THE MARQUETTE DISASTER.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume II, Issue 562, 27 November 1915, Page 10

THE MARQUETTE DISASTER.

NEW ZEALAND DOCTOR'S STORY. WOMEN AND MEN FROM DOMINION PLAYED THE GAME. (Received November 27, 9 a.m.) LONDON, November 26. A New Zealand doctor states: — ""When the Marquette was torpedoed, everybody rushed on 'd&ck. Fortunately they had fyeen well drilled, and each person -knew their post. Lifebelts were in handy positions on the decks. There, are various, estimates, ranging from seven to 20 minutes, as the time before the ship sank, bow first. There was no panic, but, unfortunately, the boats were not well managed, and almost all of them were swamped. There was enough loose gear, rafts, grating, lifebuoys, planks, etc., for everyone. I swam and reached a lifebuoy. The weather was rather rough, but it became smooth, and I saw a periscope for half an hour 100 yards away, apparently awaiting any rescue ships. "We were not picked up for six hours, but our wireless message did not indicate our exact position, which explains the - delay in the arrival of assistance. "A .French destroyer picked us up, including Drs Wylie, Isaacs, Teichelmann,: and- Leahy,; and nine sisters. It is not known how the girls managed, to hold on. Their endurance was wonderfuL Many clung to boards, oars, and rafts, and showed the • greatest courage and calmness. The New Zealand women and men-played the game. We are all well."