Marsden, Arthur

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! Marsden, Arthur (HMS Ardent Crew List (Photographs)) (HMS Ardent Crew List) (Index of Ship Interest Groups)'''
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Letter about the battle from Lt Commander Arthur Marsden, one of only three survivors of his ship, to his friend Commander James Pipon of HMS Penelope

REPORT OF COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. ARDENT.
M.F.A. CHINA, Hospital Ship No. VI, 3rd June 1916. Sir, I REGRET to report the loss through enemy gunfire of ARDENT at about 12.30 a.m. (G.M.T.) June 1st. Single line ahead was formed astern of the Battle Fleet after dark on 31st May. As far as I could judge, the line ARDENT was in consisted of: ACHATES, AMBUSCADE, ARDENT, FORTUNE, and several other Torpedo Boat Destroyers in rear. Course South, speed 17 knots. TIPPERARY's line appeared to be well out to the Starboard of us. 2. Various other ships were seen dimly and much firing going on, on either side until just after midnight, when four large ships appeared closing in on our Starboard hand, Course about S. by E. The leader challenged by switching on and off several groups of Green and Red lamps. Almost immediately they switched on Searchlights, picked up FORTUNE and opened fire. FORTUNE was hit at once. I altered to Starboard and endeavoured to assist FORTUNE, and from a very favourable position from about 2,000 yards on her port beam fired a torpedo at the leading enemy's ship, which undoubtedly scored a hit, the explosion was seen, and the enemy ship's foremost searchlights went off and she turned to Starboard. The second Ship in the line then fixed her searchlights and opened fire on ARDENT, so I increased speed and turned away to Port. I could see the FORTUNE badly hit, on fire, and apparently sinking, but still firing her guns in a most gallant manner at her big adversary. A few minutes after this I altered course to South to try to pick up AMBUSCADE, steered for what I thought was her smoke, to find I was rapidly closing four large German Ships crossing my bows from Starboard to Port, course about N.N.E. at a high speed. It was too late to get away, so I attacked immediately and fired a torpedo from a favourable position at the leader, I could not see if it hit, as at once a most devastating fire was poured in on the ARDENT from the two leading Ships, who both had their searchlights on us. This bombardment continued for about five minutes when the enemy ceased fire and switched off, after which period the Ship was a total wreck, and appeared to be sinking. I then sank the Secret books, etc., and went aft to try and make a Raft, all our boats, Carley floats, &c. being smashed to bits. At this moment the enemy recommenced firing from point blank range, I gave the order "save yourselves," and about forty survivors jumped into the sea, with no support beyond lifebelts, waistcoats, &c., and shortly after the Ship sunk with her colours flying. I was in the water about five hours before being picked up by MARKSMAN, and regret that up to date have heard of no more survivors. It is perhaps unnecessary for me to add that the Officers and Ship's company of the ARDENT behaved according to the highest traditions of the British Navy. All Ranks and Ratings fought the Ship until every gun was out of action with the utmost determination. When all did their duty it is impossible for me to name any individual for special recommendation. I have the honour to be. Sir, Your Obedient Servant, A. MARSDEN, Lieut. Commander, H.M.S. ARDENT.