In less than two hours, with the Bedfords safely stowed on deck, we steamed out into the Mediterranean to join our awaiting escort. With the destroyer on the port side we then sailed steadily eastwards hugging the North African coastline to the south.

As darkness fell, food at last was served. Thus satisfied, we bedded down wherever a spot we could be found. As the sea was calm most managed to get some sleep before being awakened by the call to breakfast. While eating, the ship perceptibly slowed down until the throb of the engines was no more, the sudden silence being broken by the rattling of an anchor's chain.

Pushing uneaten food to one side, everyone dashed on deck to take a first look at the Boot of Italy. To our surprise, a voice on the ship's loud speakers informed us we were anchored in the middle of Malta's Grand Harbour.