Close to the Wind: A Story of Escape and Survival out of the Ashes of Singapore 1942 by Hill David B

Author:Hill, David B.
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Huia (NZ) Ltd
Published: 2019-08-15T00:00:00+00:00

Len and the others on 310 were oblivious to the fate of 311. ML310 lay anchored among the Tuju Islands, intending to stay under nets until nightfall before continuing its passage. In spite of concerns about the Japanese, Johnny gave permission for a party to go ashore and bathe, then sat with Admiral Spooner and the other senior offices discussing the journey ahead.

When the bathing party returned to the vessel, he called the crew together on the deck behind the fo’c’sle.

‘OK, gentlemen, we have a change of plan.’

The men stirred. What did ‘change of plan’ mean?

‘Lieutenant Pool’s hand requires medical attention,’ Johnny told them. ‘The Admiral wants us to make for the Dutch settlement at Muntok and get it looked at.’

He let his crew absorb the news.

‘In daylight?’ came the question from Jock Brough, the Coxswain, but Johnny ignored it.

‘Square the ship for passage. We weigh anchor immediately.’

There was a muted hubbub before Jock took charge and they dispersed.

‘Come on you lot, look lively,’ Jock told them. ‘You heard.’

In quick time the nets were stripped and stowed and the engines started. The crew were disconcerted.

‘Damned fool idea, this,’ opined Jackie. ‘Moving in bloody daylight.’

As if to emphasise the risk, they heard the low drone of a distant aircraft moving slowly across their southern horizon.

Below deck, Johnny Bull and his Executive Officer took stock.

‘This is stupid,’ said Henderson.

Johnny looked at the Australian and shook his head slowly. He had nothing to add. Together they climbed up onto the bridge, and Johnny gave the order to weigh anchor.

★ ★ ★

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