S S Deccan 10/4/76
My Dear Father
Just a line or two to let you know my whereabouts. Last Friday night we anchored at Malta, and seeing the town illuminated I got a boat and went ashore, and proceeding up to the place which was all ablaze found myself before the Governor’s Palace which presented a grand appearance, being lit up with some 30,000 lights or lamps in small coloured glass globes hung about in all devices and designs, and a splendid Spanish band playing before the grand entrance. Found the Prince had arrived the night before and was at dinner, and that he was going to a grand ball at the Army and Navy Club House. So away I goes down the illuminated street and got a nice place before the entrance. The Maltese are such little fellows and one of the “Bobbies”, helmet and all, would do for a four foot rule. So I soon got a good place, and just in time, as he was passed within six feet of me. He looks very jolly, and of course it was a grand spectacle, with Lord this, that and the other, and Dukes Admirals, etc. etc. without end. I then sallied round the beautiful town, quaint which Malta certainly is, and called in several of the cafes, getting on board ship 2.30am. At 6.0am got up and ashore again. Saw the church, shops, market etc. Bought oranges. Cigars 4s/od a hundred, tobacco 2s/od a pound, etc. Got on board 9.30, set off at 10 O’clock. Gale on Saturday, upsetting seats, and breaking crockery. Got no sleep that night, expected to be pitched on floor every minute. Last night wind chopping all round, lightning, things flying in all directions. Expect to be at Port Said by tomorrow, after which have got 3,100 miles to go. Tired of ship life, no change except in harbour. Seen no ships or land since Saturday morning. Enjoying good health. Getting new skin on face. Hope you are all well and hearty and enjoying fine weather. With love to all.
Your affection and loving son
George J Clark
P.S. I have to write with pencil. Ship rolling and tossing so, as you will see by writing on envelope.
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