Arrived at Taranto [southern Italy] [see map] where Italian fleet were in harbour. Disembarked at 0200 hrs and arrived at Tuturano [see map] camp near Brindisi [see map] at 1200. This place was heaven to us. Within an hour of our arrival we had a small loaf, small piece of cheese and about ½ pint of thick “stodge” which was very tasty. The highlight of the day being the issue of a Red Cross food parcel between 10 men. Everything was eaten with great relish and we all felt that our troubles were over. Each day the parcel issue and cigarettes 5 English and 5 Italian came up with unfailing regularity and we commenced to regain a very little of our lost strength. On the 3rd day we had a march to Brindisi for de-lousing and unfortunately I started on 2nd attack of dysentery. The medical services were fairly good here and I was about fit again in 3 or 4 days. The country about this place is delightful especially to us after the desert dust. The smell of herbs and vineyards is simply delicious. Rations here are coffee 7 .30am, bread cheese and “stodge” 11.30am and “stodge” 4.30pm. Red cross parcels and cigs 4pm.