What my guests in charge of the 1200 troops must have thought I know not, but they behaved like the noble fellows they were. I was younger than most of them, and there must have been many persons on that deck who can still corroborate what I write. The angle formed in our wake caused the propelling screw to cut the lead lines, which were also cut as soon as replaced. However, in a few minutes we had the full blaze of lights on the Rock itself; the harbour was a mass of shipping. We could only obtain proper anchorage by passing under the stern of the largest transport I could find. We had fortunately here about the most promising of our young Captains, George Grey, in charge of the dockyard. His perfect arrangements for coaling made the work easy. [Sidenote: Jan. 13.] Self and party dined with the Governor, Sir Robert Gardiner. [Sidenote: Jan. 14.] After church visited Pagets; Mrs. Paget, of the charming Williams family, having just returned. Early dinner with George Grey. 320 tons of coal on board. Made another start at 11 P.M. [Sidenote: Jan. 15.] The General harangued the troops, while I pitched into sundry delinquents: effects of coaling! [Sidenote: Malta, Jan. 19.] At 4 A.M. lights were reported. We entered Malta Harbour at 12.30. Steamed in and secured to a buoy. Commenced coaling, watering, etc. Met H.R.H. The Duke of Cambridge. The same kind manner, but looking reduced and low in spirits. He seemed unprepared for the kind and hearty reception that awaited him on his return home. Put up at Durnford’s Hotel. Saw many old friends: Pocklington, Fred Arkwright, and others. Stores, horses, cases, etc., sent on board without mercy. Dined with Admiral Houston Stewart. [Sidenote: Jan. 20.] 5 P.M.--Slipped from buoy--steamed and made sail. [Sidenote: Jan. 23.] Entered the Dardanelles. [Sidenote: Jan. 25.] At daylight found ourselves in the Sea of Marmora. Kept the northern coast to avoid current. 10 A.M.--Came to in the entrance to the Golden Horn, off that wonderful city, Constantinople. [Illustration: _Map--The Bosporus_] [Sidenote: Jan. 26.] Found Rear-Admiral Boxer the senior officer. Frederick Grey, as Commodore, ready to relieve him. Visited the hospital at Scutari, and had an interview with Miss Nightingale. Put up at Misseri’s Hotel. Dined at the Embassy, meeting there Mrs. Ives and Miss Stanley. [Sidenote: Jan. 27.] After breakfast joined Lady Stratford de Redcliffe’s party, and visited bazaars, etc., on Constantinople side. Interview and long chat with Mrs. Ives, Emma Maynard that was. Dined at Embassy in thin boots; a filthy walk back to hotel. [Illustration: St. Jean d’ Acre _off Balaclava_.] [Sidenote: Jan. 28.] Weighed at 8 A.M., having slept on shore. Cheered _Queen_ and _Vengeance_ on passing them in Beicos Bay. 10.--Entered the Black Sea. Two more friends added to my mess in Hugh Drummond of Fusilier Guards, and Colonel Norcott of Rifles. [Sidenote: Jan. 29.]