Naval History and Heritage Command

Admiral Henry T. Mayo, Commander, Atlantic Fleet, to Caroline Wing Mayo

[Extract]

UNITED STATES ATLANTIC FLEET

FLAGSHIP OF COMMANDER IN CHIEF

Jan. 24 – 1918     

My own dear Carrie:

. . . I was awakened very early -5³⁰- a.m. – by the testing of engines and steering gear. But we did not get under way. Howard1 came in about 6⁴⁵- to report that the Pilot said he could not take us out. The Westerly wind caused a low high tide and there was not enough water to take this ship safely thru the Buttermilk Channel.2 The ship draws 31½ feet. The Pilot and Capt. Howard watched the height of tide very carefully until 7³⁰- a.m. then had to give up any idea of getting out. So we are delayed for twenty four hours – but hope to get out tomorrow morning. . . . Today was a beautiful day for going to sea and it is too bad that we couldn’t get out. It is a serious reflection on our principal navy yard3 that the depth, under certain conditions of wind, is insufficient for a ship to get out. . . .

Henry.