April 10th 1940

Wednesday 10th April

A terrific naval and air battle* raged all yesterday afternoon and has continued today.

So far two of their cruisers have been sunk and two damaged, two Bosche destroyers possibly sunk and two damaged, 6 supply vessels and 1 ammunition ship “dealt” with.

Our losses were destroyers HMS Hunter sunk, HMS Hardy run aground, and HMS Hotspur damaged but able to withdraw. Nothing else known so far. If we can keep interfering with their supplies, their expeditionary force in Norway is doomed.

The Norwegian Royal Family has retired into the interior of the country, but is safe so far.

Most competent observers agree that this step by Germany was the sheerest madness. I have no wish to appear vindictive, but my fervent prayer is that this homicidal attack may speedily prove to be her bane.

*First battle of Narvik. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battles_of_Narvik#First_Naval_Battle_of_Narvik