Very soon after leaving Venice, it was evident from the atmosphere, that the journey out to the East, was going to be like the reading of a good book, that grips one and unfolding its charm and interest, page by page, chapter by chapter, the more it progressed. A delightful cruise in fact with all the joys and pleasures of a private yacht as it were, and with none of the responsibilities. For the enjoyment of this state of affairs we have to thank Commander Valcini, his staff of officers, the orchestra and the personnel, every member of which seemed to make it his own personal touch of pride, that, upon unfailing courtesy, efficiency and discipline was dependent the prestige of the Conte Verde.
Small wonder the book came to an end all too soon. Commander Valcini speaks English very well, and has many friends in Shanghai. He will now be taking back in the Conte Verde Col. Andreini and the officers and men of the Italian Grenadier Guards, composing a personnel of about 700 souls.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.