Corresponding batches were kept in my dug-out at a temperature of about 60 degrees.
The results were inconclusive, and in spite of exact notes being kept of results obtained when firing, no data of a useful nature was obtained. The ammunition showed very little variation from the normal. I wonder if the present-day pilots are expected to arm themselves with revolvers on their
flights? Ours always did, and it was remarkable how some of them seemed to get lost in the air, After all, it must have been very difficult to find a revolver again, if it had been mislaid at 15,000 feet on a foggy day.
At one time I was given quite a lot of interest in our famous concert party, the “Eight Navals." We were a talented and active crowd, and Draper was its life and soul.
Click on the link on the right to read some of the items which
made a frequent appearance on the Naval Eight programmes:
Our performers were occasionally overcome with attacks of modesty, and I had to use my best persuasions at times to induce them to appear. But my final argument, “Do your bit for the good of the Squadron,” was always a winner.
My clearest memory of the concert party is that of a bitterly cold night at St. Eloi with a gale threatening to carry the big tent away. The footlights flickered and frequently went out, gusts of icy wind swept through the audience, and froze the performers who were waiting their turn. The tent was crowded with visitors from neighbouring units, and though the wind threatened to put out the lights altogether, it did not drown the constant sound of the guns. Yet no handicaps of stage, lights, lack of rehearsal, or bad weather could prevent that particular concert from being a memorable success.
All our usual artistes excelled themselves. Compston recited “If” in a way that gripped the audience with an obvious emotion; Draper sang his “Tin Gee Gee” and several encores amid tremendous applause. And when it was over we had numerous requests to give a similar show at other units.
My story is ending. But I cannot help mentioning the loyal affection which the splendid leadership of Squadron-Commander C, Draper inspired in all ranks. I joined the Squadron at the moment he took over its command, and as it had been moulded and built up under the influence of Squadron Commander Bromet;
