fog then broken cloud; air temperature 50-56°F; sea average 45°F

[Course rotation S22°W, N23°E]

8.00am: DR position 62°40’N, 6°00’W; [soundings 8.00 and 8.15am: no bottom with 280 fathom cable: 8.30am: bottom sand and gravel 100 fathoms]

10.00am: 1st watch and day men to physical drill

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 312 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfaa: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0023_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfab: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0023_1.jpg)


10 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.0, Long -6.0

Wind S force 3 reducing to calm; sea smooth; overcast with mist and fog; air temperature average 51°F; sea average 47°F

[12.45-6.30pm: soundings [every 15 then 30 minutes]: 12.45-2.15pm: no bottom with 285 fathom cable: 2.15 and 2.30pm: fine sand 100 and 105 fathoms: 2.45pm: stones and shells 90 fathoms: 3.00pm: fine sand 72 fathoms: 3.15pm: sand and stones 54 fathoms: 3.30, 3.45 and 4.00pm: sand and shells 50, 54 and 66 fathoms: 4.30pm: [sic] no bottom with 285 fathom cable: 5.30 and 6.00pm: fine sand 128 and 102 fathoms: 6.30pm: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

Coal remaining: 2398 tons

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 312 miles


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4caf852acadfd3419700cfad: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0024_1.jpg)


11 September 1915

At sea and at Busta Voe*

Lat 60.35, Long -1.37

Wind mainly SE force 4-2; sea smooth; mainly broken cloud; air temperature 49-63°F; sea (am only) 44°F

1.45am: full speed

3.37am: reduced to 60 revs;

3.40am: altered course to S54°E

3.43am: altered course to S60°E

4.30am: Dorholm Island [Shetlands] abeam; full speed; engines to order to enter Swarbacks Minn

5.24am: Swarbacks Minn Lighthouse abeam

5.37am: entered harbour gates

6.05am: anchored in Busta Voe, No. 2 berth; rung off engines

Anchor bearings: Burgastoo Rock S78°W: Busta Flagstaff N29°W: Hevden Ness S15°W: Linga Island S10°W: Port Telegraph Office N43°W

8.00am: colliers Dalewood and Townsley secured alongside

8.30am: commenced coaling

8.45am: prize crew returned

Draught of water on arriving at Busta Voe: forward 26’3”, aft 29’7”, mean 27’11”, side 21’5”

1.00pm: hands employed coaling ship

7.00pm: finished coaling; received 1006 tons

7.30pm: colliers left HMS Cedric

Coal remaining: 3307 tons


*[Note: throughout the spring and summer of 1915 Admiral de Chair had been looking for a base nearer to the patrol grounds. Liverpool was felt to be vulnerable to submarine attack, and the high fuel consumption of the AMCs (Cedric was using about 4,000 tons of coal each patrol, for example) was also a concern. West Loch Roag in the west of Scotland was considered, but was rejected on grounds of security and water supply. Busta Voe, in the western part of the Shetlands, had been a supporting coaling base since the beginning of the war, and was built up during 1915. It had good anchorage for 9 ships, good security, including anti-submarine nets, and a good water supply. Ships could supplement their coal stocks with about 1000 tons per visit, as Cedric did on this occasion.]


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4caf852acadfd3419700cfaf: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0025_1.jpg)


12 September 1915

At Busta Voe

Lat 60.35, Long -1.37

Wind mainly SE force 2-3; overcast then broken cloud; air temperature 55-63°F

9.00am: hands employed cleaning ship

1.00pm: gave special leave to watch

6.30pm: liberty men returned*


[Note: one of the problems of using a place like Busta Voe was theat it extended the periods of active patrol but unlike Liverpool it had very few places where the men could relax and enjoy themselves. In Liverpool the liberty men had returned the next morning, but here their leave was only for the afternoon. An example is Midshipman Scrimgeor’s comment: “The Caribbean’s urgent demands for coal resulted yesterday in her being sent to Loch Ewe to coal, instead of Liverpool, much to her disgust.” See Alexander Scrimgeour, Scrimgeour’s Small Scribbling Diary 1914-1916, Conway, 2008 page 148].


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4caf852acadfd3419700cfb1: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0026_1.jpg)


13 September 1915

At Busta Voe

Lat 60.35, Long -1.37

Wind mainly S force 2 then “light airs”; mainly overcast; air temperature average 58°F

[Same duties and times as the previous day]


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14 September 1915

Busta Voe and at sea

Lat 60.35, Long -1.37

Wind mainly NE force 3; overcast then broken cloud; air temperature average 57°F then 47°F back at sea

Draught of water leaving Busta Voe: forward 28’5”, aft 28’6”

6.17pm: engines to standby; shortened in and weighed anchor

6.30pm: engines to order for leaving harbor

7.02pm: passed through gates [ie of anti-submarine boom]

7.04pm: full speed and courses various

7.15pm: Swarbacks Minn Lighthouse abeam

7.54pm: Swarbacks Minn Lighthouse bearing S33°E, Hillswick light bearing S66°E; set course N18°E

0.00am: altered course to N30°W


4caf852acadfd3419700cfb4: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0028_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfb5: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0028_1.jpg)


15 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.9, Long 0.8

Wind calm; sea smooth; mainly cloudy; air temperature average 48°F; sea 47°F

8.00am: DR position 62°13’N, 00°13’W; altered course to S72°E and various; full speed to intercept steamer

9.01am: engines slow and to order to close Swedish steamer Aron [sic: but possibly Aros] on passage from Iceland to “Goteborg” [sic] with a cargo of salted herrings

9.10am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 62°34’N, 00°17’E

9.25am: sent armed guard to SS Aron

9.37am: SS Aron proceeded to Lerwick under armed guard; officer in charge Lieut. J B Titterington RNR

9.40am: boarding officer returned

9.45am: set course N51°E

2.02pm: full speed and courses various to intercept steamer

2.19pm: engines slow and to order to close British steamer Nova [sic: but more likely Neva] on passage from “Hull” [sic] to Archangel with general cargo

2.27pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 63°21’N, 1°21’E

2.45pm: boarding officer returned

2.47pm: set course N51°E

7.55pm: stella obs. 64°06’N, 2°41’E

8.00pm: DR position: 64°12’N, 2°40’E*

Coal remaining 2973 tons

Distance run 220 miles


*[Note: Cedric has now been moved much further east than on previous patrols.]


4caf852acadfd3419700cfb6: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0029_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfb7: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0029_1.jpg)


16 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 65.0, Long 4.3

Wind variable from S through to NE force 4-5; sea slight becoming moderate; overcast then broken cloud and showers; air temperature average 47°F; sea average 48°F

5.50am: challenged and received reply from HMS Virginian

6.57am: engines slow and to order to close HMS Virginian

7.20am: HMS Virginian sent boat to Cedric

7.25am: discharged HMS Hilary’s armed guard to HMS Virginian in position 64°17’N, 4°32’E

7.40am: discharged 2 armed guards to HMS Tenby Castle*; officers in charge Lieut. E A Stuart RNR and Sub Lieut. J Allerhead [Ollerhead?]

8.10am: set course N12°E

Number on sick list: 6

Distance run 299 miles


*[Note: HMS Tenby Castle was an armed trawler which was sent to assist the squadron from June 1915.]


4caf852acadfd3419700cfb8: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0030_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfb9: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0030_1.jpg)


17 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 64.4, Long 4.3

Wind NNE am NNW pm force 5; sea moderate; broken cloud with squalls; air temperature average 47°F; sea 49°F

9.40am: full speed to intercept steamer; courses various

10.12am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Tjomo on passage from Cardiff to Archangel in water ballast

10.25am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 64°38’N, 4°18’E

10.55am: boarding officer returned

11.00am: full speed course S27°W

1.00pm: altered course to S60°E

1.08pm: engines slow and to order to close HMT Rushcoe*

1.21pm: set speed to 43 revs, course S43°W

2.45pm: arrived at rendezvous in position 64°00’N, 4°00’E; circling round

3.55pm: full speed, course N45°E

4.20pm: engines slow and to order to close British steamer Dolcoath on passage from Onega [Russia] to Dundee with a cargo of timber

4.32pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 64°05’N, 4°08’E

4.56pm: boarding officer returned; SS Dolcoath proceeded

5.13pm: full speed

5.20pm: set course S65°W

6.21pm: engines slow and to order to close HMT Robert Smith

6.35pm: sent boat to HMT Robert Smith in position 63°53’N, 3°53’E

7.05pm: sent boat to HMT Rushcoe

7.21pm: boat returned

7.34pm: set course N74°W

Number on sick list: 7

Distance run 307 miles


*[HMT Rushcoe and HMT Robert Smith were armed trawlers and part of the 10th Cruiser Squadron, at this time operating off the coast of Norway. Robert Smith was torpedoed and lost with all hands later in the war.There is no indication in the log why these ships were met, but in fact these meetings took place very near to the coast of Norway, the territory of “G” Patrol. It seems likely that Cedric had been sent to support the trawlers before joining “C” Patrol, south of the Faroes, on 19th September 1915.]


4caf852acadfd3419700cfba: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0031_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfbb: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0031_1.jpg)


18 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 64.0, Long 6.0

Wind mainly N (NNW and NNE) force 5-6; sea moderate to rough, becoming moderate; broken cloud with squalls and showers; air temperature average 47°F; sea average 49°F

6.35am: sighted HM trawlers Rushcoe and Robert Smith

7.14am: increased speed to 62 revs and circled round at rendezvous

8.00am: DR position 64°00’N, 4°00’E

2.25pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Columbella

2.49pm: stop

3.18pm: HMS Columbella’s boat alongside Cedric in position 64°03’N, 4°03’E

3.56pm: full speed to intercept sailing vessel

4.17pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian fishing vessel Polara

4.23pm: set course W

10.56pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steam trawler Borgund

11.15pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 63°34’N, 00°31’E

11.43: boarding officer returned

11.52pm: set course N87°W

Distance run 278 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfbc: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0032_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfbd: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0032_1.jpg)


19 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.7, Long -6.0

Wind NNE veering to ESE through the day; sea moderate becoming rough; broken cloud then overcast with squalls later; air temperature average 47°F; sea average 48°F

4.22am: stella obs. 63°17’N, 1°58’W

10.00am: altered course to W

11.10 and 11.30am [sic]: sighted peak bearing S57°W [ie on the Faroe Islands]

Noon: altered course to N78°W

12.05pm: Bispen bearing S39°W, Norduroy bearing S44°W, Estero bearing S76°W

Distance run 349 miles

Coal remaining: 2313 tons


4caf852acadfd3419700cfbe: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0033_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfbf: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0033_1.jpg)


20 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.6, Long -11.4

Wind am ESE force 7, pm SSE force 6; sea rough; overcast with rain squalls am, broken cloud pm; air temperature 48-58°F; sea 50°F

9.55am: challenged and received reply from HMS Digby

10.03am: full speed

10.05am: [sic] engines slow and to order to close HMS Digby

10.14am: sent boat to HMS Digby in position 59°49’N, 11°26’W

10.40am: boat returned; set course S 43°W

Distance run 319 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfc0: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0034_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfc1: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0034_1.jpg)


21 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.4, Long -11.8

Wind am SSE force 6 reducing to pm S force 4; sea rough becoming moderate; overcast with some mist and hail; air temperature 57-58°F; sea average 50°F

Coal remaining: 1978 tons

Distance run 314 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfc2: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0035_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfc3: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0035_1.jpg)


22 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.4, Long -11.8

Wind am S force 4 pm SSE force 4-3; sea slight; overcast with mist; air temperature 54-58°F; sea 54-56°F

2.00am: full speed and courses various to intercept steamer

2.12am: engines slow and to order to close Danish steamer Laura Maersk* on passage from Galveston to Copenhagen with a cargo of oil cake

2.25am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°08’N, 11°34’W

3.10am: sent armed guard to SS Laura Maersk

3.40am: SS Laura Maersk proceeded to Kirkwall under armed guard, Sub Lieut. J C Elfert [?] RNR in charge

3.48am: boarding officer returned

3.58am: set course N1°E

4.00am: [sic] altered course to S5°W

4.18pm: full speed and courses various to intercept steamer

4.23pm: engines slow and to order to close British steamer Kylestrome on passage from “London to Quebec” [sic] in water ballast

4.42pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 58°34’N, 11°25’W

5.10pm: SS Kylestrome proceeded

5.12pm: boarding officer returned

5.16pm: set course N3°E

Distance run 312 miles


*[Note: also intercepted by Cedric on 13th December 1914.]


4caf852acadfd3419700cfc4: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0036_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfc5: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0036_1.jpg)


23 September 1915

At patrol

Lat 58.6, Long -11.3

Wind am SSE force 3-7, pm W (WSW-WNW) reducing to force 4; sea moderate to rough; overcast with rain am, broken cloud and clear pm; air temperature 56-58°F; sea 56-54°F

10.00am: exercised rifle drill; arrived at rendezvous, and circling around*

4.55pm: full speed, and altered course to N73°E to intercept steamer

5.40pm: engines slow and to order to close British steamer Mariston on passage from Archangel to Marsailles with a cargo of grain

6.00pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 58°42’N, 10°56’W

6.30pm: SS Mariston proceeded

6.35pm: boarding officer returned

6.40pm: full speed and course N50°W

6.59pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Alcantara

7.24pm: HMS Alcantara sent boat to Cedric in position 58°39’N, 11°04’W

7.35pm: speed set at 60 revs, course N12°W

Coal remaining: 1671 tons

Distance run 301 miles


*[Note: it may be that the missed rendezvous was with HMS Alcantara, which occurred later in the day.]



4caf852acadfd3419700cfc6: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0037_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfc7: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0037_1.jpg)


24 September 1915


At patrol

Lat 59.0, Long -11.4

Wind WSW am ESE pm force 3-4; sea slight; broken cloud, overcast later; air temperature 54-60°F; sea 53-56°F

7.30am: challenged and received reply from HMS Changuinola

8.31am: engines slow and to order to close HMS Changuinola

8.45am: discharged 1 wireless operator to HMS Changuinola in position 59°04’N, 11°04’W

9.08am: boat returned with armed guard

9.18am: set course S34°W

4.00pm: evening quarters; altered course to N2°E

Coal remaining: 1524 tons

Distance run 285 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfc8: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0038_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfc9: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0038_1.jpg)


25 September 1915


At sea [returning to Liverpool]

Lat 57.0, Long -9.9

Wind mainly S and E force 3; sea smooth; mainly broken cloud; air temperature average 56°F; sea average 55°F

11.50am: challenged and received reply from HMS Andes

Noon: altered course to S33°W

4.45pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Arlanza

7.45pm: Oversay bearing S 42°E, 23 miles

9.03pm: Oversay Light abeam

10.00pm: Otter Rock Light Vessel abeam

11.30pm: Mull of Cantyre abeam

11.20pm: full speed

11.35pm: altered course to S37°E

Distance run 330 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfca: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0039_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfcb: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0039_1.jpg)


26 September 1915

At sea and at Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 2 then calm; sea smooth; mainly broken cloud; air temperature 54-60°F; sea (am only) 54-56°F

3.17am: Mew Island bearing N32°E, Skulmartin bearing N79°W

5.22am: Chicken Rock bearing S72°E 10 miles

5.55am: altered course to S53°E

10.31am: Bar Light Vessel abeam; altered course to S62°E and various for entering harbour

10.40am: engines slow and to order

10.48am: Formby Light Vessel abeam

10.50am: took pilot inboard (Mr Ankers)

11.30am: Rock Light abeam

Noon: tugs in attendance Wellington and Trafalgar; draught of water on arriving at Liverpool: forward 26’0”, aft 27’6”

12.14pm: entered Sandon Basin and secured alongside west wall

12.45pm: rung off engines

4.30pm: gave special leave to watch

Number on sick list: 7

Coal remaining 1211 tons


4caf852acadfd3419700cfcc: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0040_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfcd: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0040_1.jpg)


27 September 1915

At Liverpool, Sandon Basin

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 3 then calm; overcast; air temperature 55-56°F

7.00am: gave 4 days leave to 1st watch and 2nd part of 2nd watch

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.30am: discharged 2 seamen, 1 marine to hospital, 1 fireman to shore

11.45am: armed guard returned

1.15pm: hands employed painting ship’s sides

4.30pm: gave special leave to watch


4caf852acadfd3419700cfce: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0041_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfcf: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0041_1.jpg)


28 September 1915

At Liverpool, Sandon Basin and Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 3 reducing to SE force 1; overcast; air temperature average 53°F

1.30am: armed guard returned

7.00am: liberty men returned

4.00pm: shifted berth from Sandon Basin

5.00pm: secured to berth in Canada Dock

6.00pm: gave leave to watch


4caf852acadfd3419700cfd0: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0042_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfd1: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0042_1.jpg)


29 September 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly N force 3-4; broken cloud; air temperature 50°F

[Regular routines as above]

10.00pm: 3 ratings joined ship from RN Depot Devonport


4caf852acadfd3419700cfd2: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0043_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfd3: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0043_1.jpg)


30 September 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NE force 4 reducing to NW force 1; mainly broken cloud; air temperature 48-62°F

6.00am: hands employed placing coal lighters

1.15pm: hands employed painting ship

2.00pm: employees from Messrs Cammel Lairds carrying out stability tests

5.00pm: gave special leave to watch; 2 RNR ratings joined from Devonport Depot



LOGS FOR OCTOBER 1915


4caf852acadfd3419700cfd4: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0044_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfd5: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0044_1.jpg)


1 October 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm then SE force 2; broken cloud and overcast later; air temperature average 53°F

[Regular routines as above]

5.45am: hands employed placing coal lighters

6.00am: discharged 1 Petty Officer 2nd class and 1 Ordinary Seaman to Devonport Depot

5.30pm: 2 privates RMLI joined from RMLI barracks


4caf852acadfd3419700cfd6: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0045_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfd7: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0045_1.jpg)


2 October 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; mainly rain; air temperature average 53°F

[Regular routines as above]

2.50pm: discharged 1 RNR rating to hospital

11.00pm: 1st watch and 2nd part of 2nd watch returned from 4 days leave

Coal remaining: 6214 tons


4caf852acadfd3419700cfd8: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0046_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfd9: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0046_1.jpg)


3 October 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; overcast; air temperature average 56°F

[Regular routines as above]

8.20am: landed RC’s on shore for service [this was a Sunday]

10.20am: RC’s returned

1.45pm: armed guard joined ship for passage to HMS Orcoma


4caf852acadfd3419700cfda: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0047_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfdb: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0047_1.jpg)


4 October 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; overcast with some fog; air temperature 54-59°F

[Regular routines as above]

5.30am: 1 Yeoman Signals plus 1 AB joined ship from RN Depot Devonport

8.45am: discharged 1 Pte. Marines to RMLI Headquarters Plymouth, plus 1 Ordinary Seaman to RN Depot Devonport

5.35pm: armed guard joined ship, plus 1 steward for passage to HMS Alcantara

Coal remaining: 6846 tons


4caf852acadfd3419700cfdc: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0048_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfdd: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0048_1.jpg)


5 October 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; broken cloud with some fog; air temperature average 55°F

[Regular routines as above]

6.30am: RC priest held service on board

Coal remaining: 6800 tons


4caf852acadfd3419700cfde: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0049_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfdf: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0049_1.jpg)


6 October 1915

At Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; overcast; air temperature average 55°F

[Regular routines as above]

10.14am: engines to standby

10.42am: slipped from berth in Canada Dock; tugs in attendance Waterloo, Coburg, Huskisson and Hornby

12.12pm: secured to berth in Sandon Basin

1.30pm: dockyard officials carried out stability test


4caf852acadfd3419700cfe0: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0050_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfe1: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0050_1.jpg)


7 October 1915

At Liverpool and at sea [en route to patrol ground]

Lat 53.6, Long -3.6

Wind rising from SE force 1 to SSE force 7 at sea; sea (pm only) moderate then rough; gloomy then overcast; air temperature average 55°F; sea (pm only) average 55°F

8.30am: hands employed preparing for sea

9.23am: engines to standby

9.25am: slipped and proceeded out of dock; tugs in attendance Nelson, Runcorn [??] and Hornby

9.43am: engines slow and to order

9.53am: entered river and proceeded out of harbour

10.15am: Rock Light abeam

11.05am: discharged pilot; Formby Light Vessel abeam

11.20am: Bar Light Vessel abeam; set course N53°W, full speed

Draught of water leaving Liverpool: forward 30’1”, aft 30’5”, mean 30’3”, side 19’1”

5.36pm: South Rock Light abeam 2½ miles; altered course to N13°E

8.00pm: DR position 54°59’N, 5°24’W

8.04pm: Corsewall Point abeam

8.45pm: altered course to N37°W

9.45pm: Mull of Cantyre abeam; altered course to N14°W

10.46pm: Otter Rock Light Vessel bearing N14°W 3 miles

0.00am: altered course to N22°W

Distance run 22 miles [sic: this would be only up to noon]


4caf852acadfd3419700cfe2: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0051_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfe3: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0051_1.jpg)


8 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 57.3, Long -10.3

Wind mainly SSW force 7 veering to NW and reducing to force 3; sea rough becoming moderate; overcast with squalls then broken cloud with squalls; air temperature 54-55°F; sea 54°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

3.35pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Hilary

4.00pm: evening quarters; read Warrants Nos. 29 and 30

4.30pm: altered course to N41°W

4.45pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Alsatian

5.07pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Alsatian

5.15pm: sent boat to Alsatian in position 58°00’N, 12°16’W

5.43pm: boat returned

5.45pm: half speed to keep station with Alsatian*

6.12pm: set course N40°W

Distance run 350 miles


*[Note: Admiral de Chair was about to return to Liverpool and presumably handed over once more to Commodore Benson. Cedric was now part of “A” Patrol (between the Faroes and Iceland) along with Orcoma, Orotava and Alsatian. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 285-286.]


4caf852acadfd3419700cfe4: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0052_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfe5: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0052_1.jpg)


9 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.8, Long -13.1

Wind mainly “light airs”; sea slight; broken cloud then cloudy with rain squalls; air temperature mainly 54°F; sea mainly 54°F

6.08am: stella obs. 59°14’N, 13°26’W

9.32am: engines stop and to order to close HMS Otway

9.45am: Otway sent boat to Cedric

10.13am: set course N21°W

11.15am: challenged and received reply from HMS Digby

6.48pm: stella obs. 60°48’N, 14°53’W

Distance run 308 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfe6: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0053_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfe7: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0053_1.jpg)


10 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.1, Long -14.2

Wind mainly SSE force 3-4; sea slight; early broken cloud then mainly overcast with rain; air temperature average 53°F; sea average 52°F

[Course rotation around S6°W and N7°E]

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

Distance run 312 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfe8: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0054_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfe9: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0054_1.jpg)


11 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.1, Long -14.4

Wind mainly S and SE force 2 rising to force 9; sea moderate becoming very rough; overcast, rain and showers; air temperature average 51°F; sea average 51°F

6.09am: stella obs. 61°52’N, 13°42’W

9.45am: challenged and received reply from HMS Arcoma

9.57am: altered course to N70°W

10.07am: exercised general quarters; engines slow and to order to close HMS Arcoma

10.30am: HMS Arcoma sent boat to HMS Cedric

10.35am: discharged armed guard plus one officers’ steward to HMS Arcoma in position 62°18’N, 14°32’W

10.40am: set course S, speed 60 revs

Distance run 306 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfea: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0055_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfeb: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0055_1.jpg)


12 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.0, Long -14.2

Wind SSE force 7 veering to W force 7-8; sea very rough; cloudy with rain and squalls; air temperature 50-51°F; sea 51-52°F

[Course rotation S5°W to N6°E]

10.24am: altered course to N5°W to intercept sailing vessel

10.38am: altered course to N20°W and various

11.10am: resumed course N63°E

11.30am: altered course to S64°E

4.00pm: evening quarters; read Warrant No. 31

Distance run 280 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfec: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0056_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfed: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0056_1.jpg)


13 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.0, Long -14.2

Wind mainly SSE and SE force 5 veering to SW force 7; sea rough; mainly cloudy with rain and squalls; air temperature 50-55°F; sea 50-53°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

Distance run 312 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cfee: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0057_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfef: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0057_1.jpg)


14 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.6, Long -13.6

Wind WSW and SW force 9-10; sea very rough; cloud, rain and squalls throughout; air temperature average 50°F; sea average 51°F

6.00am: reduced to 50 revs

6.48am: reduced to 35 revs, “hove too” [sic]*

11.00am: altered course to “West” [sic]

12.30pm: altered course to N70°W

1.00pm: reduced to 30 revs

Distance run 255 miles

*[Note: extreme weather conditions over this period. Admiral de Chair reported to the Admiralty that “the sea was so rough it made it difficult to board intercepted vessels.” During the night of 13th-14th October, all ships in “A” and “C” Patrols were obliged to lie to because of the extreme weather conditions. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 286-287.]


4caf852acadfd3419700cff0: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0058_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cff1: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0058_1.jpg)


15 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.7, Long -14.4

Wind SW and WSW force 7-8; sea very rough reducing to rough later; broken cloud and rain squalls throughout; air temperature 47-49°F; sea 50-52°F

3.28pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Patuca

3.55pm: altered course to N6°E

4.20pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Oropesa

4.55pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Patuca and HMS Oropesa

5.00pm: sent boat to HMS Patuca

5.25pm: boat returned

6.30pm: stella obs. 61°30’N, 13°36’W

6.50pm: set course at S6°W, speed at 60 revs

0.00am: set course N6°E

Distance run 173 miles*


*[Note: this is a very low figure. It may be explained by the extreme weather conditions and the laying-to of the ship, or that the entry has been made for distance covered before noon.]


4caf852acadfd3419700cff2: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0059_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cff3: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0059_1.jpg)


16 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.0, Long -14.2

Wind mainly SW and SSW force 6-9; sea rough becoming very rough; broken cloud then overcast with rain; air temperature 48-52°F; sea average 50°F

[Courses N6°E and S6°W]

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

Distance run 299 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cff4: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0060_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cff5: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0060_1.jpg)


17 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.4, Long -13.7

Wind mainly W (WSW and WNW) force 9 reducing to force 5; sea very rough becoming rough; overcast and broken cloud with squalls throughout; air temperature average 50°F; sea average 51°F

4.00pm: evening quarters; altered course to N28°W

4.56pm: stopped starboard engine for repairs

6.11pm: starboard engine repaired

6.12pm: stella obs. 61°06’N, 13°07’W

Distance run 312 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cff6: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0061_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cff7: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0061_1.jpg)


18 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.3, Long -13.7

Wind W force 5-4, SW force 4-3 later; sea moderate; broken cloud; air temperature average 51°F; sea average 51°F

[Courses N5-6°E, S7-8°W in rotation]

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

Distance run 306 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700cff8: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0062_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cff9: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0062_1.jpg)


19 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.2, Long -13.6

Wind mainly S force 5-6; sea moderate becoming rough; broken cloud; air temperature 51-52°F; sea average 50°F

8.30am: engines stop and to order to close HMS Almanzora*

9.00am: Captain from HMS Almanzora came on board Cedric in position 60°56’N, 13°23’W

9.15am: set speed to 60 revs and various, and courses various

10.00am: exercised divisional drill

11.25am: engines stop and to order to close HMS Almanzora

11.45am: Captain of HMS Almanzora left Cedric

12.10pm: boat returned

12.15pm: set course S6°W, speed 60 revs

4.00pm: altered course to N6°E

Distance run 290 miles


*[Note: HMS Almanzora had now joined the squadron having completed her trials in Belfast, most likely as a replacement for HMS India. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, pages 285-289.]


4caf852acadfd3419700cffa: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0063_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cffb: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0063_1.jpg)


20 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.4, Long -13.7

Wind SSE force 7; sea rough; broken cloud with squalls and rain showers; air temperature average 51°F; sea 50-51°F

4.52pm: full speed to intercept steamer, courses various

5.35pm: engines slow and to order to close French steamer Saint Pierre on passage from “Marsailles” [sic]

to “Archangel” [sic] with a cargo of “ammunition and aeroplanes” [sic]

5.55pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 61°06’N, 13°32’W

6.25pm: Saint Pierre proceeded

6.34pm: boarding officer returned

6.38pm: resumed course, speed 62 revs


4caf852acadfd3419700cffc: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0064_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cffd: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0064_1.jpg)


21 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.6, Long -13.9 [No position in log; estimate only]

Wind SSE force 7-9; sea very rough; cloud rain and squalls, overcast later; air temperature average 50°F; sea average 50°F

8.00am: DR position 61°23’N, 13°42’W

4.20pm: reduced to 48 revs

4.30pm: altered course to N5°E, turned in boats

4.38pm: full ahead port engine

4.42pm: speed set to 48 revs*

8.00pm: DR position 61°23’N, 13°42’W;** altered course to S

Distance run 298 miles


*[Note: Cedric is clearly having difficulties coping with the extreme weather conditions.]


**[ Note: this is identical to the DR position at 8.00am, which might make one or the other questionable in the extreme circumstances.]


4caf852acadfd3419700cffe: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0065_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700cfff: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0065_1.jpg)


22 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.9, Long -14.1

Wind mainly SSE, dropping from 7 to 4 in am then rising again to force 7 in pm; sea rough; broken cloud am then overcast pm; air temperature average 51°F; sea average 49°F

[No time given but very early morning]: stopped port engine for repairs; engine repaired and set to …revs [sic: no number given]

3.30am: altered course to S3°W, increased to 62 revs

8.00am: DR position 61°13’N, 13°35’W; altered course to N6°E

4.00pm: evening quarters; challenged and received reply from HMS Orcoma

4.06pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Orcoma

4.34pm: sent boat to HMS Orcoma

5.00pm: boat returned

5.05pm: set course S12°E

5.40pm: set course N6°E

6.15pm: Latitude obs. 61°50’N

Distance run 289 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700d000: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0066_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700d001: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0066_1.jpg)


23 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.3, Long -14.4

Wind mainly SE force 9 early am reducing through the day to calm; sea very rough becoming moderate later; mainly overcast with rain; air temperature average 48°F; sea 49-50°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

Distance run 301 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d034: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0067_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d035: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0067_1.jpg)


24 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.2, Long -14.3

Wind E force 3 veering to SE force 6; sea slight becoming moderate; overcast with rain am; air temperature 50°F; sea 50°F

4.00pm: evening quarters; altered course to N8°E

4.50pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Montagua

Coal remaining: 4080 tons

Distance run 312 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700d002: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0068_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700d003: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0068_1.jpg)


25 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 61.9, Long -14.3

Wind mainly SSE force 4 reducing to calm later; sea slight to smooth; mainly cloudy; air temperature average 50°F; sea 50°F

8.20am: challenged and recived reply from HMS Oropesa

[11.00am and 1.10pm: hands employed painting ship; gunnery training class at drill]

2.40pm: Obs. Lat. 61°44’N, 15°04’W; altered course to S5°W; sighted HMS Alsatian

3.16pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Alsatian

3.25pm: Admiral commanding 10th Cruiser Squadron came on board*

4.08pm: set course W

4.55pm: engines stop and to order

5.08pm: Admiral left Cedric

5.30pm: full ahead

5.35pm: set course S72°E

6.15pm: parted company with HMS Alsatian; altered course to S65°E

11.05pm: exchanged signals with HMS Oropesa

Distance run 312 miles


*[Note: the normal practice was for Cedric to send a boat with Commodore Benson over to Alsatian. It may have been that Admiral de Chair came on board to encourage the officers and men in the light of the gruelling time they had recently endured. Admiral de Chair reported to the Admiralty that he had made “an informal inspection of Cedric”. Orders were clearly also given for Cedric to move to “C” Patrol. See below the following day’s log. See also John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 291]


4caf852acadfd3419700d004: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0069_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700d005: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0069_1.jpg)


26 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.2, Long -14.3

Wind mainly SSW force 3-6; sea slight becoming moderate; overcast with rain; air temperature 50°F; sea 50°F

12.30pm: proceeded to “C” Patrol full speed 70 revs on course S26°W; increased to 74 revs

2.00pm: altered course to S30°E

3.20pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Otway

4.36pm: altered course to S66°E

5.00pm: reduced to 72 revs

5.03pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer

5.14pm: resumed course and speed

8.00pm: DR position 61°14’N, 11°52’W

Distance run 302 miles


4caf852acadfd3419700d006: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0070_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700d007: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0070_1.jpg)


27 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.1, Long -14.2

Wind am SSW force 6-7, pm SSE force 9; sea moderate becoming very rough; overcast with rain; air temperature average 49°F; sea average 50°F*

[am and pm: execised all crews]

4.00pm: altered course to N; reduced to 60 revs

7.48pm: engines slow

8.00pm: DR position 60°01’N, 12°04’W; altered course to S5°E; reduced to 52 revs

8.15pm: reduced to 36 revs

11.15pm: reduced to 34 revs

Distance run 324 miles


*[Note: because of the extreme weather, all ships in the squadron were ordered to lay to as necessary on the evening of this day. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 291]


4caf852acadfd3419700d008: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0071_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700d009: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0071_1.jpg)


28 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.6, Long -13.5

Wind mainly SSE force 9-10; sea very rough; overcast then broken cloud, squalls throughout; air temperature average 50°F; sea average 51°F

5.05am: courses various to intercept steamer

6.07am: reduced to 50 revs and as required

7.35am: exchanged signals with Danish SS Columbia on passage from “Berwick” [sic] to Genoa and Australia with general cargo

8.00am: DR position 59°32’N, 12°18’W

8.10am: SS Columbia proceeded*

10.45am: reduced to 32 revs and hove ship to wind, course S40°E

1.30pm: full speed

1.55pm: slow

2.00pm: set speed to 32 revs, altered course to S50°E

5.45pm: stella obs. 59°39’N, 13°17’W

Distance run 220 miles


*[Note: we must assume here that the conditions were far too extreme for boarding to take place.]


4caf852acadfd3419700d00a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0072_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700d00b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0072_1.jpg)


29 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -12.1

Wind mainly SSE force 7; sea rough; broken cloud with early showers; air temperature 49-50°F; sea 50-51°F

8.27am: full speed and altered course to E

8.35am: challenged and received reply from HMS Almanzora

6.55pm: full speed; altered course to S66°E

7.09pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish sailing ship Macaibo [sic: actually Maracaibo.]*

7.45pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Almanzora

10.15pm: full speed to intercept steamer, courses various

10.30pm: engines slow and to order to close American [tanker] SS Platuria on passage from Alesund to “New York” [sic] with a cargo of water ballast**

10.42pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°37’N, 11°40’W

11.55pm: boarding officer returned, SS Platuria proceeded

Distance run 170 miles


*[Note: this Danish barquentine was encountered the next day by HMS Hildebrand, which noted that it already had an armed guard on board and was bound for Lerwick.She had originally been intercepted by HMS Orotava on 18th October and the armed guard was from that ship. However, the gales had been so strong that no progress could be made towards Kirkwall, and Hildebrand had given her fresh supplies.The ship’s cargo was sent to the Prize Court. See HMS Orotava, HMS Hildebrand. Also See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 292]


**[Note: on October 11th, on her inward journey from the US carrying petroleum, Platuria was intercepted by HMS Hilary, who could not board her because of the heavy sea. An attempt to detain the ship until the weather eased was unsuccessful. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 286]


4caf852acadfd3419700d00c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0073_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700d00d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0073_1.jpg)


30 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.0, Long -12.1

Wind SSE force 6 veering to SSW reducing to force 2; sea rough becoming moderate; broken cloud then rain and overcast; air temperature 49-50°F; sea 50°F

4.00pm: evening quarters; altered course to N3°E

4.12pm: altered course to W; reduced to 60 revs

4.36pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish SS Oscar II on passage from New York to Copenhagen

4.50pm: boarding officer and armed guard left Cedric in position 59°20’N, 11°44’W

4.24pm: SS Oscar II proceeded to Kirkwall under armed guard with Lieut. W Pierce RNR in charge*

4.27pm: boarding officer returned

4.28pm: set course S53°E, speed 60 revs

7.50pm: altered course to N35°W, full speed

8.10pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Hildebrand

Distance run 282 miles

*[Note: at 4.00am HMS Columbella had heard Oscar II using her radio to call Lands End and Bergen, and when Cedric intercepted her later in the day she had on board 183 passengers, including 5 German men and 11 women and children. She was not detained at Kirkwall. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 292]


4caf852acadfd3419700d00e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0074_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700d00f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0074_1.jpg)


31 October 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.7, Long -11.8

Wind SSW force 3 am then S force 2 pm; sea slight; mainly overcast with rain; air temperature 50-51°F; sea 50-51°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

10.27pm: full speed and courses various to intercept steamer

10.55pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Mexicano* on passage from Christiania to Philadelphia with a cargo of paper pulp and iron

11.05pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°46’N, 10°58’W

11.42pm: boarding officer returned

11.55pm: set speed at 70 revs, course S4°W

Coal remaining 3116 tons

Distance run 302 miles

*[Note: previously encountered by Cedric on 29th July 1915. See above.]



LOGS FOR NOVEMBER 1915


4caf852acadfd3419700d010: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0075_0.jpg)

4caf852acadfd3419700d011: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0075_1.jpg)


1 November 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.4, Long -11.3

Wind S force 2 am, N force 3-6 pm; sea slight becoming moderate; overcast with rain am, broken cloud and squalls pm; air temperature 50-48°F; sea 50°F

8.00am: altered course to N36°W

9.25am: sighted and challenged HMS Hilary

9.54am: engines slow and to order to close HMS Hilary

10.20am: HMS Hilary sent boat to HMS Cedric

10.23am: discharged armed guard to HMS Hilary*

10.30am: set course S84°W

3.30pm: altered course to N48°W, reduced to 60 revs; double alt position 59°26’N, 12°40’W**

7.53pm: altered course to N35°E

8.10pm: full speed

8.39pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish steam trawler Eggert Olafsson in position 59°33’N, 13°02’W

8.56pm: speed 72 revs

10.14pm: engines slow and to order to close Danish steamer Russ on passage from Copenhagen to “Louisburg” [sic] with cargo ….[not entered]

11.36pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°29’N, 12°18’W


*[Note: Hilary noted that this transfer took place in position 59°34’N,10°43’W. See HMS Hilary ]


**[Note: this refers to a method of using the sextant. For details see http://www.lewis-clark.org/article/2077]

 

4caf852acadfd3419700d012: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0076_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d013: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0076_1.jpg)


2 November 1915


At patrol

Lat 59.4, Long -11.3

Wind variable, mainly E and NE force 6 reducing to force 5; sea moderate; mainly broken cloud and squalls; air temperature average 48°F; sea 50°F

0.23am: boarding officer returned

0.30am: set course S58°E

7.15am: altered course to N56°W

7.50am: challenged HMS Hilary

11.00am: altered course to N75°W; full speed to intercept steamer

11.25am: exchanged signals with British steamer Lesreaulx

12.05pm: full speed to intercept steamer; course N and various

12.37pm: engines dead slow and to order; signalled collier Margarita

12.40pm: set speed to 60 revs, course N64°W

6.00pm: stella obs. 59°30’N, 12°38’W

True bearing and distance from Flannan Islands 119° 132 miles

Coal remaining: 2823 tons

Distance run 291 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d014: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0077_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d015: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0077_1.jpg)


3 November 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.9, Long -16.6*

Wind ENE force 5 reducing to calm in pm; sea slight becoming smooth; broken cloud; air temperature 47°F sea 50°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews]

Distance run 313 miles


*[Note: Cedric had now been moved some 60 miles to the west, temporarily part of “D” Patrol, when the patrols were re-sited to take into account the increasing hours of darkness. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 303]


4caf852bcadfd3419700d016: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0078_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d017: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0078_1.jpg)


4 November 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -17.0

Wind mainly N (NW and NNW) force 3-4; sea smooth becoming slight; mainly broken cloud; air temperature average 50°F; sea 50°F

8.30am: challenged and received reply from HMS Columbella

1.30pm: challenged and received reply from HMS Teutonic

1.50pm: altered course to S60°W

1.55pm: full speed to close HMS Teutonic

2.00pm: engines slow and to order

2.10pm: resumed course and speed

5.43pm: stella obs. 59°18’N, 16°56’W

Coal remaining: 2521 tons

Distance run 313 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d018: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0079_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d019: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0079_1.jpg)


5 November 1915

At patrol

Lat 59.7, Long -17.0

Wind NW backing to WNW and W force 4; sea slight; mainly broken cloud; air temperature average 50°F; sea average 51°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

7.00pm: stella obs. 60°21’N, 14°34’W

Distance run 310 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d01a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0080_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d01b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37371/ADM53-37371-0080_1.jpg)


6 November 1915


At patrol

Lat 61.6, Long -12.4

Wind WNW force 5-6 becoming NW force 7; sea moderate becoming rough; overcast then broken cloud with squalls

6.45am: sighted and challenged HMS Alsatian

7.00am: altered course to S58°W

8.00am: DR position 61°48’N, 12°10’W; engines slow and to order to close and keep station with HMS Alsatian

9.45am: sighted HMS Orcoma

11.25am: sent boat to HMS Orcoma

11.33am: HMS Orcoma sent boat to HMS Cedric; 3 officers joined HMS Cedric in position 61°34’N, 12°24’W

12.08pm: set course S66°E

10.40pm: stella obs. 61°12’N, 7°31’W

[Soundings: 11.00pm, 11.30pm and 12.00am: all no bottom with 285 fathom cable]*

Coal remaining 2225 tons

Distance run 291 miles


*[Note: it would seem that Cedric is here passing between the Faroe Bank and the main area of shallower water surrounding the Faroe Islands proper on her way to the Shetlands.]


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7 November 1915

At sea and at Busta Voe

Lat 60.7, Long -2.6

Wind mainly W force 7-8; sea rough; cloud, broken cloud and squalls; air temperature average 47°F; sea (am only) 50°F

1.15am: altered course to S76°E

[Soundings: 0.30am: no bottom with 285 fathom cable, 1.00am: bottom fine sand 86 fathoms, 1.30am: bottom fine sand 88 fathoms, 2.00am: bottom fine sand 77 fathoms, 2.15am: no bottom with 285 fathom cable, 11.00am and 11.30am: no bottom with 285 fathom cable, noon: bottom sand and stones 96 fathoms]

Noon: true bearing and distance of Esha Ness 138° 33 miles

[Soundings: 12.30: bottom sand 85 fathoms, 1.00pm: bottom sand 76 fathoms, 1.30pm: bottom sand 70 fathoms]

1.19pm: Foula Island bearing S24°W, Muckle Ossa S75°E

2.20pm: engines slow and to order to enter harbour

3.14pm: Swarbacks Minn Lighthouse abeam, courses various

3.20pm: passed through gates

3.43pm: anchored in No. 3 berth

4.35pm: rung off engines

Draught of water on entering harbour: forward 26’3”, aft 28’10”, mean 27’6½”, side 21’9½”

Coal remaining: 2093 tons

Distance run 318 miles


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8 November 1915

At Busta Voe

Lat 60.35, Long -1.37

Wind NNW force 4-3; overcast with rain then broken cloud; air temperature 42°F

7.45am: colliers Cairnnevis and Cundall secured alongside

7.50am: lit fires in steam cutter

8.10am: commenced coaling

9.30am: anchor bearings: Free Church N48½°E, White Stone N5°E, Flagstaff N24½°W, Burgastoo Rock N86°W

1.00pm: hands employed coaling ship

6.25pm: drew fires in steam cutter

7.40pm: completed coaling; received….tons [no figure given, but it was obviously 1,000 tons.]

Coal remaining: 3038 tons


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9 November 1915

At Busta Voe

Lat 60.35, Long -1.37

Wind variable NNW to SE to NE usually force 2 but rising to force 7 later; cloudy with some mist and rain; air temperature average 43°F

7.00am: hands employed cleaning ship

1.00pm: hands make and mend clothes; gave leave to 1st and 3rd watches

4.30pm: liberty men returned

5.20pm: armed guard returned on board


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10 November 1915

At Busta Voe

Lat 60.35, Long -1.37

Wind mainly NE force 6-8; rain squalls throughout; air temperature mainly 40°F*

8.15am: let go 2nd anchor

8.30am: weighed anchor and shifted berth; engines to order

8.55am: anchored in 20 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of cable

10.55am: let go 2nd anchor

3.10pm: armed guards joined ship from HMS Duke of Cornwall for passage to HMS Almanzora


*[Note: it can be pointed out that this is the strength of the wind in a sheltered anchorage, and that Admiral de Chair reported to the Admiralty that the weather was so bad that Cedric was detained at Busta Voe longer than was necessary as she could not get past the boom. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 305]


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11 November 1915

At Busta Voe and at patrol

Lat 60.5, Long -1.8

Wind mainly NE force 7-8; sea (pm only) rough; overcast with hail squalls; air temperature average 39°F; sea (pm only) average 48°F

8.00am: hands employed cleaning ship and preparing for sea

9.45am: weighed port anchor

9.55am; weighed starboard anchor; engines to order to proceed out of harbour

10.24am: passed through gates

10.55am: Swarbacks Minn Lighthouse abeam

10.45am: [sic] full speed, course N32°W

11.20am: Muckle Ossa bearing N40°E, Dore Holm N66°E, Hillswick S85°E

11.48am: Muckle Ossa N77°E, Dore Holm S67°E, Papa Stour S; altered course to N16°E

Draught of water leaving harbour: forward 28’2”, aft 28’4”

1.55pm: altered course to intercept steamer

2.25pm: engines slow and to order to close Russian steamer Meri [?] on passage from Archangel to Hull in position 60°56’N, 1°45’W

2.26pm: resumed course and speed

2.30pm: set speed at 74 revs, set course N7°E

8.00pm: DR position 61°20’N, 3°17’W

Distance run 23 miles*


*[Note: it may be that this is the distance run up to noon.]


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12 November 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -11.1

Wind NNE force 6-7 reducing to NE force 4; sea rough becoming moderate; broken cloud with squalls; air temperature average 40°F; sea average 47°F

3.00am: Akraberg Light abeam 16 miles; altered course to N89°W

[Soundings: 7.40am: bottom gravel and stones 64 fathoms, 8.00am: bottom fine sand 75 fathoms]

10.15am: sighted and challenged HMS Teutonic and HMS Otway

11.44am: engines slow and to order to close HMS Teutonic

Noon: discharged armed guard to HMS Teutonic in position 60°14’N, 11°08’W

12.20pm: boat returned; set course N77°W, speed 62 revs

2.45pm: challenged HMS Almanzora

4.10pm: discharged armed guard to HMS Almanzora in position 59°50’N, 12°12’W

4.39pm: boat returned

4.40pm: set speed to 60 revs, course N50°W

6.32pm: full speed to intercept steamer

6.47pm: set course S87°E

Distance run 356 miles


[Note: Cedric has returned from Busta Voe to “C” Patrol along with HMSs Almanzora, Hilary, Victorian and Patuca.]


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13 November 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -11.1

Wind NE reducing from force 6 to force 2; sea moderate; broken cloud then snow; air temperature average 38°F; sea average 47°F

7.30am: full speed

7.45am: reduced to 60 revs

7.56am: engines stop and to order to close HMS Teutonic

8.04am: sent boat to HMS Teutonic in position 60°00’N, 10°00’W

8.28am: boat returned; set speed 62 revs, course S84°W

Noon: altered course to N86°W

1.30pm: full speed to intercept steamer

1.50pm: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Hiram on passage from Iceland to Barcelona and Genoa but calling at Troon

2.00pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°05’N, 11°50’W

2.38pm: boarding officer returned

2.41pm: resumed course and speed

6.00pm: altered course to S88°E; stella position 59°54’N, 13°13’W

Distance run 298 miles


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14 November 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -11.1

Wind NE then N force 2-4, rising to force 6 later; sea slight becoming moderate; broken cloud with squalls; air temperature average 38°F; sea average 47°F

[Regular duties and exercises throughout]

Distance run 306 miles


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15 November 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -11.1

Wind mainly NE force 7 reducing to force 5; sea rough becoming moderate; broken cloud with hail squalls; air temperature 39-40°F; sea 46-47°F

1.24pm: full speed to intercept steamer

1.53pm: altered course to S50°W; engines slow and to order to close British steamer Sculptor* on passage from Liverpool to Archangel with a cargo of ammunition

2.05pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°00’N, 12°04’W

2.45pm: boarding officer returned

2.46pm: set speed at 60 revs, course N78°W

Distance run 312 miles


*[Note: there were two British ships called Sculptor, both torpedoed during the war. It is not possible to determine which one was encountered by Cedric.]



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16 November 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.5, Long -10.6

Wind mainly NNW and NW force 2; sea slight; overcast then broken cloud; air temperature average 42°F; sea average 47°F

1.04am: altered course to intercept steamer

1.20am: engines to order to close British steamer Westward Ho on passage from “Brest” [sic] to “Archangel” [sic]

In ballast

1.35am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°24’N, 10°58’W

2.06am: boarding officer returned

2.15am: set course N75°E

8.25am: sighted HMS Almanzora

9.57am: full speed and courses various to intercept steamer

10.36am: engines slow and to order to close Danish steamer Falkland on passage from Copenhagen to New York in ballast

10.47am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 60°30’N, 10°28’W

11.14am: sent armed guard

11.25am: SS Falkland proceeded to Kirkwall under armed guard, Lieut. E A Stuart RNR in charge*

11.30am: boarding officer returned

11.33am: full speed and course N75°W

11.48am: engines slow and to order to close HMS Patia

12.10pm: HMS Patia sent boat to HMS Cedric

10.20pm: stella obs. 60°39’N, 11°50’W; altered course to S86°E

Distance run 289 miles


*[Note: it may seem strange that this ship was sent to Kirkwall under armed guard when she was westward-bound and in ballast. However, the Admiralty believed that this vessel was previously the German SS Uriate IV (although actually Uriarte IV and registered in Montevideo) and had been taken over by the Danish company of Albert Jensen whom the Admiralty felt was German-controlled. However, on arrival at Kirkwall she was not detained. See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 314]


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Blank page

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Blank page

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Back cover (left)

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Back cover (right)

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[Front cover of log book for 17 November, 1915 – 20 January, 1916]

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17 November 1915


At patrol

Lat 60.7, Long -11.6

Wind mainly SW rising from force 3 to force 6; sea slight becoming moderate; mainly cloudy; air temperature average 45°F; sea average 47°F

2.43am: courses various to intercept steamer

3.04am: engines slow and to order to close Grimsby steam trawler Fortuna on passage from Grimsby to Iceland

3.30am: set course S88°E

5.22am: full speed

5.45am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Knut Skaalen [?] on passage from Burntisland to Iceland with a cargo of coal

5.55am: boarding officer left Cedric in position 61°00’N, 9°42’W

6.18am: boarding officer returned

6.22am: set speed at 60 revs, set course N88°W

6.00pm: altered course to S88°E

8.00pm: DR position 60°00’N, 12°22’W

Coal remaining: 1801 tons

Distance run 302 miles


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18 November 1915

At patrol

Lat 60.2, Long -11.1

Wind SSW and SW force 5-6; sea moderate; overcast; air temperature 45-50°F; sea 49-50°F

10.00am: physical drill and singlestick practice*

Distance run 312 miles


*[Note: see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singlestick for a description.]


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19 November 1915


At sea [en route to Liverpool]

Lat 56.7, Long -8.3

Wind SW backing to SE force 5-6; sea moderate to rough; broken cloud; air temperature average 48°F; sea 48°F

11.00am: hands employed preparing ship for coaling

12.40pm: Barra Head bearing S80°E (magnetic) distance 21 miles

3.03pm: Skerryvore Light bearing S61°E (magnetic)

5.14pm Dubh Artach Light bearing N80°E

5.44pm: Dubh Artach bearing N60°E, Oversay Light bearing S31°E

6.30pm: Oversay Light bearing S71°E; altered course to S41°E

7.34pm: altered course to S68°E

7.52pm: Otter Rock Light Vessel abeam 2 miles; altered course to S23°E

8.00pm: DR position 55°24’N, 5°55’W

9.00pm: Mull of Cantyre abeam ½ mile

9.07pm: altered course to S37°E

9.30pm: Sanda Island Lighthouse abeam

9.55pm: Corsewall Light bearing S29°E, Sanda Light N14°W; altered course to S8°W, speed 74 revs

10.15pm: met HMS Alcantara

11.21pm: Blackhead bearing S80°E, Corsewall Light N55°E

Coal remaining: 1428 tons

Distance run 339 miles


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20 November 1915

At sea and at Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SE force 5 then S force 1; sea slight then smooth; broken cloud with mist then fog; air temperature 47 down to 40°F; sea 48°F

1.18am: South Rock Light abeam

1.30am: full speed

3.00am: Chicken Rock Light abeam 5½ miles bearing E; altered course to S

3.39am: altered course to S52°E

3.43am: Chicken Rock bearing N25°E; sea boats’ crews and rounds correct

7.00am: commenced soundings [selection: 7.00am: bottom 18 fathoms, 7.30am: bottom 12 fathoms, 8.07: bottom 8½ fathoms]

7.40am: reduced speed to slow

7.51am: engines dead slow and to order

8.09am: half speed astern; soundings 10 fathoms with lead line; engines as necessary, slow and dead slow

8.44am: ship grounded; engines full astern and to order; pumped out ballast tanks; got out stream anchors; sounded companies’ [?] signals; hand lead soundings 10, 9, 8, 5½ fathoms, the latter immediately before the ship grounded; boat away sounding; working engines astern in an endeavour to work ship off

10.00am: ship moved astern about half a cable, taking the ground again about 10.05am

10.15am: ceased working engines

11.15am: observed lighthouse bearing S17°E, estimated distance 3½ miles; sent boat to identify it; proved to be “Leasow” [sic: actually Leasowe on the Wirral] Lighthouse; made preparations for laying out kedge anchors

Draught of water when ship grounded: forward 26’0”, aft 27’5”

[Soundings: 1.20pm: [fathoms] 4½, 2.00pm: 2¼, 2.30pm: 2, 3.00pm: 1¾, 3.30pm: 1¾, 4.00pm: 1¼]

2.00pm: observed Mersey Dock and Harbour Board tender approaching; Cmndr. Mace, Maritime Surveyor and Water Bailiff came on board; tender accompanied by 2 tugs

2.45pm: HMS Dove arrived with Rear-Admiral Stileman [SNO Liverpool]; R.A. came on board, accompanied by Mersey pilot and 2 representatives of the White Star Line; hands were employed during the watch preparing hawsers for towing

3.00pm: Rear-Admiral Stileman left Cedric; hoisted in kedge anchors

3.45pm: MDHB SS Salem in attendance

4.00pm: Assistant Marine Surveyor of MDHB on board, running lines of sounding

7.30pm: hands employed preparing hawsers

[Soundings: selection: 8.30pm: 4½ fathoms, 9.30pm: 6 fathoms, 10.36pm: 11 fathoms]

8.55pm: commenced to tow ship off, heading N45°E; engines as required

9.15pm: engines slow and to order

9.56pm: ship swinging steadily

9.58pm: swung clear

10.05pm: engines slow ahead; set course N60°W

10.10pm: N57°W

10.12pm: N40°W

10.15pm: engines stopped and to order

10.20pm: slow ahead both

[10.25-10.41pm: courses N5°E, N5°W, N66°W and various]

11.00pm: passed Bar Light Vessel

11.05: altered course to S62°E

11.23pm: Formby Light Vessel abeam

11.34pm: rounding Askew Spit

11.40pm: altered course to S8°E


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21 November 1915

At Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SSE force 2; broken cloud with hail then cloud; air temperature 38°F

0.00am: course and speed as required by pilot

0.23am: Rock Light abeam

0.33am: dropped anchor in 8 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of cable

0.45am: rung off engines

9.37am: shortened in cable

10.12am: varied cable to 60 fathoms

Bearings at anchor:

Ship’s Head: S20°E

New Brighton Ferry Light: S42°W

North Wall: E

Flood Tide:

Ship’s Head: N1°W

North Wall: N57°E

Rock Light: N79°W

Ebb Tide:

Rock Light: W

North Wall: S83°E

Seamens’ Block Tower: S8°W




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22 November 1915

At Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

9.00am: hands preparing ship to go into dock

10.00am: shortened in

10.12am: anchors aweigh; engines slow ahead and to order, proceeding to Gladstone Dock [ie dry dock for inspection and/or repairs.]

10.20am: tugs made fast; tugs in attendance Trafalgar, Huskisson, Victoria and Brunswick

10.22am: off Gladstone Dock

10.31am: entering Gladstone Dock; draught of water entering dock: forward 23’, aft 26’8”, mean 24’10”, side 24’6”

11.05am: rung off engines

11.50am: started to pump out dock

2.10pm: ship took blocks

3.30pm: 1 Yeoman of signals joined ship from HMS Eagle

4.00pm: gave leave to watch; 1 Warrant Officer W T joined ship


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23 November 1915

At Liverpool, Gladstone Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; overcast and fog; air temperature average 40°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

3.00pm: watch proceeded on 7 days leave

4.00pm: evening quarters; exercised fire stations; gave leave to part of watch

7.30pm: 1 AB joined ship from RN barracks Devonport

Coal remaining: 1113 tons


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24 November 1915

At Liverpool, Gladstone Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind ENE force 2 then calm; broken cloud and overcast with some hail; air temperature average 38°F

[8.00am and 1.10pm: hands employed painting ship’s sides]

10.00am: tested No. 8 ballast tank with fresh water 357 tons; this amount of fresh water was discharged after use

10.30am: Court of Inquiry was held aboard HMS Cedric


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25 November 1915

At Liverpool, Gladstone Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; cloudy with a few showers; air temperature average 38°F

[Regular duties as above]

10.15am: Court of Inquiry was held aboard HMS Cedric

3.30pm: 1 wireless rating joined ship from HMS Victorian







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26 November 1915

At Liverpool, Gladstone Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 2 then calm; broken cloud then cloudless; air temperature average 35°F

[Regular duties as above, painting ship etc]


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27 November 1915

At Liverpool, Gladstone Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm then SE force 2; overcast then fog; air temperature average 33°F

[Regular duties as above, painting ship etc]

8.00am: hands employed chipping and scraping nails


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4caf852bcadfd3419700d051: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0014_1.jpg)


28 November 1915

At Liverpool, Gladstone Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind E and SE force 3-5; overcast then cloudless; air temperature average 33°F

[Regular duties as above, painting ship etc]

8.50am: RC priest held service on HMS Cedric [Sunday]

10.30am: church party attended service on shore

12.15pm: church party returned


4caf852bcadfd3419700d052: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0015_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d053: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0015_1.jpg)


29 November 1915


At Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly SE force 3-1; overcast with some fog; air temperature 27-42°F [sic]

10.15am: tried steering gear and engine room telegraph; hands preparing ship for undocking

12.00pm: dock flooded

1.54pm: engines to standby

2.15pm: left Gladstone Dock; engines to order

2.23pm: entered river, and proceeded to Canada Dock; tugs in attendance Collingwood,Trafalgar and Herculaneum; pilot Mr Davis

3.44pm: entered Sandon Basin

4.06pm: secured to berth in Sandon Basin; engines to standby

4.45pm: left Sandon Basin

5.45pm: entered Canada Dock

6.15pm: secured to berth in Canada Dock

6.17pm: rung off engines


4caf852bcadfd3419700d054: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0016_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d055: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0016_1.jpg)



30 November 1915


At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SE then SW force 2-3; mainly broken cloud with some mist and showers; air temperature 40-48°F

1.10pm: hands employed re-fitting, scraping ship’s sides and getting in stores

2.00pm: crane alongside for lifting 6” guns

5.30pm: hands employed placing coal lighters


LOGS FOR DECEMBER 1915


4caf852bcadfd3419700d056: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0017_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d057: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0017_1.jpg)


1 December 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind S then SW force 2-3; broken cloud then overcast with rain; air temperature 44-45°F

6.00am: hands employed placing coal lighters

7.30am: liberty men and watch from long leave returned


4caf852bcadfd3419700d058: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0018_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d059: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0018_1.jpg)


2 December 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SW force 2-3 then calm; overcast with some fog; air temperature 50 down to 42°F

7.00am: hands employed placing coal lighters

8.30am: hands employed getting in stores; 1st watch proceeded on long leave


4caf852bcadfd3419700d05a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0019_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d05b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0019_1.jpg)


3 December 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable, WNW to SE then SW force 2-3; overcast with fog and rain; air temperature 41-46°F

8.00am: hands employed painting masts and funnels

4.00pm: received 12 boxes of ammunition


4caf852bcadfd3419700d05c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0020_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d05d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0020_1.jpg)


4 December 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable, SW then NW and calm; overcast with rain; air temperature 40-45°F

11.45am: left berth at North Canada Dock

1.50pm: secured to berth in South Canada Dock


4caf852bcadfd3419700d05e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0021_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d05f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0021_1.jpg)


5 December 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SW force 2-3; overcast with rain; air temperature 46-48°F

8.55am: landed RC’s for service on shore


4caf852bcadfd3419700d060: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0022_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d061: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0022_1.jpg)


6 December 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SW force 1-3; overcast with rain; air temperature 55-45°F

[Regular duties on coal lighters and getting in stores]

6.30pm: 1 Sub-Lieutenant RNR joined ship from RN Depot Devonport


4caf852bcadfd3419700d062: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0023_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d063: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0023_1.jpg)


7 December 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm then S force 1-2; mainly broken cloud; air temperature 44-49°F

[Regular duties on coal lighters and getting in stores and painting]

8.00am: 1 AB joined ship from RN Depot Devonport

Coal remaining: 6274 tons


4caf852bcadfd3419700d064: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0024_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d065: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0024_1.jpg)


8 December 1915

At Liverpool, Canada Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SW then NW force 2-3; mainly broken cloud; air temperature 46-41°F

[Regular duties on coal lighters and getting in stores and painting]

9.00am: discharged 1 wireless rating (Boy) to HMS Iron Duke

3.30pm: 1 surgeon joined ship from…[not stated]

6.55pm: 1 sergeant RMLI joined ship from…[not stated]


4caf852bcadfd3419700d066: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0025_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d067: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0025_1.jpg)


9 December 1915


At Liverpool and at sea en route to patrol ground

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm, then (at sea) mainly SE force 6-8; sea (pm only) moderate; broken cloud then fog and mist; air temperature average 44°F; sea (pm only) 48°F

7.15am: RC priest held service on board

8.00am: hands employed preparing ship for harbour

9.00am: tugs in attendance Brunswick, Toxteth and Waterloo

9.15am: 1 signals rating joined ship from HMS Eagle; tried steering gear and engine room telegraph; engines to standby

Draught of water leaving Liverpool: forward 30’3”, aft 31’3”

12.15pm: engines to order for leaving docks

12.40pm: entered river; discharged tugs and proceeded out of harbour

1.00pm: tug Nelson in attendance

1.12pm: Rock Light abeam

1.29pm: No. 8 buoy abeam; altered course to N9°W

1.45pm: rounding Askew Spit

1.51pm: C 1 bell buoy abeam; altered course to N86°W

2.02pm: stopped to discharge pilot (Mr Ankers)

2.05pm: discharged pilot to tug Nelson; Formby Light Vessel abeam; engines to order, course N59°W

2.21pm: stopped for dredger

2.23pm: engines to order

2.32pm: Bar Light Vessel abeam; altered course to N53°W, speed 56 revs

3.22pm: increased to 74 revs

5.30pm: altered course to N34°W

7.03pm: altered course to N8°E

8.00pm: DR position 54°14’N, 5°06’W

9.07pm: South Rock Light Vessel abeam 3½ miles

9.17pm: altered course to N80°E to keep clear of steamer

9.26pm: altered course to N8°E

10.48pm: Mew Island bearing N76°W

10.53pm: altered course to N15°E

11.23pm: Black Head bearing N76°W, Corsewall Point N43°E

11.35pm: Black Head abeam 5½ miles

[Soundings [selection] 5.30pm: bottom sand and stones 35½ fathoms, 7.13pm: bottom sand and stones 49 fathoms, 9.14pm: bottom sand and stones 66 fathoms, 10.45pm: bottom sand and stones 74 fathoms, 11.45pm: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]


4caf852bcadfd3419700d068: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0026_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d069: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0026_1.jpg)


10 December 1915

At sea and at patrol

Lat 56.9, Long -8.7

Wind ESE force 6-8; sea moderate to rough; overcast with rain and squalls; air temperature average 41°F; sea average 47°F

0.23am: Corsewall Point bearing S75°E, 6½ miles

0.30am: Corsewall Point S62°E, Black Head S17°E

0.55am: Corsewall Point bore S26°E; altered course to N37°W

1.50am: Sanda Island bearing N52°E; altered course to N43°W

2.23am: Mull of Cantyre abeam distance ½ mile; altered course to N15°W

3.35am: Otter Rock bore N15°W; altered course to N80°W

4.26am: Oversay bore N12°E

5.00am: altered course to N20°W; increased to 74 revs

7.00am: commenced zigzag

8.00am: DR position 56°06’N, 7°37’W

Noon: opened watertight doors in No. 3 stoke hold

[Soundings: 12.30pm: bottom fine sand 75 fathoms, 1.00pm: bottom sand and shells 100 fathoms, 1.30pm: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

7.00pm: altered course to N28°E; reduced speed to 64 revs, straight course*

8.00pm: DR position 58°11’N, 11°01’W (shipped Mercurial Barometer M.O. 801)

Distance run 316 miles


*[Note: clearly the zigzag course was being followed in daylight hours]


4caf852bcadfd3419700d06a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0027_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d06b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0027_1.jpg)


11 December 1915

At patrol*

Lat 61.4, Long -10.8

Wind N force 2-5 then NNE force 6-9; sea slight becoming rough; cloudy then showers and squalls; air temperature average 35°F; sea average 45°F

10.40am: reduced to 60 revs (straight course)

11.11am: circling round under port helm

11.22am: full speed

11.30am: challenged and received reply from HMS Otway

11.45am: set course N86°W

12.19pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Otway

12.47pm: boat alongside

12.57pm: sent confidential correspondence to HMS Otway

1.06pm: set course N53°E

2.30pm: altered course to N83°E; reduced speed to 36 revs (straight line), 2° allowed for leeway

5.00pm: allowed 4° for leeway, N79°E for N83°E; sea boats’ crew correct

[Soundings [4] 11.00-11.53pm: all no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

Distance run 311 miles


*[Note: Cedric is now in “A” Patrol along with HMSs Ebro, Almanzora, Victorian and Teutonic.]


4caf852bcadfd3419700d06c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0028_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d06d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0028_1.jpg)


12 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.2, Long -8.2

Wind NNE force 9 reducing later to force 5; sea very rough reducing to rough; snow and hail squalls; air temperature average 34°F; sea 46-36°F [sic]

[Soundings: selection: 00.30am, 1.00am, 2.00am, 2,30am: all no bottom with 285 fathom cable, 3.00am: bottom sand 120 fathons, 4.00am: bottom sand 79 fathoms]

4.00am: altered course to N66°E, reduced to 40 revs

8.10am Myggonoes Light [sic: ie Mykines (Myggenaes)] bore S88°E

8.25am: reduced to 40 revs; hove to; watch standing by guns and exercised frequently

5.30pm: altered course to N6°E; increased to 60 revs; stella position 62°34’N, 9°35’W; commenced zigzag 30°; sea boats’ crews correct; exercised guns’ crews and searchlight crews frequently

Distance run 120 miles [ie the ship hove to in the gale]


4caf852bcadfd3419700d06e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0029_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d06f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0029_1.jpg)


13 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -7.4

Wind mainly N force 3; sea slight; overcast and cloudy; air temperature average 32°F; sea average 38°F

[night]: watch standing by its guns and exercised frequently

10.03am: stopped, full astern, dropped target

10.07am: engines to order to carry out 1st watch aiming practice

11.09am: completed the practice and recovered targets; observed Astero, [Eysturoy] Faroe Islands bearing S14° (magnetic) distance 67 miles

11.50am: set speed at 60 revs, course S33°E

Noon: sea boats’ crews correct; watch standing by the guns

1.25pm: engines slow and to order to close HMS Almanzora

1.36pm: stop

2.15pm: HMS Almanzora sent boat to Cedric in position 63°12’N, 6°49’W

2.22pm: sent confidential documents and Assistant Surgeon to HMS Almanzora

2.45pm: position by X bearings: Fuglo S9°W, Astero S28°W, Vaago S40°W; position 63°12’N, 6°49’W

2.46pm: set speed at 60 revs, course N42°W

9.00pm: watch standing by the guns and exercised frequently

Number on sick list: 4

Distance run 248 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d070: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0030_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d071: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0030_1.jpg)


14 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -7.0

Wind variable mainly SE calm then force 5; sea smooth then moderate; mainly overcast and cloudy; air temperature 33-39°F; sea average 40°F

10.00am: gun layers, sight setters and trainers at dottes [?]; gunnery training class at drill; 2nd watch physical training and singlestick practice

6.40pm: altered course to S57°E; watch standing by the guns

Number on sick list: 8

Distance run 296 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d072: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0031_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d073: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0031_1.jpg)


15 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.5, Long -6.9

Wind mainly SE (ESE and SSE) force 4; sea moderate (westerly swell); mainly overcast and broken cloud; air temperature average 39°F; sea 43°F

10.00am: divisions and prayers; stella position 63°32’N, 6°00’W

8.00pm: DR position 63°33’N, 8°30’W

Distance run 312 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d074: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0032_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d075: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0032_1.jpg)


16 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -7.0

Wind SE force 3 then NNE force 6; sea moderate becoming rough; broken cloud and cloud; air temperature 40 down to 32°F; sea 42°F

0.03am: stopped starboard engine for repairs

0.41am: starboard engine repaired; speed set at 60 revs

Noon: sighted seamer bearing W

12.07pm: straight course

12.31pm: engines slow and to order to close British steamer Eskasoni on passage from New York to Archangel

12.37pm: resumed course and speed zigzag 30°

5.30pm: stella position 63°38’W, 9°24’W; altered course to S58°E, allowing 1° for leeway

0.00am: altered course to S52°W, 60 revs, zigzag 30°

Distance run 312 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d076: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0033_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d077: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0033_1.jpg)


17 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.3, Long -8.6

Wind NE force 6 reducing to force 2; sea moderate becoming slight; broken cloud then overcast; air temperature average 34°F; sea average 43°F

5.30am: sighted Myggonoes Light [sic: ie Mykines (Myggenaes)] bearing S20°W distance approx. 32 miles

6.13am: Myggonoes Light bearing S6°W

7.15am: Myggonoes Light bearing S28°E distance approx.14 miles

9.15am: challenged and received reply from HMS Orotava

9.20am: altered course to N50°W to close HMS Orotava

9.27am: full speed

9.36am: stop

9.47am: sent boat to HMS Orotava in position 62°01’N, 8°37’W

10.10am: boat returned

10.32am: set course N22°E

4.00pm: evening quarters; lunar position Long. 8°56’W

Distance run 307 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d078: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0034_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d079: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0034_1.jpg)


18 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -7.0

Wind variable, NE through to S force 2-4; sea slight; mainly overcast with some squalls; air temperature 31-35°F; sea 42°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

8.00pm: DR position 63°24’N, 8°22’W

Distance run 309 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d07a: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0035_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d07b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0035_1.jpg)


19 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.0, Long -6.0

Wind E force 1 to ENE force 2-4; sea slight; mainly overcast with some showers; air temperature 35 to 32°F; sea average 40°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

4.18pm: lunar position Long. 7°23’W

6.00pm: altered course to S30°E zigzag 20°

Number on sick list: 7

Coal remaining: 4680 tons

Distance run 322 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d07c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0036_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d07d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0036_1.jpg)


20 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.0, Long -5.5

Wind E force 3-4 becoming SE force 7; sea slight becoming moderate; broken cloud then overcast with rain; air temperature 33-39°F; sea average 40°F

9.53am: stop

10.00am: Videro bore S68½°W distance approx. 54 miles

10.02am: dropped target; engines to order to carry out 1” aiming practice in position 62°58’N, 5°07’W; courses various

10.40am: completed 1” practice; engines to order to recover target

11.00am: set course N61°W

11.45am: reduced speed to 60 revs, zigzag 20°

6.00pm: altered course to S56°E, zigzag 20°

Distance run 308 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d07e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0037_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d07f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0037_1.jpg)


21 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 62.0, Long -10.2

Wind mainly WNW then S force 2-4; sea moderate becoming slight; mainly overcast with rain; air temperature 42-47°F; sea average 45°F

[2.00am: sounding: bottom sand and gravel 85 fathoms]

2.18am: Myggonoes Light bearing S32°W (magnetic)

3.20am: Myggonoes Light bearing S7°W, Vaago S8°E, approx. distance from light: 18½ miles

4.00am: Myggonoes Light bearing S15½°E

5.00am: Myggonoes Light bearing S47°E

5.15am: allowed 2° for set to North; altered course to S69°W

5.45am: Myggonoes Light bearing S63°E

7.00am: altered course to N67°W, zigzag (30°)

9.25am: challenged and received reply from HMS Otway

9.34am: challenged and received reply from HMS Alsatian; altered course to W to close

9.37am: full speed

10.10am: engines slow and to order

10.17am: altered course to N67°W; stop

10.20am: Commodore [Benson] went to HMS Alsatian in position 61°57’N, 10°11’W

11.33am: Commodore returned

11.36am: set speed to 62 revs

11.45am: courses various

Distance run 294 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d080: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0038_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d081: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0038_1.jpg)


22 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -7.0

Wind S then SE rising up to force 9; sea slight then very rough; overcast with rain then squalls; air temperature average 40°F; sea average 42°F

8.00am: DR position 63°24’N, 7°03’W; reduced to 48 revs (straight course)

9.45am: altered course to N59°W (2° allowed for set to North)

10.00am: divisions and prayers; read Articles of War and Court Martial Returns [see log for 27th April 1915 above.]

5.30pm: altered course to S55°E (2° allowed for set) (straight course)

Distance run 300 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d082: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0039_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d083: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0039_1.jpg)


23 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -7.0

Wind mainly SE (SSE and S) force 9 reducing later; sea very rough; mainly overcast with squalls; air temperature average 38°F; sea average 38°F

10.00am: altered course to N59°W; increased to 48 revs

11.25am: exercised submarine attack; guns’ crews exercised frequently during watch

5.00pm: altered course to S57°E; reduced speed to 40 revs

11.30pm: stella obs. 63°54’N, 8°22’W

Distance run 158 miles*


*[Note: this much-reduced distance shows that the ship had either hove to or moved very slowly during the severe gale.]


4caf852bcadfd3419700d084: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0040_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d085: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0040_1.jpg)


24 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.7, Long -6.6

Wind SSE force 8 backing to ENE force 5; sea very rough becoming moderate; overcast then broken cloud and squalls; air temperature 35-30°F; sea 34-43°F [sic]

11.07am: sighted steamer; full speed, courses various to intercept

12.03pm: engines slow and to order to close Russian steamer Voronej on passage from Liverpool to Alexandersee [sic]

12.25pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 63°45’N, 6°30’W

1.15pm: boarding officer returned

Distance run 168 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d086: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0041_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d087: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0041_1.jpg)


25 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.3, Long -6.9

Wind mainly E (ENE, ESE and SE) force 5-6; sea rough becoming moderate; broken cloud with some squalls; air temperature average 36°F; sea average 39°F

9.15am: challenged and received reply from HMS Almanzora

9.17am: slow

9.45am: engines half speed and to order

10.15am: HMS Almanzora sent boat to HMS Cedric in position 63°13’N, 6°10’W

10.30am: course N51°W

Noon: zigzag (20°)

Distance run 288 miles


4caf852bcadfd3419700d088: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0042_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d089: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0042_1.jpg)


26 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -7.0

Wind mainly NE force 5-6; sea moderate; overcast and broken cloud; air temperature average 35°F; sea average 40°F

9.30am: challenged and received reply from HMS Andes

6.00pm: stella position 63°35’N, 8°27’W

Distance run 312 miles


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27 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -7.2

Wind NE force 5-6; sea moderate; mainly broken cloud with squalls; air temperature average 34°F; sea 42°F

[night]: zigzag 30° each side throughout watch

12.10pm: reduced to 48 revs straight course

12.22pm: 4° allowed for leeway

12.45pm: increased to 60 revs, zigzag 30°

6.00pm: stella position 63°37’N, 9°15’W; altered course to S59°E

Distance run 312 miles


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4caf852bcadfd3419700d08d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0044_1.jpg)


28 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -7.0

Wind NE force 4-2 veering to WSW and W force 2-4; sea moderate to slight; overcast; air temperature average 36°F; sea 42°F

8.00am: DR position 63°19’N, 5°35’W

9.02am: engines stop and to order

9.10am: sent boat to rescue 2 men in opened [sic: ie open] boat in position 63°21’N, 6°00’W*

9.25am: opened fire with 6 pounders and destroyed boat

9.30am: set speed to 60 revs zigzag (20°)

1.35pm: reduced to 35 revs; altered course to S40°W

2.25pm: zigzag (10°)

Distance run 302 miles


*[Note: these men were the Master (Andrew Smith) and Second Officer (Joe Hansen) of the British steamer Morning. This ship was a Dundee whaler which had been loaded with ammunition at Brest and was on passage to Archangel. She left Queenstown (Cobh) on 21st December 1915 and was observed by HMS Alsatian the next day during the SE gale. After leaking for 2 days, she foundered on 24th December in position 64°15’N, 7°00’W. The rest of the crew had drowned when their boats were stove in, and these men had been in their boat for 4 days.

See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 333-334.]


4caf852bcadfd3419700d08e: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0045_0.jpg)

4caf852bcadfd3419700d08f: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0045_1.jpg)


29 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -6.5

Wind mainly W (WSW and SSW) force 2-5; sea slight; mainly overcast; air temperature 40-38°F; sea 40-35°F

9.58am: engines slow and to order; exercised general quarters, dropped target and carried out 6” gun practice

11.18am: completed gun practice

11.32am: recovered target in position 63°22’N, 6°20’W

11.40am: set speed to 60 revs, course N66°W

7.30pm: altered course to S58°E, zigzag (30°)

Number on sick list: 5

Distance run 302 miles


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4caf852ccadfd3419700d091: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0046_1.jpg)


30 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -7.0

Wind mailnly SSE force 2 rising to force 7; sea slight becoming rough; mainly overcast with rain squalls; air temperature 38-43°F; sea 40°F

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

Distance run 308 miles


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4caf852ccadfd3419700d093: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0047_1.jpg)


31 December 1915

At patrol

Lat 63.4, Long -6.5

Wind variable SSW to SSE force 5-6; sea moderate to rough; overcast with squalls and rain; air temperature average 43°F; sea 40-50°F [sic]

10.00am: arrived at rendesvoux and circled round

1.30pm abandoned rendesvoux; set course N58°W, speed 60 revs

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

[Soundings (6): 9.30pm to 0.00am: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

Distance run 252 miles



LOGS FOR JANUARY 1916


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1 January 1916

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -10.6

Wind variable, mainly SE veering to WSW force 5-6; sea moderate; cloud with squalls and showers; air temperature 44-48°F; sea 40-48°F

0.21am: obs. Pole Star Lat. 62°29’N

1.15am: Myggonoes Light 3½ points on port bow

[Soundings: 12.30am: no bottom with 285 fathom cable, 1.00am: bottom gravel and shell 88 fathoms, 1.30am:

bottom gravel and shell 65 fathoms]

2.49am: Myggonoes Light abeam 8½ miles; altered course to S59°W

8.00am: DR position 61°02’N, 9°40’W

8.26am: stella obs. 61°03’N, 9°42’W

9.20am: sighted sailing ship bearing NW; full speed

9.48am: engines slow and to order to close Norwegian barque Skomvaer

10.13am: sent boat with provisions for armed guard in position 60°48’N, 10°12’W*

10.35am: boat returned; full speed

10.41am: set course S43°W

11.20am: sighted and challenged HMS Otway; altered course to W

11.47am: engines slow and to order to close HMS Otway

11.57am: sent boat to HMS Otway

12.13pm: boat returned

12.25pm: set course S74°W

8.11pm: altered course to N and various; engines slow and to order to close Norwegian steamer Are on passage from Iceland to Liverpool with a cargo of fish

8.37pm: boarding officer left Cedric in position 59°59’N, 12°02’W

9.22pm: boarding officer returned

9.25pm: resumed course N83°E

Coal remaining: 2719 tons

Distance run 292 miles

*[Note: provisions were given for 5 days. The armed guard was from HMS Otway, which had boarded the Skomvaer on December 21st. She was on passage from Buenos Aires to Flekkefjord with a cargo of the hardwood Quebeache. Because of the gales, she was unable to enter either Lerwick or Kirkwall, and in the end the officer in charge, Sub Lt. S F Carter RD, RNR, decided to head for the coast of Norway, which was reached on 12th January. Following more adventures, they reached Flekkefjord on 14th January 1916. The armed guard was repatriated to the UK.See John D. Grainger (ed.) The Maritime Blockade of Germany in the Great War, Navy Records Society, 2003, page 332, and a special report from Sub Lt. Carter on pages 337-338.]


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2 January 1916

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -11.0

Wind WNW force 6 then variable W down to force 2; sea moderate to rough with confused swell; broken cloud then overcast with rain; air temperature average 46°F; sea average 46°F

[Night]: zigzagging 20° each side

[am and pm: exercised all crews and cleaned ship]

5.30pm: altered course to N82°E, speed 60 revs, zigzag (30°)

Number on sick list: 7

Distance run 298 miles


4caf852ccadfd3419700d098: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0050_0.jpg)

4caf852ccadfd3419700d099: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0050_1.jpg)


3 January 1916

At patrol

Lat 60.3, Long -11.0

Wind variable W (WSW WNW SW) force 4-6; sea slight becoming rough; mainly overcast with rain; air temperature 42-50°F; sea average 47°F

[Soundings: 6.00am: bottom shells 65 fathoms, 6.30am: bottom shells 66 fathoms, 7.00am: bottom shells 87 fathoms, 7.30am: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

8.45am: stella obs. 60°38’N, 9°57’W

9.20am: exercised submarine attack

Noon: altered course to S88°W, zigzag

1.00pm: swung ship for deviation

6.00pm: altered course to N81°E, 60 revs, zigzag (30°) each side

11.45pm: reduced to 48 revs, straight course

Distance run 312 miles


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4caf852ccadfd3419700d09b: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0051_1.jpg)


4 January 1916

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -11.0

Wind variable W (WNW WSW etc) force 7-9; sea very rough; cloud and heavy squalls throughout; air temperature average 46°F; sea average 47°F

[Soundings: 6.00am, 6.20am and 6.45am: all no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

9.00am: stella obs. 60°26’N, 10°25’W

9.10am: exercised submarine attack

10.00am: exercised divisional drills; reduced to 48 revs (straight course)

Noon: altered course to S70°W, allowed 10° for leeway

12.30pm: reduced to 40 revs

6.00pm: 4° allowed, S85°W for S81°W

Distance run 288 miles


4caf852ccadfd3419700d09c: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0052_0.jpg)

4caf852ccadfd3419700d09d: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0052_1.jpg)


5 January 1916

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -9.3

Wind mainly WNW and NW force 7-8; sea very rough; broken cloud and squalls, overcast later; air temperature average 45°F; sea 47°F

5.50am: reduced to 36 revs

[Soundings: 6.15am: bottom shells 75 fathoms, 6.45am: bottom shells and black shales 78 fathoms, 7.15am:

bottom shells 80 fathoms, 7.30am: bottom shells 77 fathoms]

8.00am: DR position 60°43’N, 9°50’W; altered course to S88°W (5° allowed for leeway)

10.00am: reduced to 40 revs; hove to

[Soundings: 11.45am and noon: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]*

9.45pm: altered course to N79°E, speed 60 revs zigzag (30°)

Number on sick list: 9

Distance run 180 miles


*[Note: the actions of this and the previous day illustrate the severity of the gale in which the ship was having to operate. Some ships were damaged and several, along with Cedric, had to lie to.]


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6 January 1916

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -10.8

Wind variable W (WSW, WNW etc) force 7-9; sea very rough; overcast with frequent squalls; air temperature average 46°F; sea average 46°F

5.00am: altered course to S82°W

5.45am: altered course to N8°W and various

[6.00am: sounding: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

10.00am: altered course to S79°W, 60 revs, straight course

11.00am: exercised submarine attack

3.00pm: exercised submarine attack

7.49pm: half speed starboard

7.52pm: set starboard engine to 40 revs

8.00pm: stella position 60°02’N, 12°17’W

Distance run 236 miles


4caf852ccadfd3419700d0a0: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0054_0.jpg)

4caf852ccadfd3419700d0a1: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0054_1.jpg)


7 January 1916

At patrol

Lat 60.6, Long -12.2

Wind mainly N (NNW, NNE etc) force 10 reducing to force 2 much later; sea very rough with confused swell; broken cloud with frequent squalls; air temperature average 44°F; sea 44°F

8.00am: altered course to S77°E; increased to 60 revs, straight course; DR position 60°07’N, 13°25’W

6.00pm: altered course to N85°E, speed 60 revs, zigzag course (30°)

Distance run 139 miles


4caf852ccadfd3419700d0a2: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0055_0.jpg)

4caf852ccadfd3419700d0a3: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0055_1.jpg)


8 January 1916

At patrol

Lat 60.4, Long -10.2

Wind NE then mainly W force 3-4; sea moderate with slightly confused swell; mainly overcast with some showers and squalls; air temperature 41-49°F; sea 46-47°F

[Soundings: 6.30am: no bottom with 285 fathom cable, 7.30am: no bottom with 285 fathom cable]

9.00am: altered course to N10°W and various

9.14am: engines stop and to order to close British steamer Nascopie on passage from Brest to Archangel with a cargo of ammunition

9.27am: boarding officer left Cedric at stella obs. position 60°23’N, 9°23’W

9.45am: boarding officer returned

10.00am: set speed at 60 revs, course N67°W

10.50am: exercised submarine attack

1.30pm: increased to 72 revs, altered course to S58°W, zigzag (30°)

6.20pm: altered course to S9°E, speed 72 revs, straight course

Distance run 305 miles


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9 January 1916

At sea [returning to Liverpool]

Lat 56.1, Long -7.1

Wind mainly WNW force 4-5; sea moderate; mainly overcast with some mist; air temperature average 48°F; sea 48°F

[Soundings: selection: 6.00am: bottom [sic] 75 fathoms, 7.25am: bottom shells 100 fathoms, 9.30am: bottom rock 94 fathoms, 10.30am: bottom rock 34 fathoms, 10.55 bottom rock 45 fathoms]

7.30am: altered course to S52°E, zigzag (35°)

10.15am divine service; approximate position on Stanton Bank

10.45am: sighted Skerryvore Lighthouse

10.49am: Skerryvore Lighthouse bearing E 6½ miles

10.50am: altered course to S zigzag (30°)

11.35am: 1½° allowed for set; closed watertight doors

[Soundings: selection: 1.30pm: bottom rock 27 fathoms, 2.21pm: bottom rock 24 fathoms, 3.00pm: bottom shells 55 fathoms]

3.20pm: sighted Oversay Light bearing N72°E 2½ miles

3.25pm: altered course to S28°E, allowing 4° for set

3.27pm: Oversay Light abeam 1½ miles

3.36pm: Oversay Light bearing N30°E

3.43pm: Oversay Light bearing N3°E

4.40pm: sighted Otter Rock Light Vessel

4.48pm: Otter Rock Light Vessel abeam; altered course to S15°E

4.50pm: sighted Altacarry Light (Rathlin Island)

5.00pm: sighted Mull of Cantyre Light

5.05pm: Rathlin Light bearing S38°W

5.43pm: Rathlin Light abeam

6.12pm: Mull of Cantyre abeam; watch standing by the guns

6.15pm: sighted Sanda Island Light; set course S37°E

6.49pm: Sanda Island Light abeam 4½ miles

7.23pm: altered course to S5°W

7.29pm: Sanda Island bearing N12°W, Maidens S58°W, Corsewall Light S53°E

7.57pm: Corsewall Light on 4 points

8.00pm: position 55°01’N, 5°24’W

8.05pm: Corsewall Light abeam 7½ miles

8.38pm: Blackhead Light abeam 6 miles

9.30pm: Mull of Galloway abeam

9.50pm: Blackhead bearing N19°E, Mull of Galloway N73°E; watch standing by the guns

11.47pm: Chicken Rock Light abeam; altered course to S4°E

0.00am: altered course to S3°W for S1°W

Coal remaining: 1436 tons

Distance run 305 miles


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10 January 1916

At sea and at Liverpool

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind W and WNW mainly force 5; sea (am only) slight; mainly overcast; air temperature average 49°F; sea (am only) 48°F

0.04am: Langness bore N78°E, Chicken Rock N40°E

1.30am: altered course to S68°E

2.07am: Skerries bore S33°W, Point Lynas S13°E [there follows a number of periodic bearings on these two marks]

3.47am: Great Ormes Head S26°W, Point Lynas S78°W

3.50am: sighted Bar Light Vessel ahead

5.10am: engines to order for entering harbour

5.16am: Bar Light Vessel abeam

5.45am: embarked pilot Mr Davis from tender Magnetic

5.52am: Formby Light Vessel abeam

5.59am: rounded Askew Spit

6.04am: C.1. bell buoy abeam

6.38am: Rock Light abeam

6.51am: let go port anchor

7.08am: rung off engines

10.15am: exercised boat stations; turned in and secured boats

1.37pm: engines to standby; shortened in cable

1.51pm: anchor aweigh; engines to order to proceed into docks

2.00pm: tugs in attendance Brocklebank, Herculaneum and Collingwood

2.40pm: alongside wall

2.46pm: entered Sandon Lock

3.18pm: made fast to berth in Sandon Basin

4.20pm: engines to standby

4.30pm: slipped and proceeded to berth in Huskisson Dock

5.00pm: secured to berth in Huskisson Basin

5.03pm: rung off engines

6.15pm: gave special leave to watch

Coal remaining: 1323 tons; water remaining 568.15 tons

Distance run 208 miles


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11 January 1916

At Liverpool, Huskisson Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly NW force 4 to calm; overcast with squalls and rain; air temperature 54-45°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed returning ammunition

8.30am: discharged 2 RNVR ratings to RN Depot Devonport

11.15am: discharged 2 shipwrecked mariners to hospital [see above, log entry for 28th December 1915.]

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch


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12 January 1916

At Liverpool, Huskisson Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly SW calm; overcast with rain; air temperature 49-56°F

7.30am: liberty men returned; sent working party to Alexandra Dock

8.00am: hands employed returning ammunition

1.10pm: hands employed chipping and scraping funnels

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch


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13 January 1916

At Liverpool, Huskisson Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly SW and NW force 6 to calm; broken cloud; air temperature average 46°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed returning ammunition and paymaster’s stores

1.10pm: working party to Alexandra Dock stowing ammunition

4.00pm: working party returned; hands employed returning wireless instruments

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch


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14 January 1916

At Liverpool, Huskisson Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind variable and calm; overcast; air temperature 43-48°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed returning stores; working party to Alexandra Dock stowing ammunition

3.40pm: shifted berth in Huskisson Basin

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch


4caf852ccadfd3419700d0b0: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0062_0.jpg)

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15 January 1916

At Liverpool, Huskisson Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind W and NW force 3-4; broken cloud then overcast; air temperature 48-58°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed cleaning ship and at make and mend clothes

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch


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16 January 1916

At Liverpool, Huskisson Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind calm; overcast; air temperature average 55°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed cleaning ship; landed RC’s for service onshore

10.15am: RC’s returned

10.20am: divine service on board HMS Cedric attended by party from HMS Teutonic*

1.00pm: gave special leave to watch


*[Teutonic was coaling in Liverpool at the same time as Cedric, and it might have been a factor that Cedric was about to pay off in order to become a troopship.]


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17 January 1916

At Liverpool, Huskisson Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind SW then SE force 2-3; overcast with rain; air temperature 50-55°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed returning stores and chipping and leading in various parts of the ship; working party to Alexandra Dock stowing ammunition

1.10pm: hands employed chipping and scraping and getting in stores for use: working party to Alexandra Dock scraping and painting shell [sic]

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch

Number on sick list: 7


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18 January 1916

At Liverpool, Huskisson Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly SE and SW force 2-3; overcast and broken cloud; air temperature average 52°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.00am: discharged 2 RNVR ratings to RN Depot Devonport; hands employed chipping and scraping and getting in stores for use: working party to Alexandra Dock scraping and painting shell

1.10pm: hands employed returning stores; working party to Alexandra Dock scraping and painting shell, remainder chipping and scraping

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch


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19 January 1916

At Liverpool, Huskisson Dock [log is am only]

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind mainly S force 2-3, NW force 5-6 later; overcast with rain and broken cloud; air temperature average 50-57°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

8.00am: hands employed getting in stores: working party to Alexandra Dock scraping and painting shell; remainder chipping and scraping and cleaning ship

1.10pm: hands employed scraping and painting; working party to Alexandra Dock scraping and painting shell

4.15pm: gave special leave to watch


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4caf852ccadfd3419700d0bb: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0067_1.jpg)


20 January 1916

At Liverpool, Huskisson Dock

Lat 53.4, Long -3.0

Wind NW force 5; broken cloud; air temperature average 49-52°F

7.30am: liberty men returned

9.00am: paid ship’s company off



4caf852ccadfd3419700d0bc: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0068_0.jpg)

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4caf852ccadfd3419700d0bd: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0068_1.jpg)

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4caf852ccadfd3419700d0be: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0069_0.jpg)

4caf852ccadfd3419700d0bf: (http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-37372/ADM53-37372-0069_1.jpg)

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