On our national Thanksgiving Day, Rear Admiral Clinton-Baker sent a message to Rear Admiral Strauss, which, with the latter’s reply, expressed cordial satisfaction in working together and in the mutual regard and respect sprung up, which would help to bring the two great navies into still closer union. A theater party and reception at Invergordon and a formal dinner and ball at Inverness were given that day by British naval officers. The ball was held in the “Northern Meeting” rooms, the annual assembly place of all the Highland nobility and gentry. This was the first dance there since the war began, and it was a most enjoyable affair, picturesque with dress kilts and lively with the Highland fling. Next day the enlisted men were given a ball in the same place, which usually held 700, but on this occasion 1400. Next morning my orderly, Rose, could not wait for me to appear but woke me up to hear, “Commodore, the British treated us _fine_!” On Saturday, the American officers gave a return ball, which was as well attended as we could desire, and so, at midnight, festivities ended. Our sailing being set for Sunday midnight, there could be no gatherings at the actual departure, but just before noon Captain Rowley came out to the _San Francisco_ with Mrs. Rowley and a small party, to say goodbye, and at Invergordon Rear Admiral Pears went on board the _Roanoke_, to use her radio telephone for his parting message to me. From late that afternoon until midnight the flagship’s signal bridge had no respite, farewell messages and replies continuing until we were clear of the harbor. All were the same tenor—appreciation of the work accomplished, “pleasant and friendly memory, goodbye and God speed.” The recollections taken away of beautiful country and kindly people could only make us wish to revisit them. Among the last signals exchanged with the shore were: To: Commander Mine Squadron One: The Commander Mine Force wishes to thank the officers and the men of the Mine Squadron for their efficient work and loyal coöperation and wishes them a happy return to the United States. To: Commander Mine Force: The Squadron Commander in behalf of the captains, officers, and men of Mine Squadron One returns sincere acknowledgment for the Commander Mine Force. Signal of thanks and good wishes. The Squadron is deeply gratified to receive his approbation for its part in his unprecedented undertaking so successfully accomplished. CHAPTER TWENTY SCAPA FLOW The Mine Force was not represented at the surrender of the German fleet, but on our way to Portland, where leave was to be given before sailing for home, we passed through Scapa Flow to see the surrendered ships.