American Warships Sail For Turkey.

New York Times 100 years ago today, November 13, 1912:
Cruisers Montana and Tennessee Leave Philadelphia — Sailors from Other Vessels Shipped.
WILL GO FIRST TO SMYRNA
Ambassador Cables That Foreign War Vessels at Constantinople Are Adequate for Emergencies.
Special to The New York Times.
    PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 12.— The armored cruisers Montana and Tennessee weighed anchor at 10:50 A.M. and steamed away from the Philadelphia Navy Yard for Turkish waters. They will go to Smyrna and Beirut to look after the interests and possibly the lives of Americans.
    It was at first intended to send the cruisers to Constantinople. The change in destination was made by the State Department only after it had satisfied itself that there was an ample foreign naval force near Constantinople to safeguard Americans there.
    Because of the uncertainty of the time of departure there were few present to see the big warships depart, and most of the farewells were waved by bluejackets and marines stationed at the island.
    Between 50 and 100 sailors who yesterday had no idea that within a few hours they would be sailing toward a foreign country left here as part of the crew of the Tennessee. It was found that the crew of the Tennessee was not up to its full complement, and a quick draft was made of sailors from other ships.
    It was discovered at the last minute that the wireless operator of the Montana had not arrived from New York. There was no time to lose, and Admiral Knight ordered William J. Murphy of 1825 South Twelfth Street, chief wireless operator on the Alabama, to pack his bag and board the Montana. Murphy wept, for he was married last week. He begged that he might first be allowed to see his wife, but the officer of the deck consulted his watch and gave him five minutes to report for duty.
    The holds of the Montana and Tennessee were packed with provisions and ammunition until there was scarcely space to move below decks. These provisions may be used to feed those who are said to be starving as a result of the war.
    Admiral Knight has orders to use his own discretion if it becomes necessary to save the lives and property of Americans.
    The crew of the Montana have bet the bluejackets of the Tennessee $2,000 that the Montana will arrive at Gibraltar twelve hours ahead of the flagship. When Admiral Knight was told of the wager he said with a smile: "Let them bet; it's the only fun they will have between here and Gibraltar."