Chapter XXII Efficiency of Our Navy in Saving Lives
The following radio messages were received by me on the evening of September thirteenth, while at sea, en route to Athens, and after:
Litchfield
9-13-22.
Simpson
0113 fire has almost reached Consulate. Consulate has escaped with practically all official matter of value. A large number of other Americans have been taken on board and now being taken on board but have no complete muster as yet. Entire population on water front have placed many orphans and employees of American benevolent associations on Winona with request but not order to evacuate them to Athens promising your assistance in matter of their landing, 2220 Litchfield Capt.
9-14-22.
Simpson
For Horton. Winona leaving 4 P. M. to-day for Piræus with three hundred and fifty refugees directed to report to you for instructions about evacuation. Simpson awaits arrival Winona due about 9 A. M. Friday signed Hepburn—1130 Capt. (file)
Simpson rdo
9-15-22
0800
Direct for Horton. 0114 ref my 0114 dash 1136 Winona will have about 1000 refugees destroyer Odsall left 7 A. M. for Salonica with 600 all she could carry. Please announce and assist evacuation if possible Hepburn 1900—
Simpson rdo
9-15-22.
7 A. M. date
848
S. S. Winona
Consul-General Horton, U. S. S. Simpson—Winona arrives 11 A. M. to-day with refugees. Please arrange to expedite debarkation. Short of provisions—Walter Master.
Simpson rdo
9-15-22.
Time 0850
848
Litchfield
Simpson
1014 for Horton Am Consul September 14th, 5 P. M. Consulate completely destroyed by fire last night. Code funds and valuable documents saved. Three-fifths of city now burning and no apparent possibility of stopping fire. Your personal property including car lost Credit Lyonnais in midst of fire zone and manager and staff gone. Signed, Barnes.